Quote History Quoted:
Good explanation^
I didn't take any of that into consideration.
I was just basing my opinion on what it is your actually spending a whole lot of money on( the part itself).
I'm seriously wondering why a RDIAS is in the ballpark of double the cost of an RLL?
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There are some clear pros to the RDIAS over the RLL (in certain use cases) and other than may be more perceived internet lore vs. reality.
- The RDIAS is more of a factory style arrangement and that provides some perceived advantage to many folks.
- The RDIAS has always been considered more "durable". However if you properly set up a lower and use a link protector, its been my experience that links are pretty durable. I have two of them, one of which has seen untold thousands of rounds of 9MM without showing any adverse affect. Long term, who knows as the population sets of both RDIASs and RLL is so small. Both can easily be damaged if you dont set them up properly. Links may be more easily or quickly damaged if not set up properly.
- RDIASs are probably more easily repaired if damaged.
- RDIAS can be used with 22lr kits.
- RDIASs can be used with Geissele style triggers.
- RDIAS uses off the shelf full auto bolts (vs. harder to find SP1 spec semi bolts)
- RLL require specific modified FCG parts to obtain a safe-semi-auto fire control arrangement. (Default is Safe-Auto)
- Technically the RLL cant be set up for burst or a 4-way kit.
All of these new modern / dedicated style lowers didnt really exist 10 years ago. So most folks set up a DIAS in a mil-spec style lower and then never moved it. (just swapped uppers).
In my mind if you want to set up a RDIAS in a mil-spec lower, run a Geissele trigger, and just swap uppers around (plus dont mind the $20K uplift in cost) than the RDIAS has a clear mechanical advantage.
Whether that advantage is worth $35K vs. $15K I am not sure. If you like to tinker and foray into the world of custom lowers than the RLL in my estimation holds an advantage.
Personally if somebody gave me $35K to spend on an M16 variant(s) I would rather have a nice Oly PAWS registered receiver for $20K and a RLL for $15K vs. one DIAS for $35K. It gives you two M16s, one in a true factory arrangement you can set up as an M4 with a Geissele trigger and a 22LR kit, etc. and RLL to move around to all your more non-standard hosts to satisfy your inner tinkerer.
I have two registered receivers so am plenty covered when it comes to the mil-spec M16. So for me having two RLLs that I can swap around into different custom lowers easily is a nice advantage. I can take a link out of a 9MM lower and drop it into my Shrike lower or into a host set up for an FM9, etc.
RDIAS have a lot of Pros but moving them around from host to host in my opinion isnt one of them.