Decided on a 14.5" midlength as my next build, and I cannot decide how I want to make it a legal length. I have a Gemtech 5.56 suppressor that uses a QD bi-lock mount which complicates the matter.



Options:



Permanently attach a BattleComp 1.5 - $200

Pros: Good recoil reduction, minimum overall length, configuration available from Bravo Company

Cons: Price, not compatible with my suppressor



Permanently attach a PWS FSC556 Bi-Lock mount - $80

Pros: Good recoil reduction, I already have one I can use, suppressor compatible

Cons: Longer overall length (it's .75" longer than a BC 1.5), not available from Bravo Company, $80 to have ADCO attach it



Permanently attach Gemtech Bi-lock mount - $80

Pros: Minimum overall length, I already have one I can use, suppressor compatible

Cons: No recoil reduction, not available from Bravo Company, $80 to have ADCO attach it



SBR the lower - $200 plus muzzle device

Pros: Don't have to permanently attach anything

Cons: Cost, Title II restrictions, NFA hassle for the same overall length as the Title I configuration



FWIW, I already have the following ARs:



LMT 10.5" SBR w/ Bi-Lock suppressor mount

Noveske 16" midlength w/ FSC556 suppressor mount (LE patrol rifle)

Daniel Defense 16" M4 (backup LE patrol rifle)

Colt 20" A2

Mega 18" race gun



I have an extra Gemtech Bi-Lock suppressor mount that's not being used, but I'd have to take the FSC556 suppressor mount off my Noveske 16" midlength if (or buy a new one) if I decided to permanently attach it to the 14.5" midlength.

Sounds like you answered your own question to me:  bi-lock since you already have the can.

I was getting ready to post:  if you are ever going to get a can, you need to decide on which one first before you perm a FH/mount.

Regular Bi-Lock or FSC556 Bi-Lock?



I like the extra muzzle control the FSC556 gives you, but it's almost an inch longer than the standard Bi-Lock.



 

I have the battlecomp on my 14.5" mid-length and it is amazing.

Definitely NO on the PWS in any way shape or form.  I just got done cutting mine off.

I get to shoot my 14.5 middy with that loud arse brake off the gun tonight for the first time!

For me you only have 2 options.  Either way you need to install the Gemtech Bi-lock, so.......

1 - Permanently attach the bi-lock (cheapest)
2 - SBR the lower and just screw on the bi-lock (smartest)

Getting the lower SBR'd is the best option.  Then you can do whatever you want for shorter
uppers in the future.  I have gone that route....twice.  I have 2 SBR lowers and now I can shorty
uppers and long uppers in whatever configuration I want in my safe.  

When you have an SBR and a suppressor or two, your options grow at an exponential rate.

If you are willing to spend the coin on a permed Battlecomp, I'd SBR it instead.  I didn't SBR my 14.5" middy, but I have another SBR, no can, and only permed a Phantom so that's just a $20 FH (and the pin/weld was free with the upper).

Regular bi-lock or FSC556 bi-lock?



I know what you mean about NFA growth. I currently have an SBR, 5.56mm suppressor, 9mm suppressor, and full auto M11/9.



 

Have you compared the PWS brake on your 14.5" against a 16" barrel? I have one on my 16" midlength, and it's not a big deal.



 

I think these are available with the BCM 14.5 midlength. Same as the PWS SM556 they have listed as an option?

No.  Just my 14.5.  I know some guys like the PWS.. even on fighting guns.  But it was the first brake I ever used since my shooting is more rooted in the "tactical" realm.

The PWS works great as a brake, but I always had to walk 10 yards down the firing line so the other shooters and family wouldn't get pissed at me when I shot.

The SM556 that Bravo offers is for a different suppressor.

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SBR it.  And get something that will work with your can.

BTW, go F yourself