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Posted: 4/28/2006 12:19:41 PM EDT
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How come everybody on here likes A3's so much? Don't you loose some of the ruggedness when the carry handle (which the sights are on) is held on by screws? If this was used a SHTF gun or just a hard use gun wouldn't it be better to have an A2 so you don't have to worry about having the carry handle slam against something and break off or knock off the zero? I'm saving up for an Ar so I'm trying to decide what to get. I'm pretty set on gettin the standard trap door stock so I could put a cleaning kit in it. Thanks. |
| The detachable carry handles are pretty strong, so I don't think most people have to worry about knocking one off. The major advantage to a flat top upper is that it leaves your options open, so you can easily upgrade to an Aimpoint, EOTech, ACOG, or some other sight or scope. If you only plan on using irons, go ahead and get an A1 or A2. As far as the stock, I really don't see a need to carry a cleaning kit in it. If you're going to be gone long enough to need to clean your rifle, you'll probably be carrying a pack. |
You are not alone! I like the A2 myself, not that flat tops are bad but I would never take the carry handle off my gun(with the exception of a varmint/SPR rifle). So the option is pointless and a waste of money for me. What if you want to put a M68 on your gun? I would just put it on top of the carry handle. But you don't get a good cheek weld! It's a red dot man you don't really need one. As far as "ruggedness" you may lose a little but I doubt it. But to me the thought of a Ar-15 with out carry handle is unorthodox. John44 ETA:22 to go! 
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Get the flattop and be done with it. My journey began thinking I would get the A2 and be a traditionalist. I would ALWAYS use irons. It took almost a year for me to fully regret the A2 and swap out for a flattop. A quality detachable carry handle on an A4 will serve you well. If you hit the CH hard enough to knock it off you probably have bigger issues to deal with. |
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If I'm hitting the below hard enough to destroy it, I would have ruined an A2 upper as well. While its possible that things can get damaged, or loosen, basic PM takes care of that. The benefits of the flattop outweigh any liability. If you are seriously concerned about damage, and want a minimalist approach, you want an A1 upper. 
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Thanks. I didn't know how strong the detachable carry handles an sights are. I think I will get a Bushmaster A3 for starters and add a red dot and BUIS rear later. For those of you that have the detachable handles, have you found Bushmasters claim that they will still be zeroes after taking them off an put back on true? Strazz, I guess your probably right about having a pack to put the cleaning stuff in. I gotta admit, the telescoping stock is more "tacticool". I'll probably be getting the AR from a gunshow for the lower price, so I guess it'll probably end up being more of what I can find. I know I won't be able to wait for the next gunshow if they don't have the exact configuration I want. Thanks. |
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