AR Sponsor
Posted: 1/15/2025 12:05:11 PM EDT
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With the massive shift in the rifle industry to chassis systems and modular designs, why haven’t more companies produced bolt action uppers? I see this as hugely advantageous. If prices were reasonable, I would absolutely have 4-5 bolt action uppers in my safe. I have gotten to where I only hunt/shoot suppressed and nowadays I don’t ever take my gas guns hunting anymore. Which I hate because I love the feel, look and especially the customizability of an AR. I have thought about adding a chassis and changing the barrel on my Tikka but I’m looking at a minimum of $1300 to do that (with decent quality) and even then I am not 100 % confident on doing a barrel swap on it. Idk maybe I am just more nuanced than the majority but I am just mind blown that more companies haven’t at least attempted to sell some BA uppers. |
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Quoted: With the massive shift in the rifle industry to chassis systems and modular designs, why haven’t more companies produced bolt action uppers? I see this as hugely advantageous. If prices were reasonable, I would absolutely have 4-5 bolt action uppers in my safe. I have gotten to where I only hunt/shoot suppressed and nowadays I don’t ever take my gas guns hunting anymore. Which I hate because I love the feel, look and especially the customizability of an AR. I have thought about adding a chassis and changing the barrel on my Tikka but I’m looking at a minimum of $1300 to do that (with decent quality) and even then I am not 100 % confident on doing a barrel swap on it. Idk maybe I am just more nuanced than the majority but I am just mind blown that more companies haven’t at least attempted to sell some BA uppers. Not a fan of BCA, but I will likely try their bolt action upper if they ever sell it as a component. |
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Kalikey works pretty well in my suppressed 300BO, makes it movie gun quiet, sure its a little slower to reload than a true bolt gun. 60 seconds to change it out and boom full Semi Action returns. Kalikey |
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Quoted: Kalikey works pretty well in my suppressed 300BO, makes it movie gun quiet, sure its a little slower to reload than a true bolt gun. 60 seconds to change it out and boom full Semi Action returns. Kalikey How’s the carbon build up on this? I assume it blocks the gas port? NVM. I just watched a video on this. The gas still escapes the ejection port. So without shutting of the gas port you will still get gas blowback and noise. This is exactly why I like the idea of a true bolt action. Although I guess this isn’t bad if you have no other option. |
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I have a Uintah in 6 ARC,, it's an one hell of an accurate rifle. It takes AR mags so you have ammo capacity options, I usually run it with 10 round mags. I also have a Savage 6 ARC in an Oryx chassis, it's an ok rifle. Action is not real smooth but it runs and shoots POA fairly well. AICS mags. I just recently purchased a Ruger American .223 REM for dirt cheap. Maybe I should say rescued it, the previous owner was very much gun illiterate. I put it in a Magpul Hunter stock and run it with 10 round AICS mags. Did a little work on the action and it is buttery smooth. I'm all in on this one for $350 including two Magpul AICS mags, Cheap blaster. You can put one together fairly cheap, a Uintah is going to set you back north of 2k but worth every cent. The upper and lower are billet and barrel is Match grade I put a Hyperfire two stage trigger in mine 1# second stage pull. Nitrided the barrel, bolt, firing pin and muzzel devise. I have shot the mile with it. |
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The whole point of chassis systems is a one-piece setup with rigidity, accuracy, and ability to mount things, or clamp things to the chassis with little to not effect on accuracy. You don't get any of that in an AR15. By design they are a minimum of a 3 part system. Even with a so called free floating handguard, it is still mounted to the barrel, and has some effect on accuracy. The upper and lower on an AR15 are rarely a tight fit, and any screws or wedges are just a bandaid for that problem. I think I have seen a special design AR15 lower with bolt on mount with an a handguard, so it is a true free floating handguard. I doubt such a setup could ever be as rigid as a true one-piece chassis. Maybe you would be able to squeak out a little more accuracy from a bolt action upper, or maybe get around semi-auto bans in your particular area. Other than that you don't see bolt action uppers because they are already as accurate as they are going to get as a semi-auto. |
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I cannot find it but there is a video on such a thing from England where they have some really weird gun laws. Bolt action AR is a thing. Try your Google-fu on this. I'm sure its better than mine but these do exist, perhaps just not here due to the market (amongst other reasons previously voiced). |
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Quoted: The whole point of chassis systems is a one-piece setup with rigidity, accuracy, and ability to mount things, or clamp things to the chassis with little to not effect on accuracy. You don't get any of that in an AR15. By design they are a minimum of a 3 part system. Even with a so called free floating handguard, it is still mounted to the barrel, and has some effect on accuracy. The upper and lower on an AR15 are rarely a tight fit, and any screws or wedges are just a bandaid for that problem. I think I have seen a special design AR15 lower with bolt on mount with an a handguard, so it is a true free floating handguard. I doubt such a setup could ever be as rigid as a true one-piece chassis. Maybe you would be able to squeak out a little more accuracy from a bolt action upper, or maybe get around semi-auto bans in your particular area. Other than that you don't see bolt action uppers because they are already as accurate as they are going to get as a semi-auto. |
