05-06-2011, 02:04 AM
KDOGG43 Wrote:I'm getting ready to start my build. I'm trying to determine if I want to go with a 20" barrel or a 24" barrel. This will primarily be a hunting gun. Deer and long range Antelope. I was looking at ballistics and seems there is a substantial difference between the two lengths as far as muzzle energy at distances around 300 yds.
My question is will a forged upper be able to support the weight of the longer barrel?
Or do i need to go with billet parts? Are there any other inherent problems with using the longer barrel? Cycling problems, etc?
Any advice is appreciated. Thanks all.
A mill-spec upper will work with a 24" barrel. For long range hunting over 300 yards I would use an AR-15 6.5 Grendel medium weight 24" barrel. What I do with 24" grendel and my 223 24" barrel is to weight the rear of the stock with lead stick on wheel weights. I use about 1 to 1 1/2 lb. It makes feel like a 20" barrel. I have a sling to carry it in the field, if it's a long hike. That's IMHO