PDA

View Full Version : Looking for My Next AR ... Suggestions



FredL
10-26-18, 07:08
I purchased a Colt AR about five years ago and have been happy with it. I'm looking to buy another AR and have been reading as much as I can (too much?) about other brands, models, etc. and I'm pretty much totally confused by all the options and variations. I have a budget of $1500 and can spend it on the rifle alone, since have all the accessories I need, etc.

I'm looking for something that is a "step above" Colt and offers the best in reliability, rugged build, durability, etc. etc.

I will be shooting it at my local range short and longer ranges: combat pits and ranges to 400 yards, etc. I'd want it to be capable, if necessary, of being a solid, reliable SHTF or HD scenario rifle, as well.

Should I just get another Colt? Or ... ??

Daniel Defense?
Bravo Company?
LMT?
KAC?

Circle_10
10-26-18, 07:20
I hear Andersons are often privately purchased by certain Tier One units when operating overseas.






Ok, not really.

If it were me musing on this question, and I really wanted something non-Colt I think I might get the basic LMT carbine and probably change out the furniture.
Although if I were really going to go buy another off the shelf AR tomorrow I probably would in fact just get a Colt, either the 6920HBPW, Trooper, or CCU, or possibly go NFA with a 6933.

everready73
10-26-18, 07:58
$1500 wont get you a new KAC. You can find DD and some LMT models around there or less for the LMT base model, but that wouldn't be much of a step up over a 6920. I am assuming you want the rifle for the newer features out such as mid length gas, free float rail etc? Those things are not neccassarily better than the Colt though. A 6920 will do 99% of what you want in a rifle for most practical applications. if you did want some different features look into:

Colt CCU
BCM RECCE ETC
SIONICS
DD

I like the DD barrels a lot, but feel the value isnt there for the rifles compared to other brands, so would personally be looking at Colt CCU, BCM and SIONICS. Also consider throwing an upgraded trigger in whatever you end up getting

JediGuy
10-26-18, 08:24
Long range precision isn’t a priority for you, so you don’t need a longer barrel, could probably go a little shorter... (This is only referencing the added velocity from a longer barrel, not inherent accuracy.)

I’d probably buy an SBR Colt or BCM. Or the Colt CCU, if I just wanted to upgrade to mid length with a free floated hand guard. I’m a cheapskate, so would probably buy separate upper and lower from either company, on sale. Upgrade the trigger, and you’re good to go. Should have enough cash left to get a nice optic.

sasquatchoslav
10-26-18, 08:45
PWS has really impressed me I have about 2k rounds through my x39. Have run the absolute stink out of it will eat any ammo I feed it from Hornady to Wolf to Tula to Red Army and Atomic and Detroit subs, runs suppressed like a dream and I have not exactly made love to it. Mud, dust, bouncing around in a quad/side by side it just runs. Any of the other brands mentioned are great too. I have no particular affinity for one system or the other PWS is my first piston, but I've been wholly impressed with it's performance.

Doc Safari
10-26-18, 11:44
There probably isn't a "step above Colt" since they are the military standard, although there are other good brands and I'm a BCM fanboy.


IF you just want "another AR", buy another Colt but maybe get a different variant like a skinnny barrel AR6720 or heavy barrel AR6721.

I like my 6720 for the light weight, but the 6721 is the most accurate one I've ever shot.

Other than that, if you can find another top tier brand at a bargain price, go that way.

Mr McSimon
10-26-18, 11:58
With that budget I vote BCM. Go over to G&R Tactical, choose a lower, add the A5 buffer system and SSA trigger, pick out your upper, add BCG and charging handle. Use code BCM18 for your M4C discount, you're done for under $1500 with a pretty sweet rifle.

DoubleW
10-26-18, 12:04
The only thing I would choose over Colt cost more than $1500. With that in mind, just get a different variant of Colt (Trooper, EPR, CCU) & use the extra for a nice optic. You could also look at the BCM line which will run about $1500 for the free float railed models. Besides that, I’d look at LMT or KAC, but they’re over $1500.

One&Done
10-26-18, 12:07
LWRCI DI in 5.56 NATO. I've two, and have never found better...