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Most people spending that kind of money on a chassis are looking for much great precision than 1 MOA. There is another component to it too in accuracy, meaning POI shifts. Those same people are often wanting to use that rifle with a bipod, off a tripod, off sandbags, with a sling, etc. and demanding no POI shift at all. There's so many bolt actions out there that that cost less, weigh less, and have better ergonomics than an AR15 anyway. I'm not trying to take away from what you want, but I'm explaining why they are not being made. If you are happy with an AR15, you don't need a chassis. A Ruger American II Ranch model for example is listed at only $560. It's similar in weight. The model #46927 takes AR15 magazines, has a 16.1" threaded and fluted barrel chambered for 6.5 Grendel. The stocks on those are generally a better fit ergonomically to hunting type shooting, and they come modular enough to adjust fit. There's also the very real possibility they are both more precise, and more accurate than an AR15 with a bolt action of similar price would be. There's simply no demand when rifles like that exist. |
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Quoted: Bearcreek bolt actions upper Waiting for the actions to be offer'd. I got no faith in BCA barrels and such. |
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Quoted: Most people spending that kind of money on a chassis are looking for much great precision than 1 MOA. There is another component to it too in accuracy, meaning POI shifts. Those same people are often wanting to use that rifle with a bipod, off a tripod, off sandbags, with a sling, etc. and demanding no POI shift at all. There's so many bolt actions out there that that cost less, weigh less, and have better ergonomics than an AR15 anyway. I'm not trying to take away from what you want, but I'm explaining why they are not being made. If you are happy with an AR15, you don't need a chassis. A Ruger American II Ranch model for example is listed at only $560. It's similar in weight. The model #46927 takes AR15 magazines, has a 16.1" threaded and fluted barrel chambered for 6.5 Grendel. The stocks on those are generally a better fit ergonomically to hunting type shooting, and they come modular enough to adjust fit. There's also the very real possibility they are both more precise, and more accurate than an AR15 with a bolt action of similar price would be. There's simply no demand when rifles like that exist. You are not wrong, but you kinda miss the point. We already have half the gun, the important part, the lower. To buy a complete firearm requires a receiving FFL and fees. If you can buy an upper off the interwebs and have it delivered to your home and simply pin it to your existing lower, a lower that you may already have a really sweet trigger in, what's not to love 
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Quoted: Most people spending that kind of money on a chassis are looking for much great precision than 1 MOA. There is another component to it too in accuracy, meaning POI shifts. Those same people are often wanting to use that rifle with a bipod, off a tripod, off sandbags, with a sling, etc. and demanding no POI shift at all. There's so many bolt actions out there that that cost less, weigh less, and have better ergonomics than an AR15 anyway. I'm not trying to take away from what you want, but I'm explaining why they are not being made. If you are happy with an AR15, you don't need a chassis. A Ruger American II Ranch model for example is listed at only $560. It's similar in weight. The model #46927 takes AR15 magazines, has a 16.1" threaded and fluted barrel chambered for 6.5 Grendel. The stocks on those are generally a better fit ergonomically to hunting type shooting, and they come modular enough to adjust fit. There's also the very real possibility they are both more precise, and more accurate than an AR15 with a bolt action of similar price would be. There's simply no demand when rifles like that exist. So, there I will just have to respectfully disagree. I have RAR in 5.56. I like it. It has AR mags. I actually shoot it more than my ARs because it is fun to shoot and lightweight. But it is not nearly as comfortable to shoot as my ARs. I hate the feel of a hunting stock. The angle of the grip, the flex of the cheap stock, cheek weld is AWFUL, and inability to add accessories are just a few of the cons. My 18" Grendel is also the same length as my RAR with a 16" barrel. I could cut basically 3.5" off the total length with a 14.5" Grendel and it is just as light with a free floating MLOK handguard that has the ability to easily mount whatever I want. All of this was achieved building it myself for under $500. Bought a stripped lower long time ago for $29. Built it with a LPK from PSA for cheap and then added a Larue trigger for $100. Then bought a cheap upper from PSA with an MLOK handguard and put a 18" CHF quality barrel in it. Boom, cheap great shooting AR for a low cost. |
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Quoted: Waiting for the actions to be offer'd. I got no faith in BCA barrels and such. Quoted: Quoted: Bearcreek bolt actions upper Waiting for the actions to be offer'd. I got no faith in BCA barrels and such. Yep that’s exactly how I feel. Can’t do BCA. PSA is about the lowest I will go when it comes to barrels. |
