AR 15 Upper Assembly: A Comprehensive Guide

Assembling an AR-15 upper receiver is a critical part of building or customizing your own AR Uppers rifle. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the step-by-step process to help you successfully assemble your AR-15 upper receiver. Please note that it’s essential to follow safety guidelines and any manufacturer-specific instructions for the components you’re using. Before you begin, ensure you have the necessary tools and workspace set up.

Tools and Equipment You’ll Need:

1. Upper receiver vise block.
2. Armorer’s wrench.
3. Torque wrench.
4. Bench vise.
5. Barrel nut wrench.
6. Roll pin punches and starter punch.
7. Mallet or hammer.
8. Barrel nut grease or aeroshell grease.
9. Upper receiver assembly lube.
10. Needle-nose pliers.
11. Barrel vise (if installing a barrel).
12. Receiver vice clamp (if available).
13. Eye protection.

Steps for AR-15 Upper Assembly:

1. Safety First:
   • Ensure your workspace is well-ventilated and free from distractions.
   • Wear eye protection at all times when working on your upper receiver.
2. Prepare Upper Receiver and Barrel:
   • Place the upper receiver securely in the upper receiver vise block.
   • If your upper receiver has a forward assist and ejection port cover, install them as per manufacturer instructions.
3. Attach the Barrel:
   • If you’re installing a barrel, apply a small amount of barrel nut grease or aeroshell grease to the threads of the barrel extension.
   • Slide the barrel into the upper receiver, ensuring that the gas tube hole lines up with the gas port on the barrel.
   • Hand-tighten the barrel nut over the barrel extension threads.
4. Torque the Barrel Nut:
   • Secure the upper receiver in the bench vise or upper receiver vise clamp.
   • Using the barrel nut wrench and torque wrench, tighten the barrel nut to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specification. Typically, this is around 30-80 ft-lbs, but it varies based on the type of barrel and barrel nut you’re using.
   • Verify that the gas tube hole remains aligned with the gas port in the barrel.
5. Install Handguard or Free-Float Rail:
   • If your handguard or free-float rail attaches to the barrel nut, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install it. Ensure that it’s properly aligned.
6. Install Forward Assist and Ejection Port Cover (if not already attached):
   • If your upper receiver did not come with a pre-installed forward assist and ejection port cover, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install them.
7. Install Gas Tube and Gas Block:
   • Slide the gas tube through the gas port in the barrel and into the gas key on the BCG.
   • Slide the gas block onto the barrel and secure it in place with the provided screws or pins.
   • Ensure the gas tube lines up with the gas port on the gas block.
8. Attach BCG (Bolt Carrier Group):
   • Insert the BCG into the upper receiver, ensuring that the gas key engages with the gas tube.
   • Push the BCG fully into the upper receiver.
9. Install Charging Handle:
   • Slide the charging handle into the receiver, ensuring that it engages with the BCG.
   • Secure it in place.
10. Inspect and Lubricate:
    • Inspect all components for proper alignment and functionality.
    • Apply a light coat of upper receiver assembly lube to key contact points.
11. Final Check and Function Test:
    • Perform a function test to ensure your upper receiver operates correctly. Check the safety, trigger, bolt catch, and magazine release.
12. Complete Your Build:
    • Once your upper receiver is assembled and functional, you can attach it to your lower receiver and complete your AR-15 build.

Building an AR-15 upper receiver can be a rewarding project, but it requires precision and attention to detail. Be sure to follow all safety guidelines and the manufacturer’s instructions for each component. If you’re ever unsure or uncomfortable with a step, seek assistance from a qualified gunsmith or experienced AR-15 builder.