It's about time consumers understand what costs are in the firearm business and that federal licensed firearm dealers' premises are where one must go to in order to legally purchase/exercise their 'right to own firearms'. No dealers, no future for gun ownership.

Marlin 1894C in .357/.38, walnut, 18" barrel, $640.  (ret $707)

Marlin 336C .30-30, walnut, 20" barrel, $540.  (ret $592)

Henry .22, feeds short, long, & long rifle .22, 18" barrel, $295.  (ret $335)

Savage MK-II fluted heavy barrel .22, heavy target stock, $470.  (ret $496)

Ruger 10/22 blued .22, synthetic stock, $235.  (ret $277)

Ruger 10/22 polished stainless barrel .22, matte silver receiver, $255.  (ret $299)

Ruger 10/22 VLEH, Hogue stock, 16" heavy barrel, bipod, $475.  (ret $555)

Sept 2012: these and even basic Ruger 10/22s have been nonexistent from big distributors since fall 2011.

Ruger 10/22T, Brown Laminate stock, 20" blued heavy barrel, $429.  (ret $499)

Ruger 10/22T, Black Laminate stock, 20" stainless heavy barrel, $479.  (ret $559)

Official IWI licensed Uzi replica is made by Carl Walther Germany

Umarex Carl Walther IWI MP Uzi .22

In the likeness of Israeli Weapon Industries' Uzi (some will remember them as Israeli Military Industries),

the Umarex Uzi rifle in .22lr resembles appearance and weight of the world renown Uzi submachine gun.

Same type folding stock as original, 20 round mags are rather tough to get (much like the MP5 .22lr).

 Rifle has railed section hidden under removable handguards. These are issued with one mag, ret $599.

 

 

Official HK licensed MP5 replica is made by Carl Walther Germany

Umarex Carl Walther HK MP5 .22

Umarex MP5 .22 rifle. These come with one 25rd magazine, $489.

Umarex Carl Walther HK MP5 SD .22

Umarex MP5 SD type .22 rifle. With one 25rd magazine, $549.

Official HK licensed 416 replica is made by Carl Walther Germany

Umarex Carl Walther HK 416D .22

Umarex HK 416D .22 rifle. With one 20rd magazine, $599.

S&W M&P 15-22 standard

Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 standard model, $495.  (ret $519)

Cost: $390 + 18% markup $70 = $460 + $35 USPS shipping = $495.

If sent 2 Day Air UPS/FedEx:  Cost $390 + 9% markup $35 = $425 + $70 shipping = $495.

Think $495 is too high? How the hell do consumers think gunshops keep storefront doors open?

This is why I prefer distributors that give free freight when I order $3,000 + per shipment.

Narrows the ordering field but allows me to offer good everyday pricing on so many items here in Hawaii.

MSAR STG-556 .223 Top Rail Version  ** Discontinued **

Top rail only, no optic included. (shown with Aimpoint)   ** pictured here for reference only **

Retail price in 2011 was $1,600 ~ $1,800. With alarming drop in market value 2012, don't buy these now.

Also, without consistent supply of rifles or their parts, these may not be best choices for an all-around rifle.

New insight into optimum bullpup design and serious fighting applications just may be found in the FS2000

(currently ~ $2,500+) - check training page for more insight in the Dec 1-2 Subgun course report.

Another example (Leupold 1-4x scope and QRW rings) for an optic on MSAR STG-556 top rail.

 

Finally a proper height folding sight set from Troy. $195/set. Shown on the standard model STG-556 rail.

Attempting to use regular folding sight sets intended for normal AR flattop heights would = too high sights.

MSAR XM17-E4  ** Discontinued **

 

More rail hardpoints, eliminate forward assist, redesigned bolt release and stock, AR mag compatibility.

Finally the most important sight height issue appears to be solved with the E4's top rail height being lower.

Standard fixed or flip up AR15 flattop sights will now work properly. The STG-556 top rail was too high.

Base rifle included 3 accessory rails and 5 magazines!  ** pictured here for reference only **

Retail price in 2011 was $1,800 ~ $2,000. With alarming drop in market value 2012, don't buy these now.

Also, without consistent supply of rifles or their parts, these may not be best choices for an all-around rifle.

New insight into optimum bullpup design and serious fighting applications just may be found in the FS2000

(currently ~ $2,500+) - check training page for more insight in the Dec 1-2 Subgun course report.

Pictured above with Troy standard front and rear sights, EoTech model 512.

Pictured above with Troy standard sights folded, Trjicon TA01 ACOG.

 

KelTec Sub2000 Pistol Caliber Folding Carbines

Not easy to find - KelTec Sub2000 carbines. This one uses Glock 17 9mm magazines.

There's a model for Glock 22 .40cal mags. Another uses S&W mags, yet another; Beretta mags.

  

Foldable and compact, if one really wanted a pistol caliber carbine that was reasonable in price and utilized

rightfully popular Glock 17, Glock 22 or even S&W 5906 or Beretta 92 mags, this fills the niche very well.

