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Posted: 6/21/2016 9:12:17 PM EDT
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I'm sure this has been discussed ad nauseam, but I wasn't able to turn up anything on google or using the search feature, so here goes:
I'm wanting to build an semi-modern, semi-old-school rifle with a 20" barrel, a free float handguard, a fixed carry handle upper, and a Vltor A5 system w/ collapsible buttstock. I really like the simplicity and durability of the A1 upper, but I'm pretty sure I want a brass deflector. I'm cross-eye dominant, so I shoot rifles left handed, and I'd prefer not to get hit in the face with brass every time I pull the trigger (especially since I'm planning on dropping a pretty penny on this build). I should have bought a C7 upper from Fulton Armory when they had them in stock, but I didn't, and now they're pretty damn difficult to find. So, my questions for you guys are: 1) Is A2 upper really that much less "rugged" than the A1? I mean, would windage/elevation get accidentally "adjusted" if my rifle was riding around in the back of my truck? 2) Should I even be worrying? Would I even get hit in the face with brass when shooting an A1 upper with a Vltor A5 system? 3) Has anyone ever modified a 13" BCM KMR to work with a 20" barrel w/ FSB? If so, who did it for you, and how much did it cost? I LOVE my KMR 13, but it's just a smidge too long to use with a rifle length gas system. 4) Is there a source (other than gunbroker and the EE) for a newly manufactured C7 upper? Thanks in advance. Steve |
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OK, so it seems you understand that you can get A1's with a brass deflector, since you mentioned a C7 upper. I would check FultonArmory.com. I thought DPMS might make them too.
Also, typically, it's not the durability of the A2 that gets questioned. It's the fact that you can bump the sights on accident. But AFAIK, an A2 sight is a robust system and I've never heard of them being busted up. Some people use a grease pencil or some kind of witness mark to mark their zeros, in case they do get twisted on accident under hard use. I think the A2 has a lot of upsides. But I'm not against "field sights" either. I think they're both a good idea. Sometimes barrels can be finnicky with POI and ammo and having a rear sight that is easy to adjust is a good thing. But really, an A1 sighted gun has adjustments too, it just takes a bit more to do it. Obviously. |
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All the years I've handled A2s never had an issue with sights becoming knocked off to included jumping the rifle exposed (not in a M1950 weapons case) out of airplanes, combat diving/swimming, skiing, patrolling either by foot or vehicle. When I did service rifle competitions I did mark my zero with a paint marker so I could always return to my zero after several adjustments on the range. Never fired more then 300m in the field anyway ie two way rifle ranges to make adjustments (M203 different story). I would just get a A2 unless you really want a A1 upper. The limiting factor of any iron sight is the ability to identify your target as a threat passed 300m. Thats where a flat top with magnified optic is desired. For a civilian shooting in a defensive situation it is going to be extremely hard to show in court anything past 25m typical in which case a A1/A2 is usable.
CD |
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1) Is A2 upper really that much less "rugged" than the A1? No
2) Should I even be worrying? No Would I even get hit in the face with brass when shooting an A1 upper with a Vltor A5 system? Probably but really no biggie and lots of remedies from tuning BCG to making / buying shell deflector. Decent tuned up BCG probably not going to happen like talking about it. Going to throw brass out 1-2PM. I'm a lefty w 30K plus through A-1 irons down range and probably been hit with fired brass less than 10 times in my life. Think 1 actually left a red mark for a day or two. Generally they bounce off something like port door opening or hand/ arm and deflect backwards even with A-2 and deflector. Been hit using an A-2 at least a couple times and probably have fired 10K minimum. I did make a deflector around 50 yrs old for my skicksides but really not necessary. Did it more to protect the upper finish and keep brass in a neat pile shooting in tall grass. FA will usually take the hit on M-16A1and kick away from body parts hence the used pieces are usually missing finish or nicked in this area. Slickside brass will generally carry rearward once deflected off upper but seldom hits face. Kinda depends on how much estrogen is in the water one drinks as to whether it's a big deal or not. Can hear the wife calling me a puss or probably much worse over a piece of hot brass in the face if I even said anything. 3) NA 4)Windham Weaponry did a recent run. Might also try Bushmaster. |
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If the op is still around, this is what you want
I just used one for a build. Drilled out the one aperture to the same size as an a2 ghost ring. I have a colt Manual that calls this an "a2 with field sights". I like and prefere the rugged simplicity of a1 style sights. Do a 50 yard zero and never look back. |
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