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Posted: 11/5/2012 12:08:21 PM EDT
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Hi all
I'm VERY new to the AR platforms, and I have many questions, but the one for now is. What are the pros and cons to a monolithic upper I seem to find on some AR rifles? Thanks |
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A monolithic upper has a more rigid mounting surface for longer and/or forward mounting optics without having to "bridge the gap."
There are differing opinions to how significant "bridging the gap" is, but in general, most try to avoid it when possible. You also lose the possibility of having a rail come loose or rotate. They also simplify the "system" by having fewer component parts, the receiver and railed handguard are all included as one assembly. The cons include increased difficulty/specialized tools for some when installing barrels (though the MRP system negates this, but as an alternative requires a proprietary barrel pattern). Also, if the rail ends up getting damaged, the entire upper receiver needs to be replaced, not just the rail. There are also simply fewer choice available, there are dozens of rail options out there, but if you choose a monolithic platform, you're basically stuck with that rail. In my opinion, they're neither objectively better or worse, but simply come with their own strengths, and it is up to the user to determine which set of constraints they prefer. LMT and Colt also hold patents on their respective monolithic designs, and Mega discontinued theirs to avoid potential legal wrestling with LMT over the patent, but not because of any particular claim or request made by LMT. ~Augee |
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