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AR15.COM
1/26/2016 10:33:29 PM EDT
Alright, I have 0 complete ARs right now. I have 1 SBR lower needing a top half and saved up some money.

Will not be suppressed
Will be irons for a while (DD 1.5 rear)
Will likely stay my only AR
Will use standard plastic handguards
Ammo selection is 100% up to me

I'm having trouble deciding between an 11.5" and a 14.5" middy. I put a Kino in there just because.
1/27/2016 12:31:29 AM EDT
[#1]
12.5" Kino.
I'm partial to 14.5s, but since it's an SBR lower, take advantage.
I'd also say grab some of the new BCM plastic hand guards when they come out and give a report
1/27/2016 12:39:13 AM EDT
[#2]
11.5" uppers are pretty sweet. If it's your only upper, don't get a brake or comp -- stick to flash hider that doesn't ring or push the muzzle down, e.g. Silencerco Trifecta, KAC QDC, etc.

I like shooting my 11.5" uppers more than any other configuration due to weight and handiness mostly (especially once there's a can on the end).
1/27/2016 10:01:08 AM EDT
[#3]
I have a 10.5 (non BCM) and a BCM 12.5 kino with the kmr rail.  I like the kino better since I am 6'3" and have ape like long arms.  if you are a tall guy I would recommend a kino.  if you are short then get the 11.5.  Either way you can't go wrong with BCm.
1/27/2016 10:17:14 AM EDT
[#4]
I prefer my 11.5" BCM KMR Upper
1/27/2016 11:27:01 AM EDT
[#5]
Quote History
Quoted:
11.5" uppers are pretty sweet. If it's your only upper, don't get a brake or comp -- stick to flash hider that doesn't ring or push the muzzle down, e.g. Silencerco Trifecta, KAC QDC, etc.

I like shooting my 11.5" uppers more than any other configuration due to weight and handiness mostly (especially once there's a can on the end).
View Quote


I had a 51T mount on the 11.5" upper I used to have and the ring drove me nuts. Mine was loud enough that I couldn't tell if I hit a steel target by sound, it had the exact same tone and pitch.

5' 11" so carbine handguards don't bother me.

Posted Via AR15.Com Mobile
1/27/2016 3:23:25 PM EDT
[#6]
I guess I'm somewhat alone in this -- I suggest getting the 14.5" mid length first and a 11.5" upper receiver later (if you decide you want a second one later).

Mid length means lower chamber pressures, making it easier on the extractor and increasing the lifespan of all the major rifle components. It also makes for a smoother shooting carbine. 14.5" means the overall length isn't too much but still has more velocity than the SBR. I have a BCM BFH 14.5" ELW KMR-13A upper receiver with a pinned SureFire SFMB556. It provides a lot of space for mounting my night vision equipment while still leaving space for comfortable handling. The thing shoots flat and still handles well when suppressed.

If you get a 14.5" upper receiver with a pinned muzzle device and buy a second lower, you have a rifle that can be taken to any of the non-communist states legally on a short notice without filing a Form 20.

The 11.5" is nice and handy, but shoots rougher and gets really concussive with brakes or some compensators. It's nice especially if you care about overall length when you want a suppressor later.

I really like SBRs, as I have two AR SBRs, two SCAR SBRs, and an AK SBR, but I still find the 14.5" mid length lightweight a very good balance of benefits between length, weight and shootability. Whenever I leave the house, it's the first thing I grab.