Suggestions on AR-15-Primary use IPSC

[cbmax]

Hello,

I've been thinking about getting an AR-15 in .223 for a long time. Recently I got involved in IPSC shooting production class pistol and I am now in the process of joining a club. From time to time they have rifle courses.

So now my interest in the AR has been heightened again.

I shoot rifle LEFT HANDED so I Know my choices in manufacturers will be limited as I do want to purchased a left handed model.

I almost forgot, rifle has to be NJ legal (Post ban).

So here is the questions. What should I be looking for in the way a features in my initial purchase. I know you can add and change things down the road. But, what would do in the original build (ie. barrel length, fluting, shroud, finish, optics etc.)????I looked on the DPMS website and the choices are overwhelming

Again, primary use (I think) will be IPSC.

Thanks.

CB

 

[Zak Smith]

The vast, vast majority of the left-handed AR-15 shooters, even in competition, use the regular right-handed model. They add an ambi magazine release and safety, but that's it. If you want a left-handed upper, with left-handed ejection, Stag Arms has uppers assemblies and parts to do that.

The most important factor is that the rifle be reliable. Everything else is secondary.

Most 3-Gun or IPSC AR-15's look like this:

* 16-18" barrel, NOT a heavyweight profile. If 18", use rifle-length gas system.
* Stock changed to fit shooter.
* a good single-stage trigger such as those from JP Enterprises
* flat-top receiver for mounting optics of your choice, UNLESS you are only shooting in Limited division
* an effective muzzle brake, such as from JP Enterprises, MSTN/PRI, or Benny Hill
* many use free-float fore-ends such as the JP, PRI, but they are not required

Limited 20" with iron sights
[ link to LARGER image ]

Tactical 16" with ACOG
[ link to LARGER image ]

17" with rifle gas and ACOG
[ link to LARGER image ]

16" with EOTech
[ link to LARGER image ]

20" JP rifle with ACOG
[ link to LARGER image ]

 

[Bergeron]

I'm also in the process of building an AR for IPSC use. Zak's suggestions describe almost exactly what I'm doing. Magpul 93B collapsible stock, flat-top upper, JP trigger, barrel, and forearm.

You should probably decide what division you want to shoot in, as that will tend to drive your descisions. A good adjustable stock, crisp trigger, free floated forearm, and 1/9 - 1/7" twist barrel will allow you to get the most out of the gun regardless of the division. The barrel and sights most optimal for your uses will depend on the division.

I don't think that the finish makes a whole lot of difference.

Your best bet on deciding a lot of the details would probably be to show up at a match and see if anyone would let you handle their rifle.