BCA Bear Creek Arsenal 16" 5.56 Carbine Upper Long Range Test

Published on August 13, 2022
Duration: 8:28

This video tests the long-range capabilities of a Bear Creek Arsenal (BCA) 16" 5.56 carbine upper receiver mounted on an Anderson lower. The test focuses on hitting a 20-inch gong at 300 and 400 yards using IMI 5.56 M193 ammunition. The presenter emphasizes that the goal is to hit the plate, not achieve tight groups, especially given the budget components and moderate wind conditions.

Quick Summary

A budget BCA 16" 5.56 carbine upper, when paired with a basic Anderson lower and a budget scope, is capable of consistently hitting a man-sized target at 400 yards, even with moderate wind. The test used IMI 5.56 M193 ammunition and required aiming significantly over the target to compensate for bullet drop.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: BCA Upper Long Range Test
  2. 00:40Target Setup at 300 Yards
  3. 00:50Ammunition: IMI 5.56 M193
  4. 00:56Zeroing and Aiming Strategy for 300 Yards
  5. 01:46300 Yard Shot Results and Analysis
  6. 02:10300 Yard Performance Summary
  7. 02:22Transition to 400 Yards
  8. 02:36Wind Conditions Affecting Shots
  9. 03:04Target Setup at 400 Yards
  10. 03:09Scope Used: Simmons 3-9x40
  11. 03:35Aiming Strategy for 400 Yards
  12. 04:21Wind Calms Down for 400 Yard Shots
  13. 04:29Aiming Point for 400 Yards
  14. 04:44400 Yard Shooting Sequence
  15. 05:25Microphone Setting Adjustment
  16. 06:28Reviewing 400 Yard Shots
  17. 06:39Rushing Shots vs. Accuracy
  18. 06:55First Shot Accuracy at 400 Yards
  19. 07:15Man-Sized Target Capability at 400 Yards
  20. 07:19Links to Accuracy & Review Videos
  21. 07:42Budget Components Analysis
  22. 08:02Potential for 500 Yard Hits
  23. 08:09Conclusion: Budget BCA Upper Long Range Test

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the effective long-range capability of a budget BCA 16" 5.56 carbine upper?

A budget BCA 16" 5.56 carbine upper, when paired with a basic lower and budget optics, demonstrated the ability to consistently hit a 20-inch gong at 300 and 400 yards. The presenter suggests potential for 500-yard hits with further upgrades.

What ammunition was used for the BCA 5.56 upper long-range test?

The long-range test utilized IMI 5.56 M193 ammunition, which is a 55-grain full metal jacket round commonly used for training and general purpose shooting.

How much bullet drop should be expected from a 16" 5.56 upper at 400 yards?

At 400 yards, a 16" 5.56 upper with a 100-yard zero will experience significant bullet drop. The presenter had to aim approximately 6-8 inches over the target, or even a foot high, to compensate for the trajectory.

Can a budget AR-15 setup achieve hits at 400 yards?

Yes, a budget AR-15 setup, including a BCA upper, Anderson lower, and a basic scope, can achieve hits on a man-sized target at 400 yards. The focus is on hitting the plate rather than printing tight groups, especially with budget components.

More Reviews Videos You Might Like

More from Buckeye Ballistics

View all →