View Full Version : Aero Precision 308 OEM Review
Let me start by saying this review was written over the course of a few weeks so where something can be seen as good with my first initial impression, it can be later be viewed as troublesome in the range report. E.G. Tight bolt.
Aero Precision 308 OEM Review.
First here are the specs that brownells lists so you do not have to look them up. The specs seem to be good especially for a gun that's under $1000.
Link to Brownells
http://www.brownells.com/rifle-parts/receiver-parts/receivers/lower-receivers/308-ar-18-oem-rifle-prod83359.aspx?avs|Manufacturer_1=AERO+PRECISION
• 308 AR Aero Precision Upper and Lower Receiver
• Rifle Length Gas & Barrel System with Low profile gas block
• 18” 308 Winchester, 1:10 Twist Barrel
• Barrel is machined from 4150 Chrome Moly Vanadium steel, with a tapered profile, then treated with a QPQ corrosion-resistant finish.
• 5/8-24 barrel thread pitch includes an installed A2 flash hider
• 308 Bolt/Carrier Group features 8620 steel carrier with phosphate finish & chrome lining, and has a properly-staked Gas Key
• Bolt machined from 9310 steel – High Pressure Tested & Magnetic Particle Inspected 308 AR Aero Precision Lower Receiver
• Accepts DPMS 308 components & magazines (PMAG compatible)
• Flared mag well & upper tension screw
• Standard 308 AR Lower Parts Kit
• Mil-spec AR-15/M14 Buffer Kit
• Forged from 7075 T6 Aluminum
• Matte black hard anodized finish
• DPMS short buffer
Initial Impressions
The parts are nicely machined and the finish is top notch. This appears to be a quality finished firearm that has attention to detail. I am liking it out of the box. The upper and lower fit nicely and the color matches well. The barrel has a nice taper that lighten it just a little but has a nice heavy contour which looks to produce minimal POI shift with the suppressor. The bolt fits tight inside the carrier and the bold catch/release is a snug fit. The threading looks concentric to the bore. but I have no way to measure it, I can only go by looks. The charging handle has a tight pull at first then it loosens up once the lugs unlock, the BCG slides freely inside the upper.
The OEM design is basically a user build platform which it comes bone stock without all the add ons which most people end up replacing items on their AR, so the OEM offers a base to build off of without wasting money by adding the parts the end user doesn't need. I am a fan of this concept because it keeps from adding to the spare parts bin and my garage from accumulating junk. Basically the user has to add a stock, forearm/rail, and sights at minimum. So far I am impressed and this looks to be a quality gun.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/C5258332-B8E6-41F3-8BCB-84CD0335DEFF.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/C5258332-B8E6-41F3-8BCB-84CD0335DEFF.jpg.html)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/DEEA826A-CCCC-4B9A-B4B3-F0F822D3E3D5.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/DEEA826A-CCCC-4B9A-B4B3-F0F822D3E3D5.jpg.html)
The Build.
When I started disassembling the gun to add the parts, I noticed most of the parts seemed to be hand tighten only. This led me to disassemble most of the gun and tighten everything to proper torque specs. The barrel nut was barely tight which I replaced with a Fortis Anti-rotation barrel nut for the Fortis Switch Rail (DPMS high rail). Others have suggested that Aero Precision does not tighten nor crank down the nuts and bolt because they know the user will be having to disassemble the rifle to add their own parts.
The low profile gas block was properly aligned with the barrel gas port but the barrel was not notched for the set screws. I used the jig and notched the barrel on the minimal side to retain the setscrews for the gas block. Blue locktite was applied and it was reassembled. While I had the gas block off, I measure the gas port with a drill bit. I had a .080" drill bit and a .090" drill bit. The .080" drill bit was very loose and the .090" barely would not fit so I am taking a guess that the gas port is around .087"
The barrel is not dimpled for the gas block.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/Ryans%20Iphone%202-2016%201237.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/Ryans%20Iphone%202-2016%201237.jpg.html)
Center punched the hole.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/Ryans%20Iphone%202-2016%201238.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/Ryans%20Iphone%202-2016%201238.jpg.html)
One good this is the gas block was properly lined from the factory with the gas port. The jig verified this and the barrel was dimpled
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/70B5D550-6A66-4FD6-A9EC-B6F7A98E5FCC.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/70B5D550-6A66-4FD6-A9EC-B6F7A98E5FCC.jpg.html)
The A2 flash hider was removed and an SilcecerCo flash hider was installed with Rocksett for my 762 Specwar suppressor. The suppressor aligned well with the bore and I did not have any baffle strikes while firing the gun.
The magazine release looks to be a standard AR-15 button and the magazine catch also looks to be a standard AR-15 design. The AR-10 is wider so the screw only catches with about two turns and there is a large gap inside the button where the screw should be flush with the button. To fix this issue I used a Battle Arms Development Enhanced magazine catch button. It fit nicely and is a quality design.
With me being left handle the BAD-ASS is an automatic install on all my AR's.
Notice the screw is barely threaded into the magazine release button
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/03277515-54A8-428A-804C-A3DC3AE71840.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/03277515-54A8-428A-804C-A3DC3AE71840.jpg.html)
Even with the mag release button screwed flush with the side of the lower there is still a gap from the screw not being flush with the mag release
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/Ryans20Iphone202-2016201246.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/Ryans20Iphone202-2016201246.jpg.html)
BAD enhanced magazine release installed. This does a nice job of hiding the gap where the mag catch screw doesn't thread all the way in the back of the mag release button.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/Ryans20Iphone202-2016201247.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/Ryans20Iphone202-2016201247.jpg.html)
The AP factory trigger is on the lighter side for a MIL-SPEC trigger and has a smooth clean break. This is comparable to a ALG trigger. Very nice for a factory trigger. I was having accuracy issues with this firearm so I replaced the trigger temporary with a Giessele SD-E trigger to be absolute sure I was getting a clean break. This did not help with the grouping.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/404378F0-ED41-4B9A-8366-E79463102BD8.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/404378F0-ED41-4B9A-8366-E79463102BD8.jpg.html)
The castle nut was staked in one notch but the staking was what I could call the bare minimum. I replaced the receiver plate with a IWC QD plate and staked the castle nut in two notches.