Blued $365 (ret $406), parkerized $389 (ret $435). All models are hard to get, sight design questionable.

2009 ~ 2012, I have seen ridiculous problems (front sights rotating around barrel, broken rear sights) -

so I do not recommend these at all. Put the money toward something else or get AR lowers and ammo.

KelTec Sub2000s in Hard Chrome finish

Hard Chromed barrel, stock tube and steel parts, $399 (ret $446). Newest variant and hard to find.

KelTec never made Sub2000s in consistent or large quantity; not smart if wanting to promote the product.

As a pistol caliber carbine, these are 'glorified handguns'. Honest answer: don't waste $$$ on these.

As above, too many fails with these. Most don't admit it because they haven't been around them enough.

Don't hold out months/years for one of these. Put $400 toward something else more usable and practical.

Arsenal AKs

Arsenal AKs built on Saiga (genuine Russian) stamped receivers, fixed stock

Arsenal 7.62x39 caliber AK, built on Russian Saiga receivers, fixed stock, black furniture, $875.

These come with Bulgarian short 5 round mag; original waffle pattern 30 round mag shown is optional. 

Arsenal 7.62x39 with plum furniture, $885.  Not known why it has to be $10 higher for plum color.

Yes, safety is off (selector lever in down position). Below is an AK with safety on (lever in up position).

Arsenal 5.45x39 caliber, Russian Saiga receiver, fixed stock, black furniture, $890. Plum furniture, $900.

The 5.45x39 models come with Russian short 10 round mag.  Bulgarian 30 round mag shown is optional.

Cost of the 10rd original Russian mag for 5.45x39s is very high - $45!  (7.62x39's 5rd mag cost is $23.)

Arsenal 5.45x39 Saiga with sidefolding stock and Bulgarian 30rd mag. $1,195.

Compact for storage/transport with the solid sidefolding stock.

Left side view of Arsenal 5.45x39 Saiga with original Bulgarian 45rd magazine (optional, $60 each)

Solid sidefolding stocks are worth every dollar of their cost. Solid cheekweld when opened.

Arsenal type 'SA M-7' with milled receiver, fixed stock  *limited production, discontinued*

Milled receiver 7.62x39 Arsenal SA M-7, highest level of milled type AK that they offer, $1,550 and up.

Arsenal type 'F' with stamped receiver, solid side-folding stock  *out of production*

Arsenal (Bulgarian pattern) SLR-107F in 7.62x39, solid side-folding stock, around $1,150.

Possibly the finest fit and finish and the best side folder in a American made stamped receiver AK!

Arsenal SLR-107F with stock folded. Their side-folding stock is unmatched in strength and solidity.

Arsenal type 'CR' with stamped receiver, solid side-folding stock  *out of production*

The Arsenal 'ready for SBR' AK. In states that allow it, a form can be completed and fee paid to make a

'short barreled rifle'; this variant has 90 degree gas block front sight combo with the thread protector nut.

SLR-107CR with stock folded...  handling is a dream with front sight tower at mid-position. ~$1,200.

Shown with slip-over krink style extension.  This one is light and does not add unnecessary weight.

7.62x39 Bulgarian 40rd mag is shown.  Slip-over krink extension $65, was available thru K-Var.

Arsenal type 'UR' (Krinkov) stamped receiver, solid side-folding stock  *out of production*

Arsenal's Krinkov: Incredibly quick from ready positions to the engage position. Lightweight and fast.

Short gas system and unique handguards, rear sight, top cover. Arsenal Krinkov 16" AKs ~$1,300.

These are the Arsenal model SLR-107UR in 7.62x39.   SLR-106UR variant would be .223 caliber.

Arsenal Krinkov KR-PBS5 dummy sound suppressor - $125, was available thru K-Var, never in stock...

Above rifle with stock folded.... looks great yet the dummy suppressor does add considerable weight.

Arsenal SBR (Short Barrelled Rifle) possibilities - only in states with ATF allowances,

ATF approval Form 4, extremely thorough background check and $200 transfer tax.

  

Closer look at 'SBR ready' rifles front ends w/ threaded nut vs. the standard rifle's muzzle brake.

  

Left: the slip-over 4" Krinkov style extension.   Right: A Krinkov 16" with dummy suppressor over barrel.

The following are images and base prices of more AK variants as a reference:

03/30/11: the price hiking continues. it isn't me raising prices; it's the importers/distributors.

what once was the common Romanian AK package like above - is now the piecemeal game -

with prices slowly rising higher, and the GP/WASRs often arriving without accoutrements

(no mag pouches, no sling, one plastic mag and one steel instead of two steel, no cleaning rod,

no oiler or toolkit, no bayonet+scabbard, or has bayonet+scabbard but no leather belt hanger)

As of March, there've been very few GP/WASRs I can secure from my favored big distributors.

I don't order these from mid-level distributors as they charge high freight, making cost $500+!

