AR Questions Mid Length and Adjustable gas blocks

[lmccrock]

Adjustable gas blocks (like JP's) are not necessary unless you are adding something which requires one, like a JP Low Mass Operating System (LMOS), where it is essential. No, the LMOS is not a good starting point for a beginner.

For 3-gun, it depends on the venue. Many matches are on pistol ranges so 16" mid-gas barrel with irons/Eotech/Aimpoint are fine, and even past 100, not a bad way to start. However, an 18" 1:8 with Wylde chamber and a low-power variable scope is common in the sport. Either way, reliability is more important than cool features. Oh, flip-up irons will be in the way. If the rifle is dual purpose, flip them down for a match.

 

[Centurian22]

Thanks for the insight, its nice to know the adjustable gas block is unnecessary and one less thing to worry/think about. I think next time I find myself at a gun store I'll see if I can compare a 16" to an 18" to see if either "speaks to me" as more fitting or comfortable. It's all trade offs, velocity, muzzle blast, maneuverability, comfort and there are just so many options out there it's mind boggling.

 

[Zerodefect]

Yes, an 18" rifle rules 3 gun. Very gentle recoil, excellent speed. But has a bit extra weight as well, that is also helpful on some courses. I run a BCM 410SS medium contour SS barrel. But it will not be as well rounded as a 14.5" AR. It will walk all over it at long range rapid fire shooting at multiple targets normally seen in competition, but the 14.5" is superior at less than 100 yards.

I haven't run a 16" barrel in a while. I prefer 14.5" carbine and middy with a perm flash comp. Since you mentioned, defense as part of your needs. That swings things in favor of the 14.5". Velocity? Pff, my 14.5 competes nicely with my 18 for range time. It can still reach out plenty well with quality ammo. I prefer carbine gas with 14.5" rifles cause I spend a lot of time shooting left handed.

Middy 14 and rifle 18 seem to have the best recoil control. But 14.5" carbine is close, and can shoot weaker ammo well.

I'd try something like this:
http://www.bravocompanyusa.com/BCM-...r-Receiver-LaRue-p/bcm-urg-mid-14bfh lt12.htm
The BFH hammer forged barrels are VERY nice. I prefer standard quality barrels on 14.5's and the premium SS barrels on 18" rifles.

With a FHS 556 flash comp and BCM bolt carrier group. Just snap it onto your lower.

The Eotech XPS is the fastest site I know that can still reach out to a decent range. The 2moa dot, older Aimpoint Comps work well also. The newer Aimpoints seem to be almost completely CQB work oriented. Ironicly, my Trijicon 5-20x 50mm scope works well it certain competition senerios where distance precision is a bigger part than movement. And it does work at shorter ranges, if you switch to your off scope eye. It's weird. But still a 1x heads up optic is the best place to start.

IME, adjustable gas blocks aren't needed, but handy with supressors. Get an extra H3 carbine buffer. Mix and match weights with your current buffer until you find what you need. I use carbine tubes and buffers on my 18" rifles as well.

I prefer DD 14"Lite rails on rifles, and Larue 13.2" rails on 14.5" carbines.