All the best,

One&Done

26 Inf
10-26-18, 12:19
I purchased a Colt AR about five years ago and have been happy with it. I'm looking to buy another AR and have been reading as much as I can (too much?) about other brands, models, etc. and I'm pretty much totally confused by all the options and variations. I have a budget of $1500 and can spend it on the rifle alone, since have all the accessories I need, etc.

I'm looking for something that is a "step above" Colt and offers the best in reliability, rugged build, durability, etc. etc.

This is what I would do, because of this:

LaRue accuracy is known world-wide. The accuracy of each LaRue Rifle is proven at our 100-yard tunnel using match-grade ammunition. No LaRue firearm can leave the facility unless it obtains accuracy of less-than 1 MOA (1.047”) at 100 Yards. Each firearm ships with a copy of a 3-round group obtained from that actual firearm.

16 Inch LaRue Tactical PredatAR 5.56 - $1190.90 Doing it this way:

LaRue Ultimate Upper Kit - 16" Predator or Stealth - Assembled and Test Fired - $991.00 - https://www.larue.com/products/larue-ultimate-ar-15-upper-kit/

LaRue Billet Lower - $199.00 - https://www.larue.com/products/larue-billet-lowers/

If you look at the parts list, with these two items you have a complete rifle, with guaranteed 1 moa accuracy and the LaRue MBT Trigger (read the reviews) for $1190.00.

I spec'ed assembled because they test fire it for accuracy. If you aren't comfortable assembling the lower, I'm sure a LGS would do it for less than a hundred.

According to my calculations and equivalent DD would be $1656.00:

YOUR BUILD:
(click to change at any time)

1: Finish Color: Black
2: Furniture Color: Black
3: Trigger: Geissele SSA 2-Stage Trigger
4: Gas System Length: Mid Length
5: Barrel: 16" Barrel
6: Muzzle Devices: Flash Suppressor, 5.56 NATO
7: Bolt Carrier Group: Bolt Carrier Group
8: Rail System: SLiM Rail
9: Sights: None
10: Grips: None
11: Upgrades & Accessories: None
Total: $1,656.10

BCM RECCE-16 MCMR-15 MLOK GOVT $1,299.00 http://www.gandrtactical.com/BCM-RECCE-16-MCMR-15-MLOK-GOVT_p_825.html

Lewis Machine & Tool CQB16 CQB MRP Defender 16 Rifle 5.56mm 16in - $2099.00 https://www.tombstonetactical.com/catalog/lmt/cqb-mrp-rifle-556-16in-black/

Lewis Machine & Tool CQB16COP CQB MRP Distressed Copper 16.5in - $1999.99 https://lmtdefense.com/firearms/cqb16cop

Knights Armament 31900 SR-15 Mod 2 Rifle 5.56mm 16in Black Mlok URX4 - $2470.10 https://www.tombstonetactical.com/catalog/knights-armament/31900-sr15-mod-2-rifle-5.56mm-16in-30rd-black-mlok-urx4/

Looks like only the LaRue and the BCM would come in under your $1500.00 limit.

I would be all over another LaRue, myself.

Hope this helps, it's raining here, I had nothing better to do. :rolleyes:

hile
10-26-18, 12:28
I have one Daniel Defense DDM4 v7 right now; most all of my ARs are BCM right now. If you buy a complete BCM lower and the complete upper you want separately, I think you'll save a bit compared to sourcing a whole rifle. I'd probably go BCM of those you listed.

Razorblade
10-26-18, 13:03
If Kac is in the options, then Kac. You won’t regret it.

Edit: for those thinking you have to pay $2500 for a NIB Kac thatis simply incorrect. If you have a little patience and know where to look one can be had for around $1900

MegademiC
10-26-18, 13:09
I purchased a Colt AR about five years ago and have been happy with it. I'm looking to buy another AR and have been reading as much as I can (too much?) about other brands, models, etc. and I'm pretty much totally confused by all the options and variations. I have a budget of $1500 and can spend it on the rifle alone, since have all the accessories I need, etc.

I'm looking for something that is a "step above" Colt and offers the best in reliability, rugged build, durability, etc. etc.