Expect these prices to continue rising and the frequent omission of 'the usual' package items;

nowdays only 2 mags come with these. I cannot keep offering these GP/WASRs at my prior

$495 selling price when dealer cost for them now is between $435 and $450, before shipping!!

05/30/11: higher prices seem to be locked in with these WASRs. Cost has consistently been

$450 for the last month, and availability is still inconsistent. Century Arms' QC getting worse.

10/1/11: I recommend Arsenal even if their AK prices have risen $15 or so on a few models.

Their rifle's build quality, higher level of parts and rust resistant finish is well worth their price.

12/1/11: Century Arms GP/WASR cost prices have lowered to $385~$400. I will still avoid them.

And, Century and/or distributors still playing games: One mag instead of two, no cleaning rod,

no sling or buttstock tool kit, etc etc. So, the 'lower price' may not really be a truly lower price.

4/1/12: dealer cost has risen back up to $450, makes no sense to 'save' on a questionable find.

Arsenal would be the better choice.  Based on all that I have experienced, that is my opinion.

Dec 4 2012: $550 average shop selling price for Romanian and similar 'cheap' AKs have risen to $600+.

Will that ever come back down?  It may even go higher as importers capitalize on public fear and politics.

Romanian type AK-47 laminated wood furniture.

Dec 2012 - approx $600 ~ $650

AK with select wood, better metal finish.  Dec 2012: not be available like 2 years ago.

** I won't even bother looking for any 'nice furniture' AKs like these anymore **

Underfolder, polymer handguards.  Prices may climb higher throughout this year.

Dec 2012 - approx $650 ~ $700

Underfolder, laminated wood handguards. Polish type underfolder pricing would start around $600.

Dec 2012 - approx $600 ~ $650

Underfolding stock AK shown with stock folded.

 Sidefolder, polymer stocks. German type with wire stock sidefolder.

Sidefolder, laminated wood stocks.

. . . with sidefolding stock folded . . .

Optimizing AK rifles

If you really are complled to add items to the AK, consider items that make the best sense.

For years I have ignored the obvious in worthwhile AK enhancements - and finally have begun to use

what makes a genuine improvement for the AK platform. Ultimak's railed gas tube is low enough to allow

cowitness with excellent Aimpoint red dot optics. Ultimak railed gas tube $110, Aimpoint H1 optic $575.

[There are other (some cheaper) railed upper handguards on the market; many do not provide cowitness.

That makes them worthless - at any lower price - and wastes your time and money to set up and sight-in.]

 

Whether one uses a Romanian or Arsenal or any other AK, an Aimpoint H1 mounted on Ultimak gas tube

cowitnesses iron sights and greatly enhances the speed of usage for the rifle. For those with reduced eyesight

such a combination makes all the difference in decisive hits on target. - link: Adv Rifle Gunfighting Course -

 

Want a quality light mounted to your AK? Better yet, you've already got an Ultimak railed AK gas tube?

Best combination for the money: current model Surefire G2X $85 (any classic 6P model will also work),

Vltor Offset Scout Light mount $60 and Ultimak railed gas tube $110. Vltor mount won't obscure sights.

  

^ Top view of Vltor offset light mount on Ultimak railed gas tube.  Flash sight picture with Aimpoint H1. ^

Selecting quality, proven items to build up your fighting rifle is vital.  Purchase foolishly or on a whim and

results will be undesirable; money is wasted.  - Surefire lights with Vltor offset light mounts on AR-15s -

Perhaps the most shocking for those who haven't experienced it yet: utilize a Trijicon ACOG on an AK

and witness amazing results. At a course in Texas, we had been scoring decisive hits on 16" steel squares

out to 500 yards with such a setup. (shown above is a 12" barreled Arsenal SLR 107CR in 5.45x39

fitted with Texas Weapons Systems' scope rail that solidly replaces the original stamped AK top cover.)

**December 2012:  If the new series Sig 556R in 7.62x39 would only be consistently available,

it may be the better choice for utilizing magnified optics on a AK mag-pattern 7.62x39 rifle.**

Arsenal 5.45x39 AK with 3x30 ACOG and Amercian Defense throwlever base mounted on TWS below.

Texas Weapons Systems Gen-2 railed top cover, $149.95

 

Installation requires some attention yet is simple. AK rear sight gets replaced by hinge point of top cover.

Rifle disassembly procedure is same as with a standard top cover; but TWS top cover stays connected.

 

3x30 compact ACOG on American Defense AD-B2 throwlever base. This base lowers ACOG to better

height than standard issue TA-60 mount. TWS top cover hinged up reveals different top cover button/lock.

300 yard sight picture with a 3x30 compact ACOG green horseshoe reticle.

The 5.45x39 caliber Arsenal AK and this combination has similar trajectory to 5.56 caliber.

450 yard sight picture with a 3x30 compact ACOG green horseshoe reticle.

5.45x39 has similar trajectory to 5.56x45 caliber so these compact ACOGs work well for either system.

