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Posted: 8/21/2017 2:38:36 PM EDT
[#1]
I know I want a 5.56 barrel, 16" (may get a tax stamp further down the line for a 14"), chrome lined, 1/7 twist. I want it to be lightweight while still being durable, and be able to shoot a 2' target at 300m supported-which I could do with my issued rifle no problem. I'm not familiar with the different specs on type of metal used, or milled/stamped/forged. Someone suggested I get an adjustable gas block. I'm fairly certain I want a vortex flash hider from smith enterprises-I had one on my issued rifle, and you could see more flash from the receiver with nvg's at night, not to mention it held the barrel almost perfectly on target. Someone suggested a pencil barrel. I'm probably going to go with magpul mlock carbine length for the free float handguard, as all I'm adding is an angled grip with the possibility of a surefire. I definitely want a picatinny top on the receiver, and I'm either going with an acog or an aimpoint with a flip mount magnifier.
*stupid character limit |
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Posted: 8/21/2017 2:57:55 PM EDT
[#2]
I would stick to standard stuff. Forged aluminum receivers, and steel BCG.
I have a Faxon 16" Lightweight barrel. It's not chrome lined like you asked, but light as hell. The only other people I can think of making lightweight chrome lined barrels would be Delton and BCM. At the prices where BCGs are 80-120$ for a good quality one, there really isn't a need for the hassle of swapping BCGs. I picked up a new Nickel Boron Coated Fail Zero BCG for 100$ here on the EE. Honestly I would just build a standard rifle with a lightweight barrel and 12-13" Free Floated Rail. With that setup, an adjustable gas block isn't needed. I would get an upper with forward assist and dust cover, as it adds security to me and doesn't add too much weight. These would be my picks Barrel Standard Upper and Lower set 13" Rail If you are patient enough and wait for sales or buy used parts, you can get this build around 650 without optics... ... If you want atleast mil spec, you're going to be building a standard rifle... |
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Posted: 8/21/2017 3:02:59 PM EDT
[#3]
For what you've listed, I would personally go with an A1 or C7 upper. KISS thread here.
That's my personal preference, though. You may not like it if you want optics. Receivers are typically aluminum. I think you can find steel ones, but they would be extremely expensive and not practical. A pencil profile would probably be fine for what you need. Ballistic advantage makes nice barrels and if you order from them they'll attach a FSB. An adjustable gas block would be entirely unnecessary. So is a muzzle device, other than a bird cage, for that matter. They turn an already soft shooting rifle in to an annoying noise maker. I like dust covers and forward assists, but I wouldn't say they're necessary. Don't swap BCGs. You could get away with using the carrier and two different bolts, but there's no reason not to spend $100 or less on a premium PSA BCG, or Aim Surplus. |
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Posted: 8/21/2017 5:07:27 PM EDT
[#4]
I'd suggest the Faxon 14-1/2" "Gunner" barrel with slim pinned and welded flash hider along with the BCM KMR handguard, I have the Alpha one, but they make one in an aluminum/magnesium blend that is even lighter. The weight of my complete rifle including the Primary Arms 2.5 compact scope is slightly under 7 pounds.
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Posted: 8/22/2017 2:27:35 AM EDT
[#5]
So far as it's the best one I've seen, I'm going with the faxon pencil. I'm guessing the CMV 4150 means chrome moly something ie chrome lined?