Factory staking
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/Ryans20Iphone202-2016201243.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/Ryans20Iphone202-2016201243.jpg.html)
The BCG had a nice finish and the gas rings had a nice fit. The bolt is on the tight side and will not slide easily into the carrier. It is so tight you just about have to use a rubber mallet to put the bolt back in the carrier. The extractor spring had a dual spring and two (2) O-rings.
Nice finish but notice the small gap where the mag catch fits inside the lower
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/Ryans20Iphone202-2016201249.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/Ryans20Iphone202-2016201249.jpg.html)
Dual spring and two o rings
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/524BF41C-0B48-47FA-A0CE-B3EB7FD5335E.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/524BF41C-0B48-47FA-A0CE-B3EB7FD5335E.jpg.html)
The charging handle is just the plain style charging handle.
The Aero Precision uses Allen screws instead of the standard roll pins for the Forward assist and Bolt Catch. I was on the edge about this design initially but I now like the idea of it because of the ease of replacing parts. More on this later.
Thankfully the Allen screw made replacing the bolt catch and forward assist easy
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/4A393FA2-4B63-4997-A0FD-3D3685A9B8F5.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/4A393FA2-4B63-4997-A0FD-3D3685A9B8F5.jpg.html)
The Foregrip that the AP 308 comes with is the standard A-2 style grip. I replaced it with a Magpul grip and when replacing the grip, you can easier adjust the tension screw that eliminates the play or slop between the upper and lower. This screw was about to fall out when I removed the foregrip. It was installed with maybe a half turn. I tightened it on the minimal side for a firm but not overly tight to apply pressure on the upper. The threading for the grip screw was smooth and threaded all the way. I have ran into problems with different brand lowers where they were not properly threaded. This AP was easy and hassle free on installing the grip.
Range Testing.
This is where my love for the Aero Precision 308 OEM stops.
I did a few standard function tests with the rifle. The first thing I noticed was the Forward Assist would not push the BCG forward. Through a little internet research some people said the F/A could be out of spec and is on the short side. The F/A is a standard AR-15 part. I called Aero Precision and in short order I had a new one in the mail.
I loaded up several magazines with one round each to make sure the bolt would lock back. My first impression was the gun was over gassed. I was getting an ejection pattern of about 2 o'clock. On round number six (6) the bolt failed to lock back. The culprit, broken bolt catch. So another call to AP and I had a new part on the way. These parts took a few days to arrive in the mail from Washington to Texas.
Remember when I said I was on the fence about the Allen screws hold key components instead of roll pins, well these Allen screws made changing the parts a breeze. That was a wasted range trip. The six shots were all over the target.
Bolt catch snapped on round number 6
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/36d770e2-d880-4594-be51-b560f72ddd67.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/36d770e2-d880-4594-be51-b560f72ddd67.jpg.html)
Bolt catch and F/A replacement. AP was quick to send these replacement parts out.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/image1.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/image1.jpg.html)
Now I have the parts replaced and its back to the range. With the prior shots all over the paper, I gave the gun another through cleaning and paid special attention to the bore. I took a coated Dewey cleaning rod with me to the range to do a barrel break in because I was hoping the groups would tighten up. After a 20 round break in the groups were still having a vertical string and no consistent grouping. I attached my 762 Specwar suppressor and the grouping shifted about 12" to the left. I redialed the scope and was hitting about center mass again. The groups were so bad I was now checking the scope to see if the QD mount was loose. This vortex scope was been used on my other gun for testing and I placed it on my AR-15 that I had in the truck. I dialed it in after a few rounds and was getting solid 1 MOA groups with the scopeon the AR-15. No wondering zero and the screws were all tight. I had a few Failure to ejects with the AP 308 but I just thought the gun needs a few rounds to break in. With the suppressor the ejection pattern was at 12 o'clock. I did not know a gun could throw brass in front of the barrel like that. These factory rounds were showing pressure signs. They had ejector swipes and the primers had a deep strike with a ring around the indention. There were a few of the 762x51 lighter loads that were ejecting at 4 o'clock without the suppressor. This ejection pattern has marred up the front side of the receiver where the front of the dust cover would be. This leads me to believe that it could have a tight chamber.
Grouping
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/F948F315-A0A8-4B4D-AE43-008A377B95D8.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/F948F315-A0A8-4B4D-AE43-008A377B95D8.jpg.html)
So my next thoughts were the Aero Precision did not like this type of ammo. I went to the store the next day and bought a few different brands and bullet weights and hit the range again. The first thing I noticed was when switching between brands the groups would shift several inches. This not unexpected because on my other guns the groups will shift between point of aim and point of impact a few inches (2"-5") but with this 308 the shifts were in 12"-20". With all the different ammunition the groups were 6"-8" on average. My best groups were with Federal Premium Match 175 gr Sierra MatchKing. My bolt guns shoot this stuff 1/2-3/4MOA but the AP was shooting about 4 MOA with this stuff. I knew then something was wrong so I went home to re-inspect the gun.
