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  • Post category:Upper Receivers
  • Post last modified:April 6, 2024
  • Post published:November 19, 2022

Best 308 Complete Upper Receiver

What is 308 Complete Upper Receiver? 🧐

It is a key component of the .308 calibre AR platform rifles, which is renowned for its versatility and power. This assembly includes the upper receiver itself, the barrel, the bolt carrier group (BCG), the forward assist, the handguard, and the muzzle device.

The term “complete” signifies that all these components are already assembled, allowing the user to mount it directly to the lower receiver of the rifle. This component plays a critical role in the firearm’s functioning, guiding the ejection of spent cartridges and the chambering of fresh rounds.

Our Top Pick
Aero Precision M5 20in .308 CMV Complete Upper Receiver
This upper assembly is perfectly suited for establishing a dependable weapon platform capable of delivering top-tier performance in any scenario. The Atlas S-ONE handguard comes equipped with both front and rear Picatinny rails, simplifying the attachment of your preferred accessories. Additionally, it features compatibility with quick-disconnect sling sockets, facilitating hassle-free rifle carrying with a sling of your choice.
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Features 😎

πŸ”· Compatibility: They are designed to be compatible with most AR-10 lower receivers. This enables ease of installation and a seamless fit with existing components.
πŸ”· Barrel Options: They come with a variety of barrel lengths and profiles, providing options to suit different shooting styles and purposes, whether that’s hunting, target shooting, or defence.
πŸ”· Material Construction: Most of these upper receivers are crafted from high-grade aluminium, ensuring durability and resistance to wear and tear. Some may also feature a hard-coat anodized finish for added resistance against corrosion.
πŸ”· Rail Systems: Many of them feature built-in rail systems, such as Picatinny or M-LOK, for the attachment of accessories like optics, bipods, or sling mounts.

Advantages πŸ”₯

✴️ One of the biggest benefits is the convenience and ease of assembly it provides. With a fully assembled upper, the user does not have to source, buy, and assemble each individual part, including the barrel, upper receiver, handguard, gas system, bolt carrier group, and charging handle. This saves a lot of time and effort trying to find compatible components and figuring out how to put them all together properly. Complete upper receivers allow almost anyone to build a customized rifle, even without advanced technical knowledge or access to specialized tools.

✴️ Another major advantage is the cost savings they provide compared to buying and assembling all the parts separately. Manufacturers can purchase quality components in bulk for reduced prices and pass those savings on by selling finished uppers. Buying parts individually can also lead to compatibility issues, whereas a complete upper has all the right components matched and fitted from the factory. This reduces the investment required for specialized tools, jigs, vices, etc. that might otherwise be needed to build an upper from scratch.

✴️ Purchasing a factory-built upper also provides reliability and performance benefits stemming from proper assembly and quality control. Reputable brands test and inspect their completed uppers to ensure proper gas port alignment, headspace, smooth function, and accuracy. All the mating surfaces are assembled under precise torque specs and often use matching parts that may be numbered or indexed for consistency.

✴️ A major benefit is the wide range of configurations and speciality builds available from various manufacturers. Assembling an upper from individual components can require sourcing each specialized part separately. With a complete upper, you can often get built-in features like free-float handguards, stainless match barrels, etc. without having to hand-pick each item. Manufacturers offer complete uppers in endless combinations from short and lightweight carbine builds to long-range precision rifles and everything in between.

✴️ Finally, buying a fully assembled upper receiver allows the builder to focus their time and enjoyment on the process of assembling the lower half. This is the more rewarding part of the build that involves attachment of the fire control group, pistol grip, stock, and other components. The upper is simply there ready to be mated to the personalized lower. This division of labour makes the build process more approachable and fun. Many builders actually prefer to build multiple lower receivers to go with one high-quality complete upper that can deliver great performance across multiple configurations.

Maintenance 🎯

Proper maintenance of the complete upper receiver is crucial to ensure its longevity and optimal performance.