(January 2012: There is another Trijicon model TA33-13 compact ACOG calibrated for 7.62x39 caliber.)

  Rear AK sight gets removed for installation of Texas Weapons Systems' railed top cover mount.

Emergency / close range sighting can be done by utilizing hole in compact ACOG base as a rear sight.

(optional TWS rear peep sight is $40; for quick shots, could use hole integral to ACOG base instead.)

15 yard shots and image thru compact ACOG's tunnel. For a quicker and more efficient sighting session,

shoot at white area of target for a much easier time spotting bullet holes. Black is harder to see bullet hits.

 

Naysayers often do not admit to comparisons made with AR15s/M16s equipped with Trijicon ACOGs

against a plain open-sighted AK, proclaiming the AK to be inaccurate or inconsistent. It is amazing what

3x or 4x magnification can do for achieving hits on chest-sized targets 200~500 yards. It is also amazing

how anti-AK fools won't admit that any hit scored under emergency manoeuvers is very difficult to make

with either an AK or AR, and only revel at their perfect groups fired in peacetime ideal range conditions...

-Adv Rifle Gunfighting Course running drill- Make equal comparisons, and do so under physical exertion!

     

Standard issue AK grip less than desirable. US Palm Battle Grip with storage compartment ($29.95) creates

a more secure grasp with directional control for more hand sizes over standard 'too narrow and straight' grip.

Arsenal SLR-107 shown with Texas Weapons railed top cover, Trijicon 3x30 compact ACOG

and their standard Trijicon flattop base, US Palm Battle Grip and US Palm magazine in brown.

Another AK optimization using Texas Weapons railed top cover: Leupold VX-I compact 1-4x scope ($240).

Shown mounted in Leupold QRW ringset ($70), with Vltor stock tube ($90) and Magpul MOE stock ($60).

With magnification, effective testing can begin on such a rig. Separate report on ammo test to be posted...

^ 1.5x magnification at 200 yard target. Front sight tower visible but should not be considered a distraction.

One's focus should be on the crosshairs anyway. A skilled shooter would not complain about trivial items.

^ 2.5x magnification at same 200 yard target, front sight tower disappearing from view in Leupold scope.

As zoom magnification is increased on a variable power scope, field of view will narrow with higher power.

^ 4 power magnification, front sight tower no longer visible. 1-4x VX-I Leupolds are size and cost-efficient.

Their design and that of similar 1 to 4 power scopes are a good match on Texas Weapons AK rail setups.

 

 

Blue Force Gear Universal Wire Loop - 3" or 6" coated stainless cable with billet aluminum loop ($23.95)

solves sling mounting difficulties and is also a versatile alternative to using snap hooks on small sling loops.

 

Need longer sling length and better location of sling to hang rifle from? Challenge solved with these

flexible wire loops. AK shown in the four pictures above is an Arsenal with side folding solid stock.

Various optics on rifles: spotlight on AK variant SLR 106 utilizing Ultimak rail

 

Installing Ultimak top handguard is relatively easy. It is the best replacement railed top handguard for AKs

that allows one to co-witness iron sights on the rifle visible thru most optics low-mounted right on the rail.

Ultimak railed upper handguard model for SLR 106 and 107 'krink' variants pictured is the M13; $120.

 

 

Springfield Armory M1As

Springfield M1A .308 Socom 16" barrel, fwd optic mount, XS sights, adv order $1,765. (ret $1,893)

Springfield M1A Scout 18" barrel, synth stock, intermediate optic rail, adv order $1,640. (ret $1,761)

Springfield M1A Scout in Mossy Oak pattern stock and handguard, adv order $1,730. (ret $1,848)

Springfield M1A .308 Standard 22" barrel, synth stock, adv order $1,530. (ret $1,640)

Springfield M1A .308 Standard 22" barrel, walnut stock, adv order $1,625. (ret $1,740)

Major concerns always include a no-sunset Crime Bill II. (Example: 'House Resolution 10/22'.)

The bulk of American voters have unwisely caused this to happen by voting into office the most

anti-gun candidates to date for president and vice president, and firearm restrictions are likely

to increase as America's gun owners' continue to refuse to bring up numbers of the NRA.

Many have truly paid too much for firearms during November 2008 thru July 2009 and we

have again witnessed the predicable cycle of panic buying, then apathy across America.

There will be more smokescreen issues to divert our attention away from firearms issues

and before you know it, some legislation or ban will be passed overnight like Sep 13 1994.

Ensure your firearms ownership rights, join the NRA and build up a strong membership!

* If you wanted a certain military style firearm, get it before some gun legislation happens *

January 2013:  All those who disbelieved me / procrastinated on any military semiauto rifle

are seeing full effects of what I warned everyone about, and have to pay more than before.

Military/Government/Law Enforcement stamped Colt AR-15s

Colt LE M4 flattop AR-15, 'Crime Bill' model, markings as seen below.  Oct 2012: availability sporadic

   

While current, these are not easy to come by. Colt doesn't make enough LE AR-15s to go around.

