Was the Troy Upper Package with Medieval Flash Suppressor Worth It?
As an equipment specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience across diverse environments – from grimy workshops to sterile labs and demanding field conditions – I approach new gear with a healthy dose of skepticism and a keen eye for detail. My recent acquisition, the Troy Upper Package with Medieval Flash Suppressor, was driven by a need for a robust and reliable platform for a new project I was developing. Specifically, I was seeking an upper receiver assembly that could handle the rigors of .300 AAC Blackout ammunition while offering effective flash suppression for close-quarters testing without excessive barrel length. Existing options felt either too specialized or lacked the build quality I’ve come to expect from reputable manufacturers. Upon receiving the package, my initial impression was of solid construction; the forged receiver felt substantial, and the integrated handguard design promised a monolithic feel. I briefly considered a custom-built upper or a more modular system from a competitor, but the all-in-one nature of this Troy offering was appealing for its simplicity. My immediate reaction was one of cautious optimism, eager to see if its real-world performance would match its solid first impression.
Real-World Testing: Putting Troy Upper Package with Medieval Flash Suppressor to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of this upper took place at a controlled indoor range facility and then transitioned to an outdoor private range for more dynamic scenarios. The setup was straightforward, requiring minimal familiarization to mount onto a standard AR-15 lower receiver. The integrated nature of the handguard and barrel assembly simplified the build process considerably. During these initial sessions, I focused on function checks and familiarization fire with various .300 AAC Blackout loads, ranging from subsonic to supersonic. I noted the immediate effectiveness of the Medieval Flash Suppressor in reducing muzzle flash, even under low-light conditions typical of indoor ranges. There were no immediate quirks or surprises; the components fit together as expected, and the initial cycling of the action felt smooth.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the subsequent weeks, this Troy upper became a staple for my project work, seeing consistent use during testing phases. This involved numerous range days, some extended periods on a workbench for modifications, and even a few outings in less-than-ideal weather, including light rain and dusty conditions. The unit held up remarkably well, showing no significant signs of wear beyond superficial cosmetic marks on the anodized finish. The Medieval Flash Suppressor continued to perform admirably, maintaining its flash-hiding capabilities without any degradation. Cleaning and maintenance were simple; a standard AR-15 cleaning kit and solvent were sufficient to keep the bore and bolt carrier group in pristine condition. Compared to previous budget uppers I’ve used, this model demonstrated superior rigidity and a more consistent lock-up, which translated to improved accuracy over time.
Breaking Down the Features of Troy Upper Package with Medieval Flash Suppender
Specifications
The Troy Upper Package with Medieval Flash Suppressor comes configured for the .300 AAC Blackout caliber, a versatile round popular for its subsonic capabilities and effective terminal ballistics. It features an overall length of 10.5 inches, which positions it firmly in the Pistol Caliber Carbine (PCC) or short-barreled rifle (SBR) territory, making it ideal for maneuverability without sacrificing too much velocity. The unit is finished in a classic black color, achieved through a durable anodized coating that resists scratches and wear. Notably, this package does not include a magazine, a common practice for upper receiver assemblies as users typically have their preferred magazine types and quantities. The forged construction of the upper receiver, a standard for robust firearm components, contributes significantly to its overall durability and resistance to warping under stress. This compact configuration, coupled with the dedicated caliber, makes it suitable for various applications where a shorter overall firearm profile is advantageous.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of its core function, this Troy upper excels. The .300 AAC Blackout chambering is well-executed, providing reliable feeding and extraction with a wide variety of ammunition. The 10.5-inch barrel length, while short, proves quite effective with this caliber, minimizing velocity loss compared to longer barrels while still offering decent projectile energy. The Medieval Flash Suppressor is a standout feature; it dramatically reduces muzzle flash, which is crucial for maintaining situational awareness in low-light conditions and for reducing the visual signature during firing. It effectively tames the bright bloom typical of many muzzle devices, making shooting more comfortable and discreet. While it doesn’t eliminate flash entirely, its performance is noticeably superior to basic A2-style birdcage flash hiders, bringing it closer to dedicated sound suppressors in terms of visual reduction.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Troy Upper Package with Medieval Flash Suppressor is evident from the moment you handle it. The forged aluminum upper receiver feels solid and precisely machined, ensuring a tight fit with compatible lower receivers. The integrated handguard design contributes to a rigid and monolithic feel, which is beneficial for maintaining consistent zero with mounted accessories like optics or lights. The black anodized finish provides a non-reflective surface and offers good resistance to minor abrasions, though it can still be scratched by more aggressive contact. Ergonomically, the handguard offers a comfortable, though somewhat basic, grip profile. There are no fancy integrated grips or extensive M-LOK/KeyMod slots on this particular model, focusing more on a streamlined, no-frills design. This simplicity, however, means that attaching accessories requires compatible rail sections, which are not included.
