AR15 Upper swap

Charlie98 · Nov 20, 2022

Mike J said:
I am not saying what the OP should buy. That is up to them but there are affordable options out there. I would suggest taking their time & doing their research.

My point was that a complete rifle might be a better option... and for not much more money. I understand if the OP perhaps doesn't want to go through the whole FFL thing for a complete rifle... and I see the value in that, too. I fall back to the '2 is 1, 1 is none' concept, and it can't hurt to have options (read: spares.)

x_wrench said:
I want NOTHING to do with a SBR!

I'm right there with you, bro. I think a 16" upper is the way to go... as a shooter, and to stay out of trouble.

sarduy · Nov 20, 2022

A lightweight 16" should be good to go, as far as SBR, an AR pistol lower to rule them all

GunnyUSMC · Nov 21, 2022

If you’re looking to go lightweight, build an upper with a lightweight barrel.
I’ve used this barrel on a few builds.
https://www.jsesurplus.com/16223WyldeLWMid1x8NitrideStrippedBarrel.aspx

wesmonster · Nov 24, 2022

Upper gas system length has nothing to do with buffer weight or whether it's an M4 or rifle buffer.
I've run 20" rifle length gas system uppers on m4 lowers with std. weight buffers and 16" carbine length gas system uppers on A2 lowers with rifle buffers. In 5.56/.223 you won't have any issues swapping.

I swap bcgs all the time but for ease of swapping uppers I'd get a second bcg for a second upper. I rarely buy my bcg when I buy an upper, I usually can find a Toolcraft or an Aero Precision bcg on sale elsewhere for much less.

My recommendation would be a 16" midlength upper with a pencil profile barrel. A FSB and std. handguard setup is usually lighter than a freefloating railed or MLOK unless you're willing to spend the money. Not the most flexible setup but a FSB works well with either a rear peep or a red dot. But most entry level uppers are usually mid weight barrels and free float uppers. When it's in stock Palmetto State Armory has a nice 16" lightweight upper. Bear Creek Arms also makes some good gear for the price.

Riomouse911 · Nov 24, 2022

wesmonster said:
Upper gas system length has nothing to do with buffer weight or whether it's an M4 or rifle buffer.
I've run 20" rifle length gas system uppers on m4 lowers with std. weight buffers and 16" carbine length gas system uppers on A2 lowers with rifle buffers. In 5.56/.223 you won't have any issues swapping.

I swap bcgs all the time but for ease of swapping uppers I'd get a second bcg for a second upper. I rarely buy my bcg when I buy an upper, I usually can find a Toolcraft or an Aero Precision bcg on sale elsewhere for much less.

My recommendation would be a 16" midlength upper with a pencil profile barrel. A FSB and std. handguard setup is usually lighter than a freefloating railed or MLOK unless you're willing to spend the money. Not the most flexible setup but a FSB works well with either a rear peep or a red dot. But most entry level uppers are usually mid weight barrels and free float uppers. When it's in stock Palmetto State Armory has a nice 16" lightweight upper. Bear Creek Arms also makes some good gear for the price.

I agree, a 16” 1/9”!pencil barrel will do anything that you want, especially if it is to reduce the weight and improve portability for your daughter. :thumbup:

Get a complete upper w/bcg and you will be golden.

Stay safe.

bfoosh006 · Nov 24, 2022

You should be fine swapping the BCG between the 2 uppers.

However, I also suggest buying a complete upper. PSA makes some very good value uppers, some come with BCG's , some do not...., and they have BCG's on sale frequently if you change your mind later.

Pencil weight barrel upper... complete w/ BCG and charging handle... $330 w/ free shipping.
https://palmettostatearmory.com/psa...3-5-lightweight-m-lok-upper-w-bcg-and-ch.html

https://palmettostatearmory.com/black-friday-sales/uppers-rifle-kits/uppers.html

And buy 1 or 2 of these gizmos... it helps keep the BCG in place while separated from the lower.

https://www.joeboboutfitters.com/product-p/jbt-bolt-sav.htm

Skylerbone · Nov 25, 2022

In my house everyone gets their own socks, underwear, and rifles. Certain things are better kept individually.

6 lbs. 2.5 oz with 16” mid length pencil profile and 15” handguard.

wbm · Nov 25, 2022

Varminterror
Let’s see… just how complicated can we make the simple answers of “don’t overthink it, gas system length and buffer design aren’t interdependent. Two pins and you’re done”. And “sharing BCG’s is fine, but it sucks to swap, so buy another BCG.”

+1

I may get hammered but Bear Creek Arsenal has complete uppers (including BCGs) starting at under $250 delivered on sale... I'm not affiliated with them but I've purchased 5 and have not been disappointed.

Same here. Got a 20" 223 Wylde chamber upper last week. Most accurate out of box AR I have ever had. After setup and scope zero the first 10 round group with hand loaded 55gr Sierra Blitzkings was one inch!...and yeah it did happen and yeah i have pics.

AR15 Upper swap

Charlie98

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sarduy

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GunnyUSMC

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wesmonster

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Riomouse911

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bfoosh006

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Skylerbone

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wbm

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