NFOA MEMBERS FORUM
Handguns, Rifles & Shotguns => Rifles => Topic started by: OnTheFly on July 01, 2011, 10:35:16 PM
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Greetings,
I have purchased my first AR-15 lower from Palmetto State Armory. I am thinking about building a tacticool rifle with flat top upper, free float mid-length handguard, collapsible stock, flip up front and rear sights, and a piston conversion (ARES Defense Systems, Inc.?).
What I need help with is the handguard/upper. I really like the looks of the LMT MRP, but not the price. anyone have any input on a similar handguard and/or upper that would be similar?
Thanks,
Fly
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I found this...
Aero Precision COP (http://www.aimsurplus.com/blog/aero-precision-cop-monolithic-upper-for-ar15-new-aero-precision-monolithic-cop-continuous-optics-platform)
Anyone have any experience with this?
Fly
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If you're looking to go with a monolithic upper the Aero Precision one is about the lowest price you'll find. It's still pretty spendy but I've heard they're nice.
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Thanks for the input bkoenig. Maybe I will just go with a free float handguard like the YMH Diamond series.
I was going use a mid-length barrel with flip up sights (front & rear) so I wanted the handguards to cover the gas block (likely a low profile?), so what length handguard should I get? Would a specter length do it?
Thanks,
Fly
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I think the Specter length will just barely cover a mid-length gas block. You could also use a 12" rifle length. I've always thought a 15" would look cool on a 16" barrel since it would come all the way out to the flash hider.
I used a Midwest Industries SS 12" on my 18" barrel rifle length gas and I'm very happy with it. It gives you that monolithic look, and you can add rails anywhere you need them. It's light weight too.
http://www.midwestindustriesinc.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=category.display&category_id=267 (http://www.midwestindustriesinc.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=category.display&category_id=267)
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Kind of like this one from PSA?
http://www.palmettostatearmory.com/2243.php (http://www.palmettostatearmory.com/2243.php)
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If you are still thinking about a piston driven upper, you are limited to rails that are made to fit over a piston actuator rod.
Other wise I am kinda snobbish when it comes to rails and I only use Daniel Defense. I have 2 Omega rails and 1 Lite rail. Very light, very strong and a small profile that I prefer over the larger diameter and therefore heavier designs like the Midwest Ind one I first tried
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Thanks Dan. I was wondering if the piston system would put some limits on my build.
Fly
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Awesome input guys...thanks. I have to say that I am not a big fan of the "tube" look. Even though you can deck it out with rails, it just does not say "sexy" to me like the handguards with four rails built in or at least with that appearance like the Aero Precision COB.
I am working on a spreadsheet (yes I am a slight computer geek ;D) so I can get a rough idea of the end cost. If anyone sees something I am missing, please let me know.
(http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a1d927b3127ccefdd80adf6fc800000030O03AcM2LZszaA9vPgI/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/)
The one thing I don't think is accurate in my list is the cost of the handguards. Since I want some that will cover the mid-length gas port, I will have to get a Specter or rifle length, AND they will likely have to be a style that fits over a piston system.
Fly
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Does the ARES kit include a dedicated bolt/bolt carrier?
You should make sure you are not buying 2 carriers, one with the Delton Upper and one piston style that is needed for the ARES kit.
I know it is best to use a carrier specially designed for a piston setup where the OP rod engages the carrier, instead of a retrofit that replaces the gas key. The retro kits had some problems breaking gas keys and bolts IIRC
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Yes...the ARES comes with a bolt carrier and I selected "No Bolt" on the Del-Ton kit.
Fly
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Does the Ares kit include the entire Bolt Carrier Group or just the carrier?
One thing I would recommend is to skip the MOE stock and go with a Magpul CTR. I have the MOE and it doesn't lock up real tight. The CTR has a friction lock so it doesn't wiggle like the CTR. I plan to upgrade at some point.
I do like the MOE stock a lot other than the wiggling. That and it catches my beard and pulls my whiskers out :o
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Does the Ares kit include the entire Bolt Carrier Group or just the carrier?
One thing I would recommend is to skip the MOE stock and go with a Magpul CTR. I have the MOE and it doesn't lock up real tight. The CTR has a friction lock so it doesn't wiggle like the CTR. I plan to upgrade at some point.
