New Project: "The Minuteman"

[BrigandTwoFour]

https://everydaymarksman.files.wordpress.com/2017/07/img_1669.jpg

You'll have to forgive the somewhat loaded name on this one. I didn't name it with any patriot/III%/militia connotation in mind. I named it to commemorate my career as a Air Force Minuteman III ICBM launch officer (a career which I recently left for other pastures). The goal was to build a rifle that represented a mix of old and new, like the Minuteman III system.

Aside from that, I wanted a pure KISS project that would be lightweight, rugged, and user friendly- a kind of "everyman" rifle to sit along side my other [more specialized] rifles.

The Concept

I started this project just over a year ago when I generated the concept on Gunstruction. Previously, I had already pursued a similar concept using a 20" BCM upper (https://www.m4carbine.net/showthread.php?152230-Project-Demeter-the-Designated-Marksmanship-Training-Rifle-(DMTR)). But that rifle slowly grew in complexity and add ons with optics and a free float rail (and became my favorite rifle). I still really enjoyed the feel of the MOE handguard, and wanted a crack at a bare bones minimalist rifle that would excel for outdoor use at the range or going for hikes.

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Anticipating a rush as the election approached, I purchased the receiver in August (several, actually). I slowly purchased the parts and assembled them, when possible. This is the parts list:

Lower:


Rainier Arms stripped lower
Sionics LPK
Hogue Overmold grip without hump
Magpul MOE rifle stock
BCM rifle buffer tube, spring, and A2 buffer
ALG ACT trigger
Magpul MOE trigger guard
V-Seven short throw safety (non ambidextrous)


Upper:


Rainier Arms Non-FA stripped upper
Faxon 18″ Gunner Barrel (1/8 twist)
BCM BCG
BCM Gunfighter charging handle (Medium latch)
BCM .625 front sight post and handguard cap
BCM delta ring assembly
BCM Sling Swivel
Ashley Performance 1/2 MOA front sight post (with white strip)
AAC Blackout flash hider
Magpul MOE Rifle handguard
Daniel Defense A1.5 rear sight



Other Components:


Precision Armament Accu-Washer kit for muzzle device
TAB Gear Sling


Explanation

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The parts here are result of my years spent practicing slow-speed practical marksmanship while living in California. Some of them are things that I happened to have on hand in the parts bin, but most were not. I was going for a type of modern M16A1 rifle, which deviated from my usual configuration.

The Rainier Arms receivers have the tightest damn fit I've ever come across. There is zero movement between them. I practically have to pry them apart when I pull the takedown pins. I know it has no real effect on accuracy, but it certainly adds to the overall feeling of sturdiness. I went with the non-FA upper receiver to shave a little weight on something I have never used.

I chose the Faxon 18" Gunner primarily because I like its profile, and I was intrigued by melonite. I realize the treatment has its shortcomings, but I don't plan on abusing this gun at all.

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Getting the FSB pinned to the Faxon barrel proved to be the biggest holdup to the project. Very few shops are willing to do a drill/pin job on a melonited barrel. I found two shops willing to do so while I lived on the West Coast, but I was so close to my move to Virginia that I didn't want to risk having expensive parts in the hands of someone else while I moved. Once I got established in VA, I was directed to WAR Rifles in Manassas Park. They took care of it for a fair price, and I will probably go back to them with future projects.

While I really like the clean and slick lines of a low profile gas block and rail, I have come to respect the sheer durability of a fixed FSB. Since this was planned from the get go as a primarily iron-sight rifle, I wanted to make them as useful as possible. The Ashley Performance front sight helps with that by providing a white enameled strip in the middle of the front sight post that helps with acquisition. Furthermore, the front sight is 1/2 MOA adjustable for just a bit more accuracy in the zeroing department.

I had the AAC Blackout on hand, so I used it. I like that it is reminiscent of the old three prong flash hider, so it fits my "Modern A1" concept. I realize that the Blackout does not require timing, but I prefer the flats of my muzzle devices to be vertical (call it OCD). I also know that applying too much torque to muzzle devices can disrupt accuracy. The Precision Armament accuwasher kit lets me use an appropriately sized washer and a bit of Rocksett to get it just right.

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I paired this with a DD A1.5 rear sight. For the rear sight, I was torn between the BCM carry handle I already had on hand, the DD, LMT, and Larue. Ultimately, I decided to pursue a set-it-and-forget-it path, and that meant the DD or Larue. I happened to get a pretty good deal on the DD during a sale, so that's what I installed. At some point, I'll have a XS CSAT aperture installed.

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I already had the ALG ACT in my spare parts drawer, so I decided to use it. All of my other triggers are Geissele or Larue MBT, so this is the only single stage trigger I'm using at the moment. The ACT is a good mil-spec style trigger, though certainly not as clean as my two-stage units. I expect it is plenty rugged, though, which was the goal.