βœ… Start by disassembling the upper receiver, separating the bolt carrier group (BCG), the charging handle, and the barrel. Use a quality gun cleaner to remove any residue or grime from all components. Pay particular attention to the BCG and the barrel, as these parts are most susceptible to fouling.

βœ… After cleaning, inspect all components for signs of wear or damage. Look for cracks on the upper receiver, signs of excessive wear on the BCG, or an unevenly worn barrel. If any components are damaged, they should be replaced immediately to prevent any malfunctions.

βœ… Next, lubricate all moving parts, including the BCG and the charging handle. Make sure to apply a light layer of gun oil to all metal surfaces to protect them from rust and corrosion.

βœ… When reassembling, ensure all components are correctly aligned and securely fastened. Regular maintenance of your .308 upper receiver not only enhances its performance but also extends its lifespan, offering you a reliable and efficient shooting experience every time.

Please watch this video to learn more information πŸ“Ί

Best 308 Complete Upper Receiver Reviews

1# Aero Precision M5 16in .308 CMV Complete Upper Receiver

Aero Precision M5 16in .308 CMV Complete Upper Receiver

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Searching to add a little bit of versatility to your .308 build? Then check out the Aero Precision M5 16in .308 CMV Complete Upper Receiver w/ ATLAS S-ONE Handguard. This comes with an ATLAS S-ONE handguard and a 5/8×24 threaded barrel, so you can add all sorts of goodies to your setup. Plus, with a quick disconnect sling socket at the 3:00, 6:00, and 9:00 positions as well as a port door and forward assist, you can tailor this upper receiver to fit your specific shooting needs. Perfect for shooters looking to add a lightweight handguard, this combination is sure to provide endless possibilities. So don’t wait any longer, get your hands on the Aero Precision M5 16in .308 CMV Complete Upper Receiver today!

Pros:
  • Front and rear Picatinny rail
  • The eliminated centre of the top rail for weight reduction
  • Quick disconnect sling socket at the 3, 6, and 9 o’clock positions
  • Compatible with low-profile gas blocks
Cons:
  • The barrel may not be threaded to accept muzzle devices

 

2# Aero Precision M5 20in .308 CMV Complete Upper Receiver

Aero Precision M5 20in .308 CMV Complete Upper Receiver

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Want to get a lightweight and accurate rifle? Aero Precision M5 Complete Upper with Atlas S-ONE Handguard is the thing. This upper is ideal for creating a reliable weapon platform that can deliver premium performance in any situation. The Atlas S-ONE handguard is outfitted with a front and rear Picatinny rail, making it easy to attach your favourite accessories. The handguard is also quick-disconnect sling socket compatible, so you can easily carry your rifle with a sling. Plus, the low-profile gas block and slim profile make it easy to balance the weight of your accessories and clothing. With the Aero Precision M5 Complete Upper, you’ll have everything you need to build a high-quality and accurate rifle. Don’t miss out on this great product!

Pros:
  • Forged from 7075 T6 aluminium
  • .2795 takedown pin holes
  • Laser-engraved T-marks
  • Includes port door and forward assist
Cons:
  • Does not include a bolt carrier group or charging handle

 

3# Aero Precision M5E1 .308 Barrel Complete Upper Receiver

Aero Precision M5E1 .308 Barrel Complete Upper Receiver

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Invest in quality with the Aero Precision M5E1 .308 Barrel Complete Upper Receiver. This product is precision machined from 7075 T6 aluminium for added strength, making it perfect for competition or recreational shooting. The handguard mounting platform is forged into the receiver for ease of use, and the forward assist and port door is already installed. The sleek design not only looks great but also improves function and accuracy. Get the most out of your investment with this high-quality upper receiver from Aero Precision.

