They do. If the NFA didn't exist, 10.3"/11.5" AR15s would probably be the most common variant owned.
Printable View
The shorter the sbr the more you need to be aware of dwell time. May cause the sbr to be more finicky with certain types of ammo and buffer and spring combos.
Shorties are accurate for farther out than most that have no time with one would expect. 200yds. with my 6933's isn't a problem unless conditions are rough. Make that 200 using a T-2.
Registration which means all the paperwork and wait.
The regulations associated with owning them.
Those are the only downsides I've discovered. So far my 10.5" LMT has been reliable, accurate and just plain fun. I've been told it's noisier but it doesn't both me or seem any louder to me. So, not my problem.
I have found that 12.5" is perfect for me. Great accuracy. Plenty of rail still in place. Not AS loud.. (still louder though) And the gas system is a little more on track.
I like the 12.5"
They make you buy suppressors, not necessarily a bad thing though.
I've said it several times, if I could only have 1 AR it would be my 11.5 with suppressor hands down. 16" rifle for me are great to be able to take to a carbine class out of state without filing a form 5, it's the only use I have for them.
So far, the main downside for me - is the paperwork. I really like my s.b.r....
The Form 20 is not a huge hassle but it still causes more work - than say going out of state with a 16" bbl.