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Thread: Trying to decide if I should SBR

  1. #1
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    Trying to decide if I should SBR

    Ok first for a little backround. I currently own a Sig 556. While I like the rifle and how it shoots, I have decided to go back to the AR platform. I made this choice for several reasons. Other than great familiarity with ARs because of the military, weight and handling are the two biggest reasons for the switch and why I am leaning toward an SBR. Also I want a rifle that would be easy to pack around, suppress, "conceal" and move in tight spaces. Basically a SHTF/home and property defence rifle. The only thing is I have a few apprehensions about going to a 10.5 or 11.5 SBR. First this will be my only assault type rifle and wonder if a more rounded upper like a pinned 14.5 would be better. Second SBRs can be hard on parts when suppressed, so maybe a midlength gas system would be better? Also I like the idea of a softer shooting system in the midlenght. Lastly is the wait and the hoops that need to be jumped through are off putting. So what are your thoughts on my doing an SBR for my needs, SBR or pinned 14.5?
    Last edited by cgbills; 07-07-11 at 09:17.

  2. #2
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    First, if by "rounded upper" you mean something that will give better velocity (which means better ballistics), then just know that even a 10.5" rifle will be good to at least 100 yds depending on the ammo selection. However as a civilian, I wouldn't be making "self defense" shots at much further than CQB distances anyway, making the "ballistics issue" a moot point.

    Second, SBRs "may" be harder on parts, but that's why you do preventative maintenance. The "wear parts" are cheap and you will spend more in ammo then you will ever spend on small parts.

    Third, yes its a pain in the a$$ to go through the process for a SBR, but like they say, "you have to pay to play"...I think its worth it if you don't mind the wait.

    If you're really set on the midlength, you can do the 12.5" KINO build so you can have the SBR and the midlength...but I don't think its necessary to be honest.

    I say go for the SBR...the more red-blooded Americans have them, the less chance "they" will take them away
    Last edited by Ironman8; 07-07-11 at 00:14.

  3. #3
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    As an only AR I would not do an SBR or a pinned anything. 16", A1 profile if you're concerned about weight, and that's it.

    Everything else, whether longer or shorter, is a niche gun IMO. My Colt 6933 SBR "niche gun" is the one I'd shoot the most, but I still keep at least one personally-owned 16" gun around.

    If stuck with a choice between SBR and pinned, I would vote SBR. While more hoops, it's less limiting in the long run.

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    What rob said.

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    Based on this- "weight and handling are the two biggest reasons for the switch and why I am leaning toward an SBR. Also I want a rifle that would be easy to pack around, suppress, "conceal" and move in tight spaces."

    My vote is for the SBR if you are willing to deal with the ATF regulations, and keeping an additional 16-18" upper around just in case you get a long range jonesing.
    Last edited by suhu; 07-07-11 at 23:24.

  6. #6
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    Also, be prepared to shrink your wallet... once you go SBR.... uhhh.. yeah.. everything (almost everything) needs to be shorter or quieter. Best of luck. My wife hates my SBR's.
    Time flies when you throw your watch.

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    Quote Originally Posted by Zhurdan View Post
    Also, be prepared to shrink your wallet... once you go SBR.... uhhh.. yeah.. everything (almost everything) needs to be shorter or quieter. Best of luck. My wife hates my SBR's.
    This is true. Once you build your first shorty upper you find you then have 2 and then they're becoming fruitful and multiplying.
    30 caliber junkie.

    God Bless America.

  8. #8
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    Yep you spend good money on a quality SBR plus taxes. Then it is too loud so you want a suppressor plus taxes. If you are going to do a Suppressed SBR I suggest getting a piston. It should help on the gasses.

  9. #9
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    Quote Originally Posted by suhu View Post
    keeping an additional 16-18" upper around just in case you get a long range jonesing.
    That is what my 700 is for

    I have been looking heavily at the Noveske 10.5 basic upper. With my military discount I can get it for around $670. I can get a LMT basic 10.5 for $620. I would like a Noveske switchblock but their uppers with them are out of my range. I am apprehensive about building my own upper and installing my own clamp on switchblock (even though I built my lower). I have priced it out and for a Spikes upper, LMT full auto bolt carrier, DD 10.5 or lightweight 11.5, charging handle and switchblock for about $640 (this is not including the $200 plus for VTAC Extreme BattleRail and front sight). Building mine will get it exactly how I want, but wonder if it will be as reliable as getting the LMT of Noveske. Also I can forgo the switchblock and do a low pro gasblock and save $130. Thoughts?
    Last edited by cgbills; 07-08-11 at 13:57.

  10. #10
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    Personally I would go with the SBR but that is because it works best for me. Just decide what you need/want. You can always have several uppers and have one non NFA length upper to use when you want/need to. A 16" middie would be a great choice too. I would stay away from a pinned 14.5" it limits your options and cost alot more when you want to make changes.

    The LMT or Noveske uppers or complete guns would be an excellent choice for a 10.5" SBR.
    "Real men have always needed to know what time it is so they are at the airfield on time, pumping rounds into savages at the right time, etc. Being able to see such in the dark while light weights were comfy in bed without using a light required luminous material." -Originally Posted by ramairthree

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