Video review

Pros:
  • Precision machined from 7075 T6 aluminium for added strength
  • Comes with forward assist and a port door installed
  • The Handguard mounting platform is forged into the receiver
  • Compatible with low-profile gas blocks
Cons:
  • Only compatible with DPMS Barrel Extension
  • Not available in a left-hand version

 

4# Stag Arms 10 Long Range Right Hand 20 in .308 Caliber Upper Receiver

Stag Arms 10 Long Range Right Hand 20 in .308 Caliber Upper Receiver

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The Stag 10 Long Range Complete Upper .308 M-LOK upper was specifically designed to ease long-range shooting with either a lightweight ergonomic Stag 10 or Stag 10 SL handguard. The Stag .308 line features a Stag Slant Cut design and includes uniquely designed parts for the lower to guarantee the best fit between the upper and lower. The remainder of the rifle utilizes the DPMS .308 platform for parts compatibility. The Stag 10 features a .308 chambered 20in 1/10 barrel, VG6 Gamma Compensator, and a 16.5in Stag 10 or Stag 10 SL M-LOK Handguard.

Pros:
  • An easy long-range shooting
  • Utilized the DPMS .308 platform for parts compatibility
  • Reliable
Cons:
  • May be too heavy for some shooters

 

5# TacFire DPMS .308 Winchester Complete Upper Assembly

TacFire DPMS .308 Winchester Complete Upper Assembly

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The TacFire DPMS .308 Winchester Complete Upper Assembly is the perfect addition to your AR-10 rifle. The 4150 Chrome Moly Vanadium barrel is Type III hard anodized for superior durability. The M-LOK free-float handguard provides superior accuracy and allows you to attach your favourite accessories. The 5/8×34 threads per inch allow you to easily attach a muzzle device.

Pros:
  • 4150 Chrome Moly Vanadium steel for superior durability
  • The finish is Type III Hard Anodized for superior protection
  • Free-float handguard for superior accuracy
Cons:
  • May be not available

 

6# CMMG Mk3 Banshee Upper Receiver Group

CMMG Mk3 Banshee Upper Receiver Group

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Requiring a high-quality upper receiver group for your .308 AR-10 rifle? Then consider the CMMG Mk3 Banshee Upper Receiver Group. This top-of-the-line receiver group is perfect for building a .308 AR that’s light and portable, without sacrificing performance.

The CMMG Mk3 platform is based on the popular DPMS Gen 1 high-pattern LR308 design, and it comes in Armor Black. It’s made from billet 7075 T6 aluminium for superior durability, and it has a medium taper barrel with a 12.5″ length. The gas system is mid-length, and the gas block journal diameter is .750″. The barrel also has a 1-10 twist rate.

Video review

Pros:
  • Mid-length gas system for smooth and reliable shooting
  • Comes in Armor Black colour
  • Compatible with M-LOK accessories
Cons:
  • The mid-length gas system may not be ideal for all shooters

 

7# POF USA Revolution PD Complete Upper

POF USA Revolution PD Complete Upper

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Wish to purchase a high-quality and durable upper receiver for your AR-10? Pay attention to the POF USA Revolution PD Complete Upper! This top-of-the-line receiver comes with POF-USA’s gas piston system and patented Roller cam pin, making it a reliable choice for your firearm. Additionally, the receiver sports a free-float handguard as well as an M-LOK compatible Edge rail system. Plus, with a nitride heat-treated barrel, this receiver is built to last. Don’t miss out on this must-have receiver – order the POF USA Revolution PD Complete Upper today!

Pros:
  • USA’s gas piston system and patented Roller cam pin
  • Comes with a free-float handguard and M-LOK compatible Edge rail system
  • Nitride heat-treated barrel for durability
Cons:
  • May be difficult to find compatible parts

 

8# ODIN Works Creedmoor Complete Upper Reciever

ODIN Works Creedmoor Complete Upper Reciever

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The ODIN Works Creedmoor Complete Upper Receiver is an outstanding choice for long-range shooting. With a 22 stainless steel barrel, it is designed to provide superb accuracy. The Tactical Match style profile with an XL Rifle gas system and the 1 MOA guarantee make this upper receiver a top choice for competition shooters and hunters alike. The included BCG features a black nitride finish and is considered multi-calibre, making it a versatile option for any shooter. The ODIN adjustable gas block provides a custom fit for any shooter, and the choice of MLOK or KeyMod 17.5in O2 Lite handguards gives you the ability to customize your setup.