| I understand why people like buying uppers, I'm only explaining why there are next to no bolt action uppers out there. I randomly threw out an example of a Ruger American II, but there are other bolt action's out there that take AR magazines. You don't need a receiving FFL for these, you just need a gun shop that is worth anything. They shouldn't be charging you fee's other than tax. If they are, find a better store. It's the same with AR lowers though. Every shop has different fee's , but mine charges I think $30 for FFL, plus the shipping. So for me to get even a blemished PSA lower would cost $40 for the lower, plus about $10 for shipping, plus the $30, so $80 total before tax. Or I can buy the Anderson lower my store stocks for $50 out the door. It's the same thing for complete firearms, you don't pay shipping or FFL fees if you buy one that is in stock, or one that they want to stock. My local store will even get them for me if they are in their dealer network. The only time I pay extra FFL fees when buying a gun is if I buy one from say Gunbroker. Many aren't expensive guns either. You can buy entire bolt action rifles that are the same prices as a halfway decent AR15 upper. The demand just isn't there, and most people do not care about the 15 minutes it takes to fill out the form at a gun store. |
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SCSA Taipan makes a nice bolt/pump in Australia. Lets commie state residents have an AR. SCSA Taipan AR rifle Attached File |
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Quoted: This. And you can get a Ruger American .223 REM that takes AR mags. I was just about to post this. Get a Ruger American Ranch in .223 and put it in a chassis… I have one chambered in .300 Blackout that I’ve SBR’d and suppressed, it’s easily one of my favorites to take out. |
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I want just the upper bolt action receiver because I have everything else I need to build out a full rifle. A person could build a really lightweight gun without the buffer and gas parts. In my case chassis type accuracy would not be the ultimate goal but rather a sleek and simple walk around rifle. Also make a good base for a folding stock package or suppressor host without worry about the cycling part. While skeptical about BCA barrels and assembly I’ve used their side charging upper on several builds and haven’t had any problems. |
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Quoted: I want just the upper bolt action receiver because I have everything else I need to build out a full rifle. A person could build a really lightweight gun without the buffer and gas parts. In my case chassis type accuracy would not be the ultimate goal but rather a sleek and simple walk around rifle. Also make a good base for a folding stock package or suppressor host without worry about the cycling part. While skeptical about BCA barrels and assembly I’ve used their side charging upper on several builds and haven’t had any problems. Some folks just don't seem to get the point, but I am with you on this. Again, to buy a Ruger 223, or any other complete firearm, requires more money and more paperwork. If you already build AR's, you have the tools to swap barrels and bolts and put together a configuration of your choice. This would really shine in a suppressed role, no gas, no pop, etc. I also have a BCA sidecharging upper on a "special purpose" weapon and it works fine. |
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Quoted: So, there I will just have to respectfully disagree. I have RAR in 5.56. I like it. It has AR mags. I actually shoot it more than my ARs because it is fun to shoot and lightweight. But it is not nearly as comfortable to shoot as my ARs. I hate the feel of a hunting stock. The angle of the grip, the flex of the cheap stock, cheek weld is AWFUL, and inability to add accessories are just a few of the cons. My 18" Grendel is also the same length as my RAR with a 16" barrel. I could cut basically 3.5" off the total length with a 14.5" Grendel and it is just as light with a free floating MLOK handguard that has the ability to easily mount whatever I want. All of this was achieved building it myself for under $500. Bought a stripped lower long time ago for $29. Built it with a LPK from PSA for cheap and then added a Larue trigger for $100. Then bought a cheap upper from PSA with an MLOK handguard and put a 18" CHF quality barrel in it. Boom, cheap great shooting AR for a low cost. Quoted: Quoted: Most people spending that kind of money on a chassis are looking for much great precision than 1 MOA. There is another component to it too in accuracy, meaning POI shifts. Those same people are often wanting to use that rifle with a bipod, off a tripod, off sandbags, with a sling, etc. and demanding no POI shift at all. There's so many bolt actions out there that that cost less, weigh less, and have better ergonomics than an AR15 anyway. I'm not trying to take away from what you want, but I'm explaining why they are not being made. If you are happy with an AR15, you don't need a chassis. A Ruger American II Ranch model for example is listed at only $560. It's similar in weight. The model #46927 takes AR15 magazines, has a 16.1" threaded and fluted barrel chambered for 6.5 Grendel. The stocks on those are generally a better fit ergonomically to hunting type shooting, and they come modular enough to adjust fit. There's also the very real possibility they are both more precise, and more accurate than an AR15 with a bolt action of similar price would be. There's simply no demand when rifles like that exist. So, there I will just have to respectfully disagree. I have RAR in 5.56. I like it. It has AR mags. I actually shoot it more than my ARs because it is fun to shoot and lightweight. But it is not nearly as comfortable to shoot as my ARs. I hate the feel of a hunting stock. The angle of the grip, the flex of the cheap stock, cheek weld is AWFUL, and inability to add accessories are just a few of the cons. My 18" Grendel is also the same length as my RAR with a 16" barrel. I could cut basically 3.5" off the total length with a 14.5" Grendel and it is just as light with a free floating MLOK handguard that has the ability to easily mount whatever I want. All of this was achieved building it myself for under $500. Bought a stripped lower long time ago for $29. Built it with a LPK from PSA for cheap and then added a Larue trigger for $100. Then bought a cheap upper from PSA with an MLOK handguard and put a 18" CHF quality barrel in it. Boom, cheap great shooting AR for a low cost.  Pics of Ruger American w/ optic mounted?