*** these are now on the highly desirable list. if not legislation, leave it up to Colt's antics ***

Colt has officially ended production of the Mil/Govt/LE rollmarked 9mm AR-15 LE 6450s.

5.56mm LE6920 and LE6940 models are continuing in production but now will be rollmarked

with 'SPORTER' instead of 'Mil/Govt/LE' stampings. Get ready for unavoidable price hikes.

My recommendation is buy only if you agree with the price and avoid unreasonable pricing -

many dealers will capitalize on people's fear of losing something, preying upon the easy sell.

 

[ excerpts of official letter from Colt Defense LLC ]

     Colt Defense LE Distributors

    June 24, 2011

     Roll Mark Change

Colt Defense is discontinuing use of the LE restricted to Military and Law Enforcement roll mark.

As soon as existing production runs are complete, models previously roll marked as LE6920 and LE6940

will be roll marked as SP6920 and SP6940. This change applies immediately to all new orders. In addition,

existing orders will be filled with rifles marked with the new model numbers as LE roll marked inventory

is depleted. All orders for LE6920s and LE6940s will now be entered as SP6920s and SP6940s.

New roll mark will be as follows:

SPORTER

M4         Carbine

Ser.  SPXXXXX

Please be further advised that the SP serialization will continue in the chronological order that has been

established and in use for many years.

Examples of Colt AR-15 Law Enforcement models 6450 (9mm), 6920 and 6940 (5.56)

and approximate pricing thru Aug 2012. [Oct 2012: prices sometimes found slightly lower]

Colt model 6450 in 9mm. Fixed A1 upper, dedicated lower receiver, buffer system, hammer, magazines.

This model has always been scarce, rarely seen and will always be collectible.   $1,295   (retail $1,469)

For those who recognize the Colt 9mm AR-15's sucessful track record, this is the only way to go for a

dedicated 9mm carbine. Definitely something to be said for a super reliable and respected 9mm carbine.

Colt model 6920 (5.56) as issued with detachable carry handle on flattop upper.  $1,325  (retail $1,495)

These are 'Military / Government /Law Enforcement' marked Colt AR-15s.

Colt AR-15 LE6940  - last of the Mil/Govt/LE marked rifles -

Colt LE model 6940 (5.56) as issued with folding front and rear sights.  $1,595  (retail $1,795)

This model has a monolithic railed handguard - the entire front handguard is part of the upper receiver.

Front of railed handguard has integrated plug-in points left and right side for quick-detach sling swivels.

 

Folding front and MA Tech folding rear sight assemblies.

 

The upper receiver and main rail section is machined from one block creating a monolithic rail upper.

 

Removal of lower rail section is simple; depress a recessed spring-loaded latch and slide rail forward.

 

Detail of front sight assembly and one-piece upper monolithic rail-receiver.

 

Upgrading furniture & parts to "customize" your AR-15?

Basic 16" M4 contour barrel, flattop, detachable carry handle, basic ribbed stock, A2 grip, std handguards.

The average price for a complete rifle like this from Bushmaster Firearms is about $1,250.

Remove detachable carry handle, install a versatile folding rear sight, & change buttstock, grip, handguard.

If one 'upgrades' their $1,250 rifle to this, it will cost another $168 on top of their base $1,250.

 

At this rate, doesn't seem like a good fixer-upper. Some are factory available with Magpul parts in black

(or color like foliage green above) with Magpul's MOE stock, grip, handguards and folding rear sight.

When purchased like this, retail is around $1,300 for Bushmaster-Magpul or Smith & Wesson-Magpul.

Build your AR from a lower receiver and a complete flattop upper!

Building with separate components can save you hundreds of dollars!

Speculators, armchair commandos and those who don't know make negative comments about mixing parts.

Winners, fighters and those in the know are smart to build their ARs to desired configuration and save $$$.

Examples of saving $hundreds$: build your AR project from separates

(prices in examples below have been updated September 2012)

Adding upgrades to a basic AR always brings costs higher. Far better to save $100s and 'build' your AR

from a complete upper and a lower receiver, adding handguard, grip, stock and parts you really wanted.

Here is one example of building an AR at a low price with Magpul MOE parts shown in olive drab.

Similar to above CMMG build, but using an Aero Precision lower and DD EZ CAR railed handguard.

CMMG lower parts kit, CMMG upper with 14.7" barrel + permanently fixed A2 Birdcage flash hider.

Daniel Defense EZ 7.0 railed handguard, Magpul stock, rear sight, Ergo ladder rail covers (olive drab).

Note that this is still the wonderful 'short-as-legally-possible' barrel with A2 birdcage flash hider too!

 

Daniel Defense lightweight AR-15 upper and optics

Daniel Defense lightweight upper, $1,150. Fixed rear sight, light contour barrel, lightweight DD Omega rail.

