07-14-2021, 03:21 AM
Unlike 5.56, Grendel retains considerable power at shorter barrels, and can deliver serious power at practical hunting ranges (100+ yards) at even 12". The Grendel round represents an engineering optimization of the most serious downrange performance capable of fitting in a small frame AR15. It's entire reason for existence, was to fit in an AR15. The point is the most power for the size of firearm possible. In keeping with that, the shortest barrel possible to get that good performance has appeal for those seeking the most knockdown power you can get in the smallest sized package you can get. Much of that market would rather not deal with NFA. A 12" BBL with muzzle device is closer to 13.5" real. So a 14.5 with pinned muzzle device is 16" legal. Or you get a bare 16", if you dont want a muzzle device. For some, an AR-15 is a lightweight performance device, and the muzzle device is a component of that performance. For that market share, a 14.5 with a pin and weld muzzle device represents the most optimal legal power that retains the inherent appeal of the AR15 system and aesthetics/performance of muzzle device, while being the smallest package capable of doing that.
Not everyone shares that focus, but for a segment of the market - it's appealing.
Not everyone shares that focus, but for a segment of the market - it's appealing.