Pros:
  • Superior accuracy
  • Black nitride finish
  • Multi-caliber BCG
  • ODIN adjustable gas block
Cons:
  • May be too expensive for some shooters

Installation πŸ› οΈ

Installing a complete upper receiver onto a compatible lower receiver is a very straightforward process for assembling your rifle.

🟣 First, make sure the upper and lower are from the same manufacturer and designed for each other. There are differences between AR-15 and AR-10 components, so verify you have a correct AR-10 (.308) complete upper and compatible AR-10 lower before mating them together.

🟣 Before assembly, inspect the parts for any damage, missing pieces, or obstructions in the upper and lower receivers. Clean any grease or debris and apply a thin coat of gun oil to the takedown and pivot pins to allow smooth installation.

🟣 To mate the two halves, first tilt the upper receiver at a slight rearward angle and insert the takedown pin through the holes at the front of both receivers. This pivot pin will allow the upper to swing into place.

With the pivot pin installed, swing the upper down flat against the lower receiver until the rear takedown pin holes are aligned. Push the rear takedown pin into place to hold the upper tightly against the lower. You may need to wiggle or tap the upper to help get the holes aligned.

β­• Check that the upper is seated cleanly against the lower with no gaps. The takedown pins should slide smoothly but tightly in place. To disassemble, simply push out the takedown pins and pivot the upper away from the lower.

FAQ ❓

Do .308 complete upper receivers come in different barrel lengths?

Yes, they do come in different barrel lengths, catering to various shooting needs and preferences.

  • βœ”οΈ The standard barrel length for most .308 AR rifles is between 16 to 20 inches, striking a balance between compactness and accuracy.
  • βœ”οΈ However, manufacturers also offer shorter, carbine-length barrels, typically around 14.5 inches, which are ideal for close-quarter combat or home defence scenarios.
  • βœ”οΈ On the other hand, longer, rifle-length barrels ranging from 22 to 24 inches are favoured by those seeking maximum precision for long-distance shooting.

When selecting a barrel length, it’s important to consider how it will impact the rifle’s performance, weight, and manoeuvrability. Shorter barrels tend to be lighter and more manoeuvrable, making them suitable for rapid target acquisition and quick transitions between targets. Conversely, longer barrels offer increased muzzle velocity and improved ballistic performance, enabling more accurate shots at greater distances.

How do I choose the Best 308 Complete Upper Receiver?

⬜ First, consider the quality of the upper receiver. Look for brands with a solid reputation for quality and reliability. A high-quality upper receiver will be made of durable materials, such as anodized aluminium, and will have a high standard of craftsmanship.

⬜ Next, consider the features of the upper receiver. Does it have a free-float handguard, a stainless match barrel, or any other unique features that suit your needs? Depending on your intended use, you may want to choose an upper receiver with specific features. For instance, if you plan to use your rifle for long-range shooting, you might want an upper receiver with a longer, heavier barrel and a free-float handguard to improve accuracy.

⬜ Finally, consider the price. While you may be tempted to purchase the cheapest upper receiver you can find, remember that you often get what you pay for when it comes to firearm components. It’s often worth investing in a more expensive upper receiver from a reputable brand, as it will likely be more reliable and last longer.

Remember, the best complete upper receiver for you will depend on your unique needs and preferences. Be sure to do your research and consider all your options before making your decision.

What materials are 308 upper receivers made from?

πŸ”˜ Forged 7075 T6 aluminium isΒ by far the most common material used to construct .308 upper receivers. 7075 aluminium is an exceptionally strong, lightweight and corrosion-resistant alloy that offers the best blend of durability and affordability. The T6 designation means the aluminium is heat-treated and artificially aged to achieve its maximum strength and hardness.