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Quoted: Pics of Ruger American w/ optic mounted?Quoted: Quoted: Quoted: Most people spending that kind of money on a chassis are looking for much great precision than 1 MOA. There is another component to it too in accuracy, meaning POI shifts. Those same people are often wanting to use that rifle with a bipod, off a tripod, off sandbags, with a sling, etc. and demanding no POI shift at all. There's so many bolt actions out there that that cost less, weigh less, and have better ergonomics than an AR15 anyway. I'm not trying to take away from what you want, but I'm explaining why they are not being made. If you are happy with an AR15, you don't need a chassis. A Ruger American II Ranch model for example is listed at only $560. It's similar in weight. The model #46927 takes AR15 magazines, has a 16.1" threaded and fluted barrel chambered for 6.5 Grendel. The stocks on those are generally a better fit ergonomically to hunting type shooting, and they come modular enough to adjust fit. There's also the very real possibility they are both more precise, and more accurate than an AR15 with a bolt action of similar price would be. There's simply no demand when rifles like that exist. So, there I will just have to respectfully disagree. I have RAR in 5.56. I like it. It has AR mags. I actually shoot it more than my ARs because it is fun to shoot and lightweight. But it is not nearly as comfortable to shoot as my ARs. I hate the feel of a hunting stock. The angle of the grip, the flex of the cheap stock, cheek weld is AWFUL, and inability to add accessories are just a few of the cons. My 18" Grendel is also the same length as my RAR with a 16" barrel. I could cut basically 3.5" off the total length with a 14.5" Grendel and it is just as light with a free floating MLOK handguard that has the ability to easily mount whatever I want. All of this was achieved building it myself for under $500. Bought a stripped lower long time ago for $29. Built it with a LPK from PSA for cheap and then added a Larue trigger for $100. Then bought a cheap upper from PSA with an MLOK handguard and put a 18" CHF quality barrel in it. Boom, cheap great shooting AR for a low cost. Pics of Ruger American w/ optic mounted?Are you telling me that a standard rifle stock has a good cheek weld? It’s mounted with regular old medium high rings with a Diamondback Tactical. |
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Quoted: Are you telling me that a standard rifle stock has a good cheek weld? It’s mounted with regular old medium high rings with a Diamondback Tactical. Quoted: Quoted: Quoted: Quoted: Most people spending that kind of money on a chassis are looking for much great precision than 1 MOA. There is another component to it too in accuracy, meaning POI shifts. Those same people are often wanting to use that rifle with a bipod, off a tripod, off sandbags, with a sling, etc. and demanding no POI shift at all. There's so many bolt actions out there that that cost less, weigh less, and have better ergonomics than an AR15 anyway. I'm not trying to take away from what you want, but I'm explaining why they are not being made. If you are happy with an AR15, you don't need a chassis. A Ruger American II Ranch model for example is listed at only $560. It's similar in weight. The model #46927 takes AR15 magazines, has a 16.1" threaded and fluted barrel chambered for 6.5 Grendel. The stocks on those are generally a better fit ergonomically to hunting type shooting, and they come modular enough to adjust fit. There's also the very real possibility they are both more precise, and more accurate than an AR15 with a bolt action of similar price would be. There's simply no demand when rifles like that exist. So, there I will just have to respectfully disagree. I have RAR in 5.56. I like it. It has AR mags. I actually shoot it more than my ARs because it is fun to shoot and lightweight. But it is not nearly as comfortable to shoot as my ARs. I hate the feel of a hunting stock. The angle of the grip, the flex of the cheap stock, cheek weld is AWFUL, and inability to add accessories are just a few of the cons. My 18" Grendel is also the same length as my RAR with a 16" barrel. I could cut basically 3.5" off the total length with a 14.5" Grendel and it is just as light with a free floating MLOK handguard that has the ability to easily mount whatever I want. All of this was achieved building it myself for under $500. Bought a stripped lower long time ago for $29. Built it with a LPK from PSA for cheap and then added a Larue trigger for $100. Then bought a cheap upper from PSA with an MLOK handguard and put a 18" CHF quality barrel in it. Boom, cheap great shooting AR for a low cost. Pics of Ruger American w/ optic mounted?Are you telling me that a standard rifle stock has a good cheek weld? It’s mounted with regular old medium high rings with a Diamondback Tactical. That's kinda the point of a a standard rifle stock - you mount your optic as low over the action and barrel as possible, and if need be, you add a riser on the stock. I have no idea how big your objective is but if you have a measurable distance between your optic and your action, try to find some rings that will lower the optic. The old see through rings that were popular in the 70's were b/c scopes weren't terribly reliable, so you got a good cheek weld on the irons, and the scope was up there somewhere - not an ideal setup. If you have a huge objective that won't clear the barrel without high rings, then you'll likely need a riser on the stock. Ze Jermans had no idea what cheek weld was in the 2nd WW: 