I do like the MOE stock a lot other than the wiggling. That and it catches my beard and pulls my whiskers out :o
Thanks for the input bkoenig. The ARES website says it includes a one-piece, anti-tilt, bolt carrier. Here is an excerpt from their instructions...
(http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a1d927b3127ccefdd8adebae0700000030O03AcM2LZszaA9vPgI/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D720/ry%3D480/)
I've been reading about the CTR. PSA also has a CTR kit for a reasonably good price...$119.99.
Fly
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Looks like that's just the carrier. I'm a big fan of BCM bolts, but Daniel Defense, Spikes, and PSA are all good too.
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Looks like that's just the carrier. I'm a big fan of BCM bolts, but Daniel Defense, Spikes, and PSA are all good too.
You are correct sir. This piston rifle is getting more expensive by the second. If I buy a bolt, will that be all I need to complete the action? Like a cam pin, etc.?
Fly
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You may also need... a cam pin, firing pin, firing pin retainer, and make sure your bolt is complete (with rings, extractor, extractor spring, extractor pivot pin, ejector pin/spring) and make sure you have a charging handle with latch.
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You may also need... a cam pin, firing pin, firing pin retainer, and make sure your bolt is complete (with rings, extractor, extractor spring, extractor pivot pin, ejector pin/spring) and make sure you have a charging handle with latch.
Oy vey! So now what I am thinking, maybe it would be wise to order the upper with the complete bolt and carrier for the additional $65. That is the amount they would deduct from the upper if I did not include the bolt and carrier.
Fly
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To be totally honest, I just don't see the need for a piston driven AR. I built my 18" from quality components (White Oak Barrel, BCM bolt carrier group & upper receiver) and the only malfunctions through several thousand rounds have been one squib that didn't cycle the action, some reloads that were too long to feed through a Pmag, and a 40 round CMMG mag that had a bad follower that kept hanging up and not feeding. Nothing that was related to the gun itself. About a month ago I ran 300 rounds through it in 90 degree weather with 40mph winds in blowing sand. It was filthy inside when I got done, so I gave it about the 3rd or 4th complete cleaning it's ever had.
Pistons are cool, but I would personally rather put the extra cash towards a nice optic. There's really nothing wrong with them, but if you're looking for reliability I don't think they really gain you anything.
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To be totally honest, I just don't see the need for a piston driven AR. I built my 18" from quality components (White Oak Barrel, BCM bolt carrier group & upper receiver) and the only malfunctions through several thousand rounds have been one squib that didn't cycle the action, some reloads that were too long to feed through a Pmag, and a 40 round CMMG mag that had a bad follower that kept hanging up and not feeding. Nothing that was related to the gun itself. About a month ago I ran 300 rounds through it in 90 degree weather with 40mph winds in blowing sand. It was filthy inside when I got done, so I gave it about the 3rd or 4th complete cleaning it's ever had.
Pistons are cool, but I would personally rather put the extra cash towards a nice optic. There's really nothing wrong with them, but if you're looking for reliability I don't think they really gain you anything.
I'm not too worried about reliability since I am not going to be a hard core shooter. Just a plinker. Primarily, I was thinking about the cleaning aspect. I don't mind doing the thorough cleanings. I actually find it therapeutic. It is just hard to find the time.
With that said, since I won't be putting the rifle through any torture tests, maybe I will just go the easier/cheaper route and order a gas operated gun.
Fly
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Ok...back to plan A. Going with a gas operated system to keep cost down. Looking at nice to have options. What are the opinions about the following?
MIAD LPK from Palmetto State Armory - $79.95 (Has Magpul curved/enhanced trigger guard and MIAD grip)
PRI Gas buster Charging Handle - $75.00
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Standard Charging Handle with Badger Tac Latch $17.00
1x7 -OR- 1x9 rifling (heavier bullet-tighter twist?) Is there a bullet weight that is more available and/or less costly?
Magpul 30 round magazine
Flash Hider options
Phantom 5C2 $20
Phantom Aggressive End Compensator/Brake $20
Phantom $20
Vltor VC-A1 $50
Vltor VC-A2 $50
Thanks again,
Fly
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Here is my projected cost...
(http://i1120.photobucket.com/albums/l484/OnTheFly64/Gun%20Stuff/AR-151.jpg)
Let me know if you think I am missing something.
Fly
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Which Del-Ton upper assembly is that? I don't see one on their site that's $545.
