This is my first post here at the AR-15.com forum, but I've visited the site several times before.
I am doing research as to what features, accessories, etc. I want in my first AR-type rifle. I've read the AR-15.com "Ammo Oracle" FAQ, as well as other "newbie" articles, but I still have a few questions that need addressing.
I plan to build my rifle, ordering the lower separately, and then a complete parts kit, or semi-complete - leaving me to obtain parts like the barrel, stocks, etc. separately. I felt that I should wait a bit so that the AWB would go away before I built the rifle, so I could get the features I wanted, possibly at a lower price.
My questions are:
I've decided on the 5.56 chamber (I've just heard about the Wylde chamber. It looks like a good idea, however, there is only one company making barrels with this chamber that I know of, and there's no long term or safety info yet. I'll wait.). I haven't yet decided on barrel twist, though. I just can't decide what I need! I want to be able to fire heavier/longer bullets (the ones that will fit in a mag, though), but still fire milsurp/milspec ammo accurately, including the XM193 & similar. This rifle will be used for range work/training, and it will be my primary lightweight SHTF rifle. I also plan to use it for home defence if necessary (suburban housing development in Florida). It's difficult to decide between 1-9", 1-8", and 1-7" twist rates. Any opinions or suggestions?
As I plan to use the rifle for SHTF/TEOTWAKI and home defence, I would like to put an adjustable stock & a flash hider/muzzle brake on it. Am I able to do so now that the AWB is over? What are the best versions of either to look into? I plan to be able to use it with body armour (when I manage to afford some), and a gas mask if necessary.
As I was trained on the M16A2 with its better sighting controls, that's what I had planned on getting on my rifle. However, there is just such a plethora of upper receiver & barrel length versions today! I don't know if I should get a 16" barrel, 20" barrel, standard A2 upper, flat-top upper, short or long handguards, etc. I want a rifle that's easy to manuver in close quarters, yet will have acceptable accuracy and bullet velocity at longer ranges (200-300m). Suggestions?
A few things to keep in mind about me: I do NOT have lots of money for this project - that's why I'm building it myself. I do have extensive experience with gunsmithing, but it's mostly pistols. However, the AR is the easiest modern rifle to build, so I'm not worried - heck, if I had a mill, I'd make my own receiver, too! Anyway, as I'm not swimming in cash, several rifles/upper receiver combos is currently out. I may be able to buy another upper or another rifle in the future, but I have many other things to do with that money first. I do plan to buy a CETME/G3 in 7.62 NATO within the next few weeks, so long-ish ranges are covered for me. I want the AR for ammo usefulness, spare parts availability, magazine availability, low cost ammo/mags, and I just plain like the looks of the rifle! I'd prefer a different gas system, though...
I thank you for your opinions and suggestions. If you need more info from me, please ask. I'll try to respond as soon as I can.