http://faxonfirearms.com/16-pencil-5-56-nato-mid-length-4150-qpq/ Is a gas tube a gas tube or do I need to look around a bit for that? Also, should I go with that lightwight faxon bcg? How much of a difference will it make? It's @ 250. It'll still be well within my budget. The adjustable gas block doesn't add much, if any, additional weight over a standard, so I don't see why I shouldn't get one. Especially with the low-weight bcg from faxon. |
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Posted: 8/22/2017 2:36:21 AM EDT
[#6]
14.5 BA Hanson .625 (includes gas block)
BE Meyers FH, pinned Nitride gas tube Aero No-FA upper Centurion CMR Mlok 13" Aim LW BCG |
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Posted: 8/22/2017 2:42:41 AM EDT
[#7]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
So far as it's the best one I've seen, I'm going with the faxon pencil. I'm guessing the CMV 4150 means chrome moly something ie chrome lined? http://faxonfirearms.com/16-pencil-5-56-nato-mid-length-4150-qpq/ Is a gas tube a gas tube or do I need to look around a bit for that? Also, should I go with that lightwight faxon bcg? How much of a difference will it make? It's @ 250. It'll still be well within my budget. The adjustable gas block doesn't add much, if any, additional weight over a standard, so I don't see why I shouldn't get one. Especially with the low-weight bcg from faxon. Gas tubes are pretty much the same. The only thing in my mind that can make one different is if it is black or silver... In my opinion I would just stick with Mil Spec, because I'll know it'll run. I've messed around with some specialty light weight bolt carriers, and to get them running correctly you need an adjustable gas system to tune it. I would also be looking at free floated handguards. I would get a 12-13" Rail, as it gives you plenty of room for your hands and equipment... without adding additional weight. Rifle length handguards are 12" long so you pretty much have the same length. I was looking at the ALG EMR V2 as a great option for a 12-13" rail, and it's 100-140 if you look in the right place  cough cough I have an ad for one
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Posted: 8/22/2017 3:19:24 AM EDT
[#8]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
I'm pretty sure CMV means Chrome Moly Vanadium. It has a QPQ lining, which I feel is superior to chrome lining. Gas tubes are pretty much the same. The only thing in my mind that can make one different is if it is black or silver... In my opinion I would just stick with Mil Spec, because I'll know it'll run. I've messed around with some specialty light weight bolt carriers, and to get them running correctly you need an adjustable gas system to tune it. I would also be looking at free floated handguards. I would get a 12-13" Rail, as it gives you plenty of room for your hands and equipment... without adding additional weight. Rifle length handguards are 12" long so you pretty much have the same length. I was looking at the ALG EMR V2 as a great option for a 12-13" rail, and it's 100-140 if you look in the right place cough cough I have an ad for oneQuote HistoryQuoted:
I'm pretty sure CMV means Chrome Moly Vanadium. It has a QPQ lining, which I feel is superior to chrome lining. Gas tubes are pretty much the same. The only thing in my mind that can make one different is if it is black or silver... In my opinion I would just stick with Mil Spec, because I'll know it'll run. I've messed around with some specialty light weight bolt carriers, and to get them running correctly you need an adjustable gas system to tune it. I would also be looking at free floated handguards. I would get a 12-13" Rail, as it gives you plenty of room for your hands and equipment... without adding additional weight. Rifle length handguards are 12" long so you pretty much have the same length. I was looking at the ALG EMR V2 as a great option for a 12-13" rail, and it's 100-140 if you look in the right place cough cough I have an ad for oneAnd yes I'm going with a carbine or mid free float. Was going to go with mlock because I assumed it was cheaper than picatinny; however, midway has them priced the same. Although mlock is still probably lighter Quoted:
14.5 BA Hanson .625 (includes gas block) BE Meyers FH, pinned Nitride gas tube Aero No-FA upper Centurion CMR Mlok 13" Aim LW BCG |
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Posted: 8/22/2017 3:30:27 AM EDT
[#9]
Also, clamped vs solid gas block? As I plan to apply for a sbr tax stamp for a 14" barrel, would you recommend getting the clamped gas block so switching out the barrel is easier?
Kind of thinking of getting an adjustable gas block for my match grade upper as well. |
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Posted: 8/22/2017 3:47:05 AM EDT
[#10]
Heres the two gas blocks I'm looking at
clamped http://www.brownells.com/rifle-parts/gas-system-parts/gas-blocks/ar-15-adjustable-gas-block-625-clamp-on-prod86812.aspx?cm_mmc=affiliate-_-Itwine-_-IR-_-60594&utm_content=60594&aid=227925&utm_source=ir&utm_campaign=itwine&utm_medium=affiliate&source=ir solid http://www.brownells.com/rifle-parts/gas-system-parts/gas-blocks/ar-15-adjustable-gas-block-625-solid-prod86813.aspx?cm_mmc=affiliate-_-Itwine-_-IR-_-60594&utm_content=60594&aid=227925&utm_source=ir&utm_campaign=itwine&utm_medium=affiliate&source=ir If you have another .625 recommendation for an adjustable block I'd love to hear it. |
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Posted: 8/22/2017 4:17:59 AM EDT
[#11]
The "solid" gas block you have is a set screw type.
If your planning on going to the SBR route, why not just pin and weld a 14.7" barrel with your choice of flash hider? In the end, you might save half an inch to an inch without a flash hider if you get a 14.5 You're going to save that tax stamp money which you can shove some other place. Honestly there's no big advantages or dis advantages. If done properly, the clamped and set screw should both function fine. If you want the "best" route I would go to a pinned gas block. That would take sending it in to a competent gunsmith, or mailing it into Adco Firearms. https://adcofirearms.com/ It costs 50$ to pin a gas block, and 50$ to pin and weld a muzzle device. For 100$ in service, you'll have a bomb proof AR. They also assemble uppers if you need that service tool |
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Posted: 8/22/2017 4:27:12 AM EDT
[#12]
Did a little research. Nitride seems the way to go for my bcg.
