10-27-2011, 01:48 AM
I too would suggest building the upper. It's super easy, and you have control of the components. I would say that the two most critical components though, are the barrel and the optic.
On another note, barrel length should only be a concern if you are shooting long range, and if you are shooting long range, then there are better cartridges for it. I consider the Grendel to be adequate at medium ranges. So long as you keep the cartridge in perspective, you will find that it will perform quite well in an AR-15 with a shorter barrel. I certainly like it better than a .223.
Oh, and the powder doesn't burn within the first few inches of barrel. Lots of loads can have over burn. If you are concerned about such things, load a faster powder.
On another note, barrel length should only be a concern if you are shooting long range, and if you are shooting long range, then there are better cartridges for it. I consider the Grendel to be adequate at medium ranges. So long as you keep the cartridge in perspective, you will find that it will perform quite well in an AR-15 with a shorter barrel. I certainly like it better than a .223.
Oh, and the powder doesn't burn within the first few inches of barrel. Lots of loads can have over burn. If you are concerned about such things, load a faster powder.