Are you set on the Magpul magazines? Bravo Company has D&H Industries mags with the Magpul enhanced follower for $9.99: http://www.bravocompanyusa.com/AR-15-Magazines-p/magazines%20dh%20bt30mf.htm (http://www.bravocompanyusa.com/AR-15-Magazines-p/magazines%20dh%20bt30mf.htm)
If you buy 10, the price goes down to $8.95 each: http://www.bravocompanyusa.com/AR15-Magazines-p/magazines%20dh%20bt30mf%2010pack.htm (http://www.bravocompanyusa.com/AR15-Magazines-p/magazines%20dh%20bt30mf%2010pack.htm)
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I would go with 1:7 instead of 1:9 because it gives you more bullet options. 1:7 is optimized for heavy bullets and 1:9 works better for ones around 55 grains. The difference is a 1:7 barrel will often shoot light bullets ok, but a 1:9 usually won't shoot heavy bullets well, at least not at longer ranges. My 1:7 is a pretty solid 1 MOA rifle with 75 grain Hornady BTHP's. 55 grain bullets shoot about 1.5-2 MOA.
55 grain bullets are quite a bit cheaper, though. I use them for shorter range shooting and plinking.
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Which Del-Ton upper assembly is that? I don't see one on their site that's $545.
Are you set on the Magpul magazines? Bravo Company has D&H Industries mags with the Magpul enhanced follower for $9.99: http://www.bravocompanyusa.com/AR-15-Magazines-p/magazines%20dh%20bt30mf.htm (http://www.bravocompanyusa.com/AR-15-Magazines-p/magazines%20dh%20bt30mf.htm)
If you buy 10, the price goes down to $8.95 each: http://www.bravocompanyusa.com/AR15-Magazines-p/magazines%20dh%20bt30mf%2010pack.htm (http://www.bravocompanyusa.com/AR15-Magazines-p/magazines%20dh%20bt30mf%2010pack.htm)
Regarding Upper
The upper was the custom mid-length flat top with heavy barrel.
http://www.del-ton.com/Custom_Upper_p/cu104.htm (http://www.del-ton.com/Custom_Upper_p/cu104.htm)
I added chrome lined barrel, YHM diamond free float handguards, and YHM low profile gas block (to fit under free float handguards. The price may go up a little if I get a different tacticool flash hider, charging handle, and maybe a longer handguard to cover the gas block.
Regarding Magazines
Nope...I have virtually no base of knowledge to have any worthwhile opinion on this. I was just going by the reputation that Magpul has on various websites like AR15.com. I have read that the magazines can cause a lot of feed issues if you get a crappy one, so I was only going with reputation. If you tell me those magazines are as good or better, then they may move to the top of my list.
Fly
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PRI gas buster is only a necessity on a suppressed rifle. In my opinion it is overkill for my needs. I do prefer the PRI Military big latch that it comes with and use it on all my stuff. I install this latch on a stock handle. It is about $20
The Badger Tac latch model 1 is huge and kinda sticks out in the way, especially if you use a scope IMHO. The mod 2 is smaller and would work better, but I still prefer the PRI
I do use Magpul gear...CTR stocks, 20 and 30 round magazines, but I prefer Hogue Grips over the MIAD. I like a tackier feel.
You really need to fondle some real stuff. You may prefer a lightweight barrel vs a HBAR once you have handled one.
All of my rifles are Govt. Profile barrels and the weight loss out front makes a big difference to me. And I see no loss in accuracy vs an HBAR
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I would go with 1:7 instead of 1:9 because it gives you more bullet options. 1:7 is optimized for heavy bullets and 1:9 works better for ones around 55 grains. The difference is a 1:7 barrel will often shoot light bullets ok, but a 1:9 usually won't shoot heavy bullets well, at least not at longer ranges. My 1:7 is a pretty solid 1 MOA rifle with 75 grain Hornady BTHP's. 55 grain bullets shoot about 1.5-2 MOA.
55 grain bullets are quite a bit cheaper, though. I use them for shorter range shooting and plinking.
Thanks (again) bkoenig!
Fly
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Any opinions/experience with the other options?