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Posted: 8/22/2017 5:02:00 AM EDT
[#13]
I'll look for a pinned adjustable .625" gas block then.
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Posted: 8/22/2017 5:18:50 AM EDT
[#14]
Looking at this one. Has excellent reviews.
http://slrrifleworks.com/index.php?route=product/product&path=57_103_168_117&product_id=447 |
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Posted: 8/22/2017 12:46:38 PM EDT
[#15]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Looking at this one. Has excellent reviews. http://slrrifleworks.com/index.php?route=product/product&path=57_103_168_117&product_id=447 For a BCG I would go with an Aim Surplus lightweight: https://www.aimsurplus.com/product.aspx?item=XAIMBCGN3LW |
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Posted: 8/22/2017 2:08:03 PM EDT
[#16]
A pleasure to be mentioned. Let us know if we can help further!
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Posted: 8/22/2017 5:16:47 PM EDT
[#17]
Needs to be reliable so the lightweight bolt is a no go. Thinking of just throwing in the standard faxon bcg with the barrel.
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Posted: 8/22/2017 5:51:09 PM EDT
[#18]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Needs to be reliable so the lightweight bolt is a no go. Thinking of just throwing in the standard faxon bcg with the barrel. |
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Posted: 8/22/2017 6:53:16 PM EDT
[#19]
First, I'm making a build with a much shorter gas system than my original buffer is intended for, so it may even be necessary to increase gas flow.
Second, I've read several articles that say an adjustable gas block almost always helps. Third I'm probably going to order a suppressor anyway which dramatically changes the operation of the gas system. So I think the adjustable gas block is a good idea. And what drawbacks are there to having an adjustable gas block anyway; the one I picked is extremely reliable and my budget definitely allows for it. |
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Posted: 8/22/2017 8:07:25 PM EDT
[#20]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
First, I'm making a build with a much shorter gas system than my original buffer is intended for, so it may even be necessary to increase gas flow. Quote HistoryQuoted:
First, I'm making a build with a much shorter gas system than my original buffer is intended for, so it may even be necessary to increase gas flow. Second, I've read several articles that say an adjustable gas block almost always helps. Third I'm probably going to order a suppressor anyway which dramatically changes the operation of the gas system. So I think the adjustable gas block is a good idea.
And what drawbacks are there to having an adjustable gas block anyway; the one I picked is extremely reliable and my budget definitely allows for it. |
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Posted: 8/22/2017 8:52:24 PM EDT
[#21]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
An adjustable gas block can't increase flow. It can only restrict it. Didn't even think that one through. Ya I guess the gas tube remains the same diameter. Only if the rifle is overgassed to begin with. Ive heard arguments that you need much less than what most run at. Fair point, but if this is the only reason then I would get the style that has 2 settings: supressed, and unsupressed. That way you aren't messing around counting a dozen detent clicks every time you take your supressor on or off. Got any suggestions? Has to be as good as or better than that SLR in terms of reliability. It adds unnecessary complexity unless you use it to tune your rifle to run a specific kind of ammo, or if you alternate between supressed and unsupressed shooting. |
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Posted: 8/22/2017 10:25:37 PM EDT
[#22]
This seems like a cool endeavor. I would like to build a USAF clone, one without the FA. A BCG without cuts seems impossible to find.