Also included but not pictured: Daniel Defense vertical grip

Add basic completed lower receiver (approx $300) and you've got an awesome, versatile fighting rifle.

Capable just as any other AR-15 or variant, much lighter and only $1,450 with DD Omega rail!

^ One example of changing bolt group to EXO bolt assy, switching out fixed backup sight to a folding rear.

 

^ Integral quick-disconnect sling plug-in sockets on Magpul CTR stock and Daniel Defense Omega rail. ^

July 2011: Torture testing begins (no oiling) of EXO coated bolt, carrier, hammer with this particular AR.

07/24/11: fired 200 rounds; steel & brass cased, Russian/US/Greek/Israeli ammo - zero malfunctions.

ongoing testing to continue whenever time/ammo permits! running steel cased ammunition will be priority.

07/31/11: continue test with laquered cases, hollowpoint, softpoint, foreign and US ammo, no malfunctions

- even when firing continuously with a heated chamber. Approx 100 rounds, had 2 non-ammo issues noted:

 

^ as frequently occurs, Trijicon RMR thumbknob flattop mount loosened again. time for throwlever mount.

^ an unexplainable quirk -just once- was an aluminum mag with magpul anti-tilt follower that failed to feed.

EXO carrier + bolt assy, hammer shown at this 300 round mark. shiny yet still not that dirty. not bad at all. ^

Daniel Defense upper is proving to have good chamber dimensions; feeds ammo often shunned by many. ^

08/28/11: one month later, 150 more rounds, reaching 450; this'll be a 'leave-it-dirty' test for few months.

10/23/11: run 200 more rounds, majority steel cased Hornady and Wolf. 650 rounds fired over 3 months,

rifle left dirty+carbon-fouled in Hawaii's humidity and salt air. Reliable feeding with steel/laquered ammo

proves Daniel Defense barrels have winning quality of fighting rifles and no suprise; EXO coating works.

^ Knight's Mfg folding rear sight, Trijicon compact ACOG on top, Trijicon RMR stored on underside rail.

This barrel contour is being revisited by many companies. With optics, rifle weighs same as typical M4s.

^ Bottom rail is where the Trijicon ACOG goes when one has no place to put it. Location for lights?

Could mount lights at 6 o'clock position... however, read on for enlightening ideas in sections below.

Daniel Defense M4 Carbine

Daniel Defense M4 issued with extended 12.0 rail: Magpul MOE stock, Magpul enhanced trigger guard,

DD vertical grip, DD integral sling mounts, DD backup iron sight, solid fixed front sight.  $1,695  (r $1,799)

  

Free float rail has plug-ins for QD swivels, both sides. Rear endplate has plug-in for QD swivel.

  

Omega 12.0 FSP rail, optional Aimpoint H1 optic, Magpul milspec MOE stock, DD backup rear sight.

Aimpoint H1: a lightweight optic system with 50,000 hour battery life using common #2032 flat battery!

- Changing appearance of rifle above and installation of Surefire M600 -

Upgrade parts and add color by Magpul: CTR stock, XTM rail panels (Urban Dark Earth and FDE).

Surefire M600 Scout light with remote pressure switch ($380) and Tango Down QD vertical grip ($87).

With light's hotspot being under the barrel, one would have to ensure sightline, boreline and light source

has cleared the vision barrier, obstacle or wall in front of the user. Even at side angles, lighting must clear!

  

Disadvantage of this setup: uncertain activation of light if right hand attempts to press recessed tape switch.

(With switch pad recessed in vertical grip, right hand grasping vertical grip will only align hollow of palm!)

Another point to note: requirement for user to always be grasping forward grip if light use was a possibility.

Much too easy for a negligent light discharge, which could create a number of problems. - link to training -

- other types of illuminating lights and locations to mount them -

 

Surefire Rail Mount Switch momentary + click on/off button mounted on side rail, X300 underneath.

(caution however is the switch pad shown above has tendency to come off rail in rough handling)

Better location on short section above & in front of front sight tower. X300 does not block sights.

The X300 can be utilized on numerous popular defensive handguns as well, so there is versatility.

 

 

Short rail section in front of sight tower is great for mounting X300s. Ambidextrous thumb actuation easy.

'Either hand' and intuitive 'momentary press forward' switch on X300 makes it a smart choice for DDM4.

 

If light was mounted at 6 o'clock rail position, illuminating from covered position would require shooter

to be exposed unnecessarily. Above, light hotspot is at ideal location: between sight line and bore line.

 

Other handheld Surefire lights mounted with rail adaptors can work with wired pressure pads on top rail.

With tape switch on top, far less chance of negligent light discharges. Positive light actuation regardless of

tilt due to aiming requirements or the situation. Hotspot of light remains between sight line and bore line.

 

Don't limit yourself to rely on vertical grip tape switches. Imagine firing from difficult grounded situations.

Will you require your body and hands to grasp vertical grips the same as when firing from standing?

