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Posted: 2/23/2003 3:55:20 PM EDT
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Hi, I just wanted to know if it is possible to safely convert an a2 handle configurated upper, to a flat-top. BTW It is a Oly Arms 16" upper. I just wanted to know wether this has been done before, or if this is looked upon as "why would some idiot want to take a saw blase to his upper" type of thing. Thanks for any replies/suggestions. Fidel |
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Are you talking about physically modifying the same upper (sawing)??? I have an A2 that I am going to convert to an M4 flattop, but was going to swap the A2 upper for a flat top upper (and build a post ban from the orignal upper). It sounds like you are talking about actually modifying the same upper, correct???? If so, why? |
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Yes, I am talkingabout sawing off the handle and somehow mounting a rail on instead. Here's my problem: I have a tasco scope on a weaver style mount that screws onto the a2 handle. It seems that everytime I mount it, it's off a little bit. It is also quite unconfortable to have to raise my head up off the stock to be able to see through the scope. So I thought permeneately modifying my upper would be an option. |
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Possible? Yes. I've seen such conversions (pics only, though) and I think some were factory-produced before flattop uppers were common. Would I try it? No. Once the handle is cut off, there's no going back if you change your mind, and there may be difficulties that arise along the way that may make you wish you could. IE getting the mount attached and secure to the upper, for I beleive there is very little clearance over the charging handle if you drill&tap, or getting it perfectly square if you only epoxy. Would I buy a different upper and swap the barrel? Definitely Yes. 1. swapping uppers is relatively easy compared to what you suggest, and 2. they're cheap. A flattop upper or even a LowPro can be picked up on sale at various places for under $100, which you might have to spend anyhow depending on how the contemplated conversion goes. Are you a machining genious? I don't know, but I know I'm not, especially in that this is much more than a "hacksaw and acraglass" project, and the consequences of a screw-up puts your rifle out of any sight whatsoever until you replace the upper. (or mount the scope forward on the handguard rails as suggested above. If you consider that route, how about a drop-down rail and a different style of scope mounted in front of the carry handle? A la http://www.cdnninvestments.com/artaccarhans.html This lets you keep your cheek down on the stock.) Do I sympathize with the too-high scope dilemna? Absolutely. Possible? Probably... Recommended? Not by me. If you do go on to do it, good luck , and post the results. |
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Thanks for all your responses. Otto: The more I think about your post I realize that buying a new upper would be the best route to go for. I have a few questions though: 1) If I buy a complete upper(with forward-assist and the door over the extraction port) do I need anything else besides charging handle, bolt carrier and internals, and the barrel which I assume I can take from my Oly. 2) How hard is it to remove the barrel off the Oly. 3) Will the bolt carrier and charging handle from the Oly fit into the new upper. Thx Fidel |
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1. Mainly you'll need the tools. I recommend you read this before you buy anything: http://www.ar15.com/content/books/TM9-1005-319-23.pdf All of your old parts should transfer over. 2. Not too difficult by following the Tech Manual and using the right tools. It is probably the most involved of the common assembly issues, and most "kits" come with this step completed. Some companies will do the swap if you buy their upper and send in your original assembly. I don't know if you have a warrantee from Oly, but disassembling their upper would probably void it as much as hacking the handle off, if that is an issue for you. 3. If they DON'T fit, you have a problem somewhere. BTW, you can strip your old parts and buy a stripped upper and re-install the cover and forward assist too, if you're mechanically inclined. The LoPro upper I mentioned requires neither. If you aren't comfortable changing the cover and forward assist, I wouldn't attempt to swap the barrel from one upper to anouther by yourself, if I were you. |
| I would say that it could be done. I had a local gunsmith cut my carry handle and mount a weaver rail in front of the rear sight so that I can co witness a dot sight with the irons. I found this to be a lot cheaper than getting a flat top upper, tools to switch it out, and a BUIS. He charged $80 for the materials and labor. I can email you a pic if you are interseted and I can put you in touch with him if you want a flat top rail on your A2. |
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Switching upper is relatively easy. Forming a rail would be hard. To change the upper you need a new upper ($95), a torque wrench ($20), a armorer's wrench ($30) and an armorer's action block ($39). And a vice. Maybe check around first and see if there is someone on the board who lives near you who has the tools. If you have to buy the tools, I bet you could sell them for a decent price afterwords to the next guy who wants to flatten his A2. Of course you will be able to sell your A2 upper too. |
| brownells catalog number 55 on page 287 shows a mark brown cqb scope mount that converts carry handle upper to flat top, comes with instructions on how to mill off carry handle drill and tap upper and mount this conversion piece. has built in a2 sight at back. looks very good. |
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I am in the same delima with a A2 that I want to switch to an A3. I would just buy a new upper for $100 and the tools (@$90.00). For less than 200.00 you have what you want and it is correct. Then you can sell the A2 upper for @80.00 and recoupe some of the cost of the new upper. Or keep it for your next project rifle. The tools will always come in handy! If not, sell them. You can also, see if you can borrow your local gunsmiths (or have them install) or a fiends tools (save $90.00). To have all the work done to convert the existing upper and the loss of value of the A2 does not sound like the best way to go. It will probably end up being cheaper in the long run to do it the right way first. Just my .02 . Out, John |
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Don't do it. Buy a new flattop upper and swap out parts. When you sell your old A2 upper, you should come close to breaking even. I have a cut down A1 upper with Weaver mounts screwed on the top I bought in the mid 80's. Even though it was well done, it looks like hatchetwork gunsmithing. Resale value will never match the real item. Screws come loose, and this thing has shifted on me before. |
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