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AR15.COM
AR Sponsor
3/18/2007 4:31:03 PM EDT
Hello all,
 Let me start by thanking all of you here for being a wonderful resource. I've gone from knowing absolutely nothing about AR's to successfully building a complete lower receiver (Superior Arms LR w/RRA M4 stock and MIAD grip) in just under 2 weeks! Now, I'm on to finding a complete upper. Since I'm not really looking to build the upper from scratch as I have no vise, AR-specific tools, etc. at this point, I'm looking to buy a custom setup upper from a place like Del-Ton.

Here are my spec's/intended uses: I'd like a basic "M4gery" type w/chrome lined barrel for plinking and SHTF use, mostly using iron sights or an EOTECH/Aimpoint type device, but quite surely no scope (that'll be for another day and another upper). I'd like to stick with a 16" barrel. So, my questions are about the options on these pages:

www.del-ton.com/AR_15_Barrel_Assemblies_Custom_16_Barrel_Assemblies_s/181.htm

1) 1x7 or 1x9 twist?
2) DTI (Del-Ton Inc.) or DPMS barrel make any difference?
3) Is the chrome or TiN finish on the bolt/carrier worth anything?
4) Does the "Standard A2 front sight/gas block" on the above link work with both the flip-up rear sights for the A4 rail and the detachable carrying handle in terms of height?
5) Do I need a flat-top upper to use an EOTech/Aimpoint, or can I use that on an A2 upper?
6) If I do need a A4 upper, do I need either the "M4 feed ramp cuts" or the "T-marks"?
7) What's the "pig tail gas tube" worth?
8) Anyone have anything wise to say about midlength 16" uppers vs. the shorter handguards?


Thanks again for any help you're willing to offer! I've got money burning holes in my pockets and I need to buy something else!! -Andy J
3/18/2007 6:18:32 PM EDT
[#1]

Quoted:
Hello all,
 Let me start by thanking all of you here for being a wonderful resource. I've gone from knowing absolutely nothing about AR's to successfully building a complete lower receiver (Superior Arms LR w/RRA M4 stock and MIAD grip) in just under 2 weeks! Now, I'm on to finding a complete upper. Since I'm not really looking to build the upper from scratch as I have no vise, AR-specific tools, etc. at this point, I'm looking to buy a custom setup upper from a place like Del-Ton.

Here are my spec's/intended uses: I'd like a basic "M4gery" type w/chrome lined barrel for plinking and SHTF use, mostly using iron sights or an EOTECH/Aimpoint type device, but quite surely no scope (that'll be for another day and another upper). I'd like to stick with a 16" barrel. So, my questions are about the options on these pages:

www.del-ton.com/AR_15_Barrel_Assemblies_Custom_16_Barrel_Assemblies_s/181.htm

1) 1x7 or 1x9 twist?Depends on the bullet weight.  1:7 will handle the heavier 75 and 77 grain.
2) DTI (Del-Ton Inc.) or DPMS barrel make any difference? Probably not, unless you go 1:7 then DPMS.
3) Is the chrome or TiN finish on the bolt/carrier worth anything?Spend the money on other things.  Most will agree that TiN or Chromed carriers are not needed.
4) Does the "Standard A2 front sight/gas block" on the above link work with both the flip-up rear sights for the A4 rail and the detachable carrying handle in terms of height?There is a slight difference in height between the standard A2 fsb and the "F" marked fsb for A4/M4.  Sometimes the A2 will work.  Sometimes you may need to get a taller sight post for correct elevation.
5) Do I need a flat-top upper to use an EOTech/Aimpoint, or can I use that on an A2 upper?  I haven't mounted optics on an A2, but I imagine that it would be a little to high for comfort and proper shooting postition, and would definitely not co-witness with the irons.
6) If I do need a A4 upper, do I need either the "M4 feed ramp cuts" or the "T-marks"? Feed ramps is a greatly debated subject.  The semi-auto AR's have proven to be reliable with or without them.  It's more a matter of personal choice.  T-marks are another personal preference. They are kind of a give or take thing for me...nothing I would consider a deal maker or breaker.
7) What's the "pig tail gas tube" worth?
8) Anyone have anything wise to say about midlength 16" uppers vs. the shorter handguards?
 I whole heartedly recommend the midlength gas system on 16" barrels.  It operates at lower pressure, reducing wear and tear and gives you a longer sight radius.

Thanks again for any help you're willing to offer! I've got money burning holes in my pockets and I need to buy something else!!
-Andy J
3/19/2007 3:12:21 PM EDT
[#2]
Thanks for the advice, Rkangel777! I really appreciate it!
-Andy
AR Sponsor