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Posted: 5/14/2010 10:46:37 AM EDT
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Seeing the influx of dedicated .22LR ARs being sold in the gun stores got me wondering... just how dedicated are these guns?
Would I, for instance, be able to swap in a .223/5.56 upper and have it be good to go? I'm asking this because after seeing all the arfcommers put together an AR for their unborn child, I have resolved to do the same. I'd like the kiddo to start on a .22LR (plus I can use it instead of spending $$$ on .223), but as the kid grows up, be able to handle .223/5.56 while buying as few parts as possible. Or should I ignore the dedicated ones, and put together a .223/5.56 rifle and get a conversion? Is it as easy as swapping out the BCG and inserting a chamber adaptor? |
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You would have to get a 5.56 and conversion to be able to change back and forth. Dedicated .22 uppers are just that. The barrel is specifically for the .22 bolt/carrier via a collar. The conversion uses a chamber adapter. Pull the 5.56 bcg out, slide the .22 bcg in. Use .22 mags and you are good to go.
CMMG will be coming out shortly with an updated version. It will be the best one going. Improvements include an actual bolt hold open, forward assist, and chamber lock to keep the adapter from shifting. Should be out very soon. The dedicated will most likely give you better accuracy because of the 1/16 twist. 1/7-1/9 5.56 will give you 2" at 50 yards give or take. |
| Depends on the manufacturer of the "complete dedicated rifle" also as to whether or not it's a "dedicated .22 rifle", like the Colt/Uramrex and S&W models. A dedicated upper is just another upper on a standard lower. I personally use a Ciener conversion kit with BDM mags on my .223 rifles as shooting .22LR in them is just a stop gap due to the high price of .223 at the moment. I have 2 Ruger 10-22s for my sons when they're old enough and strong enough to hold them properly. |
| Sure - buy a true dedicated upper from TacSol, Spikes, or soon from Nordic Arms or CMMG. Buy or build a complete AR 15 lower and you're in business. I'd probably buy a .223/5.56 upper now also - no one can really predict how long any of this stuff will be available. If we all get out and vote and join the NRA, probably forever - if not, better get it while you can. |
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