When you're planning an AR-15 build, the upper receiver is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. It affects reliability, ease of assembly, weight, aesthetics, and how easily the rest of your parts fit together.

Today, we’ll break down the difference between stripped and assembled upper receivers — and help you decide which is right for your next build.

What is a Stripped Upper Receiver?

A stripped upper receiver is the upper shell without any internal components installed.
Typically, it includes: