5 AR-15 Upgrades I Wasted Money On

This video presents an accuracy test comparing budget AR-15s against high-end models, with prices ranging from $350 to over $2,200. The analysis, led by Elliott Delp, reveals that higher cost does not always equate to superior accuracy. Factors such as ammunition quality and shooter proficiency significantly influence group sizes, as demonstrated by the data table comparing various models' MOA.

Elliott Delp reviews the Sons of Liberty Gun Works (SOLGW) L89 rifle, evaluating its performance against industry hype. He highlights its exceptionally well-gassed system, smooth shooting experience, and high accuracy, evidenced by tight groups on Ballistic-X targets. Positioned as a mid-to-high tier firearm, the L89 is compared favorably to brands like BCM in terms of reliability and value.

Elliott Delp, an experienced firearms instructor, reviews AR-15 style rifles across different price points. He highlights the Radical Firearms AR-15 for around $500, the IWI Zion for approximately $1000, the Daniel Defense DD4 V9 for about $1500, and the American Defense Manufacturing AR-15 for roughly $2000. Delp encourages viewer engagement to gather feedback and identify potential future review subjects.

The Honest Outlaw reviews the Palmetto State Armory 11.5-inch 5.56 pistol, highlighting its exceptional value at around $500. Despite its budget price, the firearm demonstrated impressive reliability, handling 800 rounds without malfunctions, and achieved accurate hits at 250 yards. The reviewer suggests minor upgrades for enhanced comfort but deems it a highly capable option for home defense and general use.

Colion Noir assesses the $600 Ruger Harrier AR-15, concluding it's sufficient for most users who desire a functional, reliable rifle without complex modifications. He highlights its balanced handling and adequate performance at typical engagement distances (50-100 yards), comparing it favorably in perceived quality to a much more expensive HK MR556. This review targets the 'guy who just wants a rifle' rather than the 'AR guy' focused on building.

The Daniel Defense DD4 V7 SLW is presented as a premium, high-quality AR-15 platform, valued at approximately $2000. The review highlights its smooth shooting characteristics out of the box and details numerous potential upgrades and customizations. Expert insights cover its nomenclature, barrel and rail specifications, and compatibility with various accessories like suppressors and optics.

This video explores the effectiveness of blast shields on a Draco AK pistol. Firing without a blast shield shows a standard muzzle flash, while adding a JMac Customs X37 blast shield results in a significantly larger, more concentrated fireball. The experiment demonstrates how blast shields redirect muzzle blast, potentially increasing perceived concussion and flash.

Frequent rechambering of carry ammunition can lead to bullet setback, increasing pressure and risking firearm damage or malfunction. Magic Prepper advises regular inspection and replacement of carry rounds to ensure reliability. The Sig Sauer P365 is shown as an example CCW firearm.

The .300 Blackout caliber excels with suppressors, offering versatility with subsonic and supersonic loads. It provides superior performance in short barrels compared to 5.56 NATO due to better powder burn, making it practical for compact platforms. However, its ammunition is more expensive, and its effective range is limited to 300-400 yards.

This video details a critical failure during the testing of a Low Power Variable Optic (LPVO) on a Beretta A300 Ultima Patrol 12-gauge shotgun. The optic and its Midwest Industries mount detached from the receiver after the first shot due to sheared screw heads, resulting in a minor injury to the speaker. The analysis highlights the importance of proper torque specifications and potentially thread-locking compounds when mounting optics on high-recoil platforms.