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Posted: 5/16/2017 2:49:18 PM EDT
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I see a lot of people talking about a good balance, and wondering what everyone thinks is a balanced weapon.
Some may want a bit of extra weight in the front, some in the rear of the rifle. So how do you determine what is a good balance? I was looking at one of my new builds and sat the magwell on my palm, and it did't tip either direction. I'm sure this isn't what is meant by balanced, but it did make me ponder the question. |
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To me balanced is when the rifle is shouldered the weight of the rifle is evenly distributed. Not front heavy, nor heavy in the ass, just sits right. Effortless.
What I have noticed is that rifles that feel this way usually have a central point of balance near the front of the receiver where the barrel comes in. |
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Quoted:
To me balanced is when the rifle is shouldered the weight of the rifle is evenly distributed. Not front heavy, nor heavy in the ass, just sits right. Effortless. What I have noticed is that rifles that feel this way usually have a central point of balance near the front of the receiver where the barrel comes in. Balance is somewhat subjective, but generally front of the magwell/receiver is a good general criteria. A hulk like Dom Raso might have a different idea of "balance" though, vs a chicken-armed person like me. |
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I to like a rear bias vs muzzle heavy. with the gun being balanced neutrally or slightly to the rear I can shoot the weapon single handed a lot easier and for me that is important as I have little ones and may need to carry or hold a hand to guide them. another scenario would be if you were to lose mobility of your support hand (fall down and break it, get shot in it, ect...) it would take less effort to muscle the weapon around.
next time your at the range give it a try grab a spare loaded magazine and a roll of masking tape. then tape the mag on the handguard and try to shoot the gun one handed both strong side and weak. then try it again with the mag taped to the butt stock. I think you'll find it's a pretty dramatic difference and the strain it puts on your wrist/forearm is very noticeable. now even with a rear bias I don't think I could hit a man sized target beyond 25yds but 25yds is better than nothing. yes a handgun may be the better option but I like having options. |
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Quoted:
The only time I see people reference "balance" is when they try to justify their heavy rifle and/or parts. Very few worry about balance on a lighter weight gun... It's just light everywhere. The difference is that total weight makes it easier to transport - balance makes it easier to wield/patrol with/etc. |
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Quoted:
Individual preference. I personally prefer a stock heavy rifle and absolutely despise a muzzle heavy one. Some people prefer the exact opposite. A "properly balanced" rifle is completely dependent upon what feels right to you. I too aim for balance, but sometimes the function and use cases trump that outcome |
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