Stag Arms AR-15 Super Varminter Left Hand Upper Receiver Review

What Happened When I Tried the Stag Arms AR-15 Super Varminter Left Hand Upper Receiver

The Stag Arms AR-15 Super Varminter Left Hand Upper Receiver is a specialized upper designed for left-handed shooters who demand precision and performance in a hunting platform. Manufactured by Stag Arms, this upper receiver chambered in 6.8 SPC II, boasts a stainless steel barrel, and is tailored for varmint hunting. Its left-hand configuration provides a significant advantage for southpaws, enhancing comfort and speed during follow-up shots.

I’ve always struggled with brass ejection from standard AR-15 uppers. As a dedicated left-handed shooter, hot brass flying across my face has always been a nuisance, and sometimes even a safety concern. I needed a reliable, accurate, and, most importantly, left-hand-ejecting upper receiver for my AR-15 build.

The package arrived securely, and upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the fit and finish. The anodized black metal looked durable and clean. The stainless steel barrel gleamed, promising excellent corrosion resistance and accuracy.

While I considered complete AR-15 rifles from manufacturers like Savage and Ruger, the flexibility of building my own rifle with a dedicated left-hand upper was extremely appealing. I also briefly looked at a similar upper from Aero Precision, but Stag Arms’s reputation for left-handed AR platforms and the specific varmint-hunting focus of this upper swayed my decision. My initial impression was one of excitement and anticipation; this seemed like the perfect solution to my left-handed AR-15 woes.

Real-World Testing: Putting Stag Arms AR-15 Super Varminter Left Hand Upper Receiver to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Stag Arms AR-15 Super Varminter Left Hand Upper Receiver was at my local shooting range. I was eager to see how it performed, particularly with the 6.8 SPC II round known for its superior ballistics over .223/5.56 for medium-sized game. I put about 100 rounds downrange, using various grain weights and brands.

The upper performed flawlessly, with smooth cycling and consistent ejection to the left. Even in the slightly dusty conditions of the range, the action remained reliable. The left-hand ejection was a revelation: no more brass kisses!

There was a slight adjustment period needed to get used to the 6.8 SPC II’s recoil, which is noticeably more substantial than the standard 5.56. However, this was expected and easily manageable.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, including multiple range sessions and a coyote hunting trip, the Stag Arms AR-15 Super Varminter Left Hand Upper Receiver has proven to be incredibly reliable. I’ve put close to 500 rounds through it without a single malfunction. The anodized finish has held up well, showing minimal signs of wear despite being exposed to various weather conditions.

Cleaning the upper is straightforward. The stainless steel barrel wipes down easily, and the overall design is simple to disassemble and maintain. Compared to my previous 5.56 upper, the Stag Arms upper has significantly improved my shooting experience due to its reliability, accuracy, and especially its left-hand ejection. The dedicated varmint-hunting caliber, 6.8 SPC II, also provides a distinct advantage in terms of downrange energy and effectiveness on medium-sized game.

Breaking Down the Features of Stag Arms AR-15 Super Varminter Left Hand Upper Receiver

Specifications

• The Stag Arms AR-15 Super Varminter Left Hand Upper Receiver is chambered in 6.8mm Remington SPC, offering superior ballistics for hunting medium-sized game compared to the 5.56/.223 cartridge.
• It is designed for AR-15 platform rifles, ensuring compatibility with standard lower receivers and components.
• The barrel is crafted from 416R Stainless Steel, providing excellent accuracy, corrosion resistance, and longevity.
• The upper receiver is finished with a durable anodized black finish, offering protection against scratches and wear.
• It is designed specifically for left-handed shooters, with ejection on the left side for increased comfort and safety.

These specifications are crucial for a varmint hunting upper. The 6.8 SPC II caliber provides the necessary stopping power for ethical kills, while the stainless steel barrel ensures consistent accuracy shot after shot. The left-hand configuration drastically improves the shooting experience for lefties by preventing brass from hitting their face.

Performance & Functionality

The Stag Arms AR-15 Super Varminter Left Hand Upper Receiver excels in delivering consistent accuracy and reliable performance. The 6.8 SPC II chambering provides a flatter trajectory and greater energy downrange compared to traditional 5.56. This is crucial for ethical and effective varmint hunting.

One potential area for improvement could be the inclusion of a forward assist. While not strictly necessary, a forward assist can be beneficial in certain situations, like ensuring the bolt is fully seated in adverse conditions. However, the upper’s overall performance meets and exceeds expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The Stag Arms upper boasts a solid build quality, utilizing high-quality materials. The anodized finish provides a durable and aesthetically pleasing appearance.

The upper receiver integrates seamlessly with standard AR-15 lowers, requiring no special tools or modifications. There’s virtually no learning curve involved, particularly for those familiar with the AR-15 platform.

Durability & Maintenance

The stainless steel barrel and anodized aluminum receiver ensure long-term durability. Regular cleaning and lubrication are all that’s needed to maintain optimal performance.

The simple design facilitates easy disassembly and cleaning, making maintenance a breeze. With proper care, the Stag Arms AR-15 Super Varminter Left Hand Upper Receiver is built to withstand years of use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Stag Arms AR-15 Super Varminter Left Hand Upper Receiver readily accepts a wide range of AR-15 accessories. This includes various optics, such as scopes and red dot sights.

It is also compatible with different handguards, allowing users to customize the ergonomics and aesthetics of their rifle. The compatibility with standard AR-15 components ensures a wide array of customization options.

Pros and Cons of Stag Arms AR-15 Super Varminter Left Hand Upper Receiver

Who Should Buy Stag Arms AR-15 Super Varminter Left Hand Upper Receiver?

The Stag Arms AR-15 Super Varminter Left Hand Upper Receiver is perfect for left-handed hunters seeking a high-performance, accurate, and comfortable AR-15 platform chambered in 6.8 SPC II. It is also ideal for those building a dedicated varmint hunting rifle.

Right-handed shooters or those primarily using their AR-15 for close-quarters defense might find this upper less suitable. A must-have accessory would be a high-quality optic suited to the distances at which you’ll be engaging varmints.

Conclusion on Stag Arms AR-15 Super Varminter Left Hand Upper Receiver

The Stag Arms AR-15 Super Varminter Left Hand Upper Receiver is a fantastic choice for left-handed shooters looking for a dedicated varmint hunting upper. The left-hand ejection is a game-changer for comfort and shooting speed.

The price of $464.99 is justified by the high-quality materials, reliable performance, and specialized features tailored to the needs of left-handed hunters. I would highly recommend this upper to any left-handed shooter seeking to build a precise and effective AR-15 for varmint hunting. Take the plunge and experience the difference a dedicated left-hand upper can make!