M4 vs. CAR vs. Mid-Length

[wacki]

What is the real difference between the three? Mid-length has a longer forarm and the M4 style seems to have a notch in the barrel just in front of the site. Why the notch? And is there a performance difference between the three?

 

[Rubber_Duck]

On the real deal M4A1 the notch is used for mounting a grenade launcher.

M4 and CAR are both the same length gas system/handguards, and both are referred to as "carbine". Mid-length gas systems produce a softer recoil as it is better tuned for a 16" barrel than the carbine system (which is intended for 14.5" barrels). A midlength also allows you to properly mount a bayonet, if you so choose.

If you feel like spending some time reading, here is a link that explains the difference in detail: http://www.thehighroad.org/showthread.php?t=199626 .

 

[Heck]

You have a longer sight radius wiith the midlength for iron sights

 

[wacki]

Thanks duck!!! That link is just what I needed

 

[RP88]

even on an violent carbine that gets drilled strenuously, it will last a very long time. Worst case? You'll have to buy another whole BCG a decade or so down the road. maybe sooner, but you'll more than get your money's worth by time that comes up.

The midlength gives you a (slightly longer) carbine length for practicality, and offers easing on the pressure. That means less violent action and less wear. Not as little as the full-length, but it will ease up enough to where you'll notice a better, smoother action. Not to mention it just feels more natural than a carbine - at least to me.

 

[ArmedBear]

I've noticed that it's easier to find various rail handguards for the carbine length. But I suppose you don't have to buy 10 of them or anything.

What about weight?

If I want a lightweight gun, is the midlength a lot heavier?

What profile are midlength barrels from the usual suspects like Armalite and Rock River?

 

[Eightball]

The midlength gives you a (slightly longer) carbine length for practicality, and offers easing on the pressure. That means less violent action and less wear. Not as little as the full-length, but it will ease up enough to where you'll notice a better, smoother action. Not to mention it just feels more natural than a carbine - at least to me.

+1

My Middy RRA seems to recoil just a hair less/smoother than one of my friend's 16" CARs. And to boot, gives me more convenient places for my hands to rest on the forend, as I am tall & have lanky arms.

 

[RP88]

I have a del-ton midlength right now. It has a heavy barrel, and the oversized guards with double heat shields. It's 'front-heavy', but still balances great. It won't be real noticeable when you hold it, but when you're kicking it around, you'll notice that the front has more weight to it. A good plus to that is that all that crap it has up in front keeps it relatively cool.