I tried several boxes of different ammo
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/0FEC7493-D92F-4090-9509-EB0C64EBDFBB.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/0FEC7493-D92F-4090-9509-EB0C64EBDFBB.jpg.html)
Groups
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/259CDF0D-139D-48BD-BCBC-EAFEA3F2B76B.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/259CDF0D-139D-48BD-BCBC-EAFEA3F2B76B.jpg.html)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/DE2BCAA3-2E9E-48FD-9241-86508C59C6FA.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/DE2BCAA3-2E9E-48FD-9241-86508C59C6FA.jpg.html)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/49E82A7A-76FE-4611-B213-4B882FCD9B2D.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/49E82A7A-76FE-4611-B213-4B882FCD9B2D.jpg.html)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/EA8B3DA1-7C0B-4DC6-846E-27AE1A1DD387.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/EA8B3DA1-7C0B-4DC6-846E-27AE1A1DD387.jpg.html)
Best groups
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/61AC07A7-6C06-4E1E-986C-C70A69A5BA7B.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/61AC07A7-6C06-4E1E-986C-C70A69A5BA7B.jpg.html)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/064711FD-B179-4DD2-90A8-18279E2F941D.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/064711FD-B179-4DD2-90A8-18279E2F941D.jpg.html)
You get the idea on the poor accuracy of the barrel.
I got home and took the barrel nut off and re torque it on the lighter side of 35lbs I didnt find anything wrong. I removed the two O-rings from the bolt to see if that would help with the failure to ejects. I tried it a few different way and still had several failure to ejects. The next several range trips were frustrating. The bolt catch/release had always been on the tight side but it has become so tight where you can not release the BCG to charge the firearm with your thumb. It is binding and takes two hands pressing as hard as I can to release the bolt. The only practical way to charge the firearm is with the charging handle. The bolt is still very tight inside the chamber. It acts as if Bolt lugs are sticking in the barrel extension and you have to pull forcefully to first open the bolt. Once the lugs clear the barrel extension, the BCG slides effortlessly. But there is no visible wear on the bolt lugs, which leads me to believe the it is the bolt sticking inside the carrier because it is so tight.
Failure to eject
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/77A575A0-FB0A-467B-97E6-B8A5EA335373.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/77A575A0-FB0A-467B-97E6-B8A5EA335373.jpg.html)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/8CBA26CB-1C92-4488-AF83-529897BB9BC8.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/8CBA26CB-1C92-4488-AF83-529897BB9BC8.jpg.html)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/77722FFF-8A25-4CED-B27B-027DF779EE75.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/77722FFF-8A25-4CED-B27B-027DF779EE75.jpg.html)
Notice it's damaging the brass by bending the case mouth. Looks like the 300 blk out case mouth.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/IMG_1604.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/IMG_1604.jpg.html)
Something is leaving lines on the brass
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/IMG_1605.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/IMG_1605.jpg.html)
http://youtu.be/K8gwii7zZis
Video of the bolt catch not releasing the bolt.
http://youtu.be/K8gwii7zZis
I later discovered I had broken a second bolt catch and I am now on my third. That was the cause of the bolt catch not releasing the bolt.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/629F66C4-7512-492F-A242-C4B5D6D60754_1.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/629F66C4-7512-492F-A242-C4B5D6D60754_1.jpg.html)
Notice how the bolt catch is bent
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/AD93E513-6161-46D8-8EB2-059793DBC3F8.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/AD93E513-6161-46D8-8EB2-059793DBC3F8.jpg.html)
Crack in bolt catch
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/85571ABE-169A-41AA-A949-8AF331B6C9AF.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/85571ABE-169A-41AA-A949-8AF331B6C9AF.jpg.html)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/406E81CB-BDF5-42F1-AE32-5662957CAB33.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/406E81CB-BDF5-42F1-AE32-5662957CAB33.jpg.html)
I noticed the charging handle has high wear on the top of it and around the latch area for the few times I have used it (less than 50). Something is really cutting into the aluminum and it as almost as if the charging handle is too big to fit into the upper receiver. I'll probably replace it with a BCM. Sorry I did not take any pictures since I noticed it as I was boxing up the gun and getting it ready to send back.
I fired 180 total of the course of multiple range trips with poor grouping and frustrating experiences. I purchased this rifle with the intention of doing a review since the Aero Precision 308 OEM version is fairly new for the company and their upper and lowers get good reviews. I tried to contact Aero Precision for several weeks and never could get through. I left numerous messages and sent several emails and it took Aero Precision almost three weeks for them to contact me back. They sent me a return label and I mailed it back Yesterday. I will update this article when I receive the firearm back. Contacting AP was a hassle and I was on the verge of sending the gun back to Brownells for an exchange. Since AP did finally contact me I am going to let them fix the firearm.
This is not a review to hate on AP. I want to like the gun because of the money and time I invested into it, but with the four MAJOR problems of terrible grouping, failure to eject, bolt release sticking, and bolt sticking in chamber, as of right now I cannot recommend this firearm. It is intended for educational purposes and to show the quality that AP has so buyers can make informed decisions in the future. I was hoping this would be a great gun and AP would break the mold by releasing a reliable 308 AR for under $1,000 but it looks like they have more work to do. Don't get me wrong, this could be a nice gun with some changes and I would like to say I received a lemon and this just slipped through QC but I will hold my judgment until I get the gun back.
Final thoughts
This firearm is a good base for the upper and lower. My thoughts are the barrel needs to be replaced along with the BCG since I feel both are out of spec. The barrel needs an adjustable gas block if you are using a suppressor. The LPK seems to have poor quality since AP did not catch the FA being out of spec and the AP bolt catches keep breaking. You may want to replace the key components in the LPk.
More updates will follow.
Saved for updates at later time
Thanks for the detailed review. I've been tempted by APs OEM 556 and 308 offerings, but I'll be holding out for awhile.
I hope it all works out for you, I'm sure it will. My experiences so far have been better and hope they continue. I wanted to get back into the .308 game, so I started with the Aero 16" complete. My plans are for a future lightweight and looking at the 2A set or a complete rifle once they offer it. No marks on brass, no receiver wear or other issues. Charge handle does show wear. I do have a spare DPMS bolt catch and do have a replacement FA from Aero as mine was short as well. In my opinion, the FA should be eliminated from the receiver.
A tad over 250 rounds right now, zero malfunctions. My reloads and factory go from 230-330 ejection. No pressure on them. Shot PMC, XM80, Magtech, FGMM, Hornady White Tail, Fusion and my reloads.