All of my other ARs have BAD-ASS ambidextrous short throw safety selectors. For this one, I chose to try something different and went with a lightweight V-Seven short throw non-ambidextrous unit. I may end up swapping all of my safeties to non ambi styles. I find that with short throw ambi safeties, my shooting hand's knuckles can easily bump the selector back into the safe position when I'm running quickly or under stress. I'd rather simplify by removing the risk.

The Hogue grip just feels nice in the hand. I have been using BCM Gunfighters for a while, but I really like the A2 shaped grip without the finger hump.

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The BCM Gunfighter charging handle was a spare I had on hand from swapping in AXTS Raptors on most of my guns. I've always liked the Mod 4, so why not keep it in the mix?

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For now, I've chosen to leave the open rail space on top of the receiver uncovered. Even though I enjoy the pure iron sight concept now, it is hard to deny the advantage that optics provide. I threw an XPS-2 on there for the photo, but if I ever do choose to mount a RDS it will probably be an MRO or PRO.

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The TAB sling is a classic shooting sling with the ability to cinch down on the support arm. Again, this is a "Modern Classic," so I chose an older style sling for the job. The TAB was in my parts box, so on it went. I opted for no QD attachments in order to support the ruggedness requirement.

In all, the rifle weighs 6.9 lbs, and balances about a half inch behind the front of the magazine well. For an 18" rifle with fixed stock, it feels very spright in the hands and is very unobtrusive to carry. I could easily see carrying this one on backwoods trips and around mountains.

I'd say I met my goal on this one, and it "only" took about a year from concept to completion.

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[AR-n-Ky]

You stole my idea! I have a similar project in the works!

I have a olive drab anodized C7 upper receiver, that I'm going to mate a Faxon 18" Gunner barrel to, with a FSB and a JP Enterprise three prong flash hider to. With MagPul rifle length handguard, MagPul rifle buttstock, and MagPul MIAD pistol grip, in olive drab.

I have an Anderson lower receiver, it's black anodized, but I have olive drab anodized aluminum trigger guard, magazine release button, and takedown and pivot pins. I'm looking for an olive drab ambi safety right now.

I too wanted a KISS rifle, that was a modern twist of the A1 type rifle.

I haven't gotten all the parts yet, as I have other projects going on. But seeing yours, I now know that mine will look more badass then I thought! Which makes me want to expedite the build!

That is one cool looking rifle ya got there!

[P2000]

Looks awesome. I like the concept. My friend has the same barrel with a rifle stock, it shoots nice and smooth.

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[nightchief]

Very nice rifle, concept and write up! How's it shoot? If you can say, were you stationed in Montana?

NC

[irish350]

Cool. It's like a modernized c7.

[jbjh]

I gotta quit playing with scooters and get to building - you have inspired me sir!


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[TXBK]

I really like this rifle. It's like the AR-15 version of an FAL or HK91. This is an excellent contribution to the custom build forum. Let us know how it performs.

[BrigandTwoFour]

Thanks, all! I appreciate the positive feedback. I'm happy to inspire others to try something different :D

I haven't gotten it out to the range yet, but plan to within the next few weeks.

@nightchief, I was indeed stationed at Malmstrom (late 2007 - early 2013). Spent more time out at the schoolhouse and then recently separated to settle on the East Coast.

[nightchief]

@nightchief, I was indeed stationed at Malmstrom (late 2007 - early 2013). Spent more time out at the schoolhouse and then recently separated to settle on the East Coast.

I went to college and lived in Missoula for 10 years...my favorite place I've lived. Spent quite a bit of time in the Helena/Great Falls area too. Texas is good, but Montana is where my heart is!

[Hammer_Man]

Nice build!

[SeriousStudent]

I have something similar to that. It started life as a Colt A2 upper I got from a friend. I put the barrel into a flattop upper receiver, and added Magpul MOE furniture, as you did.

It has a KAC 200-600 rear BUIS, and is very accurate. I use it to practice zeros and holds, for my other AR's that have a KAC rear BUIS. It's also a bunch of fun to shoot at distance.

[BrigandTwoFour]

Nice build!

Thanks!


I have something similar to that. It started life as a Colt A2 upper I got from a friend. I put the barrel into a flattop upper receiver, and added Magpul MOE furniture, as you did.

It has a KAC 200-600 rear BUIS, and is very accurate. I use it to practice zeros and holds, for my other AR's that have a KAC rear BUIS. It's also a bunch of fun to shoot at distance.

It's not my first venture down a more traditional path. I did a 20" flat top before that is extremely fun to shoot. Trouble is, that rifle practically became my go-to and I outfitted it with more stuff. It's not very traditional anymore, so I wanted to pursue this project.