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Quoted: That's kinda the point of a a standard rifle stock - you mount your optic as low over the action and barrel as possible, and if need be, you add a riser on the stock. I have no idea how big your objective is but if you have a measurable distance between your optic and your action, try to find some rings that will lower the optic. The old see through rings that were popular in the 70's were b/c scopes weren't terribly reliable, so you got a good cheek weld on the irons, and the scope was up there somewhere - not an ideal setup. If you have a huge objective that won't clear the barrel without high rings, then you'll likely need a riser on the stock. Ze Jermans had no idea what cheek weld was in the 2nd WW: https://images.gunsinternational.com/listings_sub/acc_87874/gi_101100774/WWII-German-Mauser-Model-98-Sniper-Rifle_101100774_87874_B082BEC8708820A7.jpg Quoted: Quoted: Quoted: Quoted: Quoted: Most people spending that kind of money on a chassis are looking for much great precision than 1 MOA. There is another component to it too in accuracy, meaning POI shifts. Those same people are often wanting to use that rifle with a bipod, off a tripod, off sandbags, with a sling, etc. and demanding no POI shift at all. There's so many bolt actions out there that that cost less, weigh less, and have better ergonomics than an AR15 anyway. I'm not trying to take away from what you want, but I'm explaining why they are not being made. If you are happy with an AR15, you don't need a chassis. A Ruger American II Ranch model for example is listed at only $560. It's similar in weight. The model #46927 takes AR15 magazines, has a 16.1" threaded and fluted barrel chambered for 6.5 Grendel. The stocks on those are generally a better fit ergonomically to hunting type shooting, and they come modular enough to adjust fit. There's also the very real possibility they are both more precise, and more accurate than an AR15 with a bolt action of similar price would be. There's simply no demand when rifles like that exist. So, there I will just have to respectfully disagree. I have RAR in 5.56. I like it. It has AR mags. I actually shoot it more than my ARs because it is fun to shoot and lightweight. But it is not nearly as comfortable to shoot as my ARs. I hate the feel of a hunting stock. The angle of the grip, the flex of the cheap stock, cheek weld is AWFUL, and inability to add accessories are just a few of the cons. My 18" Grendel is also the same length as my RAR with a 16" barrel. I could cut basically 3.5" off the total length with a 14.5" Grendel and it is just as light with a free floating MLOK handguard that has the ability to easily mount whatever I want. All of this was achieved building it myself for under $500. Bought a stripped lower long time ago for $29. Built it with a LPK from PSA for cheap and then added a Larue trigger for $100. Then bought a cheap upper from PSA with an MLOK handguard and put a 18" CHF quality barrel in it. Boom, cheap great shooting AR for a low cost. Pics of Ruger American w/ optic mounted?Are you telling me that a standard rifle stock has a good cheek weld? It’s mounted with regular old medium high rings with a Diamondback Tactical. That's kinda the point of a a standard rifle stock - you mount your optic as low over the action and barrel as possible, and if need be, you add a riser on the stock. I have no idea how big your objective is but if you have a measurable distance between your optic and your action, try to find some rings that will lower the optic. The old see through rings that were popular in the 70's were b/c scopes weren't terribly reliable, so you got a good cheek weld on the irons, and the scope was up there somewhere - not an ideal setup. If you have a huge objective that won't clear the barrel without high rings, then you'll likely need a riser on the stock. Ze Jermans had no idea what cheek weld was in the 2nd WW: https://images.gunsinternational.com/listings_sub/acc_87874/gi_101100774/WWII-German-Mauser-Model-98-Sniper-Rifle_101100774_87874_B082BEC8708820A7.jpg I’m well aware although I appreciate the history lesson… Always found it odd that people on forums just assume everyone is an idiot haha. Maybe the fact that I’m specifically talking about chassis systems and bolt action ARs might clue you in to the fact that I’ve been shooting for a long time and I might know how to mount a scope. Also, standard rifle stocks have terrible cheek weld with modern optics. 30-34mm tubes and 50-56mm objective lenses tend to cause that. |
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Quoted: As far as I know, BCA is working on some affordable uppers but I don’t have much interest in their stuff. I was hoping some of the more midrange tiers would start. My BCA bolt action upper shipped this morning. I've been waiting for an affordable bolt action upper for some time and BCA's was the first reasonable priced one that I've seen. They're only selling complete uppers right now so I bought one to take apart and re-build as a suppressed 300 Blackout. It takes standard bolts and barrels from what I've seen. |
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Quoted: My BCA bolt action upper shipped this morning. I've been waiting for an affordable bolt action upper for some time and BCA's was the first reasonable priced one that I've seen. They're only selling complete uppers right now so I bought one to take apart and re-build as a suppressed 300 Blackout. It takes standard bolts and barrels from what I've seen. Please let us know, fit/finish/etc
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If you want the best available... No comprised AR15 bolt action upper to mate to your lower. this is the one you want, their support is top notch and you will not be disappointed. 1 MOA guarantee, mine shoots .5 MOA. The only limitation is which aftermarket trigger will work, I run a Hyperfire 2 stage in mine with no issues, 2.5# first stage with a 1# second stage. I recommend pulling the buffer and buffer spring out of the lower when using this upper. https://uintahprecision.com/product/upr15/. |
