Okay,
Here is my dilemma. I have been gathering parts to build a Colt XM177E2 clone. Its coming along nicely. I am pretty much only waiting on my lower from Nodak and need to pick up a BCG.
However, the upper that I have right now for this build (See pictures below) will not work for my XM177E2 clone. It has "P M" forge codes, it has a big head forward assist button, and it has a black finish. Now I could just scrub the forge codes (because the XM177E2 should not have any), switch the big head forward assist for a tear drop, and have the upper finished in grey. Problem solved..................BUT.
I would really feel bad about basically destroying this nice upper that would be perfect for a Philippine Elisco 653-P Carbine build! I know the big head forward assist are also a bit rarer then the tear drop as well. I just cant go through with altering a piece of history to make a "Clone". I mean perhaps someone out there is really wanting to build a model 653-P and would love this upper for their build!
So, that gives me at least three choices. This is where I need some advice on what you guys would do if it were you.
1. Sell this 653-P upper and buy another A1 upper (preferably with no forge codes) and use it for my XM177E2 clone.
2. Try to trade this Elisco 653-P upper for another A1 upper that will work for my XM177E2 clone.
3. Keep and build this Elisco upper into a Model 653-P carbine. But where would I ever find the proper hand guards? Which means another build! arrrggghhh
Besides, other then retroblackrifle.com I cant seem to find much information on the model 653-P carbine.
Here are some pictures of the upper I currently have, that I believe would be perfect for a Philippine Elisco 653-P Carbine build.