Davidson Defense Warden Duty 16-inch Carbine-Gas 1:8 .338 ARC AR-15 Freefloat Keymod Handguard Rifle Complete Upper Build

Warden Duty 16 Inch .338 ARC AR-15 Complete Upper with Carbine Gas and Micro Low Profile Gas Block

16 inch 4150 CMV steel barrel in .338 ARC with 1:8 twist rate, heavy barrel profile, parkerized finish, carbine length gas system, micro low profile gas block, 15 inch freefloat Keymod handguard, 7075-T6 aluminum upper receiver with black anodized finish, QPQ nitride finished 9310 steel bolt carrier group with 6.5 Grendel II bolt head, mil-spec M4 charging handle, and GI birdcage flash hider. This complete upper delivers big bore AR-15 performance with the stopping power of .338 caliber projectiles.

Key Features

• 16 inch .338 ARC barrel made from 4150 CMV steel with heavy barrel profile, parkerized finish, and 1:8 twist rate optimized for .338 caliber projectiles
• Carbine length gas system provides reliable cycling with the gas volume characteristics of .338 ARC in a 16 inch configuration
• Micro low profile gas block sits flush under the handguard with minimal height and weight, maintaining clean lines without protruding above the rail
• 15 inch freefloat Keymod handguard made from aluminum allows accessory mounting without affecting barrel harmonics
• 7075-T6 aluminum upper receiver with black anodized finish provides corrosion resistance and structural strength
• QPQ nitride finished 9310 steel bolt carrier group with 6.5 Grendel II bolt head compatible with .338 ARC cartridge dimensions
• 5/8x24 threaded muzzle with GI birdcage flash hider compatible with .308 diameter suppressors and muzzle devices

Perfect For

• Hunters wanting AR-15 platform ergonomics with larger caliber stopping power
• Close to mid range applications where .338 diameter projectiles deliver superior energy transfer
• Shooters exploring big bore AR-15 cartridges beyond standard 5.56 NATO or .300 Blackout
• Builders looking for a complete specialty caliber upper that uses AR-15 magazines and lower receivers

.338 ARC Big Bore Performance

The .338 ARC cartridge delivers significantly larger projectile diameter and energy compared to standard AR-15 cartridges while maintaining compatibility with AR-15 magazines and lower receivers. The 1:8 twist rate stabilizes .338 caliber bullets across common hunting and defensive weight ranges. The heavy barrel profile provides additional rigidity and heat dissipation for sustained accuracy, particularly important with the increased pressure and heat generated by larger bore cartridges. The parkerized finish protects against corrosion and wear while providing a non-reflective surface. The 16 inch length balances velocity extraction with maneuverability, keeping overall length reasonable while maximizing the performance potential of .338 ARC.

Carbine Gas System with Micro Low Profile Gas Block

The carbine length gas system positions the gas port at the standard carbine distance from the chamber, tuned for the gas volume characteristics of .338 ARC in this barrel length. The micro low profile gas block minimizes height and weight compared to standard gas blocks, sitting flush under the handguard without creating a visible hump or adding unnecessary bulk to the front end. The .750 gas block journal provides compatibility with adjustable gas blocks if you want to fine tune gas flow for different ammunition types or suppressed use.

.338 ARC Compatible Bolt Carrier Group and Keymod Handguard

The QPQ nitride finished 9310 steel bolt carrier group includes a 6.5 Grendel II bolt head, which shares the same bolt face diameter required for .338 ARC cartridges. The .338 ARC uses the same case head dimensions as 6.5 Grendel, requiring a larger bolt face than standard 5.56 NATO bolts. The QPQ nitride finish provides superior corrosion resistance and lubricity compared to traditional phosphate or chrome finishes, creating a hardened surface layer that resists wear and reduces friction. This means smoother cycling, easier cleaning, and longer component life. The mil-spec M4 charging handle provides standard ergonomics and reliable operation. The 15 inch freefloat Keymod handguard extends nearly to the muzzle and allows you to attach lights, grips, bipods, and other accessories using Keymod compatible mounts. The freefloat design means the handguard does not contact the barrel, eliminating pressure points that can shift point of impact as the barrel heats.

Follow safe handling and manufacturer instructions. Ensure compliance with all applicable laws. BCG and charging handle are included.