But no FA would save you a few ounces for something you might or might not ever use. Stoner argued against it, plenty of threads yea or nea, smash or pass. |
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Posted: 8/23/2017 12:59:43 AM EDT
[#23]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
First, I'm making a build with a much shorter gas system than my original buffer is intended for, so it may even be necessary to increase gas flow. Second, I've read several articles that say an adjustable gas block almost always helps. Third I'm probably going to order a suppressor anyway which dramatically changes the operation of the gas system. So I think the adjustable gas block is a good idea. And what drawbacks are there to having an adjustable gas block anyway; the one I picked is extremely reliable and my budget definitely allows for it. |
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Posted: 8/23/2017 5:12:28 AM EDT
[#24]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
This seems like a cool endeavor. I would like to build a USAF clone, one without the FA. A BCG without cuts seems impossible to find. But no FA would save you a few ounces for something you might or might not ever use. Stoner argued against it, plenty of threads yea or nea, smash or pass. |
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Posted: 8/24/2017 3:01:06 AM EDT
[#25]
Forgot the charging handle. *facepalm
Anderson Ambidextrous Extended Charging Handle $25 https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.opticsplanet.com%2Fanderson-manufacturing-ar15-ambi-charging-handle-assembly.html%3Ffref%3Dgc&h=ATOp0OaKzTT1-DMdFc7LD-qvnPAzNswYx5ih1hqv26coyk9zwD8v-N1zprzNYITOgn9MXcKfygsPlaw0bmD8QcZrR-fKSv5H-9FnrDE_44VXqlSbKwrIDed1B15QTvQEoXR61SWU |
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Posted: 8/24/2017 5:11:50 AM EDT
[#26]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Forgot the charging handle. *facepalm Anderson Ambidextrous Extended Charging Handle $25 https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.opticsplanet.com%2Fanderson-manufacturing-ar15-ambi-charging-handle-assembly.html%3Ffref%3Dgc&h=ATOp0OaKzTT1-DMdFc7LD-qvnPAzNswYx5ih1hqv26coyk9zwD8v-N1zprzNYITOgn9MXcKfygsPlaw0bmD8QcZrR-fKSv5H-9FnrDE_44VXqlSbKwrIDed1B15QTvQEoXR61SWU It depends on how you charge the rifle. I use my fingers on both sides of the charging handle with my thumb on the rear to pull it back. That way I can charge from both hands without changing much, I get better grasp of the charging handle also. Because of that, I prefer standard charging handles. However, if you use your thumb and pointer to pinch one side I would get a BCM, Radian, LWRC, or Geissele. I like the LWRC the best, but I would try to try them out if possible just like everything else it's personal preference. Aero has a pretty cheap one at 50$. Radian also has one for 60$. |
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Posted: 8/24/2017 12:46:07 PM EDT
[#27]
I have a few Strike Industries extended charging handles (~$30) and really like them, or for a little more you can step up to a BCM gunfighter (~$45). I would stay away from that Anderson that you linked.
Still need some kind of sights. You can find Aero Precision upper receivers for around $55 which would give you more money to put toward something else. |
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Posted: 8/24/2017 2:20:49 PM EDT
[#28]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
I have a few Strike Industries extended charging handles (~$30) and really like them, or for a little more you can step up to a BCM gunfighter (~$45). I would stay away from that Anderson that you linked. Still need some kind of sights. You can find Aero Precision upper receivers for around $55 which would give you more money to put toward something else. As far as sights go, I'm budgeting up to the value of a led 4x32 acog; either going with an aimpoint w magnifier, the vortex equivelant, or the acog. |
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Posted: 8/24/2017 2:23:39 PM EDT
[#29]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
I wouldn't get one of those. I've found them to get in the way. I had a similar one to that, but the shape of the left side was a little bit different. The roll pin likes to break a lot more on the extended ones. It depends on how you charge the rifle. I use my fingers on both sides of the charging handle with my thumb on the rear to pull it back. That way I can charge from both hands without changing much, I get better grasp of the charging handle also. Because of that, I prefer standard charging handles. However, if you use your thumb and pointer to pinch one side I would get a BCM, Radian, LWRC, or Geissele. I like the LWRC the best, but I would try to try them out if possible just like everything else it's personal preference. Aero has a pretty cheap one at 50$. Radian also has one for 60$. |
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Posted: 8/24/2017 3:23:09 PM EDT
[#30]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Looked, didn't see any. And if the dust cover and forward assist run me another $40 it's not worth it anyway; that RRA one is already assembled, saves me a couple of steps plus the hassle of finding another FA and DC. As far as sights go, I'm budgeting up to the value of a led 4x32 acog; either going with an aimpoint w magnifier, the vortex equivelant, or the acog. |
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Posted: 8/24/2017 7:03:27 PM EDT
[#31]
Alright, I'll go with that one. Is there some way to shim up mismatched receivers without messing with operation or field stripping?
