Ballistic Advantage Ultimate AR-15

Published on September 14, 2021
Duration: 19:05

This guide details the assembly of an AR-15 rifle utilizing components primarily from Ballistic Advantage, a brand closely associated with Aero Precision. It covers the installation of key parts including the lower receiver, trigger, safety selector, bolt carrier group, barrel, gas system, rail, and muzzle device. The process emphasizes proper alignment and securing of components, with specific notes on the BA Hanson barrel's pinned gas block and the use of set screws for upper/lower receiver alignment. The guide also touches on component choices like the Hyperfire EDT trigger and the Atlas S1 rail, offering insights into their performance and potential considerations.

Quick Summary

Building an AR-15 with Ballistic Advantage components involves assembling their forged 7075 T6 aluminum receivers and a BA Hanson barrel, often featuring a pinned gas block for enhanced reliability. Key parts like the Hyperfire EDT trigger and Atlas S1 rail are discussed, with considerations for gas system tuning using appropriate buffer weights, especially when running suppressed.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Ballistic Advantage
  2. 00:47Ballistic Advantage Build Overview
  3. 01:03Lower Receiver Components
  4. 01:15Forged Upper and Lower Receivers
  5. 01:49Hyperfire EDT Trigger
  6. 02:05BCM Grip and Safety Selector
  7. 02:15Ballistic Advantage Charging Handle
  8. 02:39Bolt Carrier Group Details
  9. 02:53Ballistic Advantage Upper Receiver
  10. 03:10Set Screw for Forward Assist
  11. 03:27Optic and Dust Cover
  12. 03:47Atlas S1 Rail
  13. 04:03BA Hanson Profile Barrel
  14. 04:24Pinned Gas Block Installation
  15. 04:47Mid-Length Gas System
  16. 04:51Muzzle Device: Knox Brake
  17. 05:15Pin and Weld Considerations
  18. 05:41Extractor Material (S7 Tool Steel)
  19. 05:53Performance and Gas System Tuning
  20. 06:54Gas System Tuning: Buffer Weights
  21. 07:57Testing with a Dirty Firearm
  22. 08:35BA Hanson Barrel Accuracy
  23. 08:53Potential Modifications: Barrel Length
  24. 09:11Rail Heat Considerations
  25. 09:27Safety Lever Preference
  26. 09:47Future Plans: Light and Optic
  27. 10:43Conclusion and Advice

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key components of a Ballistic Advantage AR-15 build?

A Ballistic Advantage AR-15 build typically includes their forged 7075 T6 aluminum upper and lower receivers, a BA Hanson profile barrel, and a bolt carrier group made of 8620 steel (carrier) and 9310 steel (bolt). Other components like charging handles and rails often carry the Ballistic Advantage or Aero Precision branding.

How does Ballistic Advantage relate to Aero Precision?

Ballistic Advantage and Aero Precision are essentially the same company, sharing manufacturing facilities. Components from both brands often come off the same machines, with Ballistic Advantage frequently featuring a distinct 'death spade' logo, while Aero Precision has its own branding.

What are the advantages of a Ballistic Advantage BA Hanson barrel?

The BA Hanson barrel is known for its proprietary profile and often comes pre-pinned with a gas block. This pinning method, drilling through the barrel's bottom into the gas block, ensures secure retention of the gas system even if set screws loosen.

What are the considerations for gas system tuning on a 14.5-inch AR-15 build?

For a 14.5-inch barrel with a mid-length gas system, especially when running suppressed, buffer weight is crucial for proper gas tuning. While a carbine buffer might be close, an H1, H2, or H3 buffer is often recommended to achieve optimal ejection patterns and reliable cycling.

Why is the Atlas S1 rail a potential concern for heat?

The Atlas S1 rail, often branded by Ballistic Advantage, is a thin-profile rail. This design, while ergonomic, can absorb and transfer heat from the barrel and gas system more readily, leading to it becoming excessively hot during rapid fire or suppressed use.

Related News

All News →

More Gunsmithing & DIY Videos You Might Like

More from Tactical Considerations

View all →