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Posted: 3/5/2005 9:40:38 AM EDT
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HI, I am planning to build my own upper and want to use an A3 type flat top upper with a 16" heavy barrel. I want to use a free float tube handguard on it. Will I need to install a round handguard cap on the front sight or gas block to cover the opening in the front of the free float tube? How are these caps attached to the gas block? I can't find a picture that shows it. Is it a screw? Also, will the 1913 gas blocks allow you to install a standard front sling swivel? If not, how can I install a front sling swivel if I'm using a plain round knurled free float tube? Finally, does anyone sell an upper kit. I'm talking just the A3 upper with the ejection port cover and forward assist assembly? I know DPMS offers such a kit for ~$125 with an A2 upper. I want to save a couple bucks assembling it myself, but mainly want the experience of doing so.... I wonder if DPMS could throw a kit together for me... OH! Also... It seems most of the makers sell barrels with the front sight installed. Will anyone sell you a barrel without the front sight, or even better swap you a 1913 gas block or flip-down front sight instead? I want to build a shorty rifle with a red dot sight on a flat top, and leave myself the option of installing a carrying handle and using either a removable front sight or flip-down unit as I wish... With that in mind, any advice guys? Thanks, Ray |
| I got my upper from ADCO. They have them assembled with the FA and ejection port cover or stripped I beleive. They also have a number of barrels with or without sights, most from White Oak. I'd give them a big +1 for service and goods and I think most people here would too. |
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I'd skip the handguard cap. It does nothing for a FF setup and will likey hold in more heat, which could make shooting uncomfortable. Also, what is the point of installing a FF tube, then installing a swing swivel on the gas block? By doing that you have essentially negated the benefit of FF, as your sling will apply pressure to your barrel, changing your POI. You could install a bipod stud on the side of the FF tube and install a sling swivel on it. This way, at least you haven't negated your FF benefit. |
Yes it is, other than the handguard cap and the barrel nut! had I plan to build a 20" A2 configuration rifle in the future. THAT rifle I will probably shoot with a loop sling... That brings up a good question... In the good old USMC our M16's had slings with quick release hooks that made setting up a loop sling a snap. Does anyone sell these slings? All I ever see are standard web slings... |
I have a sling like you want, it is not the black nylon but the older Olive Drab type with a quick release buckle and a fast snap sling for the butt stock. Semper Fi Top |
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Ray I can offer a photo of my new build and show how I finished it, you have no need for a 1913 gas block on a m4 type rifle IMHO. I had the barrel made custom and chrome lined for the carbine and it is heavy under the barrel, no gas block since I added one that would work properly. 
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