02-16-2021, 05:20 AM
Moe2889 Wrote:Hi I'm looking to put together my first AR build. I chose to go with 6.5 grendal for my first AR. I'm new to ARs period. I already got a lower getting ready to ship so I'm looking for uppers now. I'm looking for a upper thats accurate and reliable. Not looking to have malfunctions the first time I take it out. The brands I know about are PSA Grendal Hunter Alexander Arms and Odin Works. I know AA and Odin Works would be the top tier uppers. My question is what upper is accurate and basically guaranteed reliable? Does barrel length play an effect? Most 18 inch uppers ive seen have the adjustable gas blocks and I didn't really see those on the other length of barrels.
Others might disagree with me on this, but I would not recommend going with 6.5 grendel for your first AR build. Yes, it is my favorite caliber. I have two rifles chambered in it, both built with premium parts. Both had cycling issues. It's a finnicky caliber sometimes to get running, especially in comparison to 5.56. That being said, 6.5 is a superior caliber once you get it to work. And I know of plenty of people who did cheaper builds than I and had zero issues. Luck of the draw, I guess.
If you are dead set on doing a Grendel build for youR first AR, ask yourself what you're going to be doing with the rifle. Do you want to shoot targets at 1000 yards? If so, 18" is probably a good bet, though it's doable with shorter builds. Is this a defensive carbine? If so, I'd recommend going shorter. My 12.5" Grendel is by far my favorite rifle. It has serious power even out past 500 yards, but it's still light and short enough to navigate easily around obstacles. It has an adjustable gas block, a full auto carrier, and a heavy weight JP silent captured spring. I run mine suppressed. If you plan on doing the same, shorter is better (unless this is a prone or bench only gun) because cans add length and weight in the worst possible spot (off the muzzle).
Personally, I would go with a shorter build. 16" or less. The AR excels at being a lightweight, ergonomic platform that is easy to accessorize. Optics, lights, lasers, and bipods all add weight (and the first two are essential in my opinion), so saving lbs at the expense of slightly lower velocities is more than worth it. Just my opinion.