It's so easy to get lost in the gadgetry that it is sometimes refreshing to go "old school."

[rauchman]

Very cool rifle. How do you find the Faxon barrel?

[noonesshowmonkey]

Were I a fixed stock, rifle length kind of guy, this is just about exactly where I'd go. Except I'd probably put a NF 2.5-10 on it, because Gucci. And were the NF going on, I'd probably end up FF'ing it... So, I'd start out with a perfectly serviceable minimalist rifle, and end up with a monstrosity. Discipline. I need it.

[Livefreeordie92]

I like it!

[czgunner]

Why an 18” over a 20”? Gassy suppresses?

[hk_shootr]

Very nice build.......love the 18” KISS ideology.

Spent 93-96 at Malmstrom, I really miss the area and the Montana mindset.

[ACE31]

Very nice, looks a wee bit like a AR-180.:o

[Dr. Bullseye]

It is cool. I am a KISS fan too.

[BrigandTwoFour]

Sorry guys, I didn't realize replies were still building on this one.


Very cool rifle. How do you find the Faxon barrel?

To be honest, I still haven't gotten it out to the range. The only trigger time I've had since moving was a four day SUT training course, and I took my primary rifles to that one. I dry fire with it pretty regularly, but no live fire, yet.


Were I a fixed stock, rifle length kind of guy, this is just about exactly where I'd go. Except I'd probably put a NF 2.5-10 on it, because Gucci. And were the NF going on, I'd probably end up FF'ing it... So, I'd start out with a perfectly serviceable minimalist rifle, and end up with a monstrosity. Discipline. I need it.

Pretty much what happened to my first go at this. I build a 20" gov't barrel to fill essentially the same purpose, but I kept adding on to it.


Why an 18” over a 20”? Gassy suppresses?

I already did the 20" route and its one of my favorite rifles. I went 18" for this one just to experiment, really. I wanted a rifle length gas ad sights, but still wanted to keep it very light.


Very nice build.......love the 18” KISS ideology.

Spent 93-96 at Malmstrom, I really miss the area and the Montana mindset.

Indeed, I really appreciated the area. Would love to move back to MT some day.


Very nice, looks a wee bit like a AR-180.:o

I've thought the same thing at times.

[steve1911]

Very nice rifle.

[SCTSQRL]

I'm going to resurrect this a little bit to second the request for thoughts on that Faxon, because I think I like what you're doing here and that's an intriguing profile barrel.

I'll also jump on the "looks good" train, but I'd expect no less from a steely eyed missile man.

[BrigandTwoFour]

I'm going to resurrect this a little bit to second the request for thoughts on that Faxon, because I think I like what you're doing here and that's an intriguing profile barrel.

I'll also jump on the "looks good" train, but I'd expect no less from a steely eyed missile man.

Sadly, life has gotten in the way. Even though I finished this rifle in July of last year, I still have not had it out to the range. The only trigger time I had all of last year was a four day course at MVT, and this rifle wasn't one that I brought (I wanted to vet my other three for defensive use). I recently found an indoor range close to my house. As things calm down after a recent home purchase/move, I hope to get it out there (and also test some options for CCW).

[1168]

Very nice. I have a similar rifle planned, thanks for sharing your recipe. It is shockingly hard to find pencil profile 18” barrel assemblies with rifle length fsb.

[trigger45]

Looks very much like mine https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180125/422854bc606d9847ba6c90401b24d59d.jpg


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[LDB]

Very nice looking. The markings at the selector are interesting.

[BrigandTwoFour]

So, finally, I got this one out to the range today for a function check and a sight in.

I only put about 60 rounds through it, but there were no malfunctions (I know...60 rounds doesn't prove anything). I can't speak to ejection pattern or anything since my brass was bouncing off of the lane dividers, which were pretty close together. The handling was lively, and the benefits of a well balanced rifle were readily apparent. The cycling was very smooth, and the sights barely moved off target.

Credit to WAR Rifles in Manassas Park for the quality job pinning of the FSB and upper assembly. Windage was dead on with my DD A1.5 rear sight (which was centered). Unfortunately, I couldn't complete sight in and do accuracy testing. I brought the wrong eye pro (tinted lenses) and that made seeing the sights fairly difficult under the indoor lighting conditions. I also brought the wrong front sight tool for the Ashley sight's 1/2 MOA adjustments, and I didn't want to waste time doing it the slow way (I had other things to do, including testing a pistol I might purchase). The narrow shooting lanes, without a bench to rest things on, also made it difficult to build up a steady position to really test accuracy. That said, there are already plenty of accuracy tests on this barrel out there.

In the end, this was a fun project and I'm glad it shoots great.

[dpb1776]

Nice rifle. Cool concept


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