Spike’s Tactical Midlength Complete — 5.56x45mm NATO, 16" Barrel, Black, 12" Picatinny Handguard, A2 Flash Hider | Model STU5035CQ2F (UPC: 810083260563)

Bring proven performance to your AR-platform build with the Spike’s Tactical Midlength Complete 5.56x45mm NATO Upper. Centered around a 16-inch barrel with a midlength gas system for smooth cycling, this configuration adds a rugged 12-inch full-length Picatinny handguard and classic A2 flash hider for dependable control, accessory mounting, and reduced muzzle signature. Whether you’re building a do-everything carbine or upgrading a tired upper, Spike’s Tactical delivers the precision machining and tight tolerances that shooters count on.

Why Choose This Spike’s Tactical Upper?

• Midlength gas = balanced recoil impulse: A midlength system on a 16" barrel is a sweet spot for softer cycling, reliable extraction, and less wear compared to carbine-length setups.

• 12" Picatinny handguard: Continuous, full-length Pic rail real estate for BUIS, lights, lasers, pressure pads, and sling hardware—no adapter hoops to jump through.

• A2 flash hider: Time-tested muzzle device that helps reduce visible flash without adding unnecessary weight.

• Precision fit and finish: Spike’s Tactical is known for quality control—clean machining, square alignment surfaces, and consistent anodizing.

• Ready for optics: Flat-top receiver with uninterrupted Picatinny rail lets you mount red dots, prisms, or LPVOs exactly where you want them.

Key Features at a Glance

• Caliber: 5.56x45mm NATO (.223 Rem compatible when used with a 5.56 chamber)

• Barrel Length: 16 inches

• Gas System: Midlength for smoother operation

• Handguard: 12" Picatinny (continuous top rail)

• Muzzle Device: A2 Flash Hider (threaded; properly timed)

• Finish/Color: Black

• Model: STU5035CQ2F

• UPC: 810083260563

What’s included may vary by retailer. Many “complete” uppers ship assembled and test-fired, and often (but not always) include a bolt carrier group and charging handle. Check the listing’s “in the box” details before purchase.

Performance Advantages You Can Feel

• Reliable cycling & softer feel: Midlength gas can reduce perceived recoil and carbon blowback—great for high-round-count practice days.

• Accessory freedom: A full 12" rail means better light placement (at 12 or 3/9 o’clock), improved sling options, and more consistent support-hand indexing.

• Consistency over time: Proper receiver/barrel alignment supports repeatable zero and accuracy potential, especially with free-float handguard builds.

• Classic flash control: The A2 hider is lightweight, robust, and compatible with many armorer tools and muzzle devices down the road.

Ideal Use Cases

• General-purpose carbines for range training, drills, and home/ranch tasks

• Carbine classes and courses where reliability and accessory flexibility matter

• Optics-first builds with red dots, prisms, or 1-6x/1-8x LPVOs

• Upgrade projects replacing older uppers with modern ergonomics

What You’ll Need to Run It

• Compatible AR-15 lower receiver (assembled and compliant with local laws)

• Charging handle and bolt carrier group (if not included with your chosen package)

• Sights/optics and magazines

• Quality 5.56/.223 ammunition appropriate for your environment

Specifications

• Platform: AR-15

• Caliber: 5.56x45mm NATO

• Barrel Length: 16"

• Gas Length: Midlength

• Handguard: 12" Picatinny (continuous top rail)

• Muzzle Device: A2 flash hider

• Color/Finish: Black (anodized/aligned components)

• Model #: STU5035CQ2F

• UPC: 810083260563

Installation & Setup Tips

1. Function check: After attaching to your lower, verify safety, trigger reset, and cycling with dummy rounds before live fire.

2. Torque & timing: If swapping muzzle devices, follow proper torque specs and use a fresh crush washer or shims.

3. Optic height: For most shooters, a 1.54"–1.93" optic height over bore works well; confirm cheek weld and eye relief.

4. Sling & light placement: Use the 12" rail length to position accessories without blocking your support hand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is .223 Remington safe to shoot?
A: Most 5.56 NATO chambers accept .223 Rem; always follow manufacturer guidance, ensure proper headspace, and use quality ammo.

Q: What’s the advantage of a midlength system?
A: In many 16" builds, midlength gas provides a smoother recoil impulse and can reduce parts stress versus carbine gas.

Q: Can I attach BUIS and an LPVO simultaneously?
A: Yes. The full-length Pic rail supports fixed or folding BUIS alongside most LPVO/offset red-dot setups (with appropriate mounts).

Safety, Compliance & Care

• Know the law: Ensure your configuration is compliant with all federal, state, and local regulations.

• Inspect regularly: Check gas block screws/pins, muzzle device timing, and handguard fasteners for torque after initial range sessions.

• Clean smart: Use non-chlorinated solvents, keep the chamber and gas system clean, and lube per your BCG manufacturer’s guidance.

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Upgrade your AR with the Spike’s Tactical Midlength Complete 5.56 NATO 16" Upper—a balanced, accessory-friendly build featuring a 12" Picatinny handguard, midlength gas system, and A2 flash hider for reliable performance and clean ergonomics on the range and beyond.

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