The forging process aligns the internal grain structure of the aluminium for even greater strength. Forged 7075 T6 can withstand the high pressures and abuse of combat conditions while still being budget-friendly. It machines well too, allowing precise machining for good fitment of parts. Most major AR manufacturers use 7075 forged aluminium for their .308 uppers.

πŸ”˜ Billet upper receivers are machined from a solid block or “billet” of aluminium, usually 7075 alloy. This allows greater customization of features like upper lighting cuts, integrated scope mounts, and enhanced aesthetics. The continuous grain structure offers strength and consistency.

However, billet uppers are far more expensive and require advanced CNC machining capabilities to produce. Lead times are often longer as each upper is machine-crafted from scratch. For the budget-minded, a forged upper offers better value.

πŸ”˜ Some manufacturers offer lightweight .308 uppers constructed from polymers like polycarbonate or carbon fibre-filled nylon. These shave weight but sacrifice long-term durability compared to aluminium. Polymer uppers are more vulnerable to heat and mechanical damage but usable if treated carefully. They are less common but available for those prioritizing minimal weight.

πŸ”˜ There are also some .308 uppers being produced using advanced metals like cerakote-coated magnesium alloy or graphene-reinforced aluminium. These exotic materials shed weight but are extremely costly. Anodized or Cerakoted forged 7075 aluminium remains the go-to material balancing cost, weight and durability for .308 uppers used in real-world conditions.

Exotic metals may offer marginal weight savings but are hard to justify for most builders. The standard forged 7075 upper offers the best mix of affordability, strength and manufacturability.

What parts are needed to complete an upper receiver?

Here are the main parts needed to complete an AR-10-style upper receiver:

  • ⚫ Barrel – The barrel performs the key function of firing bullets and is central to the upper assembly. Most are 16-20 inches long with various profile and material options.
  • ⚫ Upper receiver – The upper receiver houses the bolt carrier group and interfaces with the barrel and handguard. Forged 7075 aluminium is standard.
  • ⚫ Handguard – Free float M-LOK or Picatinny handguards 10-15 inches long allow accessory mounting.
  • ⚫ Bolt carrier group – The BCG consists of the bolt, carrier, firing pin, cam pin, and extractor. Quality and fitted headspace are critical.
  • ⚫ Charging handle – The charging handle grips the BCG to load and charge the rifle. Extended handles ease operation.
  • ⚫ Muzzle device – Flash hiders, brakes, and suppressor mounts control muzzle rise, signature, and accept attachments.
  • ⚫ Gas block/tube – Necessary components to capture propellant gas and enable semi-auto cycling. Mid-length systems smooth recoil.
  • ⚫ Upper parts kit – Includes small pins, springs, detents and takedown parts to fully assemble the upper.

Optional parts like a dust cover, forward assist, and special charging handles add convenience and customization. The core items listed above comprise a functional .308 calibre AR-10 style upper receiver ready to be joined to a lower. Investing in quality parts ensures smooth function and accuracy.

Are 308 Complete uppers interchangeable?
The interchangeability of .308 uppers largely depends on the specific make and model of both the upper and the lower receivers. In many cases, they are designed to be compatible with a variety of lower receivers.

πŸ”΄ However, this is not universally true for all .308 uppers. There are two main standards in the .308 AR world – the DPMS LR-308/SR-25 pattern, and the Armalite AR-10 pattern.

While the two are similar, they are not completely interchangeable. Therefore, you need to ensure that you are purchasing a .308 upper that matches the pattern of your lower receiver. Furthermore, it’s always recommended to verify compatibility with the manufacturer before making a purchase to avoid any potential issues.

Conclusion 🀩

The .308 complete upper receivers are versatile, customizable components critical to the performance and functionality of your firearm. They come in a range of quality levels, features, and prices, allowing for a high degree of personalization based on your specific needs and preferences.

However, choosing the right one requires careful consideration and understanding of your intended use, as well as the compatibility with your lower receiver. Moreover, their maintenance is crucial in preserving longevity and optimal performance.

