The Faxon 350 Legend complete upper is a popular choice for shooters looking to build or upgrade their AR-15 platform for the increasingly popular .350 Legend cartridge. This review delves deep into the features, performance, and overall value proposition of this upper receiver group, providing you with the information you need to make an informed decision.
What Makes the Faxon 350 Legend Upper Stand Out?
Faxon Firearms has built a solid reputation for producing high-quality, precision-built AR components, and their 350 Legend upper is no exception. Several key features distinguish it from the competition:
1. Superior Barrel Construction:
The heart of any AR-15 upper is its barrel. Faxon utilizes their renowned Gunner profile barrel, known for its exceptional accuracy and lightweight design. This profile balances stiffness for improved precision with a reduced weight, making it comfortable for extended shooting sessions. The barrel is typically cold hammer-forged, a process known for producing barrels with exceptional durability and longevity. The chrome-moly vanadium steel construction further contributes to its resilience and accuracy.
2. Precision Machined Upper Receiver:
The upper receiver is meticulously machined from 7075-T6 aluminum, a material chosen for its strength and lightweight characteristics. The tight tolerances during manufacturing ensure a reliable fit and function with the lower receiver. This contributes to a solid, robust build that can handle the recoil of the .350 Legend cartridge.
3. Reliable Bolt Carrier Group (BCG):
The included bolt carrier group is typically a nitride-treated Carpenter 158 steel design. Nitriding enhances the hardness and wear resistance of the BCG, resulting in a longer service life and reliable operation. This component plays a critical role in the functionality and safety of the firearm.
4. Gas System Considerations:
Faxon's 350 Legend complete uppers usually feature a carbine-length gas system. This length offers a balance between reliability and recoil mitigation. It's generally well-suited to the .350 Legend cartridge, providing consistent cycling and reduced felt recoil.
Performance and Accuracy: What to Expect
The Faxon Gunner profile barrel, combined with the quality construction of the upper receiver and BCG, contributes to a high level of accuracy. While precise accuracy figures can vary depending on ammunition and shooter skill, users consistently report excellent results with this upper. The .350 Legend cartridge itself is known for its flat-shooting trajectory and effective stopping power, making this upper an excellent choice for hunting or other practical shooting applications.
Pros and Cons of the Faxon 350 Legend Complete Upper
Pros:
- High-quality components: Faxon uses premium materials and manufacturing processes.
- Accuracy: The Gunner profile barrel is known for its accuracy.
- Lightweight design: The Gunner profile reduces weight without sacrificing stiffness.
- Durable construction: The cold hammer-forged barrel and nitrided BCG ensure longevity.
- Reliable operation: Users consistently report smooth and reliable function.
Cons:
- Price: Faxon products are generally positioned at the higher end of the price spectrum.
- Availability: Demand may sometimes outpace supply, making it challenging to find in stock.
Conclusion: Is the Faxon 350 Legend Upper Right for You?
The Faxon 350 Legend complete upper represents a significant investment, but it's a worthwhile choice for those seeking a high-quality, accurate, and reliable upper receiver for their .350 Legend build. Its superior components, coupled with Faxon's reputation for excellence, make it a compelling option for both experienced shooters and those new to the AR platform. If you value precision, durability, and reliable performance, the Faxon 350 Legend upper deserves strong consideration. However, it's essential to weigh the higher cost against your budget and specific needs before making a purchase.
