The AR-15 platform, renowned for its adaptability and modularity, offers a wide array of options for the discerning shooter. Among these, the carry handle upper receiver holds a unique place, steeped in history and still relevant in certain applications today. This comprehensive guide delves into the nuances of AR-15 carry handle uppers, exploring their origins, functionality, pros, cons, and their place in the modern shooting world.
A Blast from the Past: The History of the Carry Handle Upper
The carry handle upper receiver was a defining feature of early AR-15 and M16 rifles. Integrated directly into the upper receiver, the handle provided a convenient and sturdy method for carrying the rifle. More importantly, it housed the rear sight, a critical component for aiming. This design, born from military specifications, was prevalent throughout the Vietnam War era and beyond. The inherent strength and simplicity of the design made it a reliable option for soldiers operating in harsh environments.
Understanding the Mechanics: How Carry Handle Uppers Work
The carry handle upper receiver differs significantly from its modern, flattop counterpart. The most obvious difference is, of course, the integrated carry handle. This handle incorporates the rear sight, usually an aperture (peep) sight adjustable for windage and elevation. This contrasts with the flattop design, which requires the user to mount a rear sight separately on a Picatinny rail. The carry handle design is inherently more robust due to its integral nature, minimizing potential points of failure associated with separate rail systems and mounted sights.
Key Features and Considerations:
- Integrated Rear Sight: The primary feature, providing a reliable and sturdy aiming solution.
- Forward Assist: Most carry handle uppers retain the forward assist, a mechanism aiding in chambering a round.
- Dust Cover: Typically features a dust cover to protect the ejection port.
- Weight: Generally heavier than flattop uppers due to the integrated handle and rear sight.
- Limited Rail Space: Lacks the extensive Picatinny rail space of flattop uppers, limiting optic and accessory mounting options.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Carry Handle Uppers
While the flattop upper receiver has largely superseded the carry handle design, the latter retains several advantages in specific situations:
Advantages:
- Robustness: The integrated design offers exceptional strength and reliability.
- Simplified Zeroing: The fixed rear sight makes zeroing the rifle significantly easier.
- No Rail Wobble: Eliminates the potential for rail wobble that can be a problem with some flattop uppers.
- Nostalgic Appeal: For many shooters, the carry handle upper represents a piece of firearms history and is highly sought-after for its classic look.
Disadvantages:
- Limited Optic Mounting Options: The lack of a Picatinny rail significantly restricts optic choices.
- Weight: The integrated carry handle increases the overall weight of the rifle.
- Sight Picture: The aperture sight offers a smaller sight picture than many red dot or holographic sights.
- Co-witnessing Limitations: Makes co-witnessing with iron sights and magnified optics virtually impossible.
Modern Applications and Use Cases
Despite being largely replaced by flattop uppers, carry handle uppers still find their niche in certain applications:
- Retro AR-15 Builds: Enthusiasts seeking an authentic vintage look and feel often choose carry handle uppers for their historical significance.
- Budget-Friendly Options: Carry handle uppers can sometimes be found at more competitive price points compared to flattop uppers.
- Dedicated Iron Sight Users: Shooters who prefer iron sights and value the inherent strength of the design may choose a carry handle upper.
- Close-Quarters Combat (CQB) Training: Some law enforcement and military trainers still use carry handle uppers in CQB scenarios, highlighting the importance of basic marksmanship skills.
Conclusion: A Timeless Design with Modern Relevance
The AR-15 carry handle upper receiver represents a significant piece of firearms history. While it's no longer the dominant design, its robustness, simplicity, and inherent strength continue to appeal to shooters for specific applications. Whether driven by nostalgia, budgetary considerations, or a preference for iron sights, the carry handle upper remains a viable option in the modern world of AR-15 customization. Understanding its strengths and limitations is crucial for making an informed decision when building or upgrading your AR-15.
