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1/7/2007 5:39:34 PM EDT
Waiting for my tax refund.  Will probably get a complete 20" govt profile flattop upper from CMMG with no fancy gear, just a removable carry handle for now.  This is my first AR.  Already have a Stag Lower w/A2 stock.

I will be getting a free float tube.  No ugly forearms with rails to hang junk off of so don't even go there.  I'm keeping things simple.

I think I want a carbon fiber FF tube.

I'm not looking at the PRI tubes.  I like to eat and pay rent.  Looking at Clark and Hyperform.

Those of you that have carbon fiber FF tubes, what brand do you have and how do you like them?  

Is there a problem with heat buildup inside the tube during sustained fire?  

Can they be D&T at to accept a small rail if I decide to do that at a later date?

Just how difficult is carbon fiber to drill.  Can someone do it at home?

Why did you choose carbon fiber over aluminum?  

I like the versatility of the aluminum tubes and the ability to add rails easily, but the extra weight in a rifle length AR is a big turn off for me.  
I've been lugging around big cannons for years.  I want to keep the weight down on this rifle.

Comments?

Thanks

ZM





1/7/2007 6:58:23 PM EDT
[#1]
I've got a Briley carbon tube. It has held up great and looks awesome. I like the way it feels. It's only drawback is tthe lack of cooling holes. It does get hot. Fortunately, it's on my "precision" rifle so I rarely just do mag dumps.
1/7/2007 8:32:28 PM EDT
[#2]
I also have the Briley tube on a rifle.  Only taken it out a couple of times but I can see that heat could become an issue.  

One thing to be aware of is that it's a one piece design so installation might be an issue.  You have to use a strap wrench which may limit the amount of torque you can apply to get the alignment for the gas tube.
1/7/2007 8:44:56 PM EDT
[#3]

Quoted:
I also have the Briley tube on a rifle.  Only taken it out a couple of times but I can see that heat could become an issue.  

One thing to be aware of is that it's a one piece design so installation might be an issue.  You have to use a strap wrench which may limit the amount of torque you can apply to get the alignment for the gas tube.


I am aware of the installation issues. Both Clark and Hyperform will install the tube for a price.  Might do it myself.  Cross that bridge when I come to it.

Ever thought about drilling some holes in the tube to help airflow?  Maybe a couple inches ahead of upper receiver?  Maybe someone that's tried to drill carbon fiber will answer that one.

ZM
1/7/2007 9:06:52 PM EDT
[#4]
yes you can drill holes and cut it....Just use a fine tooth saw if cutting....Briley was onsale at Brileys website for 69.00  and down from 99.00
1/8/2007 4:52:44 AM EDT
[#5]
My guess is that the carbon will fray when drilled...

As for installation, the Briley is a snap. Just get a decent strap wrench and cinch the tube up and align the next gas tube hole.
1/8/2007 8:05:52 AM EDT
[#6]
Before you go carbon fiber, take a look at the JP free float tube. 2" od, does not get hot, and a snap to put rails where you want them.
1/8/2007 12:15:09 PM EDT
[#7]

Quoted:
Before you go carbon fiber, take a look at the JP free float tube. 2" od, does not get hot, and a snap to put rails where you want them.


How heavy is it?

ZM
1/9/2007 5:24:58 PM EDT
[#8]
15 oz for the rifle tube.
JP Tube
Will try to post a pic tomorrow.
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