How much weight will I save? Also what barrel would you recommend? This just my first AR and it will be for HD and plinking.

You will save a considerable amount of weight.

16" HBAR - 36.2 oz.

14.5" M4 - 25.0 oz.

Difference - 11.2 oz.

Thank you!

Per BM:

16" HBAR - 2.7lb

14.5" M4 - 2.2lb (w/FH)

Difference - 0.5lb

Not much difference, especially since most weight diff is close to center (under HG).

BM Linky

Quoted: Per BM: 16" HBAR - 2.7lb, 14.5" M4 - 2.2lb (w/FH) - Difference - 0.5lb Not much difference, especially since most weight diff is close to center (under HG).

You're off by 3.2 oz which is why the best way to weigh AR parts is in ounces on a Postal scale.

If you're thinking about building up a fully outfitted AR (rail system, optic, VFG, light), it does't hurt to watch the weight of what you put on it because before you know it, you have a 10 lb. AR. The fact is if you go through a class or if you're in actual combat, every ounce counts. You need what you need to get the job done but saving a few ounces here and there makes a difference in regards to muscle fatigue caused by carrying a "heavy AR" for extended periods of time.

BTW, 11.2 oz. is close to the weight of an Aimpoint w/mount and is the weight of an Accupoint TR-21. Now tell me, would you want to hump the extra weight of a second optic on your rifle?

The 11oz savings will make up for the rail I will add.

Quoted: The 11oz savings will make up for the rail I will add.

Exactly! Why have an AR that weighs more when you don't have to?

Quoted: Quoted: The 11oz savings will make up for the rail I will add. Exactly! Why have an AR that weighs more when you don't have to?

+1

you will notice the extra weight....i'd opt for the govt

Even at 8 0unces thats a lot for just 1 1/2 inches more of barrel.

Quoted: Even at 8 0unces thats a lot for just 1 1/2 inches more of barrel.

Only 1 1/2 inches in length but the 16 inch is HBAR; the 14.5 inch is government profile. So not only are you losing length weight but also thickness weight.

Quoted: Even at 8 0unces thats a lot for just 1 1/2 inches more of barrel.

a HBAR is different than an M4 type profile barrel. an HBAR is much more beefy, very accurate but heavy. I have a 16" HBAR dissy and it feels like a rifle instead of a carbine due to the heavy barrel.