When planning to upgrade your AR to fire the .300 AAC Blackout round, finding and investing in the best 300 blackout lower receiver is perhaps the most important thing to do. This applies just as much when planning to build a new rifle from the ground up just for the .300 blackout.
Whether you’re a beginner, a casual firearm hobbyist or even looking for something to help you with self defense, we’ve compiled all the necessary information that you need before purchasing your very first .300 Blackout lower receivers.
Introducing The .300 AAC Blackout Caliber
Before going in depth on the 300 Blackout lower receivers, it is best to first look at the .300 Blackout round itself.
Since its debut in 2011, it didn’t take long for the 300 Blackout to join some of the most popular AR Calibers. This round is a cartridge for the AR platform that was specifically designed as a specialist close combat round for special operations.
Over the past few years, it has significantly increased its footing among the civilian market due to its heavier grain that provides a higher ballistic performance and stopping power. When comparing it to the more common 5.56 subsonic loads for the AR, the 300 AAC Blackout will have no choice but to stand out.
What are Lowers?
The lower receiver, also known as the lower frame, is part of a rifle that houses the weapon’s safety controls, magazine storage, and trigger mechanism. Among all the list of possible components of the AR 15, the lower receiver is the only part that’s serialized.
Thanks to that, some lower receivers are even considered as real weapons under Federal law. As such, it falls well within the jurisdiction of both the state and federal governments.
Key Parts of a Lower Receiver
While a lower receiver may look simple, it’s always beneficial to take note of the main parts that come together to form a whole lower receiver for the 300 Blackout.
Trigger Assembly
Every weapon requires a trigger assembly in order to shoot it successfully. You won’t be able to shoot your firearm at all in the absence of a trigger assembly. This part contains the trigger, springs and pins, housing, trigger guard, and all the other smaller components.
Magazine Catch
As the name suggests, the magazine catch holds the 300 AAC Blackout magazine in place by catching into a scent slit. Without a magazine catch, your lower receiver is effectively worthless as it simply can’t hold any magazines.
Try imagining a firearm that cannot carry any ammunition, that’s pretty much the epitome of a worthless firearm.
Grip
You do not need to be a seasoned shooter to appreciate how important a proper grip is when it comes to shooting a 300 Blackout pistol correctly. In the market, there are a wide variety of grips that are available at the moment, and you will most likely find conventional AR grips pre-installed to the lower receivers.
In terms of the legality of these grips, California strictly prohibits any use of pistol grips on the M4 and AR-15 rifles. If you are based in California, you’ll have to look for a featureless grip instead.
Stock
The stock, most commonly known as the buttstock, buttpad shoulder stock, or just the plain ‘butt’ is the part of the gun that leans on your shoulder when shooting your weapon. This is to achieve maximum stability. This compartment contains both the buffer tube and spring. Both of these are essential when firing your 300 AAC Blackout firearm.
Stocks come in a wide variety of styles and materials. Depending on your build and personal preference, you could select between a folding stock, adjustable stock, or fixed stock.
Housing
The lower receiver housing is a very major component of the lower receiver as it houses all the other parts that come along with it. On your quest of looking for a 300 ACC Blackout rifle that’s easy and light to fire, you’ll ideally want to look for a polymer housing.
However, if you want to shoot .50 BMG rounds, do opt for an aluminum or stainless steel housing.
Complete, Stripped, or 80% Lower Receivers?
Complete Lower Receivers
A complete lower receiver contains the whole package. All that’s there for you to do is to attach a complete upper receiver and your 300 AAC Blackout Rifle is pretty much good to go. In case you’re wondering, this is the main reason that a complete lower receiver is considered by US Law as a firearm.
Since every complete lower receiver is considered by US Federal Law as legal firearms, you’ll have no choice but to comply with both the federal and state sales restrictions.
When looking to buy a complete lower receiver, you’ll need an FFL and the shop will keep a record of your FFL before any transaction could take place. This applies even for online transactions and is very important for you to take note of.
Should You get a complete lower receiver? Well, if you are on a tight budget or you’re just starting out on shooting, then investing in a complete lower receiver will be just the right choice for you as they’re more friendly on the wallet without all the bells and whistles.
Stripped Lower Receiver
A stripped lower receiver is usually made for higher-end guns and experienced shooters that have a huge appetite to customize their AR to fit their needs. If you have the tools and experience to assemble your rifle at home, then you will most likely be familiar with a stripped lower receiver.
Aside from the flexibility when it comes to customizing your own 300 AAC Blackout rifle, the other advantage of investing in a stripped lower receiver is that it’s ready to go straight from the box.