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Posted: 8/24/2017 10:53:53 PM EDT
[#32]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Alright, I'll go with that one. Is there some way to shim up mismatched receivers without messing with operation or field stripping? |
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Posted: 8/26/2017 5:18:45 AM EDT
[#33]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
What do you mean by shim up and what do you mean by mismatched receivers? |
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Posted: 8/26/2017 5:49:30 AM EDT
[#34]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Found this reddit, think I'll go with the melanite qpq over the chrome. https://www.reddit.com/r/ar15/comments/4dpfrn/qpq_vs_chrome_lined/ And yes I'm going with a carbine or mid free float. Was going to go with mlock because I assumed it was cheaper than picatinny; however, midway has them priced the same. Although mlock is still probably lighter Could you expand on your choices please? Quote HistoryQuoted:
Quoted:
I'm pretty sure CMV means Chrome Moly Vanadium. It has a QPQ lining, which I feel is superior to chrome lining. Gas tubes are pretty much the same. The only thing in my mind that can make one different is if it is black or silver... In my opinion I would just stick with Mil Spec, because I'll know it'll run. I've messed around with some specialty light weight bolt carriers, and to get them running correctly you need an adjustable gas system to tune it. I would also be looking at free floated handguards. I would get a 12-13" Rail, as it gives you plenty of room for your hands and equipment... without adding additional weight. Rifle length handguards are 12" long so you pretty much have the same length. I was looking at the ALG EMR V2 as a great option for a 12-13" rail, and it's 100-140 if you look in the right place cough cough I have an ad for oneAnd yes I'm going with a carbine or mid free float. Was going to go with mlock because I assumed it was cheaper than picatinny; however, midway has them priced the same. Although mlock is still probably lighter Quoted:
14.5 BA Hanson .625 (includes gas block) BE Meyers FH, pinned Nitride gas tube Aero No-FA upper Centurion CMR Mlok 13" Aim LW BCG |
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Posted: 8/26/2017 5:50:51 AM EDT
[#35]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Also, clamped vs solid gas block? As I plan to apply for a sbr tax stamp for a 14" barrel, would you recommend getting the clamped gas block so switching out the barrel is easier? Kind of thinking of getting an adjustable gas block for my match grade upper as well. |
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Posted: 8/30/2017 10:56:56 AM EDT
[#36]
So I've narrowed the charging handle down to two choices. Just not real sure about the rattler as it looks wierd.
POF 7075 rattler ambidextrous handle $53 https://pof-usa.com/shop/upgrades-accessories/charging-handles/223-rattler-ambidextrous-charging-handle/ Radian Weapons 7075 Raptor $63 https://www.cheaperthandirt.com/product/radian-weapons-raptor-lt-ar-15-ambidextrous-charging-handle-556-nato-7075-t6-aluminum-over-molded-with-high-strength-fiber-glass-reinforced-polymer-black-latch-matte-black-817093021160.do?sortby=ourPicksAscend&page=2&refType=&from=fn About the shimming-I'm probably gonna grab an accu-wedge. http://www.brownells.com/rifle-parts/receiver-parts/receiver-hardware/accu-wedges/ar-15-m16-accu-wedge-prod16662.aspx |
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Posted: 9/8/2017 2:01:01 PM EDT
[#37]
Purchasing everything but the charging handle today; I'll make my decision on that as I build the upper.
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Posted: 9/8/2017 4:30:08 PM EDT
[#38]
Completely changed my mind on half this shit due to stock and sales ending/starting
Faxon 16" pencil w/gas tube $191 Aero nitrade m16 c158 bcg $100 (291) Aero enhanced m4e1 receiver with gen 2 12" mlok handguard $200 (491) Vortex g6a4 flash hider $60 (551) SLR 6 adjustable gas block $102 (653) Raptor ambi charging handle $64 (717) |
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Posted: 9/11/2017 4:59:48 PM EDT
[#39]
For a good do all light weight upper here is what I would suggest and this without special light weight parts.
M4 slick side upper ei no forward assist or shell deflector, deflector is nice to have though so at a min no FA Faxon 14.5" Gunner or even lighter Pencile barre and pin on a good FH. BCM extended is great and Weapontech Punisher is an awesome FH/comp combo that will get you to the legal 16". BCG of your choice. I like AIM nitride and PSA NiB for the cost to quality and ease of cleaning. Rail of your liking. 9-13" will save some weight depending on gas length. BCM KMR, MI, Geissele, UTG Pro are all light rails. Edit for crapy spelling |
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Posted: 9/12/2017 7:26:17 PM EDT
[#40]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
For a good do all light weight upper here is what I would suggest and this without special light weight parts. M4 slick side upper ei no forward assist or shell deflector, deflector is nice to have though so at a min no FA Faxon 14.5" Gunner or even lighter Pencile barreland pin on a good FH. BCM extended is great and Weapontech Punisher is an awesome FH/comp combo that will get you to the legal 16". BCG of your choice. I like AIM nitride and PSA NiB for the cost to quality and easy of cleaning. Rail of your liking. 9-13" will save some weight depending on gas length. BCM KMR, MI, Geissele, UTG Pro are all light rails. 2nd I'm prioritizing reliability>durability>weight>accuracy as this will be a weapon I put my life behind. So FA and dust cover are a necessity, as is a full weight m16 bolt. |
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