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WA, USA
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Posted: 3/3/2023 11:53:02 PM EDT
[Last Edit: 556Cliff]
[#1]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Blain: The "reason" had to do with greed. Something about Colt needing proprietary parts to patent and retain exclusive ownership over the guns it was producing ala "Smallarmssolutions". Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Blain: Originally Posted By 556Cliff: Edit: The shorter height carry handles came about so the commercial manufacturers could continue using A2 FSBs on their barrel assemblies. This actually makes more sense to me vs. the way Colt decided to do things with raising the height of the FSB and making the detachable carry handle to match the FSB's height increase... There might be a good reason that Colt went that route, but I am unclear of the actual reason?  The "reason" had to do with greed. Something about Colt needing proprietary parts to patent and retain exclusive ownership over the guns it was producing ala "Smallarmssolutions". Not doubting that at all since I've never seen a really good technical explanation for why the "F" height FSB was brought about. I've heard many times through the years that if you have a carbine sight radius barrel with an A2 FSB that a .040 taller front sight post is required even when paired with fixed carry handle uppers. It was believed that Colt was trying to address this issue with the "F" height FSB. I have no first hand experience with that configuration though, so I have no idea. I know that both of my Colt 6720 barrels (which have A2 FSBs) came with Colt's taller 9mm front sight post from the factory. Only one of them required the extra height of the taller FSP to zero at 50 yards, but these are both on flat top uppers with Magpul Pro rear sights, which are mil-spec height sights as far as I know. Now if I took both of those 6720 barrels and replaced the taller 9mm FSPs with standard FSPs and paired them with fixed carry handle uppers might I run into issues with zeroing the FSPs for elevation? The world may never know.
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WA, USA
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Posted: 3/4/2023 12:21:03 AM EDT
[Last Edit: 556Cliff]
[#2]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Mr223556: About to pull the trigger on an A2 upper from thunderguns.com. My question is if using a 20" barrel, what front sight base would you use? My understanding is F marked is designed for flattop receivers. 20" barrels that are being paired with fixed carry handle uppers get A2 front sight bases. Any length barrel being paired with a flat top upper should get an "F" height FSB, mainly to maintain compatibility with the majority of rear back up sights that are mil-spec height. However, if you happened into a setup with an A2 FSB that has your front sight post coming out too far for zeroing elevation, you can always get this .040 taller front sight post. > https://shop.windhamweaponry.com/product/9349056-mod/ |
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CA, USA
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Posted: 3/4/2023 11:25:29 AM EDT
[#3]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By 556Cliff: 20" barrels that are being paired with fixed carry handle uppers get A2 front sight bases. Any length barrel being paired with a flat top upper should get an "F" height FSB, mainly to maintain compatibility with the majority of rear back up sights that are mil-spec height. However, if you happened into a setup with an A2 FSB that has your front sight post coming out too far for zeroing elevation, you can always get this .040 taller front sight post. > https://shop.windhamweaponry.com/product/9349056-mod/ Awesome information thank you. Just backordered the linked kit from windham! |
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Posted: 3/4/2023 7:29:12 PM EDT
[#4]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Blain: Where is one able to obtain the A2 rear sight components needed to build this these days? In case you are interested, I received three of these from Amherst today. They appear to be NOS Govt issue from 1989 (if I’m reading packaging correctly).  Attached File |
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Posted: 3/4/2023 7:41:45 PM EDT
[#5]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By hwrdln: Ohio Ordnance Works has complete Capco A2 upper assemblies. I bought two and there're better than described. Here is the link: < https://www.oowinc.com/exclusives/semi-auto/capco-m16a2-upper-gray/ >  Military Surplus A2 Upper by Solo__, on Flickr |
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Posted: 3/4/2023 8:43:26 PM EDT
[#6]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By eyesky31: In case you are interested, I received three of these from Amherst today. They appear to be NOS Govt issue from 1989 (if I’m reading packaging correctly).https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/574635/39AEE625-1966-47E5-9471-94F3A9D66BC9_jpe-2734009.JPG Is there a dimple above the windage wheel? |
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NC, USA
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Posted: 3/5/2023 12:34:25 PM EDT
[#7]
Oh yeah
   No forge markings but nice uniform finish and the feed ramps look good and clean. |
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MN, USA
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Posted: 3/5/2023 3:08:34 PM EDT
[#8]
I placed an order for 4. The price is right, so why not. I've been looking for 3 years or so now. A 20 inch rifle will be first. Then probably a dissy and 14.5 p/w. Not sure about the last one. Either a Gordy carbine, 11.5, or 10.5. They won't be built right away, but at least I'll have them.
