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Posted: 7/10/2020 10:06:09 PM EDT
We're at the point where America seriously needs good men, ALL of them, young and old.
What kind of rifle meets the needs of an aging man? I'm getting old, and here are my issues 1. Aging eyes 2. Aging strength 3. Aging patience So I suggest the following for an "old man" build: An optics-only, lightweight, simple rifle. and the best platform to do all of that is the AR-15 Here's my build: Faxon 16" 556 pencil barrel Weaver Classic 1-3x20 LPVO scope in an Aero Mount Magpul Fixed carbine stock  It's the same weight as an SP-1 Carbine (clone), but with an optic and a simple sturdy stock  Do you know of an older man that needs a rifle before the SHTF? Have any of your older relatives been asking about getting a rifle? Help them get what they need. Not what YOU need, but what THEY need. Here's my full article on the New Rifleman http://www.thenewrifleman.com/the-okay-boomer-rifle-or-the-old-man-rifle/ |
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Posted: 7/10/2020 10:12:07 PM EDT
[#1]
Good article. I can dig it. Now I’m envisioning The Villages Militia Battalion
 3x seems a bit low... even with the additional weight I’d think more top end magnification would be desirable. |
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Posted: 7/10/2020 10:14:25 PM EDT
[#2]
Vehicle mounted Browning .50 and a shit-ton of ammo. You're getting old bro, not time to downgrade on firepower.
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Posted: 7/10/2020 10:19:04 PM EDT
[#3]
Quote HistoryQuoted: Vehicle mounted Browning .50 and a shit-ton of ammo. You're getting old bro, not time to downgrade on firepower. Too heavy.  Attached File |
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Posted: 7/10/2020 10:22:03 PM EDT
[#4]
My son and I built BCM’s with magnesium rails and 14.5 barrels with RDS and no backups for 3 gun competition.
5.4 lbs |
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Posted: 7/10/2020 10:22:58 PM EDT
[#5]
Quote HistoryQuoted: Vehicle mounted Browning .50 and a shit-ton of ammo. You're getting old bro, not time to downgrade on firepower.  Attached File Attached File |
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Posted: 7/10/2020 10:24:10 PM EDT
[#6]
My 75 year old uncle is still shooting a Browning BAR he bought in the 1970s so I would pick that.
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Posted: 7/10/2020 10:26:27 PM EDT
[#7]
Quote HistoryQuoted: Good article. I can dig it. Now I'm envisioning The Villages Militia Battalion 3x seems a bit low... even with the additional weight I'd think more top end magnification would be desirable. 4x would certainly be better, but all 1-4x scopes I can find are big, fat, 30mm pigs, which defeats the lightweight and handy element. I really REALLY want this $200 Weaver 1-3x20 to be brought back into production with illumination, and maybe a bit thicker duplex lines. 1" tube, Japanese glass, 9 oz- it would truly fill a void in the market for a small lightweight mid-tier GOOD LPVO Primary Arms and Swampfox, if you make a small lightweight illuminated 1-4x it would SELL SELL SELL @MARSH1 @That_Guy_Mike |
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Posted: 7/10/2020 10:26:37 PM EDT
[#8]
I'm 65 and that guy looks 80. Facial expression is just embarrassing.
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Posted: 7/10/2020 10:28:23 PM EDT
[#9]
My dad is 75 and will defend his house with an M4gery w/RDO if shit goes sideways...
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Posted: 7/10/2020 10:34:16 PM EDT
[#10]
I would recommend a 14.5 ELW BCM with mlok or keymod rail and AP T1/2. going to be very light weight without being overly expensive.
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Posted: 7/10/2020 10:39:26 PM EDT
[#11]
I bought a Leupold 4-12x scope with Red Illuminated Dot. That’s the ticket for my fucked up eyes.
