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Posted: 10/3/2008 7:03:02 PM EDT
| I have a Colt "Sporter Target Model" (AR-15A2) that I'd like to convert to either a detachable handle, or simply a flat-top with a scope and BUIS. Obviously, I could buy a complete flat-top upper with barrel; or get a stripped upper and have my barrel, etc installed on it. But the easy way would be to have my existing upper modified, is there any good way to have that done? |
Fixed it for you. Just swap to a flattop upper. Keep or sell the old one if you want to defray the cost. BSW |
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Back in the day... before there were commercial flat top uppers, we had to make them from fixed carry handle uppers; it is not impossible, or insane... it is however not a simple task and unless you have access to the proper machines (and some amount of skill running them), it is more than likely not feasible. In any case... it is not economical, you can buy a new upper for less than the time you have in converting one; but, if you are just interested in learning... here are a few tips: Get the prints for a flat top, you can see the proper height above CL After the carry handle is cut away, machine down the top of the old receiver to accept a separately machined rail section BE CAREFUL, THERE IS NOT MUCH MATERIAL ON THE TOP OF THE RECEIVER Depending on the material the receiver is made from, you may or may not be able to weld the rail section on... if you can not, I have had good luck with "socketing" the union and joining with structural adhesives. If you do weld it... stitch the welds and make sure to keep the receiver from warping... Honestly, it is an afternoon project if you have the right tools -- so again, unless you are doing it to learn, or just say you did... then you would be way ahead to just buy a new receiver. |
| Buy a new stripped flat top upper receiver, a vice block, barrel nut wrench and some punches. The upper receiver can be swapped in about 20 minutes with the right tools. If you don't have the knowledge, get the AGI video for building an AR15 from a parts kit and it will show you how to do the entire process. |
And sell the upper reciever you've taken off on the EE section of this site.  You'll get back a good portion of what you've spent for the flat top upper. |
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