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Posted: 3/5/2023 6:49:53 PM EDT
[#9]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By JustDaniel: Oh yeah No forge markings but nice uniform finish and the feed ramps look good and clean. The FedEx van came by my house today too. Really wasn't expecting this to ship so quick.  Attached File |
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CA, USA
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Posted: 3/6/2023 2:27:10 AM EDT
[#10]
I wonder who is making these uppers?! Very interested to know the source.
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TX, USA
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Posted: 3/6/2023 2:30:21 PM EDT
[#11]
My uppers will be in tomorrow and I can start building. I'll start with the "Blood Diamond Carbine". Trying to avoid paying multiple shipping charges and get as many items as possible from one vendor and non F-marked A2 front sight with .750 base is kind of hard to find. I'll be getting a lot of small stuff from JSE and they have the F-marked ones in stock.
If I get an F-marked assembly, is it just milling off .040" from the shelf to turn it into a "non-F-marked"? Will all the threaded holes, spring holes, etc still be the proper depth for a non-F one? |
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Posted: 3/6/2023 3:28:32 PM EDT
[Last Edit: curlew]
[#12]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Forgemonkey1066: If I get an F-marked assembly, is it just milling off .040" from the shelf to turn it into a "non-F-marked"? Will all the threaded holes, spring holes, etc still be the proper depth for a non-F one? |
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CA, USA
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Posted: 3/7/2023 1:53:03 PM EDT
[#13]
Upper should be here next few days, paid $19.99 for shipping and it was sent "USPS - One Balance Priority Mail". On a side note, I was able to use a coupon code "HERO" for few bucks off, came out to $113.99 Shipped.
Either way, can't wait for it. Spent years looking for A2/A1 receiver on and off. Now I am just torn between a M16A2 build or as mentioned, a "Blood Diamond Carbine" build. Leaning towards the M16A2 since it's what I had back at MCRD. |
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MN, USA
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Posted: 3/9/2023 2:14:46 AM EDT
[#14]
Is there any way to check these uppers to see if they are actually forged, even if they aren't forge marked? It says that they're forged on the website, but I'm curious if there's any other identifying marks or clues.
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CA, USA
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Posted: 3/10/2023 2:38:59 AM EDT
[#15]
That’s what I’ve been wondering, mine should be delivered tomorrow.
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NC, USA
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Posted: 3/11/2023 9:39:10 PM EDT
[Last Edit: JustDaniel]
[#16]
Another A2 dissipator in the stable
 
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SOM
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Posted: 3/12/2023 1:41:25 AM EDT
[#17]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Valiant1: Is there any way to check these uppers to see if they are actually forged, even if they aren't forge marked? It says that they're forged on the website, but I'm curious if there's any other identifying marks or clues. They have flash from the forging process. A cast part wouldn't have that forging flash. |
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MN, USA
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Posted: 3/12/2023 3:11:39 AM EDT
[#18]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Blain: They have flash from the forging process. A cast part wouldn't have that forging flash. Thank you. I got mine in the other day. |
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Posted: 3/12/2023 9:21:56 AM EDT
[#19]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Valiant1: Is there any way to check these uppers to see if they are actually forged, even if they aren't forge marked? It says that they're forged on the website, but I'm curious if there's any other identifying marks or clues. The forge flash seam inside the carry handle. A cast part has so much overage that all remnants of a cast process would be removed once close to a final shape. |
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MI, USA
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Posted: 3/12/2023 10:19:40 PM EDT
[#20]
What 20” barrel is everyone using?
Thunder Tactical shows available for back order so I’m thinking about diving in. Sounds like they all have M4 ramps. Seems the only real choice would be a 20” made for an A4 (ramps in extension and F marked FSB)… I have a complete Aero 20” A4 upper so I have a barrel that I could use. My concerns would only be for elevation zero, having the F marked FSB.. |
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WA, USA
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Posted: 3/12/2023 10:58:58 PM EDT
[#21]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By jdixon22: What 20” barrel is everyone using? Thunder Tactical shows available for back order so I’m thinking about diving in. Sounds like they all have M4 ramps. Seems the only real choice would be a 20” made for an A4 (ramps in extension and F marked FSB)… I have a complete Aero 20” A4 upper so I have a barrel that I could use. My concerns would only be for elevation zero, having the F marked FSB.. Currently available on backorder. https://shop.windhamweaponry.com/product/kit-ba20gvt-7/ |
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MO, USA
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Posted: 3/13/2023 12:24:42 AM EDT
[Last Edit: ckopp636]
[#22]
I got my receiver from thunder tactical and all seems well with it, so I now have another on back order from them. I installed an upper parts kit with rear sight into it from fulton armory.
