The Colt upper receiver is a cornerstone of the AR-15 platform, renowned for its quality and reliability. A stripped Colt upper receiver, lacking the forward assist, charging handle, and bolt carrier group, provides a blank canvas for building a customized AR-15. This guide delves into the specifics of stripped Colt upper receivers, helping you understand their features, benefits, and what to consider when purchasing one.
Understanding the Stripped Colt Upper Receiver
A stripped Colt upper receiver is essentially the top half of your AR-15, excluding the moving parts. It's the foundation upon which you'll build your firearm's upper assembly. The receiver itself is forged from high-quality materials, typically 7075-T6 aluminum, chosen for its strength and durability under stress. This strength is crucial for reliably handling the pressures of repeated firing.
Key Features of a Stripped Colt Upper
- Forged Construction: Unlike some budget alternatives made from cast aluminum, Colt uppers are forged, resulting in a more robust and consistent product. Forging creates a denser, stronger material that better withstands the rigors of use.
- Properly Mil-Spec Dimensions: Colt meticulously adheres to military specifications (Mil-Spec), ensuring compatibility with a wide range of AR-15 parts. This eliminates the fitment issues that can occur with non-Mil-Spec components.
- Durable Finish: Colt uppers typically feature a durable finish, such as hard-anodizing, offering protection against corrosion and wear. This helps preserve the structural integrity and appearance of the upper receiver.
- Compatibility: The critical aspect is the receiver's compatibility with other components. Mil-spec compliance assures compatibility with other Mil-spec parts.
- Markings: Genuine Colt upper receivers will bear the Colt logo and other identifying markings. This is crucial for verifying authenticity and avoiding counterfeit products.
Benefits of Choosing a Stripped Colt Upper Receiver
Opting for a stripped Colt upper receiver offers several significant advantages over purchasing a complete upper assembly:
- Customization: A stripped upper allows for complete customization. You can choose the exact components that meet your specific needs and preferences, creating a truly personalized AR-15.
- Cost Savings (Potentially): In some cases, building your own upper assembly from individual components can be more cost-effective than purchasing a pre-assembled unit. This depends heavily on the individual component pricing.
- Quality Control: Building your own upper provides the opportunity to inspect each component before assembly, ensuring top-notch quality and identifying any potential defects early on.
- Troubleshooting: If problems arise later, troubleshooting is greatly simplified, as you have full knowledge of all the installed parts and their compatibility.
What to Consider Before Purchasing
Before investing in a stripped Colt upper receiver, several crucial factors must be carefully considered:
- Budget: Determine a realistic budget before starting. Remember to include the costs of additional parts such as the bolt carrier group, charging handle, and barrel.
- Intended Use: The intended purpose of your AR-15 (e.g., target shooting, home defense, hunting) will influence the choice of barrel length and other components.
- Compatibility: Ensure compatibility between all chosen components. Mixing Mil-Spec and non-Mil-Spec parts can lead to malfunctions.
- Authenticity: Only buy from reputable dealers to avoid counterfeit products. Counterfeit parts may not meet necessary safety standards.
Assembling Your Colt Upper Receiver
Assembling an AR-15 upper receiver requires attention to detail and proper tools. Improper assembly can result in malfunctions or even serious injury. If you are unfamiliar with AR-15 assembly, seeking professional assistance is highly recommended. There are many resources available including online videos, manuals, and gunsmithing services.
Tools Required for Assembly:
- Upper Receiver Vise Block: This secures the upper receiver during assembly, preventing damage.
- Armorer's Wrench: Essential for tightening various screws and components.
- Punch Set: Used for installing various pins and other small components.
- Torque Wrench: Accurate torque is critical for safe and reliable operation.
Conclusion: Building Your Ideal AR-15
A stripped Colt upper receiver offers an exceptional platform for building a customized AR-15. Its quality, reliability, and Mil-Spec compliance provide peace of mind. However, it's vital to choose reputable suppliers, understand compatibility issues, and possess the necessary skills and tools for proper assembly. Investing the time and effort will yield a high-quality, personalized firearm tailored to your specific needs and preferences. Remember always to follow all local, state, and federal laws regarding firearm ownership and assembly.