I have a spikes lower that's been sitting around just begging to be finished. I just purchased AR precision Socom 16" fluted barrel in the .223 wylde chamber. Is there any real need to use a"match" grade upper to get the best out this new ARP barrel? I know other components like a floating rail and FCG play into it along with optics. I would like to build a nice bench gun. I hand load so I can play with ammo variables.

What about a Vltor upper?

ARP recommends Mega receivers.  Although, I don't think you could go wrong with Vltor either.

No "special" upper is needed.  Just get the Spikes M4 upper to match your lower and roll.  It will work well with your barrel and a nice 12" free float quality rail of your choice.

Thanks. J&G sales has the Mega Billet receiver with the anti rotational cuts for $149. I grabbed one.