2 PSA Upper Receiver Autopsies - Part 2/3

Published on June 18, 2024
Duration: 22:42

This expert guide details the meticulous inspection process for PSA AR-15 upper receivers, led by Chad Albrecht of School of the American Rifle. It covers critical measurements like muzzle device torque, barrel concentricity, gas port size, and BCG dimensions, utilizing specialized tools to assess build quality and potential issues like over-gassing. The assessment provides a B- grade for PSA uppers, deeming them decent for their price point despite noted deviations from Mil-Spec standards.

Quick Summary

Expert inspection of PSA AR-15 upper receivers reveals a gas port size of 0.067 inches, slightly larger than the Mil-Spec 0.062 inches, suggesting a potentially over-gassed condition. Despite this, the uppers are rated B- for their price point, with critical checks including muzzle device torque, barrel concentricity, and BCG component measurements using specialized tools.

Chapters

  1. 00:48Muzzle Device Torque Check
  2. 01:50Barrel Thread Concentricity
  3. 04:04Front Sight Base (FSB) Pin Removal
  4. 07:10Gas Port Size Measurement
  5. 09:10Borescope Inspection
  6. 12:24Bolt Carrier Group (BCG) Physicals
  7. 17:18Three-Bore Efficiency Testing
  8. 20:07Final Assessment and Grading

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key inspection points for a PSA AR-15 upper receiver?

Key inspection points include muzzle device torque, barrel thread concentricity (within 0.004 inches), gas port size (noting PSA's 0.067" vs. Mil-Spec 0.062"), BCG component integrity, and internal carrier dimensions for gas efficiency. Firing pin protrusion should also be checked.

What tools are essential for an AR-15 upper receiver autopsy?

Essential tools include a beam-style torque wrench, concentricity gauge, pin gauges, a digital borescope (like Teslong), specialized SOTAR gauge blocks for BCG measurements, and a digital micrometer for firing pin protrusion checks.

Is a PSA AR-15 upper receiver considered over-gassed?

The video indicates that PSA 16-inch carbine uppers may be slightly over-gassed due to a gas port measuring 0.067 inches, which is larger than the standard 0.062 inches. However, the overall assessment deems them decent for the price point.

What is the recommended final assessment for PSA upper receivers based on the video?

The expert assessment gives PSA upper receivers an overall grade of B-. While noting issues like potential over-gassing and past observations of over-torqued barrel nuts, they are considered a decent value for their approximate $300 price point.

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