Do take note that despite not having the other lower part kits, a stripper lower receiver on its own is still considered a firearm by US Federal law and will require an FFL for every transaction.
If you are still new to shooting, you can pretty much forget about looking at a stripper lower receiver unless you want to be adventurous with your AR build.
80% Lower Receiver
80% lower receivers are also known as unfinished receivers. The reason for the 80% is to make it clear to the layman that these are unfinished lower receivers that still need to be milled out before they can be of any actual use.
Thanks to that, these unfinished 80% lower receivers are not considered legal firearms by the US federal law. As such, there’s little to no regulation when it comes to the sale and purchase of 80% lower receivers.
Depending on the state that you reside in, they might not even be legally required to have a serial number on them, making them almost untraceable. Spooky right?
With that being said, the biggest caveat is that you’ll have to finish building the receiver yourself before it becomes fully functional and effective.
The only reason why you’ll want to look for an unfinished receiver would usually be because you want to build your rifle from scratch and so happen to have the right tools and experience to assemble your very own 300 AAC Blackout AR Platform.
Other Classifications of Lower Receivers
Forged Lower Receiver
A forged lower receiver is quite easy to find and is perhaps the most common type of lower receiver you’ll be able to find in the market. What is a forged lower receiver? It’s just a block of metal, usually made of aluminum that’s heated to very high temperatures and hammered into the shape of a lower receiver.
This intense heat and hammering process is what effectively binds the aluminum molecules together in order to make them strong, durable, and light. That said, thanks to all the hammering process, forged lower receivers can sometimes cause imperfections in terms of their fit and finish.
Billet Lower Receivers
A Billet Lower Receiver starts off as a solid aluminum billet that’s put through a CNC machine to mill out its final designs. This process will contribute to its precise dimensions that often lead to very tight fits between lower receiver and upper receivers.
This in turn will make your rifle more accurate when it comes to target shooting as it makes it way harder for debris and outside conditions to enter your AR Platform.
With that being said, the milling process will make your lower receiver to be less durable than forged lowers. As such, you’ll want to ensure your billet lower receiver is made from the best-sourced aluminum. You’d want at least 6061-T6 aluminum. But if you can find a 7075-T6 aluminum billet lower, you’re in luck.
Polymer Lower Receivers
The polymer lower receivers are built with high quality hardened polymer. These lower receivers are extremely light without compromising too much on durability, all for just a fraction of the price of their steel and aluminum counterparts.
While polymer may give you some doubts about its durability, the harsh reality is that most companies switch to polymer parts to cut manufacturing costs in order to increase their margins. Think about it this way, when the Glock first made its debut, it received a lot of criticism from the community due to the fact that it’s mostly polymer built.
However, fast forward today, Glocks are now perhaps one of the most popular handguns in the world.
Manufacturer
When looking for a great lower receiver, you’ll most likely want to stick to a reliable brand with a huge loyal following of customers, especially those manufacturers that are extremely confident in the quality and standards of their products range.
By simply reading the review sections, we can reassure you that you can find out a lot through the discussion below.
List of the Best .300 Blackout Lowers
1. PSA AR-15 Complete Lower Magpul MOE Edition
Specifications:
- Product Line: PA-15
- Platform: AR-15
- Caliber: Multi
- MOE Pistol Grip
- Stock: MOE
- Finish: Black
- Material: Forged Aluminum
Features
In search for the best 300 blackout lower, there’s one brand that is impossible to miss out – PSA (Palmetto State Armory). Regardless of your ideal 300 blackout build, you’ll be able to find just the right upper from PSA because this particular manufacturer offers a wide range of lower receivers.
Before we go on, you have to determine if you have a pre-existing pistol grip and a butt stock which you would like to use and build with. This is crucial because this particular lower receiver which comes in Magpul MOE (Magpul Original Equipment) Edition would be ideal for you.
Alternatively, if you are just starting out or just looking to replace a particular pistol grip and butt stock then this Magpul MOE Edition may not be ideal for you.
This complete lower receiver comes with MOE carbine stock which has many advantages which is similar to the M4. As an example, this stock is equipped with a release latch so it gives you an additional layer of protection against any possible mishaps when you are looking into pressing to collapse or extend the stock.
For this particular reason, you can have a peace of mind when you use this lower with this stock that comes with safety features.
Besides that, the butt pad of the lower is made out of 0.3” non-slip rubber to provide maximum level of comfort to your shoulders and ease of use by reducing any unwanted friction. Its texture of the non-slip rubber material allows a better grip so you have full control of your rifle when shooting.
