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Posted: 12/9/2002 6:43:48 PM EDT
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Has anyone converted their AR-15 to a .22 cal.? I am considering this just for the sake of being able to buy Cheap ammo. What I don't understand is that the kit uses the existing barrel. Is there any problems with the .22 cal damaging the barrel that is designed for the .223?? I realize the conversion is only accurate up to 100 yards, but overall is this a wise purchase??? |
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"Wise"? Depends on what you want to accomplish. Personally, if I want to shoot a .22LR then I get one of my .22LR rifles. But everyone is different. No, shooting .22LR will in no way harm your barrel. You can buy cheap .223 at gunshows in case you've not yet discovered that. I get 1000rds for about $140-150. Obviously more than .22LR but cheaper than Wally World prices. My .o2 |
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The .22 ammo is suposed to run dirty, and there have been complaints about fouling the gas tube. Personally I haven't had any problems, BUT I do get a HUGE cloud of smoke when I switch back to 5.56 ammo. I think the 5.56 ammo will blow out all the .22 fouling so either 1) have a dedicated upper for the .22 OR 2)make sure you shoot a few hundred rounds or 5.56 [:D] after you shoot the .22 rounds. Seriously, unloading a 30 round Ciener mag, rapid fire into a target, obliterating the center ring is a blast. |
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.22 won't damage the .223 barrel, but if you shoot enough of it you might plug up the gas port. Many people suggest shooting some .223s between each brick of .22s to blow all of the crap out. .22LR is a couple thousandths undersize for the .223 bore and accuracy suffers. I haven't shot mine at 100 yards yet, but based on results at 50 I'd expect groups 4-8" or bigger vs the 2" or less of most .223 ammo. Several people build .22LR uppers with barrels having the proper diameter and twist rate. DPMS has one for about $400 complete. KKF and Kuehl have uppers from about $425-$550 + $140 for the kit. Accuracy Speaks & Compass Lake also make .22 uppers. You might want to browse through the [url=http://www.ar15.com/forums/forum.html?b=3&f=15]Rimfire & Pistol Caliber[/url] forum. |
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