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Quoted: I’m well aware although I appreciate the history lesson… Always found it odd that people on forums just assume everyone is an idiot haha. Maybe the fact that I’m specifically talking about chassis systems and bolt action ARs might clue you in to the fact that I’ve been shooting for a long time and I might know how to mount a scope. Also, standard rifle stocks have terrible cheek weld with modern optics. 30-34mm tubes and 50-56mm objective lenses tend to cause that. Quoted: Quoted: Quoted: Quoted: Quoted: Quoted: Most people spending that kind of money on a chassis are looking for much great precision than 1 MOA. There is another component to it too in accuracy, meaning POI shifts. Those same people are often wanting to use that rifle with a bipod, off a tripod, off sandbags, with a sling, etc. and demanding no POI shift at all. There's so many bolt actions out there that that cost less, weigh less, and have better ergonomics than an AR15 anyway. I'm not trying to take away from what you want, but I'm explaining why they are not being made. If you are happy with an AR15, you don't need a chassis. A Ruger American II Ranch model for example is listed at only $560. It's similar in weight. The model #46927 takes AR15 magazines, has a 16.1" threaded and fluted barrel chambered for 6.5 Grendel. The stocks on those are generally a better fit ergonomically to hunting type shooting, and they come modular enough to adjust fit. There's also the very real possibility they are both more precise, and more accurate than an AR15 with a bolt action of similar price would be. There's simply no demand when rifles like that exist. So, there I will just have to respectfully disagree. I have RAR in 5.56. I like it. It has AR mags. I actually shoot it more than my ARs because it is fun to shoot and lightweight. But it is not nearly as comfortable to shoot as my ARs. I hate the feel of a hunting stock. The angle of the grip, the flex of the cheap stock, cheek weld is AWFUL, and inability to add accessories are just a few of the cons. My 18" Grendel is also the same length as my RAR with a 16" barrel. I could cut basically 3.5" off the total length with a 14.5" Grendel and it is just as light with a free floating MLOK handguard that has the ability to easily mount whatever I want. All of this was achieved building it myself for under $500. Bought a stripped lower long time ago for $29. Built it with a LPK from PSA for cheap and then added a Larue trigger for $100. Then bought a cheap upper from PSA with an MLOK handguard and put a 18" CHF quality barrel in it. Boom, cheap great shooting AR for a low cost. Pics of Ruger American w/ optic mounted?Are you telling me that a standard rifle stock has a good cheek weld? It’s mounted with regular old medium high rings with a Diamondback Tactical. That's kinda the point of a a standard rifle stock - you mount your optic as low over the action and barrel as possible, and if need be, you add a riser on the stock. I have no idea how big your objective is but if you have a measurable distance between your optic and your action, try to find some rings that will lower the optic. The old see through rings that were popular in the 70's were b/c scopes weren't terribly reliable, so you got a good cheek weld on the irons, and the scope was up there somewhere - not an ideal setup. If you have a huge objective that won't clear the barrel without high rings, then you'll likely need a riser on the stock. Ze Jermans had no idea what cheek weld was in the 2nd WW: https://images.gunsinternational.com/listings_sub/acc_87874/gi_101100774/WWII-German-Mauser-Model-98-Sniper-Rifle_101100774_87874_B082BEC8708820A7.jpg I’m well aware although I appreciate the history lesson… Always found it odd that people on forums just assume everyone is an idiot haha. Maybe the fact that I’m specifically talking about chassis systems and bolt action ARs might clue you in to the fact that I’ve been shooting for a long time and I might know how to mount a scope. Also, standard rifle stocks have terrible cheek weld with modern optics. 30-34mm tubes and 50-56mm objective lenses tend to cause that. I regularly see members post here who have never seen an optic without an AR height riser and apparently assume that's how all optics are to be mounted. Hence why I asked for pics. Add a cheek riser, problem solved. |
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Quoted: I regularly see members post here who have never seen an optic without an AR height riser and apparently assume that's how all optics are to be mounted. Hence why I asked for pics. Add a cheek riser, problem solved. I understand. No worries. Cheek riser solves one issue I guess. |
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Quoted: I understand. No worries. Cheek riser solves one issue I guess. I don't want to drift your thread too hard now, but we are thankfully in a time now when manufacturers are making rifle fit much easier than it used to be. The vast majority of decent bolt actions have adjustments for both comb height and length of pull now. That Ruger American II for example has replaceable combs to get you the right height. I think the Savage Axis II or any Savage with the accufit setup is the same way. It doesn't fully replace the ability of a real chassis setup, not by a long shot, but these cheap rifles now come with very usable stocks now. |
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If you have a bolt action AR you have the least desirreable of both. It is not as accurate as a true bolt action rifle and it is not an autoloader. A bolt action AR is like putting snow tires on a motorcycle and pretending you have a snowmobile. Just buy the snowmobile and be done with it. |
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Quoted: If you have a bolt action AR you have the least desirreable of both. It is not as accurate as a true bolt action rifle and it is not an autoloader. A bolt action AR is like putting snow tires on a motorcycle and pretending you have a snowmobile. Just buy the snowmobile and be done with it. 
