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Thread: Improvements and Must Have Items For The AR

  1. #1
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    Improvements and Must Have Items For The AR

    Not sure if we have had a thread like this before. If we have, then disregard it. I would like to hear what some of you think are must have items for the AR or items that have significantly improved the AR. You can list a specific item (rail system) or you can be brand specific.

    If you disagree with someone elses choice, please explain your position. Better yet, offer a choice of your own.

    Please don't just say "Chris Costas' bear trimming are awesome" but provide some reasons why you selected the item. Obviously having used the item would be a necessity; otherwise how can you comment? In no particular order are some of the significant items that I believe have made improvements to the AR.

    1. BCM Gunfighter charging handles- This is one of those items where I wish I would have done it first. I remember back in early 2008 I saw a bunch of charging handle roll pins breaking in Baghdad. I remember thinking; can't someone else make a better handle? Someone did. They are very functional and well made. A definite improvement over the standard handle.

    2. Flat Top Upper Receivers- This one is probably taken for granted. However, had the flat top not come into existence we would still be mounting stuff on carry handles and who knows what else. Nuff said.

    3. Picatinny Standardized Rail- No doubt about it, this was a game changer. This single item probably revolutionized the AR more than anything else and allowed technology to be integrated into the weapon.

    4. Vltor A5 Stock Kit- This is another game changer in my opinion. A stock system that will allow you to use the same lower receiver set up for a variety of uppers. From rifle length to SBR you are covered.

    5. Battle Arms Development Selector Levers- Yeah, I know. It's just a selector lever. But, it's a solid one. I remember when they only options were RRA and some other company. Neither was very good. The Battle Arms levers are modular and rock steady. In addition their customer service is top notch. I really like having the option of an ambi selector lever.

    I'd like to hear other thoughts.



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  2. #2
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    1. Lo pro gas blocks and long(er) rails.

    2. 2 stage triggers.

    3. Optics including modern RDS's, and scopes built around tactical/precision shooting instead of hunting.

    4. Rail mounted lights like the Surefire Scout.

    5. QD mounts with Picatinny interface (ties in with rails, flat top uppers, and modern optics)

    6. Compact infrared illuminators and lasers (primarily for LE and MIL use).

  3. #3
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    Troy ambi selector

    Troy ambi mag release

    Flashlight

    Aimpoint (I don't comprise on the RDS)

    Light rifle

  4. #4
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    I'll throw in the new generation of modular rails that let you have rail where you want/need it, smooth where you don't want it (Troy TRX Extreme, DD MFR, etc). I have smaller hands, and these let met get a good grip on my handguard, let me mount what I need (light, sling, VFG) and keep weight down. Big improvement for me personally.

  5. #5
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    All great choices, Gunz. I'll add:

    1) Enhanced trigger guard... great when workin' it in the cold with bulky gloves on.
    2) An ergonomic grip of sorts. I prefer the magpul varients (one of their few products I love).

    Will list more later.
    Acta Non Verba

  6. #6
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    Quote Originally Posted by Belmont31R View Post
    2. 2 stage triggers.
    I question this. While the Geisselle trigger is a good one, is it necessary to use a two stage design to achieve a reliable, safe clean break? Would a single stage trigger with a clean break be less safe or less reliable than a two stage?

    What is most responsible for modernizing the AR is the combination of the flat top upper and the Picatinny rail
    Last edited by MistWolf; 09-10-11 at 15:42.
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  7. #7
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    Piston gas systems, like the Huldra.


    LOL...just kidding.



    Compensators. While I don't disagree that proper technique and training will minimize or eliminate the need for this, it remains a very useful add-on. Not necessarily "must-have", but for me, BattleComp is definitely "very-very-nice-to-have".

    I'd also add the wide variety of weapon light mounts (QD like VLTOR and fixed like Gear Sector), QD mounts for optics, and QD swivels for slings.

    Otherwise, I can't add anything to IG's list. I've tried (and for the most part abandoned) other doodads (BAD lever and AFG come to mind).
    Last edited by Hmac; 09-10-11 at 15:58.

  8. #8
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    Quote Originally Posted by MistWolf View Post
    I question this. While the Geisselle trigger is a good one, is it necessary to use a two stage design to achieve a reliable, safe clean break? Would a single stage trigger with a clean break be less safe or less reliable than a two stage?

    What is most responsible for modernizing the AR is the combination of the flat top upper and the Picatinny rail



    Personal preference and use plays a big role but in general I think its a major improvement over USGI type semi autos and especially USGI FA/3RD triggers.


    Not debating aftermarket single vs. double stages.

  9. #9
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    Modern fast attach suppressors are a HUGE improvement for the military/LEO community.

    This is small, but I can't tell you how happy I was when people started making the head of the pistol grip screw with a flat head instead of an allen key head. A longer flat head is WAY easier to find in a pinch than the right size allen key.

    I would also agree that the Gunfighter charging handle is simply something EVERY AR15 should have.

  10. #10
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    As previous members have mentioned:

    1. Gunfighter charging handle

    2. Aimpoint CompM2 and beyond

    The GFH is one of my favorite upgrades that I've made to my AR. Everything else I have (except my H1) can be changed out for a simpler/cheaper alternative. i.e. a Surefire Scout light can be replaced by a G2 and VTAC mount, a MIAD for a Tangodown BG16, etc; however, the H1/T1 is a brilliant piece of equipment that will be on everyone of my ARs from here after.

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