Durability & Maintenance
Durability is clearly a strong suit for this Troy offering. The robust materials and solid construction suggest it will withstand significant use and abuse. The 10.5-inch barrel is likely made from quality steel, and the Medieval Flash Suppressor appears to be constructed from durable steel or a similar hard-wearing alloy, designed to endure the blast of fired rounds. Maintenance is straightforward; standard cleaning procedures for an AR-15 platform apply. Removing the bolt carrier group and barrel (if a deep clean is ever needed) is a standard process, and the black finish, while not impervious to deep scratches, cleans up easily. There are no apparent weak points or areas prone to premature wear under normal operational conditions.
Accessories and Customization Options
This specific package from Troy Industries is designed for simplicity and direct application, meaning it comes as a complete upper receiver assembly ready to be mated with a lower. It does not include any additional accessories like backup sights, optics, or charging handles, which are typically purchased separately to suit individual preferences. However, the handguard does feature a traditional Picatinny rail system along the top, allowing for the secure mounting of a wide array of optics and other accessories. Further customization would involve adding rail sections for M-LOK or KeyMod attachments if the user desires modularity for lights, grips, or laser systems. The Medieval Flash Suppressor is a permanent feature of this package, not intended for user removal or substitution unless the barrel is reconfigured.
Pros and Cons of Troy Upper Package with Medieval Flash Suppressor
Pros
- Robust .300 AAC Blackout Platform: A reliable and well-built upper receiver specifically chambered for the versatile .300 AAC Blackout.
- Effective Flash Suppression: The integrated Medieval Flash Suppressor significantly reduces muzzle flash, enhancing shooter visibility and discretion.
- Compact 10.5-inch Barrel: The 10.5 in barrel length provides excellent maneuverability, making it suitable for various roles.
- Durable Construction: Built with quality materials and forged construction for long-lasting reliability and resistance to wear.
- Streamlined Design: Offers a clean, monolithic-style handguard with a top Picatinny rail for accessory mounting.
Cons
- No Magazine Included: As is common, this package does not come with a magazine, requiring an additional purchase.
- Limited Handguard Modularity: The handguard has a top Picatinny rail but lacks integrated M-LOK or KeyMod slots for extensive accessory customization without adding rail sections.
- Price Point: While offering quality, the $699.99 price tag positions it in the mid-to-upper range, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
Who Should Buy Troy Upper Package with Medieval Flash Suppressor?
This Troy Upper Package with Medieval Flash Suppressor is an excellent choice for individuals looking for a .300 AAC Blackout upper receiver that prioritizes reliability, performance, and effective flash suppression in a compact package. It’s ideal for those building a dedicated SBR or a pistol-caliber carbine alternative for home defense, range use, or specialized tactical applications where a shorter firearm is beneficial. Enthusiasts who appreciate the no-nonsense build quality of Troy Industries will find this upper to be a solid investment.
However, those who require a highly modular handguard with numerous M-LOK or KeyMod attachment points out-of-the-box might need to factor in the cost of adding rail sections. Individuals seeking a budget-friendly entry into .300 Blackout might find other, less refined options available, though they would likely sacrifice some of the build quality and flash suppression performance. For optimal use, I’d recommend pairing this with a quality lower receiver, a suitable brace or stock (depending on local regulations), and a reliable optic that complements the 10.5-inch barrel length and .300 AAC Blackout caliber for accurate shooting.
Conclusion on Troy Upper Package with Medieval Flash Suppressor
The Troy Upper Package with Medieval Flash Suppressor is a well-executed component that delivers on its promises. It provides a robust and reliable platform for the .300 AAC Blackout caliber, featuring effective flash suppression from the integrated Medieval Flash Suppressor and a practical 10.5-inch barrel length for enhanced maneuverability. The build quality from Troy Industries is evident, offering a durable and well-finished product suitable for serious use. While it lacks integrated modularity on the handguard and doesn’t include a magazine, these are minor considerations given its overall performance and solid construction.
At its $699.99 price point, this upper represents a solid value for those prioritizing reliable performance and effective flash reduction in a compact AR platform. I would personally recommend it to shooters looking for a dependable .300 Blackout upper that balances capability with a streamlined design, particularly for applications where minimizing muzzle flash is a key requirement. It’s a piece of hardware built for purpose, and it performs that purpose admirably.