Other than that, this lower comes with MOE pistol grip which is a significant ergonomic improvement as compared to the standard and basic A2 or M4. The MOE pistol grip is designed to be hand-filling so the hands of the shooters can be secured and stay firmly in the proper position.
This is further enhanced by the presence of the beavertail backstrap that makes up part of the lower so you would have more control of your rifle overall.
Though the MOE pistol grip is equipped with a simple grip cap, it also provides an additional storage compartment which can be used to store additional batteries or even additional spare rounds of ammunition so it is more convenient in the future when you have to reload.
Why you’ll like this product
You are looking for the Magpul Original Equipment (MOE) Edition. PSA has been known to be one of the most reliable and durable brands within the market. As such, the MOE edition which is offered by PSA is crafted with thorough research and development which reflects the innovation and creativity works of the experts within the field to produce an impeccable lower for your applications.
For this reason, this MOE edition will certainly not be a disappointment and will be an instant upgrade to your existing rifles.
You are looking for the best value. PSA has been long-established to be one of the most budget friendly brands within the market, hence, it is inevitable that this lower is certainly a great bargain and excellent deal that we have come across in 2022 for you to consider.
Despite having a tight budget, you’ll still be able to get your hands on some of the best made 300 blackout lower.
Why you might not like this product
You just want to replace your pistol grip or butt stock. If you are just searching merely to replace your pistol grip and butt stock then you do not have to spend additional resources into purchasing this moe edition which comes with more comprehensive components that may be a waste of money for you.
Also, if you are an avid shooter, then this MOE edition would not be suitable for you because it may be too advanced for your understanding and initial applications. However, over time, even the avid shooters can consider getting this particular MOE edition once you get the hang of it.
2. Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 80% Lower Receiver
Specifications:
- 7075-T6 forged aluminum
- Type III hardcoat anodized black
- Marked Multi-Cal
- Open ear design
- Accepts 3/4″ and 1″ Grip Screws
- Non RF85 lower
- Weight: 0.68 lbs
Features
As for this section, we would review AM-15 80% lower receiver by Anderson Manufacturing which is a brand commonly brought up because this manufacturer offers a remarkable quality range of products at an affordable rate within the United States by using the latest computerized manufacturing technology.
Not to mention, there is also warranty within a stipulated period of time to guarantee customer’s satisfaction.
This lower is designed to be rust-resistant and tested to be able to withstand rusting. Adding on to that, this particular lower is also treated to be wear-resistance against surfaces so your lower would be less prone to scratches or natural wear and tear that would affect the natural aesthetics of the part.
Furthermore, this lower is forged with 7075-T6 aluminum, these 300 blackouts lower are made to mil-specs. Alongside with the type III hardboard anodized black coating, it affords great level of durability which would extend the lifespan of this lower.
These lowers are made right here in the USA by a mil spec manufacturer and that’s when you know you are looking at some of the best and most reliable blackout lowers on the market.
However, in recent times, there has been controversies regarding 80% lower receivers where some individuals allegedly claim them to be “ghost guns” because of the lack of traceability.
Though so, the AM-15 80% lower is coated with black hardboard anodized so once you have milled the pocket for the fire control group then you would have to decide if you would have wanted to leave the pocket to be plain old aluminum as it is or have it re-anodized.
Why you’ll like this product
You want ease of installation. Lucky for you, this lower comes with drop-in installation so you could easily install it by yourself at the comfort of your own space without needing to engage gunsmithing skills. For this reason, you would save some resources and time.
You are looking for the best value. Anderson Manufacturing is well-known to be one of the most affordable brands for AR 15 rifles or even aftermarket parts that you can get your hands on. Of course, this includes the lower which is of premium grade quality but at an affordable price which caters to shooters which have a tighter budget. Overall, this is certainly a budget-friendly option which you certainly do not want to miss out on!
Why you might not like this product
You want an ambidextrous design for your lower. Unfortunately, this lower is non-ambidextrous so it is non-interchangeable and may not be handy for shooters which are left-handed. So, yes, this particular lower would lack diversity but if you are a right-handed shooter then this wouldn’t be an issue.
3. Sharps Bros Warthog AR-15 Stripped Lower
Specifications:
- Caliber: .223/5.56, .300 AAC BO
- Material: 7075-T6
- Finish: MIL-A-8625 hardcoat anodized
- Weight: 9.8 oz
- Pictogram Markings
- Multi-Caliber Marking
Features
Moving on, Sharps Bros is founded by John Sharps which humbly began as a one-man business but evolved into a full-fledged firearm design and manufacturing organization over the decade.
