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2/23/2008 1:05:04 PM EDT
First off, thanks for all the great info on the site. I have the lower half now completed and a wife that does not like my new toy. Tinkering with my 1911 is minor compared to this disease. his
Thanks,

Obrien_GRC

http://i144.photobucket.com/albums/r183/perryclay/DSCN1275.jpg
2/23/2008 1:32:35 PM EDT
[#1]
Welcome. I would look strongly at this one My next build is going to be a mid-length. It will either be the Sabre or RRA new lightweight midlength.
2/23/2008 5:35:56 PM EDT
[#2]
+1

IMO midlength is the best option for 16" barrels.  RRA has treated me well.  I keep eyeballing Saber Defence's midlength uppers for the next build...they look sweet!
2/25/2008 7:00:26 PM EDT
[#3]
I checked out the Saber defence and the RRA. The Saber has a 1/7 twist and feed ramps where as the RRA has a 1/9 twist and no feed ramps. Why would I want to pay more for these options on the Saber?
2/25/2008 7:30:54 PM EDT
[#4]
It would depend on the type of ammo you would be shooting.  For 55-69 gr bullets 1:9 is a good choice.  For heavier rounds such as 75+ gr faster 1:7 is recommended.  

Feed ramps are a much debated topic.  If you get a factory complete RRA upper they will have extended feed ramps.  They aren't actual M4 ramps, but rifle ramps that are blended after assembly.  Sabre uses M4 style ramps and matching upper.  The other contributing factor to the cost difference is that Sabre uses CMV (Chrome Moly Vanadium) for their barrels.  RRA uses the common 4140 Chrome Moly.  While CMV is a slightly higher grade of steel it is also much more expensive.

I have never had a single problem with my RRA, and shooting mostly 55 gr and some 69 gr it has been dead on accurate.  

2/25/2008 7:33:00 PM EDT
[#5]
What is the advantage of having a mid length gas system as opposed to a standard gas system?
2/25/2008 7:56:05 PM EDT
[#6]

Quoted:
What is the advantage of having a mid length gas system as opposed to a standard gas system?


It splits the difference between rifle and carbine length gas systems.  Midlength has lower gas pressure and better timing compared to the carbine length system, especially in 16" barrels.  The closer the gas port is to the chamber the sooner the bolt and carrier begin to cycle.  Carbine length can exert more wear and tear on the bolt lugs and extractor because the chamber is under higher pressure when the bolt and carrier begin to cycle.  Midlength or Rifle Length systems allow more time for the pressure to drop, which can lead to less wear and smoother cycling.
2/25/2008 9:45:50 PM EDT
[#7]
Makes sense.  I haven't heard much about them until just now.  Seems like a great combination between the carbine and the rifle.  How easy is it to replace the standard carbine length barrel for a mid-lenght upper?  Is there a need to check for headspacing?
2/26/2008 5:56:53 PM EDT
[#8]
Rkangel777 thanks for the info. I think I will go with the RRA and use that extra money for more upgrades. he) I can't just go buy whatever I want now. Ha Ha!
2/26/2008 7:27:16 PM EDT
[#9]

Quoted:
Makes sense.  I haven't heard much about them until just now.  Seems like a great combination between the carbine and the rifle.  How easy is it to replace the standard carbine length barrel for a mid-lenght upper?  Is there a need to check for headspacing?


If you have the tools it is just a matter of swapping the barrel, gas tube, and handguards.  Even though there is really no easy way to adjust headspace in an AR I always check it with a gauge just to be sure especially if there are rounds through the barrel or bolt.
2/26/2008 7:55:47 PM EDT
[#10]

Quoted:
Rkangel777 thanks for the info. I think I will go with the RRA and use that extra money for more upgrades. I was not planning on using the heavier bullets anyway. This is my first build so I want to get shooting as soon as possible. (I am a newly wed, so I am having to learn the word BUDGET ) I can't just go buy whatever I want now. Ha Ha!


You're welcome!  Welcome to the boards and congratulations on the wedding!  I think you'll find that once Black Rifle Disease sets in "Budget" will quickly become a four-letter-word Or at the very least you may have to explain how an AR in each caliber is a necessary part of the budget.  That's where building your own comes in.  You can spread it out so the sudden sticker shock doesn't mean you'll be sleeping on the couch.

I've been very happy with my RRA build.  It has been extremely reliable and very accurate.  

I've also had good experiences with Del-Ton.  If you have a chance, check them out.  They offer an AR15.com member discount that may save you some money on your build.  www.ar15.com/forums/topic.html?b=2&f=100&t=148114
2/27/2008 9:35:17 AM EDT
[#11]
LMT stuff is what I'd use to finish the build  MRP...  As long as you don't use anymore DMPS stuff you should be ok though.
2/27/2008 11:51:33 AM EDT
[#12]

Quoted:
This is my first build so I want to get shooting as soon as possible. (I am a newly wed, so I am having to learn the word BUDGET ) I can't just go buy whatever I want now. Ha Ha!


My first thought is go over to the NC Hometown Forum and see if there is someone near by that has the tools to barrel an upper and will help you out.

2nd, Go check out Armalite's website they have chrome lined mid length barrels for $190. Also check out their "Specials" section for an A3 receiver. The EE is also a good place to look for deals on a budget. The lower section of the Industry Forum also has some great deals -hint: Brightflashlights has good deals on yankee hill stuff.

3rd, While people will rave about Mid-length's on this board I would consider a Bushmaster Superlight barrel. (<-link is to a fair deal on a BM BBL kit.)

I have both of these barrels and if I were to carry a rifle all day it would be the superlight. It doesn't wear you out with the extra weight and it's very quick on target.  The CAR gas system isn't as bad as some make it out to be it's as reliable as a mid-length I'd say.  
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