The core of BHI-15's upper receiver program is a medium-contour Criterion barrel (a division of Kreiger Barrels) made of 4140 steel that's button-rifled and chrome-lined for durability. Featuring a 1:9 or 1:7 twist and chambered for 5.56mm NATO ammo, the barrels are treated to a Manganese Phosphate finish for low glare and high durability. Sixteen-inch barrels are offered with mid-length gas systems, while 20-inch barrels sport rifle-length gas systems. All barrels are fitted with Vltor low-profile gas blocks and A2 flash hiders.
Backing the high-performance barrel assembly is one of two upper receivers. The MIL-SPEC A3 flat-top forged upper offers conventional operational feel and familiarity, while BHI's Slick-Side billet upper dispenses with the traditional forward-assist to reduce weight, provide a streamlined profile and, thanks to its billet construction, deliver more precise machining tolerances.
Furthering the streamlined theme—and providing for mission-specific adaptation—is BHI's unique Hand Guard System. Made of lightweight aluminum and boasting a no-slip Gator-Back grip pattern, the 12.5-inch BHI Hand Guard System presents a new way of thinking about AR-15 style hand guards and the accessory rails they are designed to accommodate. Slots built into the sides and bottom of the tubular guard accept specially-designed 2- and 4-inch Picatinny rails so officers can control the exact placement of mounting accessories and add no more weight to your rifle than the mission requires. Additional BHI Hand Guard System features include a free-float barrel configuration to maximize accuracy and heat dissipation, top mounting holes for an available 1.5-inch front sight rail or 11.5-inch scope/accessory rail, and built-in QD sling swivel mounting holes which eliminate the need for a rail-mounted sling swivel. In short, the BHI Hand Guard System is the ultimate combat hand guard—reducing unnecessary weight, maximizing grip control and comfort, and eliminating unused rails/surface area that can hang up on gear.
All four BHI-15 upper receiver assemblies (A3 flat-top upper w/16- or 20-inch barrel and Slick-Side upper w/16- or 20-inch barrel) are drop-in replacements for your current AR-15 type system, or can be purchased along with Blackheart International's BHI-15 "Builder" custom lower receiver kit for a complete build-your-own AR-15 platform.