I will be shooting it at my local range short and longer ranges: combat pits and ranges to 400 yards, etc. I'd want it to be capable, if necessary, of being a solid, reliable SHTF or HD scenario rifle, as well.

Should I just get another Colt? Or ... ??

Daniel Defense?
Bravo Company?
LMT?
KAC?

Option 1: save $ for a KAC. Might be able to swing an upper only.
Option 2: but another colt. Maybe throw a longer handguard on there

Wake27
10-26-18, 13:20
With that budget I vote BCM. Go over to G&R Tactical, choose a lower, add the A5 buffer system and SSA trigger, pick out your upper, add BCG and charging handle. Use code BCM18 for your M4C discount, you're done for under $1500 with a pretty sweet rifle.

This whole thing unless you’re willing to save another $600+ for the KAC. Pretty much every other option listed here has been good (I wouldn’t spend money on LWRC or PWS) but this is the best for the money.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

scooter22
10-26-18, 13:23
Colt
BCM
KAC


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Renegade04
10-26-18, 13:54
My recommendations would be the following:

LMT STD16 - https://lmtdefense.com/firearms/std16

Here is a link where they are priced just less than $1500. https://www.hinterlandoutfitters.com/defender-standard-model-std16-rem556-nato-semi-auto-chrome-lined-twist-collapsible-sopmod-stock-finish-estimated-lead-time-weeks-p-36589.html

BCM Mid-16s - https://www.hinterlandoutfitters.com/defender-standard-model-std16-rem556-nato-semi-auto-chrome-lined-twist-collapsible-sopmod-stock-finish-estimated-lead-time-weeks-p-36589.html

BCM RECCE 16s - http://shop.bravocompanymfg.com/BravoCompanyMFG-BCM-AR15-M4-RECCE-Carbines-Rifles-s/102.htm

BCM RECCE 16 MCMRs - http://shop.bravocompanymfg.com/category-s/124.htm

Daniel Defense - Buds Gun Shop has a few models to offer. They are priced around $1600 and up.

https://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/mobile/categories.php?cat=901


I have one of the BCM Mid-16 Mod 2 ARs and I love it. It is certainly not on par with a Colt. IMHO, it is better than any modern Colt.

https://i.imgur.com/K7hpKD2.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/k0lGJLM.jpg

Razorblade
10-26-18, 13:55
If you’re truly wanting a “step above”; then Kac is the only real option, with actual differences/upgrades...the rest are nice but basically just boutique ARs. Kac has the best resale value as well.

magister
10-26-18, 16:26
I will be shooting it at my local range short and longer ranges: combat pits and ranges to 400 yards, etc. I'd want it to be capable, if necessary, of being a solid, reliable SHTF or HD scenario rifle, as well.

Given this criteria and budget I would personally get a second Colt 6920, or a BCM standard midlength and pare either with a sling, light, and Aimpoint Pro. That’d put you around the $1,500 mark and satisfy the above criteria.

Or, you could pick up a Colt Trooper, Colt CCU, Sionics, or BCM of your choice with free float rail and put a lpvo on it. Something like an swfa 1-4, Steiner, etc. If you wanted to try something with a rail and magnified, variable optic. Those may run you above budget, but still pretty close. Either are things I would consider if selecting a second rifle.

They say KAC is king of the hill. If you want to go a “cut above” then you may want to hang on to the $1,500 you have and save a little longer. But that’d just get you into the rifle, not optics, lights, etc.

MistWolf
10-26-18, 16:39
Colt M4A1 SOCOM. About as close as your gonna get to an issue M4A1 without joining up.

https://cdn7.bigcommerce.com/s-1kqh9qmybo/images/stencil/1280x1280/products/52329/55821/098289019462__62484.1530634445.jpg?c=2&imbypass=on

Impact Guns has'em in stock- https://www.impactguns.com/colt-ar-15-socom-carbine-223-5-56-16-1-30-1-quad-rail-blk/

G&R Tactical carries them, but are currently out of stock- http://www.gandrtactical.com/Colt-LE6920-SOCOM-145-AMBI-KAC-RAS_p_1165.html

joeg26er
10-26-18, 16:54
This is what I would do, because of this:

LaRue accuracy is known world-wide. The accuracy of each LaRue Rifle is proven at our 100-yard tunnel using match-grade ammunition. No LaRue firearm can leave the facility unless it obtains accuracy of less-than 1 MOA (1.047”) at 100 Yards. Each firearm ships with a copy of a 3-round group obtained from that actual firearm.