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OP, in my experience, the reason bolt gun uppers don’t exist in large numbers for ARs is because mfgs like MPA, AI, and MDT make phenomenal ergonomic chassis for bolt action rifles - albeit pricey. That barrier to entry, if you will, drives people who like AR ergonomics to buy bolt uppers for their pre-existing lowers. But doing so limits you to single shot if you choose most short and all long action calibers. It’s also not supported by the majority of the industry like the R700 SA/LA platform. Just spend the dough on a nice bolt gun, and you’ll quickly realize why turning the AR onto something that it’s not isn’t very popular. I did. And my Tikka / MPA rifle was my favorite rifle I’ve ever owned. |
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Quoted: OP, in my experience, the reason bolt gun uppers don’t exist in large numbers for ARs is because mfgs like MPA, AI, and MDT make phenomenal ergonomic chassis for bolt action rifles - albeit pricey. That barrier to entry, if you will, drives people who like AR ergonomics to buy bolt uppers for their pre-existing lowers. But doing so limits you to single shot if you choose most short and all long action calibers. It’s also not supported by the majority of the industry like the R700 SA/LA platform. Just spend the dough on a nice bolt gun, and you’ll quickly realize why turning the AR onto something that it’s not isn’t very popular. I did. And my Tikka / MPA rifle was my favorite rifle I’ve ever owned. I’ve got a Tikka and I am pretty close to pulling the trigger on a Bergara B-14 HMR with the adjustable comb. I’m not trying to be rude but I wish people would actually read the comments and address the actual things I said instead of just ignoring every bit of it and saying, “bolt guns are better” blah blah. I have 5 bolt guns and I shoot them a ton. Also just to add, I am honestly a pretty “restless” type of gun owner lol. I tend to buy and sell things fairly often because I like to try new things. Once you add custom barrels and a chassis, you are gonna be in the red big time. I rarely lose much when I sell an AR or off the shelf rifle. Resale value is something I consider a big deal. |
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I hope I did not come across as "bolt actions are better", because as a whole I dislike them. They are great in one particular area, and lacking in pretty much everything else. You did ask why bolt action AR uppers are not popular, it's the title of the thread. Please don't be discouraged because most people do not want a bolt action AR upper for a number of reasons. Your easy changing barrel for example, not too many people care about that. There are also bolt actions that are just as easy, some even easier to change barrels on. Everyone knows Savage's barrel nut, but the Thompson Center Dimension was even easier than that. Again, I don't want to make you feel like you are wrong for wanting a bolt action AR15 upper, but all of the features and abilities you like are already in complete bolt action rifles in packages most people like even better, and at prices that most can afford. That's why you don't see bolt action AR15's. |
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In an attempt to help the OP with a possible alternative,. Take a look at the Gibbs Arms non-reciprocating upper. https://gibbzarms.com/product/g10-upper-receiver/ It is expensive at $435, but I have three and they are very nice quality. My setups have an adjustable gas block that can be shut down and completely stops the rearward action of the BCG. When fired with a suppressor it’s as quiet as a bolt gun. The left sided charging handle works great to cycle the action. For me it a huge upgrade from the standard rear charging handle, and you don’t need to remove your eye from your scope. With the gas tube shut off, or removed, it works nearly the same as a bolt action. You will still need the buffer tube and charging spring to return the BCG to the forward position. If you want it be as quiet as possible, you pull the bolt back and eject the empty round and then slowly let it move forward under spring pressure. This is where the forward assist comes into play to seat the bolt. Whatever barrel you like attaches the same as it would to a standard GI upper. If you open the gas block it operates the same as any other AR. One possible issue with a standard style bolt action upper would be the lack of barrels that would work with a different style bolt design. With the Gibbs sidecharging upper any AR barrel will work as it uses the standard AR bolt. |
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Quoted: I already have exactly what you are talking about. I’ve got a Tikka and I am pretty close to pulling the trigger on a Bergara B-14 HMR with the adjustable comb. I’m not trying to be rude but I wish people would actually read the comments and address the actual things I said instead of just ignoring every bit of it and saying, “bolt guns are better” blah blah. I have 5 bolt guns and I shoot them a ton. Also just to add, I am honestly a pretty “restless” type of gun owner lol. I tend to buy and sell things fairly often because I like to try new things. Once you add custom barrels and a chassis, you are gonna be in the red big time. I rarely lose much when I sell an AR or off the shelf rifle. Resale value is something I consider a big deal. You asked why bolt uppers aren’t more popular. Quite a few users chimed in. I would go out on a limb and say most read what you said - just because you didn’t like the answer or feel your personal opinion doesn’t align with said answers doesn’t make those answers invalid. |
