Q: Why BCM chose the 11.5" SBR over the 10.5"

I get this question a lot. It is a good one. When we spec our program we can build anything we would like, so we sat down and looked at the pros and cons.

First Statement: I know a good 10.5" SBR can run very well. I personally own a semi MK18 type and it runs great. No problems.

A: Dwell time.
Dwell time is the time that your gas operated weapon maintains pressure to continue the cycling of the weapon. It primarily exsists from the time the bullet passes the gas port in the barrel to the time the bullet exits the muzzle. When you pull the trigger and fire the weapon the movement of the bolt carrier group unlocks the bolt, extracts, and ejects the spent casing. Then it cocks the weapon, feeds, chambers the next round, and then locks again. One of the thing that can make SBRs finicky is the dwell time (or lack of).

The 11.5" carbine is approximately 4% longer weapon than its' 10.5" counterpart, but this extra inch gives the barrel a 40% increase in length for dwell time. IMHO, this is an excellent trade off. This additional dwell time (all other things being equal) will allow the carbine to be more forgiving to different ammo types, extremes in air temperature, weak or worn extractor springs, worn extractors, buffer weights, etc.

Last Statement: For those folks who have a 10.5" that works very well, I would reply; me too. (see first statement)

If I had to "go to war" with a AR15 Carbine, I would grab the BCM 11.5".
The BCM 11.5" Runs Like a Dream.

Hope this info helps,
Paul

Its approved at work, now I just need it approved on the spousal units approal list.

That is a beauty! Wish I got one of these instead of my LMT 10.5" from Bravo Co.

Is there enough clear barrel on these to mount an AAC SPR/M4?

2.49"

From the muzzle back. If there is anything that it gets into within 2.49" of the muzzle, then it won't work.
I think the bayonet lug might be in the way, more than anything.

1-7/8" from bayo lug to end of threaded muzzle (with out flash hider installed).

Thank you, sir.

Well I guess its time to spend more money. I have a LMT 10.5 that I bought from Bravo that rides beside me on patrol. Now i gotta buy a BCM lower and then do the wait period for the NFA stamp to match it to the 11.5 BCM upper. This black rifle thing is really addictive. I wish all mine were BCM's.

bump

They will be within the GI print spec.

Sorry Eric, I did not see this reply.


Yes. I have more times, on more barrels, with more supressors, than I can honest count.

Middy gas on a 11.5' would not be combat reliable. It also would not fit with a FSB.