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Air Force GAU-5A Rifle (Page 5 of 5)

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7/3/2024 8:57:30 PM EDT
[#1]
Well, I haven't shot this yet, but fartin around with it, it just isn't a viable setup for me.
Too heavy for what it is. Disassembly/assembly is kinda a pain.

Oh well, sometimes you have to experience these things for yourself.

Tom Sawyer.

"If The Rules bought us to this, what use are they?"
7/4/2024 11:51:44 AM EDT
[#2]
Quote History
Originally Posted By tortilla-flats:
Well, I haven't shot this yet, but fartin around with it, it just isn't a viable setup for me.
Too heavy for what it is. Disassembly/assembly is kinda a pain.

Oh well, sometimes you have to experience these things for yourself.

View Quote


How much weight does it add?

Is the extension too tight in the upper or what?
7/4/2024 4:36:21 PM EDT
[#3]
Quote History
Originally Posted By M4A1SOPMOD:


How much weight does it add?

Is the extension too tight in the upper or what?
View Quote
The QRB setup adds 10.5oz to your setup. Also, you are limited to handguard rails that you can use. The SLR 9" handguard I choose is 8.5oz.
The extra weight is balanced, but I'm just not comfortable with the overall weight.

This configuration is definitely for a very specific use case.
Tom Sawyer.

"If The Rules bought us to this, what use are they?"
7/6/2024 1:01:09 PM EDT
[#4]
Quote History
Originally Posted By Midwest_Ind:


We did not pick all the parts for this program the Air force did . The size requirement was a huge factor that played into some of their decisions . This rifle and a bunch of other stuff had to fit in a very small size compartment under the ejection seat.Our handguard was tested and chosen to be part of the project. This was about a 1.5 year process for this program from start to finish.  

Troy
MI  
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Originally Posted By Midwest_Ind:
Originally Posted By M-4matus:
Pretty neat!  I'd have to have one.  I do not love the barrel nut tension screws.  Aesthetically speaking, I think MI could do better.


We did not pick all the parts for this program the Air force did . The size requirement was a huge factor that played into some of their decisions . This rifle and a bunch of other stuff had to fit in a very small size compartment under the ejection seat.Our handguard was tested and chosen to be part of the project. This was about a 1.5 year process for this program from start to finish.  

Troy
MI  


So, when does the retail version come out?
This would dominate the “survival gun” market for folks with private planes, boats, overlanders, etc….

Also, do you have any info on the container the weapon is stowed in or any accessories it comes with?
7/6/2024 1:05:52 PM EDT
[#5]
Quote History
Originally Posted By jos51700:
Tbh, I'm shocked there isn't more emphasis on saving weight. That thing looks 'heavy' for an airplane gun.
View Quote


I was also surprised.

The Danes (IIRC) adopted the B&T MP9 for their fighters based on weight and size.


The Germans didn’t GAF about weight back in the day!


7/6/2024 1:10:13 PM EDT
[#6]
Quote History
Originally Posted By FADALdude:


So, when does the retail version come out?
This would dominate the “survival gun” market for folks with private planes, boats, overlanders, etc….

Also, do you have any info on the container the weapon is stowed in or any accessories it comes with?
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Quote History
Originally Posted By FADALdude:
Originally Posted By Midwest_Ind:
Originally Posted By M-4matus:
Pretty neat!  I'd have to have one.  I do not love the barrel nut tension screws.  Aesthetically speaking, I think MI could do better.


We did not pick all the parts for this program the Air force did . The size requirement was a huge factor that played into some of their decisions . This rifle and a bunch of other stuff had to fit in a very small size compartment under the ejection seat.Our handguard was tested and chosen to be part of the project. This was about a 1.5 year process for this program from start to finish.  

Troy
MI  


So, when does the retail version come out?
This would dominate the “survival gun” market for folks with private planes, boats, overlanders, etc….

Also, do you have any info on the container the weapon is stowed in or any accessories it comes with?



Civilian version came out several years ago...and is no longer offered by MI.  You can source parts to build but the handguard is the most challenging piece if you want correct parts.  The bag is a USAF design and can be googled...not sure if you can even purchase.
7/8/2024 10:43:34 AM EDT
[#7]
Quote History
Originally Posted By FADALdude:


So, when does the retail version come out?
This would dominate the “survival gun” market for folks with private planes, boats, overlanders, etc….

Also, do you have any info on the container the weapon is stowed in or any accessories it comes with?
View Quote View All Quotes
View All Quotes
Quote History
Originally Posted By FADALdude:
Originally Posted By Midwest_Ind:
Originally Posted By M-4matus:  Pretty neat!  I'd have to have one.  I do not love the barrel nut tension screws.  Aesthetically speaking, I think MI could do better.


We did not pick all the parts for this program the Air force did . The size requirement was a huge factor that played into some of their decisions . This rifle and a bunch of other stuff had to fit in a very small size compartment under the ejection seat.Our handguard was tested and chosen to be part of the project. This was about a 1.5 year process for this program from start to finish.  

Troy
MI


So, when does the retail version come out?
This would dominate the “survival gun” market for folks with private planes, boats, overlanders, etc….

Also, do you have any info on the container the weapon is stowed in or any accessories it comes with?


Closest retail in function is a Fold AR or a Dolos upper.
8/27/2024 8:29:40 PM EDT
[#8]
I finally got my hands on one of those FAB folding pistol grips.
lol, going right back.
That button is a quick path to a nasty blister.

Tom Sawyer.

"If The Rules brought us to this, what use are they?"
5/19/2026 7:32:47 AM EDT
[#10]
Is anyone looking to offload their Air Force GAU-5A Midwest Clone?
7/5/2026 3:05:38 PM EDT
[#11]
Not on a GAU-5A, but I've been very pleased with my Cry Havoc QRB.
7/10/2026 4:49:54 PM EDT
[#12]
Well, I've been bitten with the GAU-5A clone bug. So it seems the handguard is the only issue as far as parts procurement and MI has discontinued the original 10" model. The closest handguard that is readily available is the Combat Rail Lightweight Series but it is 10.5 " long, so how critical is the length ?
Any input or advise you guys would have would be appreciated.

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Air Force GAU-5A Rifle (Page 5 of 5)

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