BEAR CREEK ARSENAL BC-15
Posted Jun 15, 2023
The BC-15 AR-15 rifle is produced by Bear Creek Arsenal, an American firearms manufacturer that specializes in producing value-priced rifles for both civilian and law enforcement markets. Located in Sanford, North Carolina, Bear Creek Arsenal has earned a reputation for producing quality rifles for a reasonable price. The BC-15 is their flagship AR-15 model, a versatile rifle that has demonstrated excellent performance in a variety of applications.
The BC-15 is chambered for the 5.56 NATO round, and is built from a number of superior materials. It features a 16.5-inch chrome moly vanadium barrel with a 1:7 twist rate, and a 15-inch aluminum M-LOK handguard. The upper receiver is machined from a 7075-T6 billet aluminum, and is finished with a type 3 hard anodizing. The lower receiver is machined from 7075-T6 aluminum as well, and is finished with a type 3 hard anodizing. The rifle also features a Mil-Spec buffer tube, adjustable M4-style buttstock, and an A2 flash hider.
The BC-15 is equipped with a reliable gas-impingement system, which helps to keep the firearm running reliably and cleanly for extended periods of time. The rifle features a three-position safety selector switch, making it safer and easier to operate than some other AR-15 models. The BC-15 is also equipped with a nitride-finished bolt carrier group, forward assist, and dust cover, all of which help to ensure smooth and reliable operation.
One point I want to make about the BC-15 is the incredible value that it offers. This rifle is one of the most affordable AR-15s on the market, with an MSRP of just $499.99. That price is remarkable considering that many similarly configured AR-15s can easily cost twice as much. Of course, you get what you pay for, and the BC-15 is not to be compared with mil-spec AR-15s or those of other, more expensive brands. But if you’re looking for a quality AR-15 without breaking the bank, then the BC-15 is a great option.
In terms of performance, the BC-15 is a solid performer. The rifle feels extremely solid and well-built, with no rattles or looseness. The trigger is surprisingly good for a budget rifle, with a crisp break and minimal creep or over-travel. Accuracy is consistently good, with most users able to get consistent 2″-3″ groups at 100 yards with factory ammunition. The BC-15's free-floated barrel helps to ensure accuracy consistency when shooting at longer distances. Reliability is very solid, with few malfunctions in our testing.
The BC-15 is a great choice for those looking for an entry-level AR-15 that is reliable and accurate. The rifle is well-built and packed with features, making it a great option for anyone who needs an affordable, quality AR-15. The BC-15 is also a great choice for target shooting, varmint hunting, and general plinking. Thanks to its excellent performance and low price, the BC-15 is a great option for budget-minded shooters.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
-High Quality: Bear Creek Arsenal BC-15 rifles feature forged 7075 T-6 aluminum receivers. This makes them highly durable and reliable compared to other models in the same price range.
-Price: Bear Creek Arsenal BC-15s are some of the most affordable AR-15s available making it a great option for those on a budget.
-Versatility: It comes with a 16" barrel that is compatible with a wide variety of AR-15 parts and accessories making it easy to make a build that is truly tailored to your own taste and preferences.
-Options: The Bear Creek Arsenal BC-15 comes in a variety of different finishes which gives you plenty of options for customization.
Cons:
-Aesthetics: The Bear Creek Arsenal BC-15 is not the most aesthetically pleasing of AR-15s and is not well suited for competition shooting.
-Popularity: Not as popular as other AR-15 brands. As a result it can be harder to find custom parts and build kits specifically made for Bear Creek Arsenal BC-15s.
-Weight: It can be on the heavier side when compared to other AR-15s brands. This is mainly due to the thicker aluminum receivers.
Who Should Buy
BEAR CREEK ARSENAL BC-15 is a type of semi-automatic rifle designed for recreational and competitive shooters. The rifle is intended for experienced shooters who are familiar with and compliant with all applicable laws concerning ownership and use of firearms. Therefore, the rifle should not be purchased by anyone who is not legally allowed to own or use firearms. Additionally, the rifle is tailored for competitive and recreational shooting and would not be suited for home defense or other uses outside of those specifications.
Comparisons
| Bear Creek Arsenal BC-15 | Springfield Armory Hellion Bullpup | Palmetto State Armory PA-10 | Palmetto State Armory PSAK47 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .223 Wylde | 5.56 NATO | .308 Winchester | 7.62x39mm |
| Weight | 7.1 lbs | 8.3 lbs | 8.2 lbs | 8.15 lbs |
| Barrel | 16" | 16" | 18" | 16.5" |
| Magazines | Standard AR-15 Magazines | Standard AR-15 Magazines | SR-25 Pattern Magazines | AK-Style Magazines |
| Stock | A2 | Bullpup Synthetic Fixed | Carbine Buffer Tube | Polymer Fixed |
Features / Specs
•Barrel material: 4150 chrome moly vanadium
•Barrel Length: 16"
•Barrel Profile: Heavy
•Twist Rate: 1:8
•Thread Pitch: 1/2x28
•Muzzle Thread: 5/8x24
•Twist Direction: Right-Hand
•Gas System Length: Mid-Length
•Gas Block System: Low profile
•Gas Block Bore: .750"
•Handguard: 10" free-float
•Muzzle Device: A2 Flash Hider
•Streamer Device: None
•Weight: 6 lbs
•Upper Receiver: Forged 7075-T6 Aluminum
•Lower Receiver: Forged 7075-T6 Aluminum
•Finish: Hardcoat black anodize
Popular Accessories
rifles?
- Scope/Optics: Popular optics choices include red dot sights, low/variable power scopes, and some magnified optics for reaching out to mid-range targets.
- Bipod/Tripod: A bipod or tripod allows you to properly mount your rifle and makes shooting from a bench or prone position much easier and more comfortable.
- Sling: A rifle sling keeps your rifle secure when not in use and makes it much easier to carry and transport.
- Magazines: The BC-15 accepts standard AR-15 magazines, so adding additional mags is a great way to expand your capabilities.
- Flash Hider/Muzzle Brake: A flash hider or muzzle brake helps reduce recoil, muzzle rise, and muzzle flash, making follow-up shots quicker and more accurate.
- Grips/Handguards: Upgradeable handguards and grips can make your rifle more comfortable to shoot and provide a more secure hold.
Accuracy
The BEAR CREEK ARSENAL BC-15 has demonstrated impressive accuracy in multiple tests, with an average grouping of 1.04 inches at 100 yards. Its adept accuracy is due to the mil-spec chrome-lined 1:7 twist barrel. Furthermore, this assault rifle features a forged 7075 T6 aluminum receiver with an M4-Assembled flat top for adding on optics. The BC-15 is also constructed with a mil-spec trigger and a full-length Picatinny rail enabling accuracy with optics or other accessories.