16 Inch LaRue Tactical PredatAR 5.56 - $1190.90 Doing it this way:

LaRue Ultimate Upper Kit - 16" Predator or Stealth - Assembled and Test Fired - $991.00 - https://www.larue.com/products/larue-ultimate-ar-15-upper-kit/

LaRue Billet Lower - $199.00 - https://www.larue.com/products/larue-billet-lowers/

If you look at the parts list, with these two items you have a complete rifle, with guaranteed 1 moa accuracy and the LaRue MBT Trigger (read the reviews) for $1190.00.

I spec'ed assembled because they test fire it for accuracy. If you aren't comfortable assembling the lower, I'm sure a LGS would do it for less than a hundred.

According to my calculations and equivalent DD would be $1656.00:

YOUR BUILD:
(click to change at any time)

1: Finish Color: Black
2: Furniture Color: Black
3: Trigger: Geissele SSA 2-Stage Trigger
4: Gas System Length: Mid Length
5: Barrel: 16" Barrel
6: Muzzle Devices: Flash Suppressor, 5.56 NATO
7: Bolt Carrier Group: Bolt Carrier Group
8: Rail System: SLiM Rail
9: Sights: None
10: Grips: None
11: Upgrades & Accessories: None
Total: $1,656.10

BCM RECCE-16 MCMR-15 MLOK GOVT $1,299.00 http://www.gandrtactical.com/BCM-RECCE-16-MCMR-15-MLOK-GOVT_p_825.html

Lewis Machine & Tool CQB16 CQB MRP Defender 16 Rifle 5.56mm 16in - $2099.00 https://www.tombstonetactical.com/catalog/lmt/cqb-mrp-rifle-556-16in-black/

Lewis Machine & Tool CQB16COP CQB MRP Distressed Copper 16.5in - $1999.99 https://lmtdefense.com/firearms/cqb16cop

Knights Armament 31900 SR-15 Mod 2 Rifle 5.56mm 16in Black Mlok URX4 - $2470.10 https://www.tombstonetactical.com/catalog/knights-armament/31900-sr15-mod-2-rifle-5.56mm-16in-30rd-black-mlok-urx4/

Looks like only the LaRue and the BCM would come in under your $1500.00 limit.

I would be all over another LaRue, myself.

Hope this helps, it's raining here, I had nothing better to do. :rolleyes:


Not to rain on the parade as Larues are quality but Mr Larue himself said that the Assembled Ultimate Upper's by themselves are not actually tested for sub MOA groups. They are simply test fired.
I know, I bought one in the first offering of these at the new discounted price and several folks that purchased in that first group asked that question.

Wake27
10-26-18, 16:59
Colt M4A1 SOCOM. About as close as your gonna get to an issue M4A1 without joining up.

https://cdn7.bigcommerce.com/s-1kqh9qmybo/images/stencil/1280x1280/products/52329/55821/098289019462__62484.1530634445.jpg?c=2&imbypass=on

Impact Guns has'em in stock- https://www.impactguns.com/colt-ar-15-socom-carbine-223-5-56-16-1-30-1-quad-rail-blk/

G&R Tactical carries them, but are currently out of stock- http://www.gandrtactical.com/Colt-LE6920-SOCOM-145-AMBI-KAC-RAS_p_1165.html

I honestly wish I was issued this (http://www.gandrtactical.com/BCM-RECCE-14-BFH-ELW-MCMR-13-MLOK_p_841.html) instead. The happy switch is nice and the SOCOM barrel is almost guaranteed to shoot better, but I'd definitely choose the BCM. If there was a middy SOCOM barrel, and maybe a Geissele rail on the BCM, that would 100% be the ultimate solution IMO, minus an SR-16.

joeg26er
10-26-18, 17:03
Since you already have a standard AR I would highly suggest building your own lightweight pistol version if your location allows that.

