Quoted:
I should have purchased a SCAR 16 many moons ago. I figure this may be my last chance before prices become even more crazy than what they are now.

So some questions:

1. NRCH vs std SCAR 16s? I took a NRCH apart, and yes the sled looks like something else that could break in the long run on what is otherwise probably the Western World's most durable rifle. I run my SCAR 17 CH on the right side like an AK with no issues. What other reasons are there to get a NRCH SCAR 16 over the older model, especially if I can find an older model for a few hundred dollars cheaper? I guess they made upgrades to the bolt catch on the NRCH model for use with different STANAG magazines for instance.

I'm personally looking at another standard SCAR 16S for the same reason. I feel better with one huge carrier vs a multi-part assembly.

Seeking comments on SCAR 16s upgrades:

1. KDG 4.25 or 6.5" rail: I would put a surefire X300 up top like on my ARs (Larry Vickers set up). Is there enough space on the 4.25" model to mount a light up top or do I need the longer model?

4.25 prob gonna be too short. Had the 4.9 and X400 hung off the end a tad so the clamp wasn't on a full pic rail.

2. 14 vs 16" barrel: Would it be dumb to buy a spare 14" barrel and pin/weld a flash hider on? Thinking of balance when running suppressed, that's all.

I have a spare 14" barrel set up the same.

3. ACR stock: Any reason why not to use one? I do like the std stock on my SCAR 17s though, but sling attachment is a PITA. Any issues with the KRG stock on the 16? I know the 17 doesn't like the Al bracket, which may be mitigated by a different recoil buffer.

I will not run any aluminum plated stock on any of my SCAR's. Not worth the risk when the standard stock is pretty good IMO. The new NRCH might fare better since the carrier is lighter

4. Geissele trigger: definitely a must have. I love mine on my SCAR 17.

5. Any utility to these: https://www.mototecheng.com/product/3-select-regulator/
https://www.mototecheng.com/product/buffer-pad-rubberized-nylon/

I would be running the rifle suppressed mostly with a KAC QDC 556 can. I'll probably put an Elcan or some other LPVO on top of it. It will be used for IDPA/3 gun type matches, rifle/carbine courses and general purpose use to supplement my current 16" dedicated AR-15 that I run suppressed.

Just get the right gas jet size for your setup. There is very little I'd do out of the box to the SCAR, even with the shorter receiver.

Thanks

Quoted:
Buy NRCH version, offer to trade bolts with someone running an older gun... profit?

Quoted:
NRCH vs. STD?
I don't have any issues with the standard.  I found a swept down charging handle to deal with optics, but I don't grab that far back.  If you can find a good price on either one, I think you're good.

KDG rail upgrade?
I found PMM has some pretty awesome options actually.  I looked at KDG and Vltor, but PMM won out and their stuff is GTG.

Spare 14" barrel?
If you can pony up the $, you will be able to recoup it if you decide to sell.  The factory barrels became scarce and were selling at their original asking prices easy.

ACR stock?
From what I've read, the original design calls for a plastic end cap.  I've read about issues when the endcaps have been metal, the ACR stock adapter included.  I was originally interested in one until I read up more on it - particularly if you plan on shooting your rifle extensively.  I've switched stock mounts over to the BFG short loops for compatibility.  PMM also has options that work with the stock stock attachments on the receiver.

Mototech regulator utility?
Absolutely.  Especially if you want to run your rifle suppressed and plan on shooting it that frequently.  I have run a Sandman S, MG7, and a Nomad on both of the suppressed settings.  It functioned on all of them.  I did not pick up a buffer pad, but I wouldn't hesitate trying one.