AR/Optics Question

[BADUNAME4]

I'm only familiar with the standard A2, but I'm in search of my first civilian "AR" and would like to be different. I'm also not familiar with optics, but I like the ease of a fixed power and never warmed up to the "assault" type of optics. Is it rediculous to put a 6x42 traditional scope on a flat-top carbine or does that kind of scope really beg for a 20" flat-top? Also, the heavy stainless barrels seem like a good idea. What's the deal with heavy barrels on an AR? My application will be lots of range use usually 100 to 300 yards and just general preparedness.

 

[MrMurphy]

Heavy barrel on a carbine defeats the purpose (light handy rifle).

A 6X42 is kind of overkill on a carbine, same reason.

For 100-300m work, a Compact ACOG (1X-3X depending on the version) the, Trijicon Tripower or the Leupold equivalent (which is 1-3X adjustable) would look appropriate on the carbine, not overweight or overbalance it, and they're tough.

A 3X maximum scope is more than enough for 300 meter work on a human size target. The Marines just adopted the M16A4, which is a flat-top M16, 20" barrel, fold down rear sight, with the 4X ACOG scope on it (if you keep both eyes open at close range, it works like a dot scope, just dot and bang, but if you close one eye, it works as a traditional scope at longer ranges. However, it costs $700-800.)

 

[KW]

It really just depends on what you want to do. If most of what you want to do is precision shooting, then a match grade stainless heavy barrel with a 6x optic will probably work well for you. The only real difference between a 16" and a 20" is the length and weight, along with about 100fps of muzzle velocity.

 

[BillL223]

If you want glass, try a lower power variable. I've used Leupold 1-4 and 1.75-6 on my flatop ARs. Either will handle plates @ 300 yds. I recommend an Armalite mount. I recently switched my 18" gun to an EOtech electronic red-dot and like it although I don't know about 300 with it.

 

[Bartholomew Roberts]

For target shooting 100-300yds, I think a more traditional scope like the 6x42 you mention would work just fine.

The heavier profile barrels are nice if you plan on doing some sustained shooting; but I think most of the match profile barrels are heavier than they need to be. I like a medium contour similar to the barrels made by White Oak Armament and offered for sale at ADCO and Global Tactical Supply. these are quite accurate while still being able to handle heat OK.