If tape switch was affixed to vertical grip, how would you actuate light from any horizontal position?

 

Other common mounting positions of lights are often seen on left or right side rails; at 3 o'clock or 9 o'clock.

Too much of head/body is revealed as barrel and sights AND hotspot of light must clear position of cover.

Who's to guarantee one gets to observe or engage threats only from right or left side of a covered position..?

 

Light's emission notably left of bore and sightline.    ^ Ensuring hotspot of light clears horizontal barrier.

 

Using a Surefire X300 option versus Defender.    ^ Illustrating opposite hand for horizontal barrier.

 

Magpul Illumination Kit ($20) includes short rail sections,  ^ Lights shown are at 9 and 3 o'clock positions,

 tape switch housings - made for MOE handguards.     notable distance left or right of boreline.

- better answers to switch mounting location and light position on rifle -

Cost efficient setup: Surefire G2X light ($85) and Vltor offset light mount ($60) on a railed handguard.

Thumb / thumb joint of either hand can activate light's tailcap switch - in any emergency firing situation.

Whether upright, angled, horizontal - firer can activate light with less change of negligent light discharge.

This setup allows support hand to be free in grasping handguard and using light at any position needed.

Vertical grips (VG) with tape switches affixed to them make it too easy to trigger lights under stress.

If their use become habit-dependent, any need to remain low or fight from grounded side positions

will prove that one should not be slave to a VG or use only one comfortable firing grasp or stance.

 

Ideal positioning of light source at 1 o'clock (or 11 o'clock) - centered between sight line and bore.

With the light's hotspot being between sight and bore line, less exposure from cover is required of user.

Any position of firing becomes less compromised by having the light's emission more coaxial with bore.

Light shown here is Surefire M600 Scout ($380) with included tape switch, integral thumbscrew clamp.

 

Detail of Surefire M16 barrel clamp mount ($60) and Tango Down remote switch pocket rail panel ($24).

Clear advantage is either hand's fingers that grips the handguard can press the tape switch of this setup.

Less chance of negligent light discharges. Regardless of position for gun and user, this is more versatile.

 

A truly ambidextrous centered location of tape switch: on top. Any angle of rifle required - no problem.

Solid, proven light system like M600+M16 barrel mount+Tango Down switch panel is money well spent

instead of sinking $450 (or more!) into some less illuminating laser unit or AR15 with a gas piston system.

 

Either thumb / fingers can activate light. Tape switch is in location least likely to be unintentionally pressed

by normal or stressed grasp of handguard portion of rifle, and thumb / fingers do not block sight picture.

 

Trijicon RMR Sight - perfection in the world of red dot sights

Trijicon RMR (Rugged Miniature Reflex) red dot sight, this is a 4MOA model with RM34 flattop mount.

Uses common and cheap #2032 battery; 1 year life, auto intensity adjusting, never need to turn on or off.

Amazing how many still try to salespitch oversized and way too heavy EoTechs and M-series Aimpoints.

I'm selling off the last of the overweight, bulky sights and never looking back. Sadly, just like computers.

- pictures of various optics, including Aimpoints and Eotechs which are now succeded by smaller models-

   

Co-witness thru iron sights or use by itself. Dot is clear and bright, entire unit is small and lightweight.

Many variations and combinations of Trijicon RMR optics and mounts available. -RMR pictures and chart-

 

Examples of adding quality scope mount and Leupold optic to an AR-15

LWRC gas piston M6A2: Troy folding sights, Magpul MIAD grip, Vltor EMOD stock; approx $2,400.

 

Quality and economical scope setup: Leupold MK AR 3-9x40 in American Defense throw lever mount:

Leupold MK AR scope $390, throw lever mount $170. (this MK AR scope is calibrated for 55gr .223)

Building a gas piston AR15:  Patriot Ordnance Factory upper $1,100. Olympic Arms stripped lower

receiver $120. Add Troy front and rear folding sights, Daniel Defense Omega rail, Magpul CTR stock.

 

Addition of parts to complete build were around $750, so total is just under $2,000 vs LWRC's $2,400...

Daniel Defense rail is lighter, comfortably slimmer, 100% removable. POF system simpler, shoots cleaner.

Building up either POF or LWRC represents expenditures of $2,000 or more for their gas piston systems.

 

There are many gas piston designs - be careful what you spring for; & remember: in the end they all shoot...

Preference on sights, rails, stocks, etc is certainly up to one's liking and budget. Quality and proven Leupold

scopes and American Defense mounts are always smart choices when it comes to deciding on optics to use.

Examples of 'red dot' and magnifying optics, various back-up sights

EoTech standard model                           Aimpoint M/ML model

- Jan 2010 - EoTech and Aimpoint have released much smaller, more efficient models -

Front view           EoTech XP and Aimpoint H1/T1          Rear view

 

2012: most sensible compact red dot optics for serious use are Aimpoint H1/T1s and Trijicon RMRs

For proven optics with 3X magnification and Bindon aiming concept, use Trijicon compact ACOGs

   

EoTech basic recticle: Dot in circle, Aimpoint recticle: Dot. Each has pros/cons. Both provide faster aiming.

