Request Your Opinions on Monolithic Uppers: Vltor vs Mega
I'm in the process of narrowing down the list of components for my build. I like the idea of a monolithic upper because it affords an uninterrupted top rail, better rigidity, more optic mounting options, and free float of the barrel to aid in accuracy. I've been researching Vltor and Mega on this forum and elsewhere and these are my perceptions so far:
Vltor VIS
1.) Undisputed excellence
2.) MilSpec dimensions and tolerances
3.) Polylithic design - has a removable lower handguard intended to allow the attachment of the M-203 grenade launcher (yeah, like I'm ever going to need that), but the benefit to me would be better accessibility for more thorough cleaning
4.) From the pic on Ranier's site, it appears that the lower portion of the VIS handguard has a double-layered heat shield. Not sure about this though... http://www.rainierarms.com/?page=sho...product_id=605
5.) Non-proprietary in that you can use any stock barrel
Mega Monolithic Quad-Rail
1.) Relatively new to the AR scene, but has an excellent reputation for quality, fit, and finish. Consistently machine to MilSpec tolerances, not hit-or-miss
2.) Outstanding Customer Service - I've been pounding one of the owners with questions and he's been super-responsive and happy to answer everything I've asked of him
3.) 7075-T6 construction
4.) True one-piece monolithic design
5.) Same as #5 above
6.) Have you checked out the pics on Mega's website?? What a beautiful piece of work!! It definitely does not look like a cheese grater. ;) http://www.megamachineshop.com/armsc...AD/loader.html
They both look awesome both functionally and aesthetically. The only thing I think I might be missing on either design are integral QD sling-swivel sockets (but I can add a DD rail mount QD swivel attachment point). Anyway, from what I've gathered I don't think I could go wrong with either design, but I sure would like to hear from some of my more experienced brethren on what they might think about either of these.
BTW - The gentleman I corresponded with stated that the new rifle length monolithic upper would probably be out sometime around the May timeframe. He also states that whereas the useable length of the rail on the mid-length monolithic upper is 14.75", the useable length on the upcoming rifle length upper will be approximately 3.37" longer - FYI.