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LWRC International

LWRC IC-A5 Complete Upper

Piston-driven complete upper with enhanced reliability and cold-hammer-forged barrel. Premium suppressor host.

Quick Specs

Price
$2,599
Weight
6 lb 14 oz
Brand
LWRC International
Category
upper

Features

  • 5.56 NATO / .223 Rem
  • Piston-driven system
  • Cold-hammer-forged barrel
  • Enhanced reliability
  • Suppressor-optimized

Capability Boosts

Reliability+3
Suppression+2

Compatibility Tags

family: ar-patterninterface: picatinny-tophandguard: mlokbarrel: long

Overview

The LWRC IC-A5 complete upper represents the evolution of the Individual Carbine program originally designed for U.S. Army trials. This piston-driven system fundamentally reimagines the AR-15 operating mechanism, replacing Eugene Stoner's direct impingement gas system with LWRC's patented short-stroke gas piston. This design diverts hot, dirty gases away from the bolt carrier group, instead using a self-regulating piston to cycle the action. The result is a significantly cleaner-running firearm with reduced fouling in the bolt carrier area.

The Monoforge upper receiver integrates a 9" SPR-style rail base (11" on 12.7" barrel versions) machined into the receiver itself, providing exceptional rigidity and a continuous optics mounting platform. LWRC's NiCorr surface treatment on the cold hammer forged spiral fluted barrel offers superior corrosion resistance compared to traditional finishes while the nickel-boron coated bolt carrier provides permanent lubricity and wear resistance. The 2-position adjustable gas block allows shooters to easily compensate when running suppressors, making this one of the premier suppressor hosts in the AR-15 market.

Each IC-A5 upper ships complete with the nickel-boron coated bolt carrier group, H2 buffer, carbine-length action spring, LWRCI Skirmish backup iron sights, ambidextrous charging handle, and A2 birdcage flash hider. Available in multiple barrel lengths (10.5", 12.7", 14.7", 16.1") and calibers (5.56 NATO, .300 Blackout), the IC-A5 offers unparalleled reliability for professional users who demand absolute performance in adverse conditions. The piston system's cleaner operation and reduced maintenance requirements make it ideal for high-volume shooting and extended operations.

Key Features

  • Patented short-stroke gas piston system for enhanced reliability
  • Monoforge upper with integrated 9"/11" SPR rail base
  • NiCorr treated cold hammer forged spiral fluted barrel
  • Nickel-boron coated bolt carrier group with permanent lubricity
  • 2-position adjustable gas block for suppressor use
  • Complete with LWRCI Skirmish BUIS and ambidextrous CH
  • H2 buffer and carbine-length action spring included

Pros

  • +Significantly cleaner operation than direct impingement
  • +Exceptional reliability in adverse conditions
  • +Reduced fouling extends maintenance intervals
  • +Adjustable gas block optimizes suppressed performance
  • +NiCorr finish provides superior corrosion resistance
  • +Complete package includes all necessary components

Cons

  • Significantly higher price than DI alternatives
  • Heavier than traditional AR-15 uppers
  • Proprietary piston system limits aftermarket support
  • Front-heavy balance may not suit all shooters
  • Piston weight affects felt recoil characteristics

Detailed Specifications

forging
7075 T6 aluminum (Monoforge design)
Material
Cold hammer forged steel barrel with spiral fluting
finish
NiCorr surface treatment on barrel
forwardAssist
Yes
shellDeflector
Yes
barrelNutStyle
Proprietary Monoforge system
gasSystem
Short-stroke piston with 2-position adjustment
twist
1:7
threadPitch
1/2x28
bcgCoating
Nickel-boron
handguardType
Integrated SPR rail (9" or 11")
barrelLengths
10.5", 12.7", 14.7", 16.1"
calibers
5.56 NATO, .300 Blackout
includedComponents
BCG, H2 buffer, spring, BUIS, ambi CH, flash hider

Compatible Platforms

+23 more

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