FNG Here

[TapRackBang]

Just thought I'd say hello and let you all know I'm lurking and using the search function. I'm about to assemble another AR, but this time in 6.5 Grendel. I probably chose one of the worst times to do such a thing, but I need projects to keep me sane. Idol hands and all that.

See you around!

[VASCAR2]

Welcome to the forum TapRackBang!

[just_john]

Welcome to the clan, TRB, from the great nation of Texas! Tell us what part of the world you're in, what are your goals and a bit about your grocery list.

[sundowner]

Welcome to the horde from Wisconsin .

[TapRackBang]

Hey, all! In Massachusetts for now, but looking for property in NH in order to pursue more freedoms.

Goals? To build something accurate (1 or 1.5 MOA) and fun. I'm acquiring parts now. Still doing barrel, buffer, gas system homework. Thinking 18" barrel as a good compromise between muzzle velocity, maneuverability, and weight.

Parts obtained thus far include:

-American Defense Manufacturing ADM4 Stripped Lower
-VLTOR stripped upper
-JL Billet 17" handguard
-JP Enterprises FMOS Carrier Group with JP EnhancedBolt
-Geissele SD-E Trigger (leftover from previous project)

[LRRPF52]

Welcome aboard.

I really like the ADM lower, as well as the new SilencerCo billet lower. Both have ambi bolt hold-open, which most “ambi” lowers don’t.

With the parts you have already, I think it makes sense to go with a mid to upper tier barrel, unless you like putting a 2.8L in a Corvette.

Here’s a visual representation of what you can expect with different barrel lengths:



For New England, anything from 10.5” to 18” will be plenty for hunting in the thick woods.

If you’re going to suppress in New Hampshire and you decide on 18”, I would steer towards a RLGS or ILGS unless you run a flow-through can like LaRue TranQuilo or Huxworks.

You can also go 14.5” MLGS and Pin & Weld.

[TapRackBang]

Welcome aboard.

I really like the ADM lower, as well as the new SilencerCo billet lower. Both have ambi bolt hold-open, which most “ambi” lowers don’t.

With the parts you have already, I think it makes sense to go with a mid to upper tier barrel, unless you like putting a 2.8L in a Corvette.

Here’s a visual representation of what you can expect with different barrel lengths:



For New England, anything from 10.5” to 18” will be plenty for hunting in the thick woods.

If you’re going to suppress in New Hampshire and you decide on 18”, I would steer towards a RLGS or ILGS unless you run a flow-through can like LaRue TranQuilo or Huxworks.

You can also go 14.5” MLGS and Pin & Weld.

I appreciate it, thanks!

Yes, the ambi bolt open/release is the reason I selected an ADM. I definitely want 18"-20" with a RLGS. At that barrel length, I don't see a reason to go with an ILGS or shorter. I don't know what I don't know, though. I wouldn't be here if I knew it all.

Lilja, Proof, and Criterion have caught my eye so far, but still snooping around. Looking for rapid cooling and/or minimal impact shift when hot.

[Stugotz]

FWIW, I built a 6.5 Grendel with a 22" Criterion barrel and with handloads I'm shooting .75" - 5 shot groups all day long with it. Great buy for the money in my book.

[mdram]

Lilja, Proof, and Criterion have caught my eye so far, but still snooping around. Looking for rapid cooling and/or minimal impact shift when hot.

best advice i received here for a barrel was to call Mark at precision firearms.
it took a while, but i have yet to be disappointed at the range

[CJW]

Welcome TRB, great to have you join us

[TapRackBang]

best advice i received here for a barrel was to call Mark at precision firearms.
it took a while, but i have yet to be disappointed at the range

After weighing my options, as expertly presented by LRRPF52 in another thread, I've decided to go with a fluted 18" PF chambered Criterion barrel and ILGS. I think it will fit my needs and customization/configuration is king, so PF it is! The price point isn't prohibitive and I think it's got the mix of utility and performance I'm looking for. I don't mind waiting for the proper barrel. LRRPF52 has clearly forgotten more about barrels than I'll ever know.

You all have been extremely welcoming and hospitable. I can't claim to know much, but it's not my first day, either. I hope to pay it forward and help where I'm able.