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Thread: Best length for a general purpose AR?

  1. #1
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    Question Best length for a general purpose AR?

    I am new to ARs and was wondering what others thought is the best length for a general purpose AR? I am considering the 10.5", 14.5" and 16" length bbls. I am planning to use the AR for shooting at the range, HD and possibly competitions. I am not planning on using the AR for long distance shooting at this time.
    I was also wondering what manufacturer makes the best AR rifles? Or who should I go to for a semi custom rifle? I am looking for a rifle in the $1500- $1700 price range. I do know this is a lot of money but I am willing to pay for a good rifle since it will be my only AR. I do not want to put my own rifle together at this time, but I do want a rifle that is reliable and accurate and fun to shoot.
    All opinions are welcomed. Remember I am new to this forum and ARs so be nice, if I am asking the wrong questions help steer me in the right direction.

  2. #2
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    16" mid-length
    18" mid-length
    18" rifle-length

    Any of these would be good all around from my 1st to last choice.
    Chief Armorer for Elite Shooting Sports in Manassas VA
    Chief Armorer for Corp Arms (FFL 07-08/SOT 02)

  3. #3
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    Quote Originally Posted by gotm4 View Post
    16" mid-length
    18" mid-length
    18" rifle-length

    Any of these would be good all around from my 1st to last choice.
    What is the difference between an 18" mid-lenght and an 18" rifle length AR?

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    Quote Originally Posted by NightFighter View Post
    What is the difference between an 18" mid-lenght and an 18" rifle length AR?
    About 3" of gas tube.
    Chief Armorer for Elite Shooting Sports in Manassas VA
    Chief Armorer for Corp Arms (FFL 07-08/SOT 02)

  5. #5
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    i really think 16" is the best on a 556 gun... unless you are trying to make a SUPER lightweight gun...

    for general purpose... a midlength 16" has enough velocity without becoming annoying in overall length...

    but every person will have their own choice...

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    Quote Originally Posted by gotm4 View Post
    About 3" of gas tube.
    How significant is the 3" of gas tube? Do I lose pressure or gain pressure with the 3" of gas tube.

    I live in the NOVA area and I just looked up your company and wondered if you or your company could help me through the NFA paper work if I ever decide to buy an SBR?

  7. #7
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    Quote Originally Posted by NightFighter View Post
    How significant is the 3" of gas tube? Do I lose pressure or gain pressure with the 3" of gas tube.

    I live in the NOVA area and I just looked up your company and wondered if you or your company could help me through the NFA paper work if I ever decide to buy an SBR?
    Rifle length gas systems are the softest shooting (lowest gas pressure). That said, I would still chose it last, just like in my list which is why it's listed last.

    You mentioned competition, I find for some competition that 16" ARs are pushing it to minimum make power factor with 55gr (USPSA rules 3gun). 18s always make minimum power factor with 55gr ammo.

    You also mentioned HD use. In that case I'd recommend at a very minimum that you use a MP tested bolt and check for proper carrier key staking (if not restake), properly assembly and a pinned FSB or gas block and buy known good magazines (BCM mags, Magpul P-mags) That said for complete rifles I'd recommend Colt, LMT, Sabre Defence..............RRA (with some upgrades) or S&W (they need very little fixes/tweaks lately).

    As much as I wish we were, we're not a NFA dealer but I can give you a little advice and point you to a local VA NFA dealer.
    Chief Armorer for Elite Shooting Sports in Manassas VA
    Chief Armorer for Corp Arms (FFL 07-08/SOT 02)

  8. #8
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    16" middy

    IMHO if you want to do something at a range that the 16" is not good for - get a larger calibre.
    Kevin S. Boland
    Manager, Federal Sales
    FN America, LLC
    Office: 703.288.3500 x181 | Mobile: 407-451-4544 | Fax: 703.288.4505
    www.fnhusa.com

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    Quote Originally Posted by KevinB View Post
    16" middy

    IMHO if you want to do something at a range that the 16" is not good for - get a larger calibre.
    Exactly.

  10. #10
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    Concur; a 16" barrel is the most versatile choice in 5.56mm and a mid-length gas tube is the best option with a 16" barrel.

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