8” 300blkout has vortex RDS tube. 16” 6.8spc has the leupold. No iron sights on either. Can’t see em anyway. |
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Posted: 7/10/2020 10:41:21 PM EDT
[#12]
Quote HistoryQuoted: I was able to hit an 8" plate at 200 yards using Wolf Gold 55gr FMJ on 3x, which equates to headshots at that range. 4x would certainly be better, but all 1-4x scopes I can find are big, fat, 30mm pigs, which defeats the lightweight and handy element. I really REALLY want this $200 Weaver 1-3x20 to be brought back into production with illumination, and maybe a bit thicker duplex lines. 1" tube, Japanese glass, 9 oz- it would truly fill a void in the market for a small lightweight mid-tier GOOD LPVO Primary Arms and Swampfox, if you make a small lightweight illuminated 1-4x it would SELL SELL SELL @MARSH1 @That_Guy_Mike Quote HistoryQuoted: Quoted: Good article. I can dig it. Now I'm envisioning The Villages Militia Battalion 3x seems a bit low... even with the additional weight I'd think more top end magnification would be desirable. 4x would certainly be better, but all 1-4x scopes I can find are big, fat, 30mm pigs, which defeats the lightweight and handy element. I really REALLY want this $200 Weaver 1-3x20 to be brought back into production with illumination, and maybe a bit thicker duplex lines. 1" tube, Japanese glass, 9 oz- it would truly fill a void in the market for a small lightweight mid-tier GOOD LPVO Primary Arms and Swampfox, if you make a small lightweight illuminated 1-4x it would SELL SELL SELL @MARSH1 @That_Guy_Mike I do too. I like mine. In the meantime look this: https://www.midwayusa.com/product/1019637344?pid=376627&utm_medium=email&utm_source=service&utm_campaign=shipping-confirmation&utm_content=product-shipped-today-product-description-link Ordered one yesterday. |
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Posted: 7/10/2020 10:42:48 PM EDT
[#13]
Nice. I've got a pencil barrel build on my list next.
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Posted: 7/10/2020 10:49:38 PM EDT
[#14]
Old guys already have all they need.
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Posted: 7/10/2020 10:52:51 PM EDT
[#15]
Quote HistoryQuoted: I'm 65 and that guy looks 80. Facial expression is just embarrassing. |
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Posted: 7/10/2020 10:53:29 PM EDT
[#16]
Quote HistoryQuoted: I would recommend a 14.5 ELW BCM with mlok or keymod rail and AP T1/2. going to be very light weight without being overly expensive. Can’t go wrong here |
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Posted: 7/10/2020 10:53:49 PM EDT
[#17]
Quote HistoryQuoted: I would recommend a 14.5 ELW BCM with mlok or keymod rail and AP T1/2. going to be very light weight without being overly expensive. |
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Posted: 7/10/2020 10:56:53 PM EDT
[#18]
Quote HistoryQuoted: I do too. I like mine. In the meantime look this: https://www.midwayusa.com/product/1019637344?pid=376627&;utm_medium=email&utm_source=service&utm_campaign=shipping-confirmation&utm_content=product-shipped-today-product-description-link Ordered one yesterday. If it offered illumination I'd buy it right now and re-write the article |
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Posted: 7/10/2020 11:43:51 PM EDT
[#19]
Good article. I am over 60 and using more optics these days. Upgraded several rifles from irons to optics several years ago. I have the Weaver 1-3x on one of my ARs. It is a decent quality, simple optic. I went with a Leupold VX3 1.5-4X20 on my Marlin .44 mag. I prefer that over the Weaver but cost about twice as much. In the end I think the optic is very important and the old shooter should pick the best one for his situation and preference. Could be a fixed 2.5x, 1-3/4x, with or without illumination which adds more complexity and logistics. I have never tried an AccuPoint type scope but that seems ideal.