MistWolf
10-26-18, 17:09
I honestly wish I was issued this (http://www.gandrtactical.com/BCM-RECCE-14-BFH-ELW-MCMR-13-MLOK_p_841.html) instead. The happy switch is nice and the SOCOM barrel is almost guaranteed to shoot better, but I'd definitely choose the BCM. If there was a middy SOCOM barrel, and maybe a Geissele rail on the BCM, that would 100% be the ultimate solution IMO, minus an SR-16.

(Truth be told, if the above SOCOM were my only AR, I'd change the handguards, grip & stock. But I do dig the PROPERTY OF U.S. GOV'T roll mark)

JediGuy
10-26-18, 17:19
I stand by my CCU recommendation earlier, but darn I’d like Colt to produce a 14.5” midlength SOCOM. Got the parts to finish a 14.5 carbine upper, but...there’s always something “better.”

ssc
10-26-18, 17:27
In my opinion, going to a mid length is a "step above." In your price range and even without that price range, the only two rifles I would recommend is BCM or the Sionics Patrol Three. http://sionicsweaponsystems.com/store2015/home/9-patrol-ssk-12.html

Cheers, Steve

26 Inf
10-26-18, 21:47
Not to rain on the parade as Larues are quality but Mr Larue himself said that the Assembled Ultimate Upper's by themselves are not actually tested for sub MOA groups. They are simply test fired.
I know, I bought one in the first offering of these at the new discounted price and several folks that purchased in that first group asked that question.

Thanks, I did not know that they weren't test fired for accuracy. I really like my 6.5G Ultimate Upper.

Renegade04
10-27-18, 05:44
Thanks, I did not know that they weren't test fired for accuracy. I really like my 6.5G Ultimate Upper.

It is not that they are not tested for accuracy. They are just not tested for "sub MOA" groups. All of LaRue's complete uppers are tested. Doing sub MOA accuracy testing is another step above. It is something that not many companies will do, nor do many companies even test for accuracy. Some only test fire, if that.

Nightstalker865
10-27-18, 06:27
If there was a middy SOCOM barrel, and maybe a Geissele rail on the BCM, that would 100% be the ultimate solution IMO, minus an SR-16.

I have been wishing for this combo for years.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

joeg26er
10-27-18, 06:38
Here’s what Dan At larue said August 2017 about an assembled Ultimate Upper

“The upper was assembled and test fired. The test fire we are offering was a function test and not done for accuracy so there is no test target in the box. We had everything already ready to assemble the uppers which is why it got done so quickly.”

If larue is sending these ultimate Uppers with test targets now I’d be interested to know

FredL
10-27-18, 06:50
I would be all over another LaRue, myself.

Hope this helps, it's raining here, I had nothing better to do. :rolleyes:


Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this thread. I deeply appreciate it! You have given me a lot to think about and consider.

QUESTION to/for 26 Inf. I've always been intrigued by LaRue and their product lines and your comment on this thread has me really interested in pursuing this. Here are some dumb questions, but ... thanks for indulging.

If I go this route is it on me to assemble the lower, or for that matter, anything with the upper? I'd like to have it all pre-assembled for me by LaRue, is that an option? And I'm going to pursue the questions raised about accuracy testing, seems like a bit of conflicting information here. But this really has piqued my interest.

Renegade04
10-27-18, 07:27
Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this thread. I deeply appreciate it! You have given me a lot to think about and consider.

QUESTION to/for 26 Inf. I've always been intrigued by LaRue and their product lines and your comment on this thread has me really interested in pursuing this. Here are some dumb questions, but ... thanks for indulging.

If I go this route is it on me to assemble the lower, or for that matter, anything with the upper? I'd like to have it all pre-assembled for me by LaRue, is that an option? And I'm going to pursue the questions raised about accuracy testing, seems like a bit of conflicting information here. But this really has piqued my interest.

You can order the Ultimate upper fully assembled. There is an array of options in the menus. You will have to supply your own lower receiver and build it.

https://www.larue.com/products/larue-ultimate-ar-15-upper-kit/

joeg26er
10-27-18, 07:30
Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this thread. I deeply appreciate it! You have given me a lot to think about and consider.