No pics but the FGMM was at 1" and the to hunting loads were 1.3-1.4
Not bad for basically a "carbine" with a standard trigger and 1-6 variable
The commercial is a mix of everything fired and the LC is once fired from a big gun. Nothing done to brass other than FL size, trimmed and deburred. No sorting, etc of bullets, cases. IMR4064, Hornady 150 FMJBT and CCI standard LR primer. Crimped using LCD
The center target on the commercial one is where I made adjustments, lowering the impact, so It's not a group.
oh-use a multi colored Sharpie set to color the bullets and use a Qtip with alcohol to show color if not apparent. Helpful if shooting different charge weights, etc especially Ladder testing.
Mark
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v509/mark5pt56/001_zpsgzceqai2.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v509/mark5pt56/002_zpscdxnr7pb.jpg
Thanks for the very detailed review and pics OP - lot of time spent on this review.
I've heard so many reports of trouble with the AP 308s, whether complete rifles or build using their receivers.
A definite pattern. Yet because of cost, people still buy them in droves compared to, say, the proven MEGA MATEN platform.
Thanks for the honesty and detail.
In this price range for a complete rifle, it's hard to beat the Armalite DEF10 - this takes SR25 compatible mags. If you want a nice freefloat handguard, Raptor ambi charging handle, and nice 2-stage trigger, look at the Armalite TAC series.
Armalite, SLR Rifleworks, Midwest Industries, SWS, JP Rifles, and Noveske (I'm sure I'm missing some) make Armalite compatible freefloat handguards, and you can get pretty much ask any barrel maker to spin up a barrel for you if you provide a bolt and barrel extension (DSG Arms usually has 'em).
I hope they get the BHO failures worked out. Also would have been nice if they made the upper and lower SR25 compatible.
It is currently at AP. Hopefully I'll hear something next week.
I originally purchased this AP 308 to put a free float rail on it and use it for hog hunting with my pvs-22 and dbal.
One of the reasons I purchased it was for a review and comparison for cheaper AR10's, and it has more options for rails compared to my M&P 10 (high rail vs low rail). My M&P 10 doesn't have a free float rail on it.
I sent a reply to AP last week and they sent me a message today. Basically what I got from the message was they shot 20 rounds through it and it worked so the replaced the bolt catch (the one that was cracked and bent) and are shipping it back to me.
I sent a message back to them asking about the accuracy issues. I expected at least a barrel replacement since that one shoots like crap.
Here is their message:
Sir, So I just got your rifle back from the armorers, and from what they told me, they replaced the bolt catch and it does send the bolt home when pushing it. They fired a total of 20 rounds through the weapon and did not experience any misfires or malfunctions. It is still bit a stiff when pulling back the charging handle, but this is a common issue for .308s where the spring is a bit tense and will loosen up over time. Regarding the pressure, they did not experience any issues when firing regular pressure rounds, but did note high pressure damage when firing high pressure rounds. I will be bringing your rifle downstairs to be shipped out today, so it should be leaving our facility within the next day or 2.
Here is my reply:
So your armory did not even address the accuracy issues? It is just going to break more bolt catches since the barrel is over gassed. The problems with the barrel need to be addressed. You may want to read this before you send it back https://www.m4carbine.net/showthread.php?182006-Aero-Precision-308-OEM-Review
I will see if they reply back and will keep this post up to date. I can fix the overgassed issues with an adjustable gas block if I have to, but I cant fix the accuracy issue without buying and changing out the barrel. I guess 4-6 MOA is acceptable to them...
-Ryan
Ace4059, I just got in a Sprinco Orange and it's nice. The gun has run 100 percent and does with the new spring, the felt recoil is less and it has 2-3 more coils which cures the lower receiver/BCG contact. You may want to try it out, worth 25 bucks in my opinion. I think part of the bolt catch issues is the amount of travel from spring compression to the bolt catch when locking. With the factory spring, it's alot, the Sprinco cuts it down and may help.
Slvr Surfr
04-17-16, 13:30
Ace,
I also have a the Sprinco Orange and an adjustable GB for suppressed use on my AP .308. I think the BCG speed was what was hammering your bolt catch to the point of failure. It seems that most manufacturers these days seem to be opening up their gas ports to allow the masses of shooters to use cheap and under powered ammunition. When you use quality ammo, it appears over gassed. I don't personally agree with this, but I'm not surprised that they do it.
Another option is to replace your carrier with a Gemtech .308 bolt carrier which allows you to run a suppressed or non suppressed setting. These look to be excellent when managing over gassed guns and suppressors.
Of course, none of these issues explain your accuracy problem.
Keep us informed please.
Got a link for Springco? My search fu is weak om this...
beenawhile
04-17-16, 16:50
Got a link for Springco? My search fu is weak om this...
http://www.sprinco.com/tactical.html
AHHA I was adding a "G" to Sprinco! Thanks !
I had same issues with the ejection and bcg out running the mag. I installed a adjustable gas block and it cut down the issues but did not eliminated them. I then ordered a car-10 XR 6.5oz buffer from heavybuffers.com issue is resolved shooting suppressed with a Omega and Specwar.
http://www.heavybuffers.com/ar10carbine.html
My rifle is assembled by me from purchased components. I had issues with my first aero bcg and sent back for warranty, received new bcg and still bought a AIM Surplus QPQ bcg.
Aeroprecision upper and lower
Faxon 18" mid length gas/adjustable gas block
AIM Surplus 308 QPQ BCG
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N900A using Tapatalk
I received the rifle back yesterday. The paperwork that was included was just the original description of the problems, the print out of the private messages from AP, and their log on the gun with SN. No information besides the pm of what they did with the gun which sounded like they replaced the bolt catch in the PM that I copied and pasted a few posts above.
I also think they replaced the BCG even though no information indicates that they did.
Barrel still looks the same.
I'm going to get some federal gold match 168 and 175 SMK and shoot it today to see about the accuracy.