I like your goals of lightweight and simple. Sort of like a modern replacement for the Win94. And for some older guys the lever action .357 or .30-30 with a 1-3x scope maybe plenty good. Simplicity has a quality all its own. For a modern upgrade your approach is spot on. As to strength, what you say is true. We are in decline and gets more difficult to increase and maintain strength. But I encourage older guys to force themselves to stay physically strong. If retired get a part-time labor job. Hit the gym three times a week or more. Take up a fitness sport like biking, swimming, hiking, or plan massive landscape projects and do most by hand. Shoveling material by the hour is great. Find something that draws or forces you out of bed and off the couch every day and requires all around body fitness. It will keep you more capable and add ten years to your life. |
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Posted: 7/11/2020 12:02:42 AM EDT
[#20]
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Posted: 7/11/2020 12:09:08 AM EDT
[#21]
I went bolt action for my retirement gun.
6mm CM Impact 737r action Bartlien barrel NF 7x35 MDT chassis Triggertech Diamond trigger 
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Posted: 7/11/2020 12:10:34 AM EDT
[#22]
Quote Historythat looks good too, just needs illumination
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Posted: 7/11/2020 12:12:11 AM EDT
[#23]
Quote HistoryQuoted: LOL, that's me, I'm 48. But I'm posing So you're not a Boomer, then?  Good article. I'm a retro AR fan myself, so both of my ARs are lightweight already. |
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Posted: 7/11/2020 12:20:48 AM EDT
[#24]
red dot
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Posted: 7/11/2020 12:20:48 AM EDT
[#25]
Born in the 70s but Dad served in WW2 European theater and Mom did black out drills in Los Angeles, so lean waaay closer to boomers than "my own" generation...
Anyway.... 16" 762x39 carbine w/ fixed stock, irons and red dot set up as cowitness. Red dot helps me find the irons. |
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Posted: 7/11/2020 12:30:56 AM EDT
[#26]
This is a good idea, but what are your thoughts on using a mini 14 instead? I feel like the charging handle on the side of the bolt makes for a simpler manual of arms
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Posted: 7/11/2020 12:33:04 AM EDT
[#27]
I think a version of the M4 is great for us old farts. Optics may be of personal preference. I think a dot version of optics might be best, if eyes aren't what they used to be. 3X should be enough. As you might not be able to see them coming from to far out anyways. And your Parkinsons would make a 9X shake like a quake. I can still hit stuff with open sights. For now....
I would most likely use my AK. And My AR for back up. |
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Posted: 7/11/2020 12:40:56 AM EDT
[#28]
Quote HistoryQuoted: I went bolt action for my retirement gun. 6mm CM Impact 737r action Bartlien barrel NF 7x35 MDT chassis Triggertech Diamond trigger https://www.AR15.Com/media/mediaFiles/308700/20200626_130844-1477992.jpg Boomer here. Thanks. Please send that to "Boomer in Culver City," they'll know what to do. |
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Posted: 7/11/2020 12:45:52 AM EDT
[#29]
One big strike against the Weaver for me would be lack of illumination. I've been trying the LPVO thing recently and one of my big takeaways is that the black reticle is noticeably slower to pick up even in clear daylight. Also consider that a 30mm tube will be somewhat heavier but will probably give you a much more usable sight picture for quick shots at 1x. Two other things I've decided - I personally like capped turrets for the peace of mind that my zero won't be compromised if the rifle gets bumped around in the trunk a bit, and FFP is questionably useful in anything under 6x. With that all in mind, my LPVO shortlist was the Sig Tango4 1-4 and the Burris RT-6. I went with the Burris, but the Sig would give you that more traditional crosshair instead of a BDC reticle.