QUESTION to/for 26 Inf. I've always been intrigued by LaRue and their product lines and your comment on this thread has me really interested in pursuing this. Here are some dumb questions, but ... thanks for indulging.

If I go this route is it on me to assemble the lower, or for that matter, anything with the upper? I'd like to have it all pre-assembled for me by LaRue, is that an option? And I'm going to pursue the questions raised about accuracy testing, seems like a bit of conflicting information here. But this really has piqued my interest.

If you purchase the Ultimate Upper from Larue, you can pay them to pre-assemble it but they are not going to send you a test target showing sub moa group AFAIK.
All you have to do is pin it to your lower and install any sights.
You can purchase a stripped lower from them ONLY if/when you order an Ultimate upper. It's pretty easy to assemble a lower. If you change your own oil and have rotated your own tires, you can assemble a lower. No really special tools required other than a $20 AR tool which you should get anyway and perhaps a set of long allens. Lots of videos for DIY.

markderp
10-27-18, 11:08
I would start by buying a milspec lower from any reputable manufacturer. Colt, BCM etc. $250-$400

Then choose an upper that appeals to you and you'll find a lot of combos that fall under $1500.

Geissele URGI - Around $1200, maybe less with promo codes
BCM Midlength MCMR - Around $800 with BCG
DDM4 Upper - About a grand depending on model

26 Inf
10-27-18, 16:30
Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this thread. I deeply appreciate it! You have given me a lot to think about and consider.

QUESTION to/for 26 Inf. I've always been intrigued by LaRue and their product lines and your comment on this thread has me really interested in pursuing this. Here are some dumb questions, but ... thanks for indulging.

If I go this route is it on me to assemble the lower, or for that matter, anything with the upper? I'd like to have it all pre-assembled for me by LaRue, is that an option? And I'm going to pursue the questions raised about accuracy testing, seems like a bit of conflicting information here. But this really has piqued my interest.

Sorry, I just saw this.

As others have said you can have LaRue assemble the upper, it adds a cost of 199.00 to the price of the upper.

I was unaware that they didn't accuracy test the uppers as part of the assembly process, their drop down says 'assembled - test fired + 199.00.' I could not find in the FAQ's where they make the statement that testing on the assembled ultimate uppers does not include a test target - not saying that isn't true, just saying I couldn't find it - in view of that I would certainly call them.

I assembled my 6.5 Grendel and it was very accurate off the workbench. I don't load 6.5G yet so I'm buying ammo, therefore I don't have hundreds of rounds through it, but it seems to be shooting better all the time. Next time out I'll hang some paper at 100 and measure how it groups, after zeroing it I've pretty much just been enjoying the 'thwack' of hitting metal.

I bought my LaRue lower shortly after I got the upper, they will not sell you a lower unless they have shipped you an upper, or it is bought at the same time.

The Ultimate Upper Kit contains everything you need to make a complete rifle EXCEPT receiver, magazine and sights. So if you are buying a lower receiver from them, you really don't need to buy anything else for a complete rifle.

If you are hesitant to put the lower together yourself, I'm sure a local gun store could do it for you, or steer you to someone who could. Don't pay over $100.00 to have it assembled, it doesn't take an hour.

IMO opinion, this LaRue is the one that would most fit your criteria as long as you are willing to either put the lower receiver together or have someone do it for you.

I know you've received a lot of the proforma 'buy a BCM' 'buy a Sionics' or 'buy a Colt' advice.

I have used a lot of BCM components on stuff I've built, the BCM upper I purchased for my son takes deer's every year, so I'm not saying anything negative about them. Likewise, I have used Sionics barrels in builds and they are good shooters, so I'm not trashing them.

But....even if the LaRue assembly and test fire doesn't include a group target, I don't believe any of the others I mentioned guarantee 1 moa from their rifles, nor do they ship targets with them. I don't see any reason to believe that the LaRue Upper wouldn't meet the 1 moa guarantee, if assembled correctly.

If I had 1500.00 I know what I'd buy.