I am not inspired by what I am reading about a lot of the Aero 308 based builds. This concerns me as I have a Ballistic Advantage barrel + BCG for an upcoming Armalite build. I hope Aero's acquisition of Ballistic Advantage doesn't lead to QC issues like the OP is experiencing.
The only thing I have noticed so far from handling it is that the bolt gas rings (1 piece Macfarland style) are extremely tight inside the carrier. It takes a lot of force to slide the bolt back and forth. Way more than anything I've ever seen.
Results aren't good. I'm leaving the range and I am disappointed on the accuracy. I broke the bolt catch on the 8th shot and had a total of four failure to ejects.
I guess I have to figure out if I want to spent anymore money on this gun.
I'll update and post pics when I get home.
No real reason to post pics because the accuracy is about the same. I shot at 50 yards and 100 yards. Some of the 100 yrd shots were not even hitting paper.
I called AP on the way home and spoke to Ryan and I am sending the gun back again and they said they will look at it and I asked them to replace the barrel. Ill see what happens and keep this thread up to date.
The best group I was able to get was about 2" at 50 yards. The barrel is listed as 1:10 twist but it shot lighter bullets better. The 175 gr was looking as if the holes were not clean cut on the paper and a little oblong as if its not stabilizing them. I guess that would explain why the groups were 6"-8" at 100 yards.
Get your money back, and go get an Armalite AR-10A DEF10.
Results aren't good. I'm leaving the range and I am disappointed on the accuracy. I broke the bolt catch on the 8th shot and had a total of four failure to ejects.
I guess I have to figure out if I want to spent anymore money on this gun.
I'll update and post pics when I get home.
Nothing worse than a problem gun, I hope they can get you squared away. I would want a refund as well.
JohnnyRambo
05-09-16, 21:27
That is a bummer. I can't believe the amount of bolt catches you have broken. I have not seen anything like that before.
I just bought a Ballistic Advantage barrel to build a 6.5 AR10 and chose them because they were affordable (compared to other manufacturers) and they have a Sub MOA Guarantee (with match ammo).
If AP does not replace your barrel you might check out BA since they stand behind theirs.
The rifle is still at AP but Brownells did contact me regarding the rifle. Brownells sent me a $50 gift card and said if AP doesn't fix the rifle this time to my satisfaction then to contact them and they will exchange it for another AP 308 OEM for me. Stand up company. I just hope this was a fluke or a bad batch and not a common occurrence for AP.
At first I had issues with AP customer service ( no response to emails nor voice messages) but now they are at least trying to fix the problems I am having with the 308. I guess they got tired of me calling.
Not sure if I mentioned the third bolt catch snapped before I sent it back to AP
That is a bummer. I can't believe the amount of bolt catches you have broken. I have not seen anything like that before.
I just bought a Ballistic Advantage barrel to build a 6.5 AR10 and chose them because they were affordable (compared to other manufacturers) and they have a Sub MOA Guarantee (with match ammo).
If AP does not replace your barrel you might check out BA since they stand behind theirs.
BA is a sister company to AP and my AP has a BA barrel on it. This was confirmed by Ryan when I talked to him two weeks ago.
That is a bummer. I can't believe the amount of bolt catches you have broken. I have not seen anything like that before.
I just bought a Ballistic Advantage barrel to build a 6.5 AR10 and chose them because they were affordable (compared to other manufacturers) and they have a Sub MOA Guarantee (with match ammo).
If AP does not replace your barrel you might check out BA since they stand behind theirs.
AP owns Ballistic Advantage. I know AP AR-15's use BA barrels, so I would think their AR-10's would also.
JohnnyRambo
05-11-16, 18:15
So I just got my Aero Precision 308 bolt carrier group today in the mail. It came straight from a major distributor, new in package but....well...maybe you guys can tell me what you think.
Please keep in mind this is is just out of the package, has not been fired. I noticed that the bolt was extremely difficult to reciprocate and it took 3 people to finally get it by hand (no tools) and when I finally got the bolt out of the carrier this is what I find. (The term "hammered dog sh$t" was the first description that came to mind) I will be contacting Aero Precision to see their thoughts on it shortly.
http://i307.photobucket.com/albums/nn320/JohnnyRambo10/aerobad10_zpsijetpyrc.jpg (http://s307.photobucket.com/user/JohnnyRambo10/media/aerobad10_zpsijetpyrc.jpg.html)
http://i307.photobucket.com/albums/nn320/JohnnyRambo10/aerobad7_zpspdxsz5jo.jpg (http://s307.photobucket.com/user/JohnnyRambo10/media/aerobad7_zpspdxsz5jo.jpg.html)
http://i307.photobucket.com/albums/nn320/JohnnyRambo10/aerobad3_zpsundxayou.jpg (http://s307.photobucket.com/user/JohnnyRambo10/media/aerobad3_zpsundxayou.jpg.html)
http://i307.photobucket.com/albums/nn320/JohnnyRambo10/Aerobad1_zps3dgga4gj.jpg (http://s307.photobucket.com/user/JohnnyRambo10/media/Aerobad1_zps3dgga4gj.jpg.html)
http://i307.photobucket.com/albums/nn320/JohnnyRambo10/extractor_zpspmwkov0q.jpg (http://s307.photobucket.com/user/JohnnyRambo10/media/extractor_zpspmwkov0q.jpg.html)
All I can do is shake my head.
Mine was so tight I had a hard time taking mine apart. It was part of the reason I had a hard time charging it with the charging handle. AP said it was a "strong buffer spring" was the reason it was hard to charge. But my bcg and bolt was replaced. The new one was better looking than yours. Give them a call.
JohnnyRambo
05-11-16, 22:59
AP and BA are not going so well for me either. Issues with both and terrible customer service with both as well.
http://i307.photobucket.com/albums/nn320/JohnnyRambo10/headspace_zps4gxppmk5.jpg (http://s307.photobucket.com/user/JohnnyRambo10/media/headspace_zps4gxppmk5.jpg.html)
I received it back from AP on 5/23/16. It has a new barrel. I cant tell if its a new BCG since it was almost new to begin with.
