Minimum barrel length for a battle rifle?

[ARCHIVED THREAD] - Minimum barrel length for a battle rifle?

Posted: 8/22/2004 5:29:47 PM EDT

I wanna get me a battle rifle before AWB part II, which I think is almost inevitable in some form. I know I want an AR-10 and a DSA FAL, but I'm not entirely sure if I should go carbine or rifle. The AR I could switch uppers on, but changing a FAL would require a gunsmith, or over $100 in tools since the upper is registered.

I live in the burbs (pretty obvious if you check my nick), so a 600 yard shot is pretty impossible. I already have an AR-15 carbine, and I'll be assembling a second. If you need any more information, just ask.

Thoughts?

Posted: 8/22/2004 5:32:02 PM EDT

[#1]

Short as possible.

Posted: 8/22/2004 5:34:21 PM EDT

[#2]

Wouldn't that depend on if you're in an urban or non-urban setting?

I better go pop some popcorn. This might get good.

Posted: 8/22/2004 7:43:08 PM EDT

[#3]

No idea.

I submit it depends on if it's a 7.62x54 or a 7.62x39. The two rounds probably have different optimal lengths.

(do old WWII weapons like the Lee Enfield count as a battle rifle, or is it just the semi-autos?)

NTM

Posted: 8/22/2004 7:44:43 PM EDT

[#4]

Quoted:
No idea.

I submit it depends on if it's a 7.62x54 or a 7.62x39.

NTM

Didnt know they chambered AR10s and FALs in those....

18-20" is about right for me when it comes to battle rifles.

Posted: 8/22/2004 7:50:08 PM EDT

[#5]

I like 18" barrels on FALs and I plan to build an 18" AR10 similar in configuration to the SPR.

Posted: 8/22/2004 8:00:06 PM EDT

[#6]

With zombies I'd definitely take a different round than for most brands of space aliens.

Posted: 8/22/2004 8:50:28 PM EDT

[#7]

Quoted:
No idea.

I submit it depends on if it's a 7.62x54 or a 7.62x39. The two rounds probably have different optimal lengths.

(do old WWII weapons like the Lee Enfield count as a battle rifle, or is it just the semi-autos?)

NTM

I consider 7.62x39mm to be an assault rifle cartridge.

I don't think it really matters what kind of battle rifle we're talking about, "optimal" barrel length doesn't really depend on the action.

Hmm, I asked what barrel length would be best for a battle rifle, then listed short barrel rifle and carbine barrel lengths. Luckily, I don't think anyone else noticed.

16" barrels are in the lead with 42.86%. I'm leaning toward 18" myself, but I base that on no real experience. A rifle should be short enough in a SHTF situation that it doesn't get left behind, but if I choose a .308 over one of my AR-15s, it would be for the extra power and accuracy of a heavier rifle.

Posted: 8/23/2004 7:17:28 AM EDT

[#8]

Doh.

x51. My error.

NTM

Posted: 8/23/2004 7:18:16 AM EDT

[#9]

I voted 16", but that is the min. I prefer 20".

Posted: 8/23/2004 7:23:29 AM EDT

[#10]

I would have to say 8.31 in on a .308 I really like the flash from a HK-51!

Posted: 8/23/2004 7:25:47 AM EDT

[#11]

18" minimum

Posted: 8/23/2004 7:29:35 AM EDT

[#12]

16" would work, but I would prefer 20".......

Posted: 8/23/2004 7:32:15 AM EDT

[#13]

Your use of the term "rifle" defines the debate, IMO.
In other words, we can eliminate "carbines".
OTOH, "assault rifles" are not "battle rifles" either.
So, WHAT ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT?

Posted: 8/23/2004 7:35:55 AM EDT

[#14]

I thought a gun with a 16" barrel was considered a carbine??

[ARCHIVED THREAD] - Minimum barrel length for a battle rifle?

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