MIAD LPK from Palmetto State Armory - $79.95 (Has Magpul curved/enhanced trigger guard and MIAD grip)
PRI Gas buster Charging Handle - $75.00
-OR-
Standard Charging Handle with Badger Tac Latch $17.00
Flash Hider options
Phantom 5C2 $20
Phantom Aggressive End Compensator/Brake $20
Phantom $20
Vltor VC-A1 $50
Vltor VC-A2 $50
Thanks,
Fly
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Go back, you must have missed one of my posts
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Although the other flash hiders are cool, standard A2 hiders are all I own
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I have the 5C2 but it's not mounted on anything at the moment. It's waiting for an upper to screw into it some day. I used to run it on my 18" and it did a good job of hiding the flash. I don't know that it's any better than an A2 but it looks cool.
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Go back, you must have missed one of my posts
Yes I did. I must have failed to refresh the post and missed it. Thanks Dan.
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If you tell me those magazines are as good or better, then they may move to the top of my list.
Fly
I've never had a problem with those mags from Bravo Co. I HAVE had a problem with Magpul PMags not dropping from the receiver on one of my lowers.
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I've never had a problem with those mags from Bravo Co. I HAVE had a problem with Magpul PMags not dropping from the receiver on one of my lowers.
Good info.
Thanks,
Fly
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Alright...
I missed this thread til now!
Here's the info I got for you:
Charging Handles:
PRI Gas Buster is basically worthless on a non-suppressed rifle. The charging handle and latch aren't any stronger than the standard mil-spec one. If you really want a bigger latch, get the BCM Gunfighter charging handle from bravocompanyusa.com. It's the strongest, most ergonomic latch out there right now.
Pistons:
I would definitely recommend not getting a piston. I own one and it really isn't a big deal. If you think you need to clean your AR15 all the time... You really REALLY don't. Do it if you want to but Pat Rogers (of EAG Tactical) ran a Bravo Company Manufacturing (BCM) carbine for 50,000 rounds with only a single cleaning. It was "dripping sludge everywhere" according to the article he wrote called "Filthy 14" (google it if you want, great article). He replaced some wearable parts and just kept the thing lubricated with Slip 2000 EWL lubricant.
AR15s like to be run wet. No matter what anyone tells you, there's no such thing as too much lube on an AR15. If you put "too much" it will throw it off on the first couple shots. Use a good lubricant like Slip 2000 EWL or Break-free LP (not CLP, LP does not have the cleaner in it and is much thicker, doesn't dry out and stays in place much better than CLP).
The other issue with pistons is a lot of the systems on the market introduce problems with carrier tilt, the cam pin digging deep into the upper receiver, and the forced unlocking of the bolt causing more wear to the bolt. A lot of them run well, as does mine, but the AR system was not originally designed for that operation and that can cause some headaches if the piston system isn't perfect.
Barrel Twist Rate:
1:7 will let you shoot a wider variety of bullets and all of the claims about 55gr and lighter ammo "spinning apart" in the barrel is a bunch of BS. Someone posted it on the internet or someone said it in a gun store and it got accepted as fact. Many people on AR15, specifically Molon, has proven many times that 55gr ammo shoots just fine in a 1:7 twist barrel and it was actually MORE accurate than his 1:9 twist barrel. They were both chrome-lined barrels.
That said, 1:9 is fine as well. The only advantage 1:9 really has is that it will have slightly more velocity due to less rifling. This amount is very small though and is not noticeable to basically anyone without chronographing it.
Magazines:
I'm a big fan of PMAGs. I have had some issues with the bolt not locking back on an empty chamber when putting weight on the magazine and I had to modify them because my Spike's lower's magwell is slightly out of spec. What I would do is buy a few of each type and test them after you build the rifle. Function test them. Make sure you don't have feeding problems. Test that they lock the bolt back on an empty chamber. PUT WEIGHT ON THE MAGAZINE (I use it as a monopod) and make sure it still functions properly. Despite what a lot of people say, this DOES NOT cause malfunctions if things are working properly.
Muzzle Devices:
I don't really see the point of a flash hider unless you're going into combat or intend to do a lot of night shooting. Even then, an A2 and even some compensators are just fine at night and don't blind the shooter nearly as much as a lot of people claim. I personally use battle comps on both of my AR15s and I think they're a great balance between flash hiding, muzzle rise reduction, and recoil reduction. The sound is about the same as an A2 equipped rifle. Please do remember that shorter-barreled rifles are louder than longer barreled rifles. A lot of people comment on how loud my AR15 is at the range. It's likely because it's a 14.5" barrel with a battle comp. It's still quieter than a registered SBR or a longer barrel with a true compensator. ARs are just loud guns.