Remember, investing in quality and taking time for proper care will ensure reliable and efficient shooting experiences over the long term.

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Bobby
Bobby
6 months ago

Hi! Could you please explained detailed about the difference between billet and forged uppers?

    Natalia
    6 months ago
    Reply to  Bobby

    Yes, there are different types of .308 upper receivers, and they can be categorized based on their manufacturing processes and materials. Two common types are billet and forged upper receivers:

    πŸ”Ά Forged Upper Receivers: Forged upper receivers are the most common type for both AR-15 and .308 platforms. They are made by hammering and shaping a solid piece of aluminum alloy into the desired shape. Forged receivers are known for their durability and strength. They are often less expensive than billet receivers because of the simpler manufacturing process. These receivers typically have a more traditional appearance.

    πŸ”Ά Billet Upper Receivers: Billet upper receivers are milled from a solid block (or billet) of aluminum. This allows for greater design flexibility and can result in receivers with more intricate and unique shapes. Billet receivers often have a more modern and aesthetically customized appearance. They are popular among enthusiasts who want a personalized and unique look for their rifles.

      Oliva
      Oliva
      6 months ago

      I’ve had great experiences with my Aero Precision and PSA 300 Blackout uppers. They’re well-made and reasonably priced. Definitely worth considering!

        Philip
        Philip
        6 months ago

        Now, I’m in the market for a BCM 300 Blackout upper, but unfortunately, they’re currently out of stock. I noticed that most of their offerings are short-barreled uppers. I’m aware that the 300 Blackout was designed with short barrels in mind, thanks to the pistol gas system, but my hunting club has a policy against using AR pistols for hunting. I’m aware that BCM offers a 16″ upper, but I was wondering if there are any other high-quality manufacturers that offer a 16″ upper for the 300 Blackout. If not, I don’t mind waiting until BCM restocks their inventory.

          Russell
          Russell
          6 months ago
          Reply to  Philip

          Did you think about building your own? I saw some barrels available.

            Spirit
            Spirit
            6 months ago
            Reply to  Philip

            Earlier this year, I constructed a 16″ 300 Blackout upper receiver for one of my firearms. My goal was to ensure that I had at least one firearm in compliance with the law, anticipating potential changes related to firearm brace regulations.

              Richard
              Richard
              6 months ago
              Reply to  Philip

               I went with Radical Firearms for my 16″ 300 Blackout upper. It’s been solid, no complaints so far.

                Eugene
                Eugene
                6 months ago

                Hello! Thank you for the post! Can I use a .308 upper receiver with an AR-15 lower receiver?

                  Natalia
                  6 months ago
                  Reply to  Eugene

                  No, you generally cannot use a .308 upper receiver with an AR-15 lower receiver interchangeably. The .308 upper receiver is designed for a larger and more powerful cartridge (typically the .308 Winchester or 7.62x51mm NATO), whereas the AR-15 lower receiver is designed for smaller cartridges, such as the 5.56mm NATO or .223 Remington.

                  The key differences between the two receivers that prevent interchangeability include:

                  πŸ”· Magazine Well Size: .308 receivers have a larger magazine well to accommodate the larger and wider .308 magazines, which are not compatible with the narrower AR-15 magazine well.

                  πŸ”· Bolt Carrier Group: .308 upper receivers use a larger and heavier bolt carrier group (BCG) designed for the .308 cartridge, whereas the AR-15 BCG is smaller and lighter.

                  πŸ”· Buffer System: The buffer system in the lower receiver of an AR-15 is designed for the recoil of the 5.56mm cartridge and would not adequately manage the recoil of a .308 cartridge.

                  πŸ”· Receiver Dimensions: The upper and lower receivers on AR-15s and .308 rifles have different dimensions due to the different cartridge sizes they are designed for.

                  πŸ”· Pressure and Bolt Locking Mechanism: The higher pressure and different bolt locking mechanisms of the .308 cartridge require a sturdier and more substantial upper receiver.