M14 EBR length/weight reduction?

[Nolo]

I've always liked the M14 EBR configuration, it's a great update to a great rifle.
However, I hate the space between the trigger guard and the magazine. I know that's a holdover from a c-stocked rifle, but I still think it can be mended. What do you think? Can the EBR be shortened by moving that whole assembly forward though a relatively simple gunsmithing job (like with a Saiga conversion)? Or is it doomed to be stuck like that?

Also, about weight, I've been wondering is it would be a good idea to replace the aluminum frame of the EBR with a carbon-fiber fame with aluminum inserts for the rails. What do you think?

Comments and constructive criticism appreciated.

 

[Sunray]

"...Can the EBR be shortened..." Not without a complete re-design.

 

[SimpleIsGood229]

If you want an AR-10, buy an AR-10.

 

[For Freedom]

You'd probably have to redesign the trigger group to make room to move everything back.

It'd be quite a bit more complicated than a Saiga conversion, and I don't think it's a particularly good idea. I like how there is room between the magazine and the trigger guard because it makes it easier to get my hand to the magazine release.

At this point, if you're really interested in the M14, you should draw up some specifications for a new gas system design that doesn't rely on a plug that needs to be torqued properly to ensure maximum accuracy. Maybe it would be better to pin it or something.

 

[Nolo]

But you can shorten Saigas. I know they were built to be short in the first place, but I was thinking you could do a reverse "sporterizing" (what the factory does to the AK to make it import legal) and shorten the EBR.

 

[For Freedom]

How are the Saigas shortened?

 

[Nolo]

How are the Saigas shortened?

They move the trigger assembly up.

 

[For Freedom]

Do you have any pictures?

 

[Nolo]

No, but this guy does:
http://www.cross-conn.com/Saiga_Conversion/index.htm

 

[For Freedom]

How does that practically shorten the gun though?

 

[Nolo]

The receiver moves back relative to your body about 2".

 

[SimpleIsGood229]

Thing is, the Saiga trigger assembly is actually moved back from the original AK configuration. Moving the Saiga trigger forward is actually just restoring it to original AK specs. So, moving an M-14/M1A trigger is pineapples-to-pomegranites in relation to Saiga triggers.