All the parts were assembled correctly on the upper end of the torque specs. Gas block was sealed to barrel and had locktite on the threads of the set screw. The crush washer for the flash hider was smashed a little and hard to remove.
UPS did a number on the aluminum upper. It had several nicks and a few gouges. Charging handle had a gouge. At this point I dont care how it looks as long as it functions and shoots accurately.
AP sent me two more bolt catches
I am having to order a new Fortis barrel nut because I had mine off and on so many times the ends are rounding off. It will probably will be next week before I can go to the range with it.
After UPS got a hold of the package
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/E0ACD5A0-F030-43F2-8659-3CB2F5EAB7C0.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/E0ACD5A0-F030-43F2-8659-3CB2F5EAB7C0.jpg.html)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/9E216DFA-128C-440E-83DF-7E987E5F61BA.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/9E216DFA-128C-440E-83DF-7E987E5F61BA.jpg.html)
Damage done by UPS
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/8B45227D-89D1-40B8-B306-4F72E9F40055.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/8B45227D-89D1-40B8-B306-4F72E9F40055.jpg.html)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/4BB85116-4023-4225-9611-188CAFB3616C.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/4BB85116-4023-4225-9611-188CAFB3616C.jpg.html)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/3825290C-163D-4D32-B6AD-B5D514EE4F94.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/3825290C-163D-4D32-B6AD-B5D514EE4F94.jpg.html)
There are a few other spots that UPS removed the anodizing from banging it around. More or less cosmetic.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/FA7F46D1-ADC8-4F1D-A43D-E25930169595.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/FA7F46D1-ADC8-4F1D-A43D-E25930169595.jpg.html)
This picture shows the burr
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/F8D2D5F6-C403-4541-9130-98B070284387.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/F8D2D5F6-C403-4541-9130-98B070284387.jpg.html)
Gas block is shipped locktited
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/153D4264-977F-4625-BBE7-7C00E99C3086.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/153D4264-977F-4625-BBE7-7C00E99C3086.jpg.html)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/DE3C083C-274E-42E1-87F9-3679FA3EDEA8.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/DE3C083C-274E-42E1-87F9-3679FA3EDEA8.jpg.html)
Crush washer
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/5438D43E-665A-410E-80D4-55D25A494E57.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/5438D43E-665A-410E-80D4-55D25A494E57.jpg.html)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/BF5C8C61-C815-4020-B0F1-4365D89F18C2.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/BF5C8C61-C815-4020-B0F1-4365D89F18C2.jpg.html)
I ordered a new Fortis barrel nut since the corners were a little rounded from taking it off and on several times.
An SLR adjustable gas block and Gemtec suppressed BCG to help with the over gassed issue with the suppressor. Ill see which one works best with this gun.
and New charging handle so I dont have to file off the burr....
The parts should be here Monday so I will assemble Tuesday and take it to the range if its not raining.
At this point I dont care how it looks. I just was it to function correctly and shoot 1 MOA groups. UPS might have gave me an excuse to paint it.
Sorry to hear about your troubles, I hope it works as it should and shoots more accurately. Good luck and keep us posted.
elephantrider
05-26-16, 02:22
So I just got my Aero Precision 308 bolt carrier group today in the mail. It came straight from a major distributor, new in package but....well...maybe you guys can tell me what you think.
Please keep in mind this is is just out of the package, has not been fired. I noticed that the bolt was extremely difficult to reciprocate and it took 3 people to finally get it by hand (no tools) and when I finally got the bolt out of the carrier this is what I find. (The term "hammered dog sh$t" was the first description that came to mind) I will be contacting Aero Precision to see their thoughts on it shortly.
I have 2 newer Gen. .308 BCGs from Aero (yours looks like and older version), and they look nothing like that. One is the standard phosphate finish and the other is nitride, but both have nice even surface machining and finish. The nitride bolt was a little difficult to move inside the carrier before I lubed it, but quite smooth afterwards. No issues at all hand cycling the nitride BCG in a finished build. The newer Gen. BCGs also have a domed ejector, and a small diameter FP/FP hole.
elephantrider
05-26-16, 02:28
AP sent me two more bolt catches
Even if you get the gas issues sorted out, I wouldn't put much faith in those AP bolt catches. FYI, Forward Controls Designs is releasing a forged .308 bolt catch soon.
Slvr Surfr
05-27-16, 22:50
Looks like a lot of that damage could have been mitigated if they had packaged your upper properly. SMH
Looks like a lot of that damage could have been mitigated if they had packaged your upper properly. SMH
You figure one layer of that thin foam wrapped around it as its loose in the box would be sufficient. :rolleyes:
Ok I finally got it up and running.
Last week I didn't remember USPS was closed on Monday so I didn't get the rest of the parts that I ordered until Tuesday. I assembled everything Tuesday night so I could take it to the range Wednesday afternoon.
It rained all day Tuesday and most of Wednesday morning. There was standing water at the range and a storm started blowing in after I shot three groups at 100 yards so I had to wrap it up fairly quick. I only shot 25-30 rounds total. I had less that optimal testing conditions with the wind, and I forgot my rest and sand bag to rest the butt stock on. The trigger seemed a little mushier than what I remember.
I was using cheap Aguila ammo to zero my Night Force 3-15x50 scope at 50 Yards. I was getting good groups and tried two rounds of FGMM 175 SMK and those rounds were on the bulls eye touching so I moved to the 100 yrd range. Let me explain, I took my Night Force off my AR-15 and I had the Zero Stop set for it, so I could not dial the elevation down and I did not want to have to adjust the Zero Stop. I was just using it for the 15 power so I could see how this gun would group. It was shooting 10 MOA high and had to use the top point of the reticle as my zero. Not the best but I made it work.