As for the rifle - isn't that the Magpul fixed stock that goes on an adjustable buffer tube? I wasn't terribly impressed with it considering you can get a CTR for a good rigid stock that still collapses for ease of storage or adjusting for gear. Probably shaves an ounce or two as well since it's less material. I'd also recommend a forend with some small provision for a basic weapon light - something like a MOE handguard wouldn't hurt you much if at all on weight, costs relatively little extra, and at least gives you an option to throw a light on if necessary. |
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Posted: 7/11/2020 12:48:38 AM EDT
[#30]
Quoted: We're at the point where America seriously needs good men, ALL of them, young and old. What kind of rifle meets the needs of an aging man? I'm getting old, and here are my issues 1. Aging eyes 2. Aging strength 3. Aging patience So I suggest the following for an "old man" build: An optics-only, lightweight, simple rifle. and the best platform to do all of that is the AR-15 Here's my build: Faxon 16" 556 pencil barrel Weaver Classic 1-3x20 LPVO scope in an Aero Mount Magpul Fixed carbine stock http://i2.wp.com/www.thenewrifleman.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/splash-1.jpg?w=960 It's the same weight as an SP-1 Carbine (clone), but with an optic and a simple sturdy stock http://i1.wp.com/www.thenewrifleman.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/OBR-and-A2-Carbine.jpg?w=960 Do you know of an older man that needs a rifle before the SHTF? Have any of your older relatives been asking about getting a rifle? Help them get what they need. Not what YOU need, but what THEY need. Here's my full article on the New Rifleman http://www.thenewrifleman.com/the-okay-boomer-rifle-or-the-old-man-rifle/ |
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Posted: 7/11/2020 1:02:17 AM EDT
[#31]
I like to think my latest one is my Old Man Gun (OMGTM).
10.5" FSB barrel, MBUS rear sight, Vortex Crossfire RD, Daniel Defense Omega rail, Mission First Tactical brace. |
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Posted: 7/11/2020 2:13:58 AM EDT
[#32]
Quote HistoryQuoted: Good article. I can dig it. Now I’m envisioning The Villages Militia Battalion 3x seems a bit low... even with the additional weight I’d think more top end magnification would be desirable. Negative I was in a self defense situation one time with a 3-9, it sucked. 1-3 is perfect. |
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Posted: 7/11/2020 2:17:32 AM EDT
[#33]
Good article OP thanks for sharing.
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Posted: 7/11/2020 5:22:42 AM EDT
[#34]
Quote HistoryQuoted: My 75 year old uncle is still shooting a Browning BAR he bought in the 1970s so I would pick that. Came here expecting that or a lever action. |
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Posted: 7/11/2020 9:31:58 AM EDT
[#35]
to all of you saying red dots, have you ever shot at 200 yards with one? Have you ever compared a red dot directly with a lensatic optic, exponentially at distance or in low light? I have, and the red dot loses.
But for right up close CQB, I don't think anything beats a dot. |
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Posted: 7/11/2020 9:35:31 AM EDT
[#36]
If the Burris RT-3 turns out to be a decent optic I think that would be even better.
https://www.google.com/search?q=burris+rt3&rlz=1C1SQJL_enUS767US767&sxsrf=ALeKk00gTLfPfDhJrkc1MexTeODF6nXVAQ:1594474475777&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwivqe2lqMXqAhVVvJ4KHTobAJkQ_AUoAnoECA0QBA&biw=1366&bih=657 |
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Posted: 7/11/2020 9:43:49 AM EDT
[#37]
Quote HistoryQuoted: This is a good idea, but what are your thoughts on using a mini 14 instead? He might actually want to hit what he’s aiming at. That rules out the Mini14. |
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Posted: 7/11/2020 9:44:55 AM EDT
[#38]
RDS sucks if you have astigmatism, the dot becomes a blur or a comet. A 1x etched prism scope is much better.
