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Posted: 6/5/2008 1:06:23 PM EDT
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I am new to the AR and I am in the planning stages for either buying one or building one. I am looking for a 16". What are the advantages/disadvantages of the short M4 length gas system vs. the longer mid-length gas system? What is the purpose of the M4 feed ramps and are they necessary? Does the light-weight barrel cut much weight as compared to the heavy barrel? I have looked at the 16" kits from Del-Ton. As near as I can tell it looks like the 16" rifle barrel is the same as the M4 barrel except for the grenade launcher cutouts. Is this correct? What are some opinions of the Del-Ton kits? Are the reliable and accurate? Do they qualify for a SHTF weapon? I am looking to stay in the $600 - $700 range which is why I was looking at the Del-Ton kits. |
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Ok, I will answer these (or not) line by line... Mid-lengths are reputed to offer more balanced system timing, and thus be smoother shooting units. I will leave this one at that, as I am not terribly knowledgeable about middies. M4 feed ramps are not strictly necessary for SA fire. Just make SURE that if your upper receiver forging has them that your barrel extension has M4 feed ramps cuts to match. Lightweights cut a LOT of weight. I jsut bought a LW and it's my new favorite rifle! Regular 16" bbls are normally HBAR or LW profile. M4's are essentially LW profile under the handguards and heavy profile out front (with the grenade launcher cutout). Del-Ton is awesome. Buy with confidence. Great people and great products. $700 should get you into a very nice DTI (Del-Ton) and would get you close to a Stag or RRA M4gery. |
| I just built a mid-length and I love it. The way it was explained to me was ( and this could be wrong) a mid-length gas system has a slower rate of fire than a carbine gas system thus there is less shock to the bolt and carrier. Anyway everyone who has shot my middie is now talking about building one for themselves. |
One other thing I would recommend is chrome lining, it is one of those things that for $35 or so you'll be glad you did, whether that is 1 week or 2 years down the road. |
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