First Look: Luth-AR Retro Uppers

Ideally suited for your next retro build.

by
posted on May 5, 2025
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
Luth-AR Retro Upper

Luth-AR has recently launched two new retro-styled AR-15 pattern upper receivers that should get the attention of both dedicated AR-15 shooters and military history enthusiasts alike, the new Luth-AR A1 Slick Side Upper and the new Luth-AR A1 C7 Retro Upper. Both of these new full-size 20-inch complete upper receiver groups are built around the timeless and iconic M-16A1 style fixed carry handle upper receiver.

Luth-AR A1 Slick Side Upper

The Luth-AR A1 Slick Side upper is built to resemble some of the earliest Colt-produced M-16A1 upper receiver groups that included the original M-16A1 fixed carry handle upper recover, the unique “duckbill” flash hider and the original full-size 20-inch pencil barrel with a .625 inch diameter journal for its gas block. Being that it was modeled after the earliest designs prior to some official revisions, the Luth-AR A1 Slick Side Upper receiver omits both the brass deflector and forward assist, hence its “slick” moniker.

Luth-AR A1 Slick Side Upper Features:

  • 20 inch 1:7 twist barrel (instead of original 1:14)

  • Chrome-lined chamber and bore for wear resistance and longevity

  • Manganese Phosphate exterior finish for enhanced corrosion resistance

  • Chambered in 5.56 NATO

  • .625 inch Non-F marked front sight base (FSB) for a historically accurate design

  • A1 triangular charging handle for an authentic, sleek design

  • A1 handguard with riveted heat shields for a classic aesthetic and functionality

  • Early A1 duckbill flash hider

Luth-AR A1 C7 Retro Upper

The Luth-AR A1 C7 Retro Upper takes after the full-size upper receiver manufactured by Diemaco / Colt Canada for the Canadian Armed forces and some western European militaries. The Luth-AR A1 C7 Retro upper combines a later style of M-16A1 fixed carry handle upper receiver that included the forward assist and brass deflector along with M-16A2 style furniture–instead of the previous triangular handguards.

Luth-AR A1 C7 Retro Upper Features:

  • 20 inch 1:7 twist barrel

  • Chrome-lined chamber and bore for wear resistance and longevity

  • Manganese Phosphate exterior finish for enhanced corrosion resistance

  • Chambered in 5.56 NATO

  • .625″ Non-F marked front sight base (FSB) for a historically accurate design

  • C7 complete upper receiver with built-in brass deflector

  • Complete bolt carrier group (BCG)

  • Chrome bores

  • Manganese phosphate exterior finish

  • A2 charging handle for smooth operation

  • A2 hand guard (black or OD green) for modern durability and heat management

  • A2 flash hider for optimal muzzle control and reduced flash

Learn more at luth-ar.com.

Latest

CzechPoint VZ 58 Pistol
CzechPoint VZ 58 Pistol

First Look: CzechPoint VZ 58 Pistols

Available with and without a buffer tube and stabilizing brace.

Tech Wisdom: A New/Old Manual of Arms

Some firearms, like the Lignose pistol, have very different manuals-of-arms.

First Look: Christensen Arms Modern Precision Pistol

A lightweight and compact version of the Modern Precision Rifle.

Change The Fight

Violent criminals rely on surprise when ambushing their victims, but with surprises of your own, you can flip the script and prevail.

First Look: Mission First Tactical Cypher 3.0 L Sling Bag

A stylish way to keep your gear close to you at all times.

Interests



Get the best of Shooting Illustrated delivered to your inbox.