Bear Creek Arsenal GPx Piston Upper Tabletop Review and Field Strip

Published on September 28, 2022
Duration: 13:51

This review of the Bear Creek Arsenal GPx piston upper highlights its surprisingly affordable price point and piston-driven operation, which keeps the receiver cleaner and cooler. The presenter details the disassembly process, focusing on the handguard removal, piston system access, and the proprietary bolt carrier group. While acknowledging some minor aesthetic points and the need for tools to adjust the gas block, the overall impression is positive, emphasizing value and improved reliability over direct impingement systems.

Quick Summary

The Bear Creek Arsenal GPx piston upper offers a cleaner and cooler operating environment by using a piston system, enhancing reliability. It features an adjustable gas block with four settings, a side-charging handle, and a proprietary bolt carrier group. Notably, it is significantly more affordable than many competing piston systems.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Piston Uppers
  2. 00:48Bear Creek Arsenal's Value Proposition
  3. 01:25GPx Handguard and Barrel Features
  4. 02:15Side Charger and Receiver Plug
  5. 02:46Handguard Removal and Piston System Overview
  6. 03:04Gas Block Design and Adjustment
  7. 03:48Piston Rod and Gas Block Heating Concerns
  8. 04:39Piston System Disassembly
  9. 04:53Bolt Carrier Group Features
  10. 05:28Bolt Carrier Improvements
  11. 05:55Bolt Carrier Design and Beveling
  12. 06:19Bolt Disassembly and Inspection
  13. 06:53Cam Pin and Firing Pin Details
  14. 07:16Range Testing Preparations
  15. 07:38Final Thoughts and Value
  16. 07:51Piston vs. DI Discussion
  17. 08:07Barrel Specs and Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main advantages of a piston-driven AR upper like the Bear Creek Arsenal GPx?

Piston-driven uppers, such as the GPx, operate by using a piston to cycle the action, which keeps hot gas and fouling out of the receiver. This results in a cleaner and cooler operating environment, potentially leading to increased reliability and less frequent cleaning compared to traditional direct impingement systems.

How does the Bear Creek Arsenal GPx piston upper handle gas adjustment?

The GPx features an adjustable gas block with four settings plus an 'off' position. This allows users to fine-tune the gas system for optimal performance with different ammunition types, when using a suppressor, or to increase reliability with softer-shooting loads.

What are the key features of the Bear Creek Arsenal GPx bolt carrier group?

The GPx utilizes a proprietary bolt carrier group designed for its piston system. It's a one-piece construction with beveled edges to prevent tilting and features a beefier screw and locating pin for the charging handle, enhancing durability.

Is the Bear Creek Arsenal GPx piston upper considered affordable?

Yes, the Bear Creek Arsenal GPx piston upper is highlighted as being surprisingly affordable, retailing for about half or less than many other well-known piston system manufacturers, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.

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