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Posted: 7/11/2020 9:51:45 AM EDT
[#39]
@MRW
Can you tell me more about the bandoleer that you have in your first pic? I love the old 20 round mags and that might be the ticket. Red |
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Posted: 7/11/2020 9:52:34 AM EDT
[#40]
Quote HistoryQuoted: I'm 65 and that guy looks 80. Facial expression is just embarrassing. That photo was obviously from the 80s to maybe early 90s and the meme made by someone who didn't either get or care about that or how long ago Vietnam actually was. That man was born around the turn of last century. It should be even more obvious that someone simply handed their grandpa a ridiculous firearm contraption for a funny picture. |
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Posted: 7/11/2020 10:00:05 AM EDT
[#41]
Quote HistoryQuoted: RDS sucks if you have astigmatism, the dot becomes a blur or a comet. A 1x etched prism scope is much better. My old man shuffling around gun is an 8" .300 pistol. Love the ergos, weight and balance. The rocking chair gun that gets propped on the porch railing is an M1A with a 2.5x pistol scope, scout mounted. |
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Posted: 7/11/2020 10:00:12 AM EDT
[#42]
Quote HistoryQuoted: RDS sucks if you have astigmatism, the dot becomes a blur or a comet. A 1x etched prism scope is much better. I am thinking about one of these. Could you please post up some of your favorites? |
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Posted: 7/11/2020 10:03:00 AM EDT
[#43]
Quote HistoryQuoted: @MRW Can you tell me more about the bandoleer that you have in your first pic? I love the old 20 round mags and that might be the ticket. Red https://www.strikehardgear.com/molle-pouch-for-small-magazines-and-clips/ It holds two 20-round mags in each pocket. I use it to carry 4 mags and then 3 Glock 19 mags in the last spot |
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Posted: 7/11/2020 10:04:33 AM EDT
[#44]
Quote HistoryQuoted: That photo was obviously from the 80s to maybe early 90s and the meme made by someone who didn't either get or care about that or how long ago Vietnam actually was. That man was born around the turn of last century. It should be even more obvious that someone simply handed their grandpa a ridiculous firearm contraption for a funny picture. Quote HistoryQuoted: Quoted: I'm 65 and that guy looks 80. Facial expression is just embarrassing. That photo was obviously from the 80s to maybe early 90s and the meme made by someone who didn't either get or care about that or how long ago Vietnam actually was. That man was born around the turn of last century. It should be even more obvious that someone simply handed their grandpa a ridiculous firearm contraption for a funny picture. Well, I think my dress-up and pose has been more successful than I realized |
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Posted: 7/11/2020 10:05:20 AM EDT
[#45]
Quote HistoryQuoted: I am thinking about one of these. Could you please post up some of your favorites? Quote HistoryQuoted: Quoted: RDS sucks if you have astigmatism, the dot becomes a blur or a comet. A 1x etched prism scope is much better. I am thinking about one of these. Could you please post up some of your favorites? I like the Swampfox Blade. |
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Posted: 7/11/2020 10:05:45 AM EDT
[#46]
Quote HistoryQuoted: RDS sucks if you have astigmatism, the dot becomes a blur or a comet. A 1x etched prism scope is much better. I don't think I'm ever going back to red dots. Maybe just on 22s |
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Posted: 7/11/2020 10:07:00 AM EDT
[#47]
Quote HistoryQuoted: That photo was obviously from the 80s to maybe early 90s and the meme made by someone who didn't either get or care about that or how long ago Vietnam actually was. That man was born around the turn of last century. It should be even more obvious that someone simply handed their grandpa a ridiculous firearm contraption for a funny picture. Nah, I helped Harry Beckwith get some funny pictures of him at about the same age, pair Uzis in his hands, red do-rag wrapped around his forehead a la Rambo. Old farts can have a sense of humor too... and a lot of 'em have neat guns to play with. |
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Posted: 7/11/2020 10:07:03 AM EDT
[#48]
Without a sling, it's not a fighting rifle.
Good work. |
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Posted: 7/11/2020 10:16:39 AM EDT
[#49]
Quote HistoryQuoted: Without a sling, it's not a fighting rifle. Good work. |
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Posted: 7/11/2020 11:22:04 AM EDT
[#50]
Since the Weaver is out of production, what are other quality options in the same price range (<200.00)? What about Bushnell, they seem to have some similar models?
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