I now also have a 20” 1/7 barrel on back order from windham weaponry. they told me ealier this week that they just began production on them, so they are roughly 4-8 weeks out |
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MO, USA
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Posted: 3/13/2023 9:54:48 AM EDT
[#23]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Valiant1: Is there any way to check these uppers to see if they are actually forged, even if they aren't forge marked? It says that they're forged on the website, but I'm curious if there's any other identifying marks or clues. Thunder Tactical replied to my email and says the forgings are from brass and aluminum. They are currently about 1 - 1 1/2 weeks out on backorders for them |
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MO, USA
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Posted: 3/13/2023 12:23:50 PM EDT
[#24]
Are they having them produced, or do they have a finite supply that's gone once they sell out
Looks to me that there is enough of a demand for A2 uppers that an occasional production run would be profitable. RCA |
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WI, USA
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Posted: 3/13/2023 4:10:40 PM EDT
[Last Edit: OWCH]
[#25]
Zero issues going together. Two thumbs up.
JP     Side note: I'll catch shit for this, but its friggin windy as hell and cold here in Wisconsin. So rather than dress and run to the barn for grease to assemble the rear sight. The HORROR, I used cold bacon grease on the stove from breakfast. :) |
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MI, USA
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Posted: 3/13/2023 6:14:27 PM EDT
[Last Edit: jdixon22]
[#26]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By jdixon22: What 20” barrel is everyone using? Thunder Tactical shows available for back order so I’m thinking about diving in. Sounds like they all have M4 ramps. Seems the only real choice would be a 20” made for an A4 (ramps in extension and F marked FSB)… I have a complete Aero 20” A4 upper so I have a barrel that I could use. My concerns would only be for elevation zero, having the F marked FSB.. Shows back in stock now (3/13/23 6p EST). I ordered one. If it comes with M4 ramps, I’ll use my Aero 20” F marked barrel. I intend on the RIZB set up for zero.. |
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CA, USA
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Posted: 3/17/2023 1:06:47 AM EDT
[#27]
So if I use a F-marked FSB with an A2 upper, all I need is a taller front sight post?
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WA, USA
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Posted: 3/17/2023 1:22:41 AM EDT
[Last Edit: 556Cliff]
[#28]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Mr223556: So if I use a F-marked FSB with an A2 upper, all I need is a taller front sight post? If you use an "F" height FSB with an A2 upper you'd probably end up needing to lower the front sight post down into the FSB instead of needing to raise it. You should only need the taller front sight posts with the A2 FSB when used on flat top uppers with mil-spec height rear sights. And the carbine sight radius might need the taller front sight post in an A2 FSB regardless of the upper used. |
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Posted: 3/18/2023 8:26:49 PM EDT
[#29]
Didn't take long for these to hit the EE at twice the cost.
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Posted: 3/18/2023 9:35:59 PM EDT
[#30]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By TGWLDR: Didn't take long for these to hit the EE at twice the cost. And some for even more! I was just messaging my brother saying the same thing. |
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Posted: 3/22/2023 1:37:11 PM EDT
[#31]
thunder tactical has A2 uppers in stock again
snagged one with a FA and port door kit now off to get a rear sight assembly |
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SC, USA
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Posted: 3/22/2023 6:45:09 PM EDT
[#32]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By carbineone1964: Yeah some are caught in some fantasy world that A2 USGI Upper Receivers are still 50.00..And gas and milk is 1.50 a gallon.. Not sure we will ever see $50 again but maybe. Shortly after this post, I got a raw A2 from TT for $74.99 (before they realized they could charge more and people was willing to gladly pay more). I did fill up my tank yesterday for $2.98 a gallon. Looks like TT has 39 black ones left in stock as of this post. |
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CA, USA
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Posted: 3/23/2023 7:11:34 PM EDT
[#33]
FYI I ordered an A2 sight assembly from Rock River Arms along with dust cover parts and foward assist. Hopefully get to put together this weekend.
All is left is a barrel and lower. |
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WI, USA
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Posted: 3/24/2023 11:42:46 PM EDT
[#34]
The 3 I got.
