Questions for you AR guys out there...

[finz50]

Looking at buying an M4 upper kit from Del-Ton Inc in the next few days, but would like some inputs before I place the order (can't do it until Monday morning anyways). I'd like input into my options...mostly advantages/disadvantages and any other advice you got on a few specific upgrades I'm looking at.

1. Handguards: DPMS free float tube vs. YHM 4 rail free float tube (+$70)
Don't know that I NEED the 4 rail, but I prefer to keep muzzle rise to a
minimun, so figure a vertical grip would be an option I'd add on later.
Would I look like a total retard with the 4 rail with nothing on it....seems
to give me a better grip though.

2. Bolt/carrier group: standard vs. chrome (+$55)
Heard a while back the chrome BCG was better for the M4, basically was
told, it's worth the upgrade (too bad I forgot why-LOL).

3. Trigger: standard vs. RRA 2 stage (+$80)
Everyone says the 2 stage trigger is the way to go in general. It seems
like the $80 for the RRA is way cheaper than the other 2 stage triggers
out there...almost to good to be true. Is the quality as good and is it
worth it?

Yes, it's my first AR so don't be too hard on me. I've been on the "So you want to buy an AR, huh?" page, but still not sure if this setup is what I want. I plan on using it as an all around rifle...have fun with it on the range, but would like to take it varmint hunting at reasonable distances, so would like fairly good accuracy. Don't want to keep paying for upgrades if I can get them cheaper initially with the kit. BTW I plan on getting a RRA stripped lower next Saturday ($120 + tax)to put it all together.

 

[tntwatt]

1. If you are going to add accessories, go ahead and by the railed handguard. Much cheaper,usually, then adding later. If you are like most of us, the vertical grip will only be the first.

2. the AR platform has a gas blow back system in which the burned gases from the fired cartridge flow through a gas tube on top and directly flows onto the BCG to push it back. A chromed group tends to last longer and corrode less. This is a moot point if you clean your weapon after use.

3. You can't go wrong upgrading the trigger. Most of the big name companies like RRA have fairly good drop in units. It's not really necessary if it's a tactical rifle. Absolutely necessary if it's a long distance/target rifle.

 

[W.E.G.]

I'm extremely pleased with my RRA 2-stage.

Not that the RRA is a totally awesome trigger, its just that the standard mousegun trigger is totally teh sux.

 

[W.E.G.]

double tap

 

[Bartholomew Roberts]

1. I like the rail systems. They generally keep the barrel cooler and they give you options. They are far from a necessity; but nice to have.

2. Most people advocate chrome-lined barrels and chambers. I haven't seen much discussion of chrome BCGs. tntwatt mentions a chrome-lined BCG will last longer; but I have never seen anyone wear out a regular BCG and I have seen Colts with 160k rounds of full-auto on them. Personally, I do not see much advantage to a chrome BCG; but I am told they are easier to clean.

3. The RRA is a pretty solid two-stage trigger.