BTW; I'm starting the process for this next month - https://www.larue.com/products/larue-ultimate-suurg-kit/

FredL
10-28-18, 08:31
UPDATE

I spent a lot of time yesterday researching and studying and opted to purchase a COLT AR-15 A4. I got it for $915, shipped and am not considering replacing the A2 style handguard with a quad rail. I finally realized, hey, if COLT has been good enough for me for five years and since it was on a COLT that I was originally trained...why complicate life...stick with what I know. I love the rifle length gas system on it and the "old school" look and feel of it, it has a 20" barrel. I'm contemplating using a variable power optic on it for fun and utility.

Thanks for all the advice.

DoubleW
10-28-18, 08:38
UPDATE

I spent a lot of time yesterday researching and studying and opted to purchase a COLT AR-15 A4. I got it for $915, shipped and am not considering replacing the A2 style handguard with a quad rail. I finally realized, hey, if COLT has been good enough for me for five years and since it was on a COLT that I was originally trained...why complicate life...stick with what I know. I love the rifle length gas system on it and the "old school" look and feel of it, it has a 20" barrel. I'm contemplating using a variable power optic on it for fun and utility.

Thanks for all the advice.

I’d go ahead a put a 4x ACOG on there and a BFG sling and you’ll have yourself an A4 clone of sorts. I have both the FN & Colt A4 & really enjoy shooting them both.

magister
10-28-18, 08:42
I spent a lot of time yesterday researching and studying and opted to purchase a COLT AR-15 A4. I got it for $915, shipped and am not considering replacing the A2 style handguard with a quad rail. I finally realized, hey, if COLT has been good enough for me for five years and since it was on a COLT that I was originally trained...why complicate life...stick with what I know. I love the rifle length gas system on it and the "old school" look and feel of it, it has a 20" barrel. I'm contemplating using a variable power optic on it for fun and utility.

Thanks for all the advice.

Personally, I’ll always like A2 and A4 variants. You picked a good one, too. You’re making me want to buy one!

FredL
10-28-18, 09:47
Personally, I’ll always like A2 and A4 variants. You picked a good one, too. You’re making me want to buy one!

My eyes aren't what they used to be and the smallish reticle on the ACOG doesn't work too well for me anymore. I think I am going to use a variable power with a FFP reticle, sound good?

Hammer_Man
10-28-18, 09:54
My eyes aren't what they used to be and the smallish reticle on the ACOG doesn't work too well for me anymore. I think I am going to use a variable power with a FFP reticle, sound good?

Seems like you made a solid choice. Make sure you post a pic or two!

vicious_cb
10-28-18, 11:51
I would NOT suggest a Larue rifle based on your needs. Larues are more SPR type rifles than anything and 400 yards isnt exactly far, larues are accurate but they are pigs(inb4 Mark Larue calls me a pussy and tells me to go to the gym). I think you chose well getting a mil-spec type chrome-lined barreled upper, Colt barrels are stupidly accurate for being chrome-lined.

AndyLate
10-28-18, 12:39
UPDATE

I spent a lot of time yesterday researching and studying and opted to purchase a COLT AR-15 A4. I got it for $915, shipped and am not considering replacing the A2 style handguard with a quad rail. I finally realized, hey, if COLT has been good enough for me for five years and since it was on a COLT that I was originally trained...why complicate life...stick with what I know. I love the rifle length gas system on it and the "old school" look and feel of it, it has a 20" barrel. I'm contemplating using a variable power optic on it for fun and utility.

Thanks for all the advice.

Nice choice!

Do you mean you are or are not considering a Quad rail?

Numrich has rifle length Troy Bravo Battlerail Free-Float quad rails for just under $100, for what it's worth.

Andy

magister
10-28-18, 13:20
My eyes aren't what they used to be and the smallish reticle on the ACOG doesn't work too well for me anymore. I think I am going to use a variable power with a FFP reticle, sound good?

I like, and use lpvo’s. Would have no objection to using one on an A4. I would encourage you to look through as many optics as you can to get a feel for what you like. There’s a lot of good ones out there to pick from.

FredL
10-28-18, 17:24
Nice choice!

Do you mean you are or are not considering a Quad rail?

Numrich has rifle length Troy Bravo Battlerail Free-Float quad rails for just under $100, for what it's worth.