Light weight 16" at bottom. Dissipator in middle. Traditional a2 20" on top.  JP |
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OR, USA
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Posted: 3/28/2023 11:04:34 PM EDT
[Last Edit: 1shotkyle]
[#35]
Got a couple thunder tactical uppers and some a2 sights coming from m&a .
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CA, USA
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Posted: 3/29/2023 1:30:13 AM EDT
[#36]
Waiting on another upper i ordered form TT. This is going to be a Blood Diamond carbine I think.
I just need to make room for all of these builds now… Sourcing some of these parts is going to be tricky as well. So far the A2 sight is great from RRA. Just need standard height FSB and barrels and specific lowers. |
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FL, USA
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Posted: 3/29/2023 9:13:05 AM EDT
[#37]
Delton has barrels with non f marked front site
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USA
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Posted: 3/29/2023 9:28:16 PM EDT
[#38]
 Ordered Saturday evening and received them today! Thunder tactical is legit! I can’t wait to build these out! |
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TX, USA
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Posted: 3/30/2023 11:08:45 AM EDT
[#39]
Modified my F-marked front sight by milling off 0.040”. Pretty simple on the milling machine. Touched up the parkerizing by heating up a shot glass full of park fluid and letting the sight sit in it upside down for 10 min to park the shelf surface. Came out great.
Got all but rear sight for my Delta CAR build. Got a load of parts arriving today for the standard govt rifle build. |
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Posted: 3/30/2023 2:10:32 PM EDT
[#40]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Forgemonkey1066: Modified my F-marked front sight by milling off 0.040”. Pretty simple on the milling machine. Touched up the parkerizing by heating up a shot glass full of park fluid and letting the sight sit in it upside down for 10 min to park the shelf surface. Came out great. Got all but rear sight for my Delta CAR build. Got a load of parts arriving today for the standard govt rifle build. Can you post pics? of the front sight... |
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Posted: 3/30/2023 7:59:06 PM EDT
[#41]
Just a heads up Thunder Tactical has A2 uppers back in stock.
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OR, USA
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Posted: 3/30/2023 9:44:24 PM EDT
[#42]
Got my 2 thunder tactical uppers already waiting for m&a sights to show tomorrow
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TX, USA
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Posted: 3/31/2023 1:08:34 AM EDT
[#43]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By seand1111: Can you post pics? of the front sight... Looks like I can't post pics direct here. I can do a quick youtube video and link to it. |
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Posted: 3/31/2023 10:20:54 AM EDT
[#44]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Forgemonkey1066: Looks like I can't post pics direct here. I can do a quick youtube video and link to it. gonna send you a message. |
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CA, USA
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Posted: 4/3/2023 12:34:42 AM EDT
[#45]
Anyone else start their builds yet? Pics would be cool!
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USA
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Posted: 4/4/2023 12:38:25 AM EDT
[#46]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Mr223556: Anyone else start their builds yet? Pics would be cool! The rest of my parts will be here tomorrow. I’ll post a pic when it’s all finished :) |
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OK, USA
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Posted: 4/4/2023 4:06:32 AM EDT
[#47]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By CaptShiess: https://i.imgur.com/kgEmOb4.jpg Ordered Saturday evening and received them today! Thunder tactical is legit! I can’t wait to build these out! It's hard to tell with them in the wrap, but am I seeing forge markings on yours? I know the last few batches were blank. |
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UT, USA
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Posted: 4/4/2023 4:03:36 PM EDT
[#48]
Is the rear sight kit from TT good to go?...anything wrong with it? Someone mentioned a kit from RRA above...link to that?
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Posted: 4/4/2023 7:38:41 PM EDT
[#49]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By RWA007: Is the rear sight kit from TT good to go?...anything wrong with it? Someone mentioned a kit from RRA above...link to that? https://www.rockriverarms.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=category.display&category_ID=1334 https://www.amherstmilitarydepot.com/Rear-Sight-Assembly-A2-AR-15-p/ar15-096.htm |
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Posted: 4/4/2023 8:13:53 PM EDT
[#50]
Quote HistoryQuote HistoryOriginally Posted By TGWLDR: Originally Posted By RWA007: Is the rear sight kit from TT good to go?...anything wrong with it? Someone mentioned a kit from RRA above...link to that? https://www.rockriverarms.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=category.display&category_ID=1334 https://www.amherstmilitarydepot.com/Rear-Sight-Assembly-A2-AR-15-p/ar15-096.htm The sight kit I got from Amherst was still in package, old stock from 1989. Very nice kit, glad I went that route. |
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