Bear Creek Arsenal BCA 5.56 Nato 16" Complete Upper Review & Shoot 1:9

Published on May 26, 2022
Duration: 14:11

This review covers the Bear Creek Arsenal (BCA) 5.56 NATO 16" complete upper receiver with a 1:9 twist rate. The presenter tested its reliability with both 5.56 NATO and .223 Remington ammunition, noting zero malfunctions over 120 rounds straight out of the box. Initial accuracy testing with iron sights at 25 and 50 yards indicated promising potential, with adjustments needed for windage and elevation. The presenter plans a follow-up video with a scope for more precise accuracy testing.

Quick Summary

The Bear Creek Arsenal 5.56 NATO 16" complete upper features a 1:9 twist rate, ideal for 55-grain ammunition. It includes the BCG and charging handle, and demonstrated reliable function with both 5.56 NATO and .223 Remington rounds over 120 shots without lubrication.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Upper Overview
  2. 00:09Twist Rate Explained (1:9)
  3. 00:54Specific Upper Features
  4. 02:00Mounting the Upper & Ammo Choice
  5. 03:07First 10 Rounds & Initial Impressions
  6. 04:14Accuracy Test at 25 Yards
  7. 05:00Testing .223 Remington Ammunition
  8. 05:53Accuracy Test at 50 Yards
  9. 07:07Sight Adjustments & Elevation Issues
  10. 08:39Zeroing & Smaller Targets
  11. 09:07Accuracy Test at 100 Yards (Gong & Popper)
  12. 10:37Popper Target Hits & Size Reference
  13. 11:22100 Yard Group Analysis
  14. 11:45Future Scope Testing Plans
  15. 11:59Reliability Summary & Round Count
  16. 13:32Expected Budget Upper Accuracy

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the recommended twist rate for 55-grain 5.56 NATO ammunition?

A 1:9 twist rate is generally considered optimal for lighter projectiles like 55-grain 5.56 NATO ammunition. This twist rate ensures good stabilization for these common bullet weights, leading to better accuracy compared to slower twists.

What is the expected accuracy for a budget AR-15 upper receiver?

For budget-level AR-15 uppers, the expected accuracy at 100 yards is typically between 2 to 3 MOA (Minute of Angle), which translates to groups of 2 to 3 inches. Achieving better than 2 inches at 100 yards is considered exceptional for this price point.

Can a 1:9 twist rate upper shoot .223 Remington ammunition?

Yes, a 1:9 twist rate upper designed for 5.56 NATO can shoot .223 Remington ammunition. .223 Remington is typically loaded with lighter projectiles than some 5.56 NATO rounds, which the 1:9 twist rate is well-suited to stabilize.

What components are included in a complete upper receiver?

A complete upper receiver typically includes all the necessary internal components to function, such as the barrel, handguard, gas system, bolt carrier group (BCG), and charging handle. It is ready to be mounted onto a compatible lower receiver.

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