Barrel Profile:
I would highly recommend against the heavy barrel profile unless you don't ever intend to do anything except high power or bench shooting. If you intend to use the rifle as a home defense weapon, a hunting rifle, or for tactical training classes that heavy barrel is going to be a beast to lug around. The only time you really benefit from the heavy barrel is if you do lots of mag dumps in a row or if you intend to shoot groups very quickly or after a mag dump. Even a "pencil" profile barrel doesn't bend or flex much at all if you're only shooting 10 rounds a minute or less.
Of course, the benefits of reduced recoil (greater weight = less recoil) and a greater stability (more inertia) from the bench and from the competition "slinged" position would be provided by the heavy barrel profile.
It's all about what you want to do with the rifle.
Hope this has been helpful.
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SeanN,
I wish you had some input on this subject. ;D (Yes...that was sarcasm)
Regarding the heavy barrel. I am not dead set on the Del-Ton kits, but I have read a lot of good things about them (very little negative) and their prices are pretty darn good. Also, you can customize the heck out of some of their complete uppers. Unfortunately, their custom flat-top upper with light weight mid-length barrel only comes in a 1:7 twist and I was hoping for more bullet weight options. I don't know how much fluting costs. I always liked the look of it, but I suppose that would be another option. Maybe I can just contact Del-Ton and give them all my specs and find out what the price will be.
Thanks for the great information,
Fly
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Palmetto State Armory has a AR-15 kit that has stainless steel barrels chambered in 223 Wylde. Anyone have experience with these barrels and/or chamber?
Fly
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I love the Wylde chamber in my RRA,
BTW I have looked at that same upper and I thought it was a real good deal.
MY next target rifle will be a stainless barrel 1/8 twist Wylde chamber , I prefer 18" length with rifle gas system
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I love the Wylde chamber in my RRA,
BTW I have looked at that same upper and I thought it was a real good deal.
MY next target rifle will be a stainless barrel 1/8 twist Wylde chamber , I prefer 18" length with rifle gas system
I have not read too much negative about the 223 Wylde, but the only drawback is that it appears to be a heavy barrel. I was leaning towards a gov't/light weight profile. Also, I would prefer a black barrel. I asked if they could change a few items in the kit to fit my specifications. We will see if they can do it and what the price is.
Fly
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You won't find as many light profiled Stainless barrels , and when you do they are not as light as the standard lightweight due to structural things related to use of stainless.
That is one reason I would only use stainless on a scoped target rifle
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You won't find as many light profiled Stainless barrels , and when you do they are not as light as the standard lightweight due to structural things related to use of stainless.
That is one reason I would only use stainless on a scoped target rifle
Yep...that may be the deal breaker for this PSA kit.
Fly
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Fly... take a look at the pics in this link.
http://palmettostatearmory.com/2096.php (http://palmettostatearmory.com/2096.php)
There is one that shows the barrel profile. I think this is the same barrel as the upper you are considering, less the YHM diamond HG's.
The picture shows a profile that is very much like the A2 profile that my middies have, and I think that is what you may be looking for.
If the white barrel is a turn off, they can be colored with Aluma Hyde from brownells or KG Guncote
http://www.brownells.com/.aspx/lid=11062/GunTechdetail/Brownells_Spray_on_Finish_Video_Guide___Chapter_6___Aluma_Hyde_II (http://www.brownells.com/.aspx/lid=11062/GunTechdetail/Brownells_Spray_on_Finish_Video_Guide___Chapter_6___Aluma_Hyde_II)
If you can live with different rail that the YHM Diamond you like, I would highly recommend this upper, and BCM is at the top in quality in most peoples minds
http://www.bravocompanyusa.com/BCM-16-Mid-Length-Upper-Receiver-MI-p/bcm-urg-mid-16%20mit12.htm (http://www.bravocompanyusa.com/BCM-16-Mid-Length-Upper-Receiver-MI-p/bcm-urg-mid-16%20mit12.htm)
But they do not include a Bolt carrier group or charging handle so your budget would look like the national debt...just keeps growing
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Got the following in an email today and remembered you wanting the 1-9 twist. Not sure if anything else in the deal works for you though...
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
M4 Upper Special!!
Del-Ton, Inc. is offering a 16'' M4 1x9 Chrome Moly Vanadium (CMV) Barrel Assembly with F-Marked Front Sight Base, M4 Feed Ramps and HPT & MPI Tested Bolt @ $385.00 each! Usually $415.00 each, saving you $30.00! This is a limited offer, good while stocks last or for 1 week, so don't delay, order yours today!