Through this rapid growth, we can assure you the high-quality performance and standards are assured to remain competitive with other brands within the market at this day and age. As a background information, the design of this Sharps Bros Warthog AR-15 stripped lower is inspired by the A-10 Warthog which was molded into the Magwell.
Furthermore, this lower is forged with 7075-T6 aluminum which is a peak-strength corrosion-resistant aluminum alloy so it would definitely be durable and reliable over an extended period of time which would also translate to longer lifespan of the lower.
Other than that, the durability of the lower is enhanced with the hard coat anodize finishing per MIL-A-8625.These lowers are made right here in the USA by a mil spec manufacturer and that’s when you know you are looking at some of the best and most reliable blackout lowers on the market.
This stripped lower is equipped with multi-caliber mark which has been manufactured to complete perfection for your ease of use because it can accommodate various intermediate sizes of cartridges. For this reason, the multi-caliber mark is super versatile and very user-friendly especially to those who are just starting off and unfamiliar with the components.
Besides that, this also features an oversized integral trigger guard which can be used for gloves and a beveled and flared magazine well for smooth and efficient reloads. Other than that, this lower is highly compatible with all mil-spec internal parts, other aftermarket mil-spec upper receivers and also, PMags, Hex mags and other standard capacity magazines.
Why you’ll like this product
You want a multi-caliber mark. If you are a shooter who will prioritize versaitility when purchasing your parts to get your money’s worth then this feature will certainly make your life easier because you will never have to worry about getting your ammunition mixed up. For this reason, you’d have a wide-range of cartridges to choose from when you are looking to purchase some of them.
Why you might not like this product
You want a 80% lower receiver/complete lower. Well, this is rather obvious from the title itself as this is evidently a stripped lower receiver. Many shooters prefer to opt for stripped lower receiver because it affords them flexibility and room for customization in adding or upgrading their favorite trigger guard, grip, and various lower parts.
4. BAD BAD556-LW Lightweight Stripped
Specifications:
- Multi Caliber Marking
- CNC Machined Billet 7075-T6 Aluminum Construction
- Flared Deep Magwell Bevel Cut
- Integrated Trigger Guard
- Compatible with TDP/Mil-Standard AR Lower Parts
- Relief Cut Safety Selector Hole for BAD Short Throw Safety Selectors
- MIL-A-8625F Type 3 Class 2 Hardcoat Anodized
- Black Finishing
- Wight 6.84 oz
Features
Next on the list, we would like to review the stripped lower, the BAD556-LW which is manufactured by Battle Arms Development which is deemed one of the best stripped lower in the industry.
This lightweight stripped lower only weighs 6.84 oz which is significantly lighter as compared to other lowers because of its designs equipped with creative lightening cuts and various milling being involved. For this particular reason, this lightweight stripped lower is extremely easy to handle and allow shots to be fired easily.
One thing you must take note off is that this stripped lower comes well-crafted with safety mechanisms, such as the safety selector hole that comes with the relief cut to prepare you for any possible short-throw BAD selector lever.
Besides that, this lower receiver has enhanced fencing surrounding the release button to keep your index finger out of danger, off the magazine release.
Other than that, this lower receiver is constructed using CNC machined billet, which is made from 7075-T6 aluminum which has a high yield strength and it is rust-resistant. In turn, we assure you that your lower receiver would last for an extended period of time before you need a replacement for your lower receiver.
In addition to that, this lower receiver is coated with MIL-A-8625F Type 3 Class 2 hardcoat anodized which acts as an additional layer of protection, to improve wear resistance and corrosion resistance. In turn, this alongside with the black finishing would further enhance its overall reliability, durability and also, its aesthetics.
Furthermore, this lower receiver comes with integrated trigger guard and is highly compatible with mil specs so any drop-in aftermarket parts would not be an issue.
Why you’ll like this product
You want a lightweight stripped lower receiver. This 300 blackout lower receiver is extremely lightweight which is an added benefit as compared to other lower receivers. Undoubtedly, this is a product of Battle Arms Development’s great efforts through their intense research and development. Hence, you shall not miss out this innovative design of the lower receiver which is so easy to maneuver and also, easy to carry around.
Why you might not like this product
You want a 80% lower receiver/complete lower. Well, this is rather obvious from the title itself as this is evidently a 300 blackout stripped lower receiver. Many shooters prefer to opt for stripped lower receiver because it affords them flexibility and room for customization in adding or upgrading their favorite trigger guard, grip, and various lower parts.
