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Posted: 4/17/2011 8:46:14 PM EDT
| I have several CQB rifles and a few left over uppers laying around from previous builds. I am going to build a long-range AR15 upper (100-400 meters) out of one of them. Any suggestions on what to look for/sources for a nice barrel? |
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If that is your definition of long range I would look for an 18" barrel. Stainless is usually the most accurate, but CM is also GTG if its not lined. A Wylde chamber is fairly desireable for accuracys sake. It will shoot .223 or 5.56 safely and was designed as a match chambering.
What does your budget look like? |
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I'm an entry guy so anything over 100 meters is "long range" to me. If I wanted really long range I'd grab our 338 Lapua. I think 100-400 meters is pretty "long" for a 5.56.
Budget? I'd like to get the upper built for under 500. All I'm really missing is the barrel and handguard. I'm using an old CMMG complete upper assembly as the base building block. |
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What kind of accuracy are you looing for?
I did a build last year with the Rainier 18.5" Ultramatch. It can consistly shoot 1" or better at 100 yards with quality ammo so I think it would be good for 300 yards. At $365 it might be pushing your $500 budget a bit but you won't be disappointed with the quality. |
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My end goal is to use it exclusively for sniper courses at the local 3-gun competitions. Being able to drive tacks is not real important as they are timed events and a long and light 223 is much more competitive than a traditional sniper rifle. The most difficult shot is typically a set of clays at 300 meters, so that is the requirement. Being able to hit clays or LaRues at ranges of 100-300 meters consistently.
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Well if you want to save a little cash, I just bought a DPMS Mark 12 barrel that was really decent for the $174 shipped price. The damn thing shot nearly MOA with crappy PMC ammo. That would leave enough money for just about any tube and front sight of choice. I have read a few not so hot reviews on this barrel. I would assume they could be hit or miss for that price, but that's what you get with any barrel really.
Here is a mini review I did on the sight in if you want to look. It got LOADS off interest! I shot it since with equally as satisfying results. |
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I just built an upper using a model 1 16" hbar cm. Got out and shot 3/8" 3-shot groups consistently at a hundred yards using a nikon m-223 2-8x and american eagle XM193 ammo. When I have three touching holes at 100 yds, I call that excellent out of a $150 barrel. It is very possible I got lucky and got an excellent barrel out of what should be average. I only have 60 rnds through that barrel and have not had a chance to shoot at any further distances.
I had a goal to build my upper for 500 or less and those plans were shot when I realized I forgot a scope... |
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