AR-15 16'' DTI M4 CMV 1x9 Barrel Assembly w/ F Marked Front Sight Base, Product Code: DT1009
Sale Price $385.00 each.
AR-15 16
This Complete upper includes 16'' M4 CMV Chrome Lined 1x9 twist Barrel, F-Marked Front Sight Base, Flat Top Upper with M4 Feed Ramps, AR-15 Bolt and Carrier assembly - properly staked and sealed gas key - HPT & MPI Tested Bolt, Charging Handle and CAR Handguard. These are head-spaced and test fired. Ready to drop onto a complete lower receiver.
Please remember these are built to order.
Click on the links above or visit the web site www.del-ton.com (http://www.del-ton.com) for more information, complete technical specs and to order.
Use coupon code AUG130 at checkout. This offer is for a limited quantity and is valid while supplies last or until end 08/08/2011 EST, which ever is first. So don't delay, order today!
This offer is good while supplies last.
To receive these discounts you must enter the coupon code in the ‘coupon code box’ at check out. This is Caps sensitive! Make sure once you have entered the coupon code that the discount is applied to your order. We will not apply coupon codes to orders for you, once your order is placed it is final, so make sure to use the coupon codes at check out! Offer is subject to change or cancelation without notice. If you have any questions please call 910-645-2172 or email sales@del-ton.com.
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Thanks Dan...The PSA kit I was looking at was this (http://palmettostatearmory.com/2277.php) one. I asked PSA about the SS in 223 Wylde and they said it was considered a "light" barrel because of tapering. They don't carry the rifle length YHM handguards so it would have to be mid-length YHM or a different brand (and +$). I watched that "Alumi Hide" video and I think that is something even I could do. :D
metaldoc...thanks for the info. I just saw that same email from Del-Ton in my inbox. I was hopeful that it would fit the bill, but it is lacking a few items on my wishlist. Thanks though. I appreciated all the help I can get.
Fly
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Fly, that kit and a $50 PSA lower would make for a pretty nice (and inexpensive) Rifle
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Fly, that kit and a $50 PSA lower would make for a pretty nice (and inexpensive) Rifle
That's what I was thinking too.
Fly
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Ok...settled on the PSA mid-length kit with a few upgrades. I have some Magpul Gen 2 flip up front/rear sights on the way. Was also considering a reflex sight, but the price tag of an EOTech is a little out of my reach. I have read a few good things about the Mueller Quick Shot (here (http://muelleroptics.com/mqs12233mb)).
(http://muelleroptics.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/MQS12233MB_Features.png)(http://muelleroptics.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Capture2.png)
Anyone have opinions about the lower to mid price reflex sights?
Fly
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I have a Vortex Strikefire that I'm happy with. I used to use it on my 3 gun rifle until I switched to a scope, but since my scope went belly up I'll probably go back to the dot until I have the cash saved up for a Burris Tac30. Eventually the Vortex will go onto a .22 SBR upper I'm building.
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I got a UPS Quantum shipping notification from Palmetto State Armory stating the expected delivery date of my upper would be September 21. When it did not show up I sent an email the next day and they said that the label for shipping was created (which also generated the email to me) the day the armorer received the build order. So it takes up to seven business days to complete the build. That could mean it wont ship until next Tuesday. Argh! The waiting is killing me and the little carrot dangled in front of me for delivery on the 21st has not made it easier.
Fly
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Ok...settled on the PSA mid-length kit with a few upgrades. I have some Magpul Gen 2 flip up front/rear sights on the way. Was also considering a reflex sight, but the price tag of an EOTech is a little out of my reach. I have read a few good things about the Mueller Quick Shot (here (http://muelleroptics.com/mqs12233mb)).
(http://muelleroptics.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/MQS12233MB_Features.png)(http://muelleroptics.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Capture2.png)
Anyone have opinions about the lower to mid price reflex sights?
Fly
I had one that looked identical to that but had no name on it. It was a piece of crap. Reticles were distorted and not very bright.
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An important consideration with optics is customer service. I just bought a Vortex scope because they have a unbelievable reputation for customer and warranty service. They have an industry forum over on AR15.com and everyone raves about their service.