5. PSA AR-15 Complete Classic Stealth
Specifications:
- Machined from Aluminum Forgings 7075-T6
- Hardcoat Anodizing: MIL-A-8625F, Type III, Class 2
- Mil Spec diameter Receiver Extension
- M4 Stock
- Staked M4 Lock Nut
- Standard Carbine Buffer
- Un-notched Hammer compatible with 9mm use
- Caliber: Multi
Features
If you’re looking for a trustable complete lower, then you have come to the right place because we would introduce you to the PSA AR-15 Complete Classic Stealth Lower. This lower receiver can never go wrong and has been a favorite among the gun enthusiasts.
First and foremost, this complete lower receiver is extremely convenient and hassle-free because all the components are fully assembled and ready to be used alongside with your .300 AAC Blackout compatible upper receiver. Besides this, this would also be an easy storage option for your 300 blackout rifle accessories.
For this particular reason, this lower receiver is an ideal choice for those who are just starting out or unfamiliar with the working and components of the upper and lower receivers then this would be extremely ideal.
Beyond that, these lower receivers are made from 7075-T6 Aluminum with an anodized Type III Class 2 hard coat which gives it an additional protective layer against any rusting, corrosion or even any harsh weather conditions. With that being said, this would enhance the durability and promote the overall aesthetics of the lower.
Besides that, this lower comes fully geared with an M4 stock and M4 lock nut. Adding on, this lower is designed to be ergonomic and prioritize comfort when you are holding it. Through this, you can experience the firm grip which allows you to have full control of your rifle even in close proximity. So, you can even go for a long period of time with lower and you probably will not complain.
Why you’ll like this product
You are looking for a strong lower receiver. The aluminum used to construct the upper is aircraft-grade which is an added benefit as it makes the strength impeccable. This would certainly ensure the lifespan, reliability and quality of the .300 blackout lower given the continuous efforts by PSA to improve the quality of their range of products.
Why you might not like this product
You do not like heavy trigger pull. Most often than not, heavy trigger pull is not favorable because it may affect the accuracy and precision of the rifle. Due to this, this heavy trigger pull would affect the performance of the rifle.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How accurate are the shots of 300 Blackout rifles?
Generally speaking, the accuracy of the shots being fired can be gauged by the range of distance it can possibly achieve at a given point of time.
As for the 300 blackout, it is actually a mid-range round which would achieve its most optimum conditions and high performance standards at an approximate range of 200 yards which is deemed to be a relatively shorter range overall.
This is because the 300 blackout consists of a tough, big and relatively heavier bullet and also, most of these rounds are considered to be subsonic which could not assist in respect to the range of bullets being shot.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a bullet to serve your long range shooting or even target shooting purposes, then you should consider purchasing the 30-06 rifles or the .30 calibers. These rifles are both proven to be incredibly reliable and trustable for long range based on many previous customer feedbacks, other review articles and also, our very own observations.
Due to this, if you are looking to shoot paper in thin air, then the 300 blackout may not be your best bet and will not be recommended especially for longer ranges. This is because the 300 blackout will be affected by the wind drift, air resistance, and gravity pull of the earth like its fellow counterpart, the .308 rifle.
Are there any specific features to look for in a 300 Blackout lower?
When selecting a 300 Blackout lower, it’s important to ensure compatibility with the upper receiver you plan to use. Look for lowers that are specifically designed for the 300 Blackout cartridge to ensure proper fit and function. It’s also worth considering factors like build quality, brand reputation, and personal preferences for features such as ambidextrous controls or enhanced ergonomics.
Are there any popular brands known for their 300 Blackout lower receivers?
There are several reputable manufacturers known for producing quality 300 Blackout lowers. Some popular brands include Aero Precision, Palmetto State Armory, Seekins Precision, Spike’s Tactical, and Daniel Defense, among others. These companies have established themselves in the firearms industry and are known for their reliable products.
Can I build my own 300 Blackout rifle using a lower receiver?
Yes, it is possible to build your own 300 Blackout rifle using a lower receiver. However, it’s important to note that certain regulations and laws govern the manufacturing and assembly of firearms. Ensure you comply with all federal, state, and local laws, and consider seeking guidance from a knowledgeable firearms dealer or gunsmith to ensure a safe and legal build.
Conclusion
The bottom line is there are many reputable yet reliable lower receivers in searching for the best 300 blackout lower that you can choose from.
However, as seen from the gun deals above, we have compiled some of the best 300 blackout lower receivers that we have reviewed for your consideration before you go ahead and do your own final comparison before purchasing a lower for your 300 blk.
We hope that this article containing these gun deals have served you well, hopefully, even save you some time and provide you with the mechanisms and specifications of the 300 blackout lower receivers. With that being said, the 300 blk is evidently one of the greatest cartridges to fully equip your rifle into the most optimum working condition of your rifle.