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3/10/2012 5:14:36 AM EDT
Have a 24" bull barreled AR, its a little unmanageable for anything but bench shooting. I've been thinking about making some changes, either whole new upper assm or sell/swap/mod my current barrel. I'm thinking ultimately I want 18" with rifle length gas system. I've seen a couple inexpensive 20" uppers for sale that I could pick up and shorten to 18". Not seeing many options for sale that fit my goal that wont break the bank. Starting to think the best option keep my current setup, shorten it so its an 18" bull and have it fluted to help cut some more weight.

Originally picked up the 24 thinking it would get the most velocity out of the .223, what I'm having a hard time with now is working out exactly how much velocity loss may occur going to the 18". I haven't found data comparing 18" to 24" with the same length gas system, I have seen comparison for barrel lengths but the comparisons do not have consistent gas system lengths making the comparison cloudy.
3/10/2012 5:19:20 AM EDT
[#1]
Send your current barrel to Adco and have Steve cut your barrel down to 18".
3/10/2012 5:07:34 PM EDT
[#2]
Looking into it, anyone with machining capabilities cut down a barrel themselves and have recommendations. I have access to full machine shop, my only concern is redoing the target crown without screwing it up.
3/10/2012 5:21:45 PM EDT
[#3]
Getting a mildly priced 20" barrel and having it cut down has its ups and down. +1 foe cost, but  -1 for the rifling.  Make sure the twist rate you want co-incides for a 18" in barrel for your intentions for the rifle (both in terms of velocity and accuracy).  sometimes its best just to eat it money wise and get a properly made barrel with the appropriate rifling.
3/10/2012 5:26:05 PM EDT
[#4]
I would keep your current upper and get a 2nd upper with the 18 barrel.  It is just 2 pins to swap between them.  I have an 18 inche BCM barrel that shoots well.  

MAHA
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