Plz help me order my first AR-15 (don't click!)

[UserID]

Ok heres the good news ... I've been plastered to this computer for longer than I'd like to admit, trying to learn about AR's and which to get etc. So I have that part done!

I just need help choosing some options though. It's an RRA Mid-Length A4 with 6-Position Tactical Stock.

http://www.rockriverarms.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=category.display&category_id=224

I am going to choose the quad rail free float, hogue grip, CAA tactical stock, and chrome lined 1/9.

a)What should I pick for front site/gas block?? I want to be able to mount optics and BUIS w/o problems.

b) Flash hider. Is a "smith vortex" worth the extra 50 bones? Whats it do?

c) Charging handle. I dont know what this is but there is a badger option. Which to choose?

Thanks for looking!

 

[Full Clip]

The Badger is a tactical latch:

Helps if you mount a scope, so you don't have to reach your fingers under the optics.

 

[Eightball]

a)What should I pick for front site/gas block?? I want to be able to mount optics and BUIS w/o problems.

Get the "gas block/detachable front sight" for another $70 if you would rather not have that fixed FSB and like the options of whatever front sight you wish--or the low-profile, and stick the front sight on your quad-rail. You could get RRA's folding front sight gas block, but then rather than a bayo lug, you get another rail--which would be handy for mounting a light if you weren't getting a quad rail, but instead you have another rail down there.

As for b)--supposedly, they're "the stuff" from waht I've heard talking to a couple guys up here. To me, it's completely secondary, but if it matters/you have the expendable cash, why not?

c) Full Clip nailed it. In my experience, it allows for much easier manipulation of the charging handle, akin to the handle you see on AKs/SKSs in it's ease of use. That being said, I don't have one on mine, might get one eventually.

I bought the "plain jane" version of the rifle you intend to buy (with the 6-pos-stock), and I'm digging it. You're going about this the right way, bud. Good luck with your purchase.

But once you do that, then you'll have the issue that I'm having now--what optic?

P.S.--welcome to THR.

 

[SpeedAKL]

Definitely get the detachable front sight and the Badger charging handle if you can afford them. Don't know enough about the Smith flash hider to comment, just make sure you have some sort of flash hider on the gun.

 

[jpwilly]

The A2 flashider works as both a compensator and flash hider. As far as the badger "tactical latch" if you like having an extra large charging handle release than by all means. But they are worthless IMO. A standard fixed front sight won't be in the way if you mount a red dot system designed to "co witness" with the AR-16 / M16 so why get something else? Only thing I like is the flat top upper. Much easier to mount different optics or a removable carry handle/rear sight. BUT it is your gun do what you want!

 

[ogree]

badger extended charging handle is a bad idea, I have replaced more than a few assemblies cause of that thing. people get over zealous with it and end up bending the body causing it to bind in the receiver.

 

[BOONER]

Funny on the badger i have over 30 k rounds on 1 carbine in a lot of hard classes and work without an issue i have replaced more barrels than tac latches i have them on 12 different ars never an issue... they are agood chouice if running optics as well.. and certian TTP's for running the gun