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Quoted: You asked why bolt uppers aren’t more popular. Quite a few users chimed in. I would go out on a limb and say most read what you said - just because you didn’t like the answer or feel your personal opinion doesn’t align with said answers doesn’t make those answers invalid. When people are suggesting I buy something I already stated I have? That leads you to believe they read what I said? My response has nothing to do with not liking their opinion. Reading comprehension is a lost art it seems. The answers ignore the point of the discussion. I specifically pointed out the cost of attempting to get a chassis and rebarrel a bolt gun. You can achieve a similar result for a lightweight option at a much lower price if manufacturers would produce stripped uppers with a bolt. I do concede that this seems to be a niche market. As I am one who hunts only with a suppressor and dislike suppressed gas guns. Maybe one of the new flow through, low back pressure suppressors would change my mind. |
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Quoted: I cannot find it but there is a video on such a thing from England where they have some really weird gun laws. Bolt action AR is a thing. Try your Google-fu on this. I'm sure its better than mine but these do exist, perhaps just not here due to the market (amongst other reasons previously voiced). I think the UK company that built it called it Milcam. |
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Quoted: When people are suggesting I buy something I already stated I have? That leads you to believe they read what I said? My response has nothing to do with not liking their opinion. Reading comprehension is a lost art it seems. The answers ignore the point of the discussion. I specifically pointed out the cost of attempting to get a chassis and rebarrel a bolt gun. You can achieve a similar result for a lightweight option at a much lower price if manufacturers would produce stripped uppers with a bolt. I do concede that this seems to be a niche market. As I am one who hunts only with a suppressor and dislike suppressed gas guns. Maybe one of the new flow through, low back pressure suppressors would change my mind. The part in bold is why I like AR bolt gun uppers. Light, great ergo's, compatibility with AR barrels and handguards, AND no gassy face with a can. |
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Quoted: Also just to add, I am honestly a pretty “restless” type of gun owner lol. I tend to buy and sell things fairly often because I like to try new things. Once you add custom barrels and a chassis, you are gonna be in the red big time. I rarely lose much when I sell an AR or off the shelf rifle. Resale value is something I consider a big deal. You may take a hit on a bolt action upper. Unless someone just wanted a bolt action AR, most would just go with a true bolt action rifle. I get that they can be an option for some (already have an SBR lower), but for many ppl, they are gimmicky. For the 2k for a Uintah upper, you could build a decent bolt gun that would likely out shoot it. The AR bolt actions are typically clunky and not nearly as smooth as a good bolt gun. So in short, the simple answer is there are much better bolt gun options than an AR variant which is why they aren’t as popular. Companies don’t turn down money, and if there was money to be made, more companies would offer them. Geissele, LaRue, Sig, Daniel Defense….all came out with bolt guns, not bolt action AR uppers. I would take that as a hint. |
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Quoted: When people are suggesting I buy something I already stated I have? That leads you to believe they read what I said? My response has nothing to do with not liking their opinion. Reading comprehension is a lost art it seems. The answers ignore the point of the discussion. I specifically pointed out the cost of attempting to get a chassis and rebarrel a bolt gun. You can achieve a similar result for a lightweight option at a much lower price if manufacturers would produce stripped uppers with a bolt. I do concede that this seems to be a niche market. As I am one who hunts only with a suppressor and dislike suppressed gas guns. Maybe one of the new flow through, low back pressure suppressors would change my mind. You can not get a similar result to a chassis stock with an AR-15 upper. I already stated reasons why in my first post. You may not like it, but that's reality. |
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Quoted: You can not get a similar result to a chassis stock with an AR-15 upper. I already stated reasons why in my first post. You may not like it, but that's reality. You absolutely do get a similar result in ergonomics, adjustability and functionality which is what I am looking for. No one said you will have the same accuracy. And that’s not why I want one. |
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Quoted: You may take a hit on a bolt action upper. Unless someone just wanted a bolt action AR, most would just go with a true bolt action rifle. I get that they can be an option for some (already have an SBR lower), but for many ppl, they are gimmicky. For the 2k for a Uintah upper, you could build a decent bolt gun that would likely out shoot it. The AR bolt actions are typically clunky and not nearly as smooth as a good bolt gun. So in short, the simple answer is there are much better bolt gun options than an AR variant which is why they aren’t as popular. Companies don’t turn down money, and if there was money to be made, more companies would offer them. Geissele, LaRue, Sig, Daniel Defense….all came out with bolt guns, not bolt action AR uppers. I would take that as a hint. I do agree with you. It probably is too much of a niche market to be mainstream and cheap. And yes I also agree that for $2k you can build exactly what I am looking for. |
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