Enough talk here's some pics.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/9EFC3C49-8593-467B-A1AE-077A21128CD5.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/9EFC3C49-8593-467B-A1AE-077A21128CD5.jpg.html)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/9B5EF938-23F0-47FB-899A-005E6E1052D9.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/9B5EF938-23F0-47FB-899A-005E6E1052D9.jpg.html)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/4CB77820-0292-4886-B951-A3724DE607E4.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/4CB77820-0292-4886-B951-A3724DE607E4.jpg.html)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/E6618347-18BF-46E3-8F2D-119F2F89A3E4.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/E6618347-18BF-46E3-8F2D-119F2F89A3E4.jpg.html)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/005CF39A-DFC7-41EB-AB4F-F5FAED61F8B7.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/005CF39A-DFC7-41EB-AB4F-F5FAED61F8B7.jpg.html)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e400/rhino4x4/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/AA518121-8466-49A8-A035-40062C59C995.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/rhino4x4/media/Guns/AP%20308%20OEM/AA518121-8466-49A8-A035-40062C59C995.jpg.html)
Im putting my 2.5-10x32 FFP scope back on and with a Geissele trigger and rear support this should shoot 1 MOA. It was hard holding the gun still and ended up sitting the butt stock on a box of ammo and bracing it with my hand.
I am not sure what all Aero Precision did to the gun. They never sent anything or any sort of paperwork back explaining what was wrong or what was replaced. I do know the barrel was replaced the last time because this barrel did not have the indents for the gas block that I drilled. After the BCG was replaced it was no longer sticking and the lugs were smooth sliding in and out of the barrel extension. I added the SLR adjustable gas block and tried the GemTech suppressor bolt. Each one worked great by themselves but together would not (no surprise). You had to run the gemtech on the regular mode or if you switched it to suppressed them you had to open the gas block. So I am sticking with the SRL adjustable gas block and I am going to use the Gemtech BCG on another AR-10. Its good to know either one would work on this gun. Brass ejects to 3 o'clock while shooting suppressed.
I Purchased the AP 308 OEM and added:
Fortis Switch Rail 15"
Fortis QD end plate
BAD ASS safety
Magpul MAID
Picatinny rails for keymod
Atlas Bipod
DPMS bolt catch
BCM charging handle
Magpul (ACS?) stock
DBAL laser
IWC hand stop
SilencerCo flashhider for Specwar suppressor.
In summary,
I had a hell of a time with AP customer service the first few weeks. At first I wasnt able to get a hold of anyone at AP and they wouldnt return my emails. When I was able to talk to someone, I was getting the run around and no help. That created a frustrating experience. But I will say, I am happy with the gun now. If AP would have better QC and CS then my experience could have and would have been better. I've seen a few issues with Aero Precision QC lately about people posting on the internet with their problems. I would say as of now if you buy an AP rifle it could be hit or miss, depending on who built it or what day the rifle was built. Yes it could have been packaged a little better to avoid the marks and damage but I am not going to sweat the small stuff. Luckily I didn't have to strip it back down and return it to Brownells. I am just glad it is working now and groups accurately.
*IF* I do ever buy anything AP again, It would probably the the upper and lower receiver set. Those seemed to be quality and would probably make a good build.
Did you ever get a legit MOA or better group out of it?
Did you ever get a legit MOA or better group out of it?
I would not list this as a 1 MOA quality gun. No matter how much time and money I put into it, the gun never preformed to my expectations. Plus I’ll have to admit AP left a bad taste in my mouth. I would put it in 1.5-2 MOA with quality Ammo. With hand loads I would get lucky and it would shoot a little tighter, maybe 1.25 MOA.
I have the 2.5-10x scope on there and use it for night time hog hunting with a clip on in front of the scope. It does ok out to 300 yards. I’m sure a different barrel would help out. I hear a lot of praise out of BA barrels, but I’m not impressed.
Another thing I’m not too impressed with is the fortis switch rail. With it being 15” length, the laser has a shift of aim depending on how you hold it. It just doesn’t compare to my DD rails.
Don't the BA barrels come with a MOA guarantee? I would have them switch it out. Assuming you want to deal with it of course.
That's disappointing that it never shot straight for you. I'm starting a 6.5 (or 6mm if it ever takes off) build on Aero parts, and while I've had nothing but good luck with their receivers, I'm wishy washy (and so is most of the internet) on their barrels. For every one that shoots sub MOA, there's one that just can't do it. To be honest, for what a 6.5 or 6 are used for, MOA is barely good enough. I've got an SPR wanna-be with a Rainier barrel that's pretty consistent at .75MOA, and if a $250 barrel with a Wylde chamber can do that, then one of these big, heavy $300+ barrels should be able to as well.
Vegas, I think you're right, and it even says that right on their website. I'm not sure if it says anything on Aero's website though, maybe it only applies to BA barrels purchased direct, who knows.
sidewaysil80
12-21-17, 17:28
I am wrapping a build using all Aero Precision components minus a Rainier Arms Match Barrel and SLR Gas Block. It's 98% complete, just waiting on trigger to show up and borrow a buddies Reaction Rod. I'll post updates as soon as it's built/tested. My work rifle is an 18" OBR 762 w/ NF ATACR. I built it to see if I could spend a 1/3 of the LaRue and hopefully get at least 1/2 as accurate lol. Fingers crossed...
Don't the BA barrels come with a MOA guarantee? I would have them switch it out. Assuming you want to deal with it of course.
They replaced the original barrel. Not sure if the warranty extends to an AP made gun or just barrels purchased from BA.
I wish photo bucket still had my photos displayed for future reference.
I have two larue barrel and a rainier arms barrel. They shoot great. Out of all my AR’s, I would say my rainier barrel shoots the best.
Here another update to this thread.
The gun has been 100% reliable but I missed a shot with it hunting so I took it to the range to see if the zero was off.
