AR Question: Comparing 2 DPMS's

[cbrgator]

I am comparing the AP4 Panther Carbine 16" and the Panther Carbine A2. The only differences are an a3 style upper on the ap4 and an a2 on the a2 and a slight difference in weight and overrall length. What is the difference between an a3 and a2 upper, and is the a3 worth $100 more as dpms is charging?

 

[Bartholomew Roberts]

DPMS's "A3" upper is just a flattop upper. The difference is that the DPMS A3 receiver has a picatinny rail on top so you can attach accessories or other iron sights. The carry handle you see is a detachable carry handle (and also why the rifle costs $100 extra).

The A2 has the carry handle built into the receiver and is much less flexible.

I always recommend people go with the flattop. Even if you never use any kind of optic at all, you have a much wider selection of iron sights with a flattop. If you ever plan to mount an optic, the flattop is much more versatile.

Unless you just want the detachable carry handle, see if you can order the AP4 without the detachable carry handle. With the $100 you save, you can choose from several rear sights (folding, same-plane, etc.) that may suit you better. Even if you do want the detachable carry handle, you can probably find one at a better price.

 

[cbrgator]

You are absolutely right. I definitely want the flattop, I just didn't notice it because I cant see it in the picture. I Know its a detachable handle but how come it doesn't look like its got a picatinny (I don't doubt you it does). Is just just the design of that particular handle that it masks the rail?

 

[Bartholomew Roberts]

It doesn't look like it because the carry handle is attached. The picatinny rail is underneath the carry handle. The big knobs on the side show you it is a detachable.

 

[possum]

get the flat top you will be glad that you did,the flat top is way more addaptable, through an eotech or aimpoint on there and buis and you are good to go.