When upgrading your AR rifle or starting a new build, selecting the right upper receiver is one of the most important steps. Two popular choices that cater to different shooting needs are the 224 Valkyrie upper and the 450 Bushmaster upper. Each offers specific advantages, depending on whether you’re focusing on long-range accuracy or seeking powerful hunting capabilities. 

This guide will break down the features and benefits of the 224 Valkyrie upper and the 450 Bushmaster upper, helping you decide which option is the best fit for your AR build. 

What is the 224 Valkyrie Upper? 

The 224 Valkyrie upper is designed for shooters who want excellent long-range accuracy and precision. The .224 Valkyrie round is known for maintaining high velocity and accuracy over long distances, making it ideal for target shooting or varmint hunting at ranges beyond 1,000 yards.  

Adding a 224 Valkyrie upper to your AR-15 enhances its performance for long-range shooting. This upper enables your rifle to maintain a flatter trajectory and less wind drift, providing more accuracy compared to standard AR rounds like the .223 or 5.56 NATO. 

Benefits of the 224 Valkyrie Upper 

Here are some reasons why the 224 Valkyrie upper might be the right choice for your AR build: 

- Long-Range Accuracy: The 224 Valkyrie upper allows for precision shooting at distances beyond 1,000 yards, making it perfect for long-range target practice or varmint hunting. 

- Flat Trajectory: This round has a flatter trajectory, allowing for more precise shots at extended distances. 

- AR-15 Compatibility: The 224 Valkyrie upper fits onto a standard AR-15 lower, meaning you don’t need to invest in a completely new rifle to upgrade your shooting experience. 

For anyone serious about long-range shooting, the 224 Valkyrie upper is a top choice for improving your rifle's accuracy and performance. 

What is the 450 Bushmaster Upper? 

The 450 Bushmaster upper is built for power and stopping force, making it perfect for hunting large game like deer, elk, or even bears. Unlike the 224 Valkyrie upper, which focuses on long-range accuracy, the 450 Bushmaster upper is all about delivering maximum force at closer ranges.  

This upper uses the .450 Bushmaster round, a straight-wall cartridge often required for hunting in certain states. It offers hunters the ability to take down large animals with ease, providing immense stopping power for quick, humane kills. 

Benefits of the 450 Bushmaster Upper 

Here’s why the 450 Bushmaster upper might be the right option for your hunting needs: 

- Big-Game Hunting: The 450 Bushmaster upper offers exceptional power, allowing you to hunt large game confidently at shorter distances. 

- Versatility: Like the 224 Valkyrie upper, the 450 Bushmaster upper works with a standard AR-15 lower, allowing you to transform your rifle into a powerful hunting tool. 

- Hunting Legalities: The .450 Bushmaster is a straight-wall cartridge, which is legal for hunting in many states that require this type of ammunition for big-game hunting. 

If you’re a hunter looking for a powerful upper to hunt large game, the 450 Bushmaster upper is a great choice. 

Which Upper Should You Choose? 

The decision between the 224 Valkyrie upper and the 450 Bushmaster upper depends on what you plan to use your AR rifle for. If your main focus is long-range target shooting or competitive shooting, the 224 Valkyrie upper is likely the best option. It’s designed to offer exceptional accuracy at distances over 1,000 yards and is ideal for precision shooters. 

On the other hand, if you need an upper that delivers powerful stopping force for big-game hunting, the 450 Bushmaster upper is the better choice. It transforms your AR-15 into a reliable hunting rifle capable of taking down large animals with ease. 

Both uppers are compatible with the AR-15 platform, meaning you can easily switch between them depending on your needs, offering flexibility for different shooting activities. 

Start Your Custom AR Build Today 

Whether you're aiming for long-range accuracy with the 224 Valkyrie upper or hunting power with the 450 Bushmaster upper, Moriarti Armaments has the parts and kits to help you build the perfect rifle. Upgrading your AR rifle with the right upper can transform its performance, tailoring it to your specific shooting or hunting goals. 

Visit Moriarti Armaments to explore the range of 224 Valkyrie upper and 450 Bushmaster upper options. Whether you’re looking for precision shooting or hunting power, you’ll find everything you need to create your custom AR build!