I was getting a 4-6 moa spread depending on the ammo. I’m going to give the barrel a good cleaning to see if that helps but as the barrel heats up then the groups really open up and I get a few flyers. Cold bore shot is about 4 moa difference. This gun is heavy but smooth shooting with that adjustable gas block.
For some odd reason my groups opened up with the suppressor attached. On all my other guns the suppressor reduces the grouping just a little. POA/POI was repeatable with the suppressor attached and removed several times.
To rule out the scope I put it on my SCAR 17 and with federal premium gold 175gr SMK I’m shooting 3 shot clover groups.
I’ll update again after I clean the barrel and remove copper fouling.
Here another update to this thread.
The gun has been 100% reliable but I missed a shot with it hunting so I took it to the range to see if the zero was off.
I was getting a 4-6 moa spread depending on the ammo. I’m going to give the barrel a good cleaning to see if that helps but as the barrel heats up then the groups really open up and I get a few flyers. Cold bore shot is about 4 moa difference. This gun is heavy but smooth shooting with that adjustable gas block.
For some odd reason my groups opened up with the suppressor attached. On all my other guns the suppressor reduces the grouping just a little. POA/POI was repeatable with the suppressor attached and removed several times.
To rule out the scope I put it on my SCAR 17 and with federal premium gold 175gr SMK I’m shooting 3 shot clover groups.
I’ll update again after I clean the barrel and remove copper fouling.
For the love of God, thank you. I was considering building one of the WIP guns that I don't have in me. I appreciate your efforts and education. My take away, buy LMT, DD, Larue or KAC if you can pony up.
Again, thank you and good luck getting this gun dialed in. You deserve it.
PB
What's the barrel profile? 1.5 lbs of suppressor out at the end of the barrel might be upsetting your harmonics.
An example of one, FWIW.
An Aero 22" 6.5 CM upper (Brownells) SS BA 5R barrel.
3-15 Steiner glass, handload with 140 ELD-M averaged 3/4 MOA or under at 100 (3 shot groups- load development).
Had no problem maintaining MOA at 600 yds/6", or better for 5 shots.
I was fortunate that the load used in a couple bolt guns shot 'good enough" in the AR.
https://i.imgur.com/kdARoPn.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/BV4fqWQ.jpg?1
What's the barrel profile? 1.5 lbs of suppressor out at the end of the barrel might be upsetting your harmonics.
It’s a heavy barrel profile
I Edited this post to give AP another chance to fix this gun. AP wants to reopen my ticket from 2016 on this gun and they want to look at the upper
BA does make the barrel but it will be warrantied through AP.
We shall see how this plays out.
I’ll keep this thread up to date.
WUnderwood
07-25-18, 13:55
Helluva write up, thank you for sharing ace.
@ace4059
I have a few questions, and a few comments.
First... concerning the broken bolt catches, have you measured your BCG overtravel distance ? If the distance between your bolt catch and bolt face is over 3/16" , when the BCG is FULLY depressed into the buffer tube.. then that could be part of the issue.
To check, insert an empty mag into the mag well... ( so you don't inadvertently release the bolt lock and slam the BCG forward )
Then while using a punch or wood dowel ( NOT YOUR FINGER... it hurts if the BCG slams closed on a finger ).. fully depress the BCG to the bottom of the buffer tube.
Measure the distance between the bolt face and the back ( shoulder side ) of the bolt catch.
If the distance is more then 3/16" ... adjust the distance by placing a 25 cent US quarter in the bottom of the buffer tube, under the recoil spring.
Do not adjust the distance less then 3/16" ... to small a distance, and the mag spring won't keep up with the cyclic speed of the BCG.
As for the accuracy...I'd suggest you lap / true the upper receiver face.... and try Loctiting in the barrel.
I have had excellent results from doing the lapping and "glue in"... I frequently refer to it as TnG... true and glue.
This video , from Criterion, shows better then I can explain. ( The other 3 videos are well worth viewing as well. )
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XHxU8VUAHOY
Can you please post some photo's of the lower receiver connection point with the buffer tube..... I am curious if there are any banging marks.. from the BCG.
If there are... that could contribute to your FTF issues and FTE issues....
If your buffer tube is screwed in to far... that could also cause odd issues.
DPMS buffer systems / pattern... can be , fussy.
Oops... as for the charging handle dragging... can you see if the OEM AP charging handle has a "Tab" on the top front of it ?
It might be "wedging" in between the gas key, the upper receiver, and a the charging handle... no mil-spec thing for .308 AR's
And I am fairly sure... you should have a longer mag catch "bolt / threaded piece... all my Large frame AR's do.
And good write up, Thank you for sharing.
Hi Ace! just finished up reading this.. damn i guess its been a nightmare..
two things i want to ask, how much play there is between the barrel and the upper receiver slot when installing it? (some aeros like one of mine have way too much play and could require some bedding job)
but theres also another important thing, what torque are you applying on your barrel nut? ive read in the beginning 35 foot pounds? i think it is a little loose for ar308.. higher torque specs have shown to give more accurate guns,
Daniel Defense recommend starting from 50 to 75 foot pounds on their DD 762 lite rail (and the barrel nut is very little) thats like double the torque if youre applying 35 foot pounds only.
if you still havent destroyed the gun i would try out these two things and check the results!!! let me know please! =)
Basically this is where I’m at... BA made the barrel but will not warranty it since it’s sold by AP. I have to send it back to AP but it has to be configured as it was sold. This was a OEM stripped down model. I pinned the gas block and don’t want to have to strip off all the parts I put on this build to put the entire rifle back as purchased. I was wanting to send in the complete upper or the bare barrel. I way I see it is the only usable parts from this is the upper and lower receiver.
The barrel is off the gun and I’m just going to purchase a quality barrel later this year once work slows down and chalk this up as a loss.
This is a lesson of buy once cry once. If I remember correctly AP replaced several parts that were out of spec so that has to tell you something.
Powered by vBulletin® Version 4.2.5 Copyright © 2024 vBulletin Solutions, Inc. All rights reserved.