flat top or carry handle?

[IrvJr]

Hi Folks,

I'm thinking of purchasing a .223 semi-auto rifle. I'm debating on whether or not to get an A2 or A3 style AR-15. I would primarily use the rifle with iron sights, but I would also like to get some kind of scope or red dot sight for the rifle eventually. I'd use the rifle for plinking at 100 yards or so.

I'm leaning towards an A2 model, with the more traditional carry handle, but I'm also considering a flat-top A3 model with the removeable handle. I like the A2 because it's lighter (from what I've read), rugged, and simple. The A2 model also costs a little bit less. However, the flat-top receiver looks like it's convenient for mounting scopes and other items on it. It also looks cool (especially with the rear flip-up iron sight). The A3 flat-top model seems very flexible/convenient.

Any recommendations on what model you prefer? Is it easy to mount a telescopic or red-dot scope on an A2 type of receiver? How sturdy are A2-type of mounts? Also, if I mount a scope on an A2 model, does the scope sit too high to comfortably get a good "cheek weld" to the stock?

Thanks,

IrvJr

 

[Steve Smith]

Flat top.


Dang, we oughtta have a search feature on this website (hint).

 

[TrapperReady]

I'd go with the flattop unless you think that you would be likely to compete in highpower service rifle competition. You can still compete in the match rifle category using a flattop, but you'd be lumped in with the more heavily modified stuff.

If that kind of competition isn't in the cards, then a flattop offers a lot more options.

I got a flattop, and am now getting into service rifle shooting, so I've got to get a new upper which will conform to the rules.

 

[Steve Smith]

Trapper, why not shoot a Circus Rifle (Match Rifle) instead? Should be a little cheaper to do.

 

[pinetree64]

I'm mulling over the same issue. I'm leaning towards a flat top because I'd eventually like to add a low power scope for short range varmits. I'm using a kit for mine but haven't decided on an ARMS#40 rear sight or buying the detachable carry handle and possibly cutting off the handle. I have a post on AR-15.com to see how this is done.

Thanks,
tjg

 

[TimH]

Hey Irvjr see my post a couple of lines up "A2 vs A4" I tried to link to it but wasn't successful lots of great input there

 

[JHill]

Definately go the flat-top route.

If you have any interest in building--some kits allow you to get the removable handle for little or no charge. That allows you to have functional iron sights and that standard look.

 

[TrapperReady]

Steve - Sure, I could shoot in Match Rifle. But then I wouldn't be able to spend money on a new upper (ie. new toy).

Also, the local shoots are designated as "CMP Matches", and I should be shooting an "as issued" rifle. There are handful of matches that the travelling team competes in, and I might very well like to get into those by the summer. If so, it would be best to use the appropriate hardware, so my score can't be challenged.

BTW, since JH stopped using RRA parts, what would you recommend in terms of getting a new upper?

 

[IrvJr]

Thanks!

Thanks for the feedback folks. I also did a search on this forum and found a lot of useful info including TimH's very useful thread.

I think I'm going to go the flattop route, since I don't shoot competively and prefer the convenience of the flat top (and like the fact that the scopes/optics sit closer to the axis of the barrel for a better cheek weld).

TimH, were in the Empire state are you?

IrvJr

 

[rick_reno]

flat top or carry handle

I'd go with the flat top - you can always add a carry handle to it if you want to ditch the scope. It more versatile.

 

[TheLastBoyScout]

I'm bucking the trend and saying carry handle. My dad scoped his, and we had no cheekweld problems after we put on a cheekpiece. The deciding factor is the CMP arguement though. No matter what, an AR15A3 is never gonna be service rifle legal under the current rules.

Does anyone else wonder if the rules will change now that M4s and M16A4s are being widely issued?

 

[TimH]

Irvjr just a bit south af Albany. How about you?

 

[IrvJr]

TimH - Putnam/Westchester County (right on the border). Fortunately my wife are on the Putnam side of the border, since Putnam is a little more gun-friendly than Westchester (but not much).

Do they issue unrestricted pistol permits near Albany?

IrvJr

 

[TimH]

Hi Irvjr, I live in Columbia ounty. I guess its fairly easy the get a pistol permit here. I've looked into it but I don't know enough progun people to get the references needed for the permit. I don't think they are unrestricted though.

 

[bad_dad_brad]

Gonna agree with TheLastBoyScout on this one.

I love my A2 type sights on a solid fixed carrying handle type AR (Bushy 16" Shorty).

If I want something else, someday I will get a new upper for varminting. That would be a flat top with a 24" barrel.

But for everyday use, the standard A2 sights to me, are tops.

And yes, I do use it as a carrying handle as well. So much to hold on to, with an AR15. Great system.

 

[aerod1]

I was going thru that same dilemma when I was buying my AR. I went with the "flat top" with a carry handle. This affords you the option to change your rifle if you desire.
Jim Hall

 

[Jeepin' Lawyer]

Flat Top!