Andy

Who is "Numrich" ?

brushy bill
10-28-18, 18:01
Who is "Numrich" ?

https://www.gunpartscorp.com

Eazyeach
10-28-18, 19:44
Can I ask where you got the Colt A4 for that price? I’ve been wanting one for a while.

FredL
10-30-18, 02:12
Can I ask where you got the Colt A4 for that price? I’ve been wanting one for a while.

FFL dealer, private sale, just stumbled across it and it was the only one he had.

Doc Safari
10-30-18, 08:38
Colt barrels are stupidly accurate for being chrome-lined.

You got that right. One reason I switched from being a BCM fanboy to all Colt all the time is that I fired two BCM's right alongside two Colts and the Colts were obviously more accurate. I mean "obviously".

FredL
10-30-18, 18:10
So...this happened.

I kind of went "all in" on Colts and I was doing more reading and decided if I have an "old school" style AR I'd like something close to the present state AR, the M4, so I found over on Charlie's Clones a M4 SOCOM with the Government Property roll mark, so....I got it too. I guess all I need now to round out my Colt AR collection is their newer mid-length gas system AR.

Thanks again for the extremely helpful advice and I appreciate hearing from the expertise, and the last comment re. the accuracy of Colt barrels is encouraging.

Mr McSimon
10-30-18, 19:02
Haha, ended up a little over budget it sounds like. That's ok, been there, done that, like, yesterday.

The M4 SOCOM barrel has a reputation for being even that much more accurate above and beyond what's already been talked about here. That Property of roll mark is pretty cool too, so I'll bet you're about giddy right now.

MistWolf
10-30-18, 19:19
So...this happened.

I kind of went "all in" on Colts and I was doing more reading and decided if I have an "old school" style AR I'd like something close to the present state AR, the M4, so I found over on Charlie's Clones a M4 SOCOM with the Government Property roll mark, so....I got it too. I guess all I need now to round out my Colt AR collection is their newer mid-length gas system AR.

Thanks again for the extremely helpful advice and I appreciate hearing from the expertise, and the last comment re. the accuracy of Colt barrels is encouraging.

Congrats! The roll mark is why I picked one up for myself. Mine's a good shooter. I topped it with an Aimpoint M4s

https://photos.smugmug.com/F1/M4A1-SOCOM/n-fNVFjd/i-rhk5qwZ/0/c862bb88/X2/i-rhk5qwZ-X2.jpg

magister
10-30-18, 22:30
So...this happened.

I kind of went "all in" on Colts and I was doing more reading and decided if I have an "old school" style AR I'd like something close to the present state AR, the M4, so I found over on Charlie's Clones a M4 SOCOM with the Government Property roll mark, so....I got it too. I guess all I need now to round out my Colt AR collection is their newer mid-length gas system AR.

Thanks again for the extremely helpful advice and I appreciate hearing from the expertise, and the last comment re. the accuracy of Colt barrels is encouraging.

The socom is a great rifle. I’m sure you’ll love it. And yes, I’d encourage you to try out the 6920 Trooper or 6960 CCU at some point. The Trooper is becoming one of my favorites. Like the centurion rail a lot, and it shoots surprisingly good with the M193 I’ve put through it.

MJinPA
10-31-18, 05:05
My eyes aren't what they used to be and the smallish reticle on the ACOG doesn't work too well for me anymore. I think I am going to use a variable power with a FFP reticle, sound good?

I’d look at some of the LPVO with a red dot too vs illuminated reticle (vortex pst gen 2 or razor, Steiner p4xi, c-more c3 etc). In my opinion is the best all around option for general purpose.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Hammer_Man
10-31-18, 05:47
So...this happened.

I kind of went "all in" on Colts and I was doing more reading and decided if I have an "old school" style AR I'd like something close to the present state AR, the M4, so I found over on Charlie's Clones a M4 SOCOM with the Government Property roll mark, so....I got it too. I guess all I need now to round out my Colt AR collection is their newer mid-length gas system AR.

Thanks again for the extremely helpful advice and I appreciate hearing from the expertise, and the last comment re. the accuracy of Colt barrels is encouraging.

You may have to eat Top Ramen for a while, but it will be worth it in the end.