Barrel length for 308 AR

[bofe954]

Pondering a 308 AR lately. I kind of like the DPMS AP4 package but it has 16 inch barrel which I have never really seen on a 308. I know I don't want the 20" length...

Rifle would be for 3 gun type matches and whatnot. I don't really need to hit 1000yd but it would be cool to be able to reach 600. Would that be possible with a 16"? Would 18" inch be much better?

 

[AndyC]

16" in .308 is going to be really loud with a spectacular muzzle-flash (depending on the type of muzzle-device) - go 18" if you don't like 20. Of course, if you can try before you buy...

 

[Duckster]

Hello, I was a sniper in the Army and used the M21 System. An NM14 with ART 1 Scope with Match Grade .308. I remember my teacher mentioning that the best barrels for scouting and sniping mix were about 19 inches. I'm sure the 18 inch would easily get you to 600 yards. The longer the barrel, the more accurate, but rember. Ya gotta hump it through the bush and those extra inches do get heavy after awhile if not snagged on something. Feel free to write me if you have more questions. Good luck!!!

Duck Johnson

[email protected]

 

[MachIVshooter]

I have an Armalite with a 16" tube. It is loud, but accuracy is not affected by the shorter barrel. Velocity, however, is-I lose about 200 FPS with a given load when compared to 22 or 24" guns. But I did not buy this rifle to shoot long range-I have bolt guns and a G-3 for that. The AR-10 carbines were built to offer massive firepower in a relatively compact package. This they do very well. Mine is equipped with a 30mm red dot and a Surefire 660 light, as I have intended it to be a short to medium range rifle.

 

[bofe954]

Mach IV- I am kind of thinking like you at the moment. I think the 16 would be OK, I just wish the 18 was around. DPMS makes a 18" barrelled rifle but it has all kinds of extras and is incredibly expensive, also the barrel is a HBAR. I don't think Armalight makes a 18" either.

Anyone know what mag the DPMS AP4 uses?