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Posted: 1/7/2005 10:44:07 AM EDT
| Hi All, first let me say I love reading this forum, it has alot of info within. Here is my predicament. Badly in need of an AR-15, I went to the store last night to poke. I have wanted a carbine ever since I first saw a CAR-15. So they did have a BM with an 11.5 " barrel, I had been out to find an M-4 with a 14.5 or 16 inch barrel. They also had "in the back" a colt 6601 National Match. It has a 20" heavy barrel on it and a full stock. Both are A-2's. I liked both, although the Colt felt a little heavier (obviously) and also costs more. BAsically I left there after putting a deposit on the Colt. Now, like I said I always wanted a carbine, but when I asked him about a barrel that short he said there would be a dramatic difference in accuracy at 100 yards plus. SInce I really want the carbine, I am hoping you guys can help me with the dilemma. Just how much difference can I expect between 11.5 - 20 inches and at what ranges? Except for accuracy I am alot more comfortable with the carbine, points easy, light weight, etc. Also I admit I just think they are very cool. So I think I will probably pass on the Colt, unless I will sacrifice that much accuracy to the short barrel. Also, If I did get the Colt, could I buy a bushmaster M-4 barrel Assembly for it? Would BM barrel fit the colt? Or is it a bad idea to mix manufacturers? I appreciate the help! |
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There will be no real difference in accuracy with the shorter barrel. Most (if any) of the difference will be due to the shorter sight radius which just makes it more difficult to be more precise (but if you're up to the task so is the carbine). Use of optics negates the advantages of a longer sight radius. I'd say go with the carbine. You can always swap out the 11" barrel for a 16" LW or M4 later on easily enough if you want the extra muzzle velocity. You implied the rifle was for informal target shooting up to 100y - under those coditions MV is pretty irrelevant. If it's for defensive use I'd quickly look into upgrading the carbine to a 14.5" M4+ Phantom or a 16" Lightweight when you can afford it. Yes Bushmaster parts will fit the Colt (some would call this sacrilidge though). However complete Busy uppers may require a special adapter pin as some Colts use the larger/non standard front takedown screw. |
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