Thank you for the explanation Rob. Effectively then, the accuracy difference between these three uppers and a mil-spec flat top is the same for 99.9% of users and scenarios. A bench-rest competitor might "need" a billet upper. But, for everyone else, it comes down to:
-looks.
Since its about looks, I though this thread could benefit from pictures to illustrate hos these three uppers look and their cost over the mil spec parts:
The Vltor: $199-$229
LaRue Stealth (tactical) $249
The JP site does not list their billet upper as a stripped part.
In contrast, the latest flat tops come with an important feature: "T" reference marks in high contrast white paint over hard coat cold anodizing; I found these at many locations and on average, the cost for the latest was:
$78.
Photo could not be posted, but here is a link to one retailer's photo:
http://www.del-ton.com/AR_15_Uppers_Flat_Top_s/91.htm
For the price of a billet upper, its possible to buy 3 mil-spec uppers. Or, you could buy 1 mil spec upper and a BCG. But the main advantage to the billet upper other than a possible smidgen of extra accuracy is:
-looks.
If there is another advantage to these uppers that justifies paying 3x the price of a mil-spec, please clue me in. I do agree, however, the billet uppers do look nice.
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