[DonP]

OK

You guys convinced me to go with the M-4 configuration for the new AR project instead of a Commando format.

Now I have to decide on either a flat top or an A-2 carry handle model.

I'll probably put an Aimpoint or similar on it, but I do want iron sights as a back up. My only experience has been with my old US Gov. issue A-1 and the A-2 version I built last year.

Any major pluses or minuses I should look for in choosing?

Thanks as usual for all the good input.

Don P.

[gun-fucious]

hard decision
for paper punching with a scope the flat top is the way to go
the flat top is gonna need a rear iron sight
and that will set you back 60 bucks

the carry handle version is going to need a foreward mount,
Red Dots work well when mounted close to the front sight
http://www.americansforguncontrol.com/leaper/

[bad_dad_brad]

I went with the A2 for my Bushy 16" Shorty. Because I wanted to replace my Mini-14 as a home defense and occasional varmint control at short range. But I am planning on getting a 24" flat top upper for serious varmint work later on. That is the beauty of the AR, for half the price of a complete one, you can get a new upper and in just a minute or two, you have a new rifle.

The A2 is great for quick shots as the A2 sight mechanism is very good. And the A2 handle is one more thing you can hang on to when handling the rifle. For carbine sized AR15, I would opt for the A2. If you want to put a EOS type optical on it, you still can, just have to get an adapter. That is what the little hole on top of the A2 handle is. I bought one the other day at a gun show.

[Redlg155]

If you ever consider getting a new handguard such as the SIR or the RAS II you need to have a flatop. The standard RAS can be mounted on a A2 carry handle version as well as most free floated railed handguards such as the Olyarms FIRSH.

I personally like the flatop. You can get a solid rear or flip up rear sight to mount and still have room for your optics on the rail.

Good SHooting
RED

[Jack19]

Get the flat top AND a carry handle to put on it. That way you have the maximum number of configuration choices.

[AK103K]

I have a Armalite M15A4(T). Best of both worlds as it comes with removeable carry handle and front sight. It also will shoot less than 1/2 moa if I do my part. (to bad I'm the weak link :) ) I have a Leupold 1.5x5 on mine. At the lower setting its easy to shoot it quickly and at the highest setting its good for the longer distances. Set up like this, its a good 300 yard gun. (I dont think the 223 is really more than this) I can always put the irons on if I want, but why bother. If I want a real CQB gun, I'll stick to my AK. :)

[Onslaught]

After switching my A1 Commando to A4 14.5", I know for a fact I will NEVER own another fixed A2 again. The flat top is just too versatile! If I want a carry handle, I'll put one on there. Right now, I've got an ARMS #40 with a Tasco PDP3, and I'm planning on buying an OKO to replace that.

[4v50 Gary]

Flattop. More versatile like Onslaught says.