First AR Build

[canuck]

I am beginning to purchase parts for my first AR build. I am wanting to build it capable of firing 5.56 or .223 rounds. I am going to install a quad rail with 16" chrome lined barrel, adjustable stock. Awaiting on my Spikes Tactical Lower, and Palmetto State Armory upper. Would a fixed front sight or gas block be more beneficial? Or is it a matter of preference?

 

[CatManDo]

I found that, at least with my needs, a fixed front sight was in the way of a full length quad rail system. That rail system with a low profile gas block filled the bill. YMMV

 

[HOOfan_1]

Fixed front sights are more secure because they use taper pins....if you want a fixed front sight you are best advised to buy the barrel with the sight already installed. Installing one yourself is a precision job and requires precision tools.

You can also get one with the fixed front sight which is taper pinned and then cut off the sight to make it a low pro.

 

[MistWolf]

You will have to weigh out your wants & needs to decide which will work best for you.

HOOfan1 sums it up pretty good

 

[canuck]

I was thinking of going with the low profile gas block, with the free float quad rail. I have found a 45 degree sight pair that fits on the rail system. So if I do want to use the sights, I can slightly turn the gun sideways, using that. I have also found a few holographic sights that are pretty reasonable in price. I mainly want something that is going to be both practical and easy to move around with. I have a lot of woods on my property, with a lot of tight squeezes and climbing over/under stuff. I just don't want something that can get caught up in the rifle when I may need it quickly. The holo sight is low profile, and quick detachable.

 

[Livnoutdoorsxd9]

Being a 16" barrel, I'm guessing you're going to have a carbine length gas system. I would recommend going with a 10" or 12" quadrail over the top of a low profile gas block. Then you can run magpul BUIS or other brand on the quad rail and get a longer sight radius than if you ran a fixed FSB.

 

[canuck]

I ended up going with the 9" UTG PRO Quad Rail. Came with all the covers, fits well over the gas block and hides it well. Put my holographic optics on, as well as Magpul popup front and rear sights. Looks and works great!

 

[canuck]

Finished Product!