I have heard some really good things about Mueller too , but you should do a little research on them
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I got my rifle and it is mostly built. The barrel is a Wylde with a 1 in 8 twist. From what I have been able to find on AR-15.com and other sites, the bullet weight that is suggested for this twist is 45 - 80+gr. Would the experts here on the forum agree?
Fly
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Yes... I think 1-8 twist is ideal.
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I'm partial to the 75 grain Hornady BTHP for accuracy work with my 1:7. For cheap blasting stuff I load bulk 55 grain FMJ.
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I'm partial to the 75 grain Hornady BTHP for accuracy work with my 1:7. For cheap blasting stuff I load bulk 55 grain FMJ.
I was looking at reloading with heavier 69-80+gr bullets for some of the Ikes High Power matches. My friend has the equipment and he said he would help me out. I think he is more excited about me getting an AR than I am. I have been using a spreadsheet to calculate cost per round, and from what I have been able to figure out, I am not going to save much (if anything) by reloading the heavier match rounds. Though I know to get custom rounds that are best matched to my barrel, I will need to hand load. That will be a winter project.
Anyhow, without further ado, here is my new baby...
(http://nebraskafirearms.org/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=3811.0;attach=1122;image)
(http://nebraskafirearms.org/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=3811.0;attach=1124;image)
- Palmetto State Armory (PSA) lower
- PSA LPK
- Ergo ambi grip
- PSA flat top upper
- 16" Mid-length Wylde barrel
- Low profile gas block
- Midwest Industries T-12 free float handguards
- Magpul MOE aluminum trigger guard
- Magpul MOE Mil-spec CTR stock
- Magpul flip up front/rear BUIS
Fly
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Here is my projected cost...
(http://i1120.photobucket.com/albums/l484/OnTheFly64/Gun%20Stuff/AR-151.jpg)
Let me know if you think I am missing something.
Fly
Here's my parts list/budget from my first AR build: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/pub?key=0ArLNNKBoiaQodDkxUC1JZmZYM2RQQXlLOWRxMnFudHc&output=html
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Here's my parts list/budget from my first AR build: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/pub?key=0ArLNNKBoiaQodDkxUC1JZmZYM2RQQXlLOWRxMnFudHc&output=html
Here is what you end up with if you use the components I indicated in the spreadsheet. (See attached)
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Here is what you end up with if you use the components I indicated in the spreadsheet. (See attached)
A nice looking gun. I am thinking about my next build and was considering going with an upper chambered in 300BLK. That sounds like a very effective round.
Fly
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except that stock is no longer available.:( I know, i looked.
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I was looking at reloading with heavier 69-80+gr bullets for some of the Ikes High Power matches. My friend has the equipment and he said he would help me out. I think he is more excited about me getting an AR than I am. I have been using a spreadsheet to calculate cost per round, and from what I have been able to figure out, I am not going to save much (if anything) by reloading the heavier match rounds. Though I know to get custom rounds that are best matched to my barrel, I will need to hand load. That will be a winter project.
Anyhow, without further ado, here is my new baby...
(http://nebraskafirearms.org/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=3811.0;attach=1122;image)
(http://nebraskafirearms.org/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=3811.0;attach=1124;image)
- Palmetto State Armory (PSA) lower
- PSA LPK
- Ergo ambi grip
- PSA flat top upper
- 16" Mid-length Wylde barrel
- Low profile gas block
- Midwest Industries T-12 free float handguards
- Magpul MOE aluminum trigger guard
- Magpul MOE Mil-spec CTR stock
- Magpul flip up front/rear BUIS
Fly
I reload often. Always remember that while the cost per round is similar or the same, you're getting a premium precision product. Of course, that is after you mess up a whole bunch of them and spill gunpowder all over.
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except that stock is no longer available.:( I know, i looked.
I kind of figured that at a $25 price point that stock, buffer tube, buffer, spring, end plate, and castle nut deal had to be some kind of close-out.
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A nice looking gun. I am thinking about my next build and was considering going with an upper chambered in 300BLK. That sounds like a very effective round.
Fly
Thanks! I am pretty pleased with how it turned out. I did spray-paint the stock with Krylon's flat tan paint from their line of camouflage products so that the stock color wouldn't stand out so much against the flat dark earth stuff from Magpul.
.300BLK does sound pretty awesome, but since I already had a PLR-16 I was looking for something that would take the same mags and ammo that I feed the Kel-Tec.