   Using fold-down rear sights with various optics in proper mounts allows co-witnessing of sight pictures.

     If conventional scopes are planned, be sure to get low-profile folding rear sights for your AR flattop.

   

 Some folding rear sights: Knight's Mfg Lo-Profile 600m rear sight, ARMS #40 lo-pro, standard rear sight.

 

Reference pictures of A2 upper recievers (fixed carry handle), A3 flattop uppers, and

mounting solutions for sights and optics and appearance of different configurations.

Standard A2 rear sight upper reciever

Trijicon 1.5x 24 compact ACOG

Detachable carry hande with A2 rear sight

Burris Speedot in Aimpoint Flattop Mount and DPMS fixed A2 rear sight for flattop reciever

ARMS Swan Sleeve with integral flip up rear sight assembly

Hakko red dot selectable optic with ARMS #40 folding rear sight

Bare flattop upper reciever with Knight's Mfg folding rear sight

As above with EoTech mounted in-line

Bare flattop upper with Knight's Mfg 600m folding rear sight

As above with Trijicon TA01 ACOG scope on TA51 mount

ARMS SIR system rail with ARMS #40 low profile folding rear sight

As above with ARMS throw lever rings and Bushnell Elite scope mounted

ARMS SIR bi-level rail system

As above with EoTech mounted for co-witnessing of iron sights and red circle/dot recticle

Full view of ARMS SIR equipped 20" heavy barrel rifle less scope

Another picture with scope mounted in place and backup iron sights folded down

Pictures of (bulky, heavier-than-they-need-to-be) optics or optic combinations

that could be avoided with smaller, more efficient optics introduced 2010-2012

Eotech over a rifle; DPMS lower, Bushmaster upper, Troy folding rear sight, Magpul CTR stock.

Eotech mounted, rear sight folded (if rear sight was up, co-witnessing of front + rear sights can be done).

Aimpoint M4 sight over Bushmaster lower, POF upper, POF fixed front sight, LMT rear, LMT stock.

Aimpoint shown mounted in-line to co-witness with front and rear sights.

Trijicon ACOG over a Rock River Arms M4 style rifle with Daniel Defense rail handguards, YHM flip-up

front sight, ARMS bipod interface, Harris bipod, Knights 300m flip-up rear sight, Vltor clubfoot stock.

Large Trijicon ACOG shown mounted on flattop, folding sights lowered and stowed in this picture.

 

Colt model 6920 AR-15 with several additions replacing issue handguards & detachable carry handle.

Daniel Defense Omega rail, Eotech 557, Eotech 4x magnifier flip-to-side/QD mount, Troy rear sight.

Shown with Eotech mounted, 4x magnifier's quick disconnect base locked on upper, Troy rear sight up.

Eotech 4x magnifier now locked in place, Troy rear sight folded down.

  

Silver tab on flip-to-side mount springs magnifier to side.  Throw lever under unit dismounts magnifier.

  

Left: Magnifer is shown flipped to side.   Right: A.R.M.S. throw lever can release the 4x magnifier.

  

With magnifier out of the way, Troy Industries folding rear sight can be deployed as seen above.

Differences between Milspec and Commercial buttstock tubes

Four different receiver extensions (buttstock tubes).

Top to bottom: Colt milspec 4 position, Vltor milspec 5 position, LMT milspec 6 pos, commercial 6 pos.

Commercial tube is  l o n g e r. The last position is virtually senseless for the understood purpose and use

of a defensive carbine. Best honest advantage of a milspec tube is the shorter length, which shaves an inch -

as long as a 'short, no-buttpad-added' sliding stock assembly is utilized (like a Colt or Vltor stock w/o pad).

  

L to R: LMT, Magpul, Colt, Vltor. Last two are noticably short; pic above shows end view Colt, Vltor.

LMT and Magpul stocks have buttpads, Colt and Vltor shown here do not, so they're more compact...

    

There are several other variations that have come about thru the years with 5 and 7 position stock tubes.

The main concern should be outer diameter of tube to work with sliding buttstock; "milspec" or "comm".

Bottom line: if one wants to have most versatility to change buttstock assemblies, get a milspec tube.

  

Above: pictures that show how to differentiate Magpul MOE stocks if for Milspec or Commercial tubes.

(other than trying to measure with micrometer or to slide the stock onto the buffer tube in question)

Left and right pictures: Milspec over Commercial. (notice thickness of rubber buttpad on commercial)

*  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *

One can get AR-15s from various manufacturers, small parts from Bushmaster and DPMS, mounts,

optics, stocks, lower recievers, match triggers, grips, tac slings, fold-down sights, and more.

Upper and lower assemblies can be combined with sighting options on the top half to build your AR

and complete your project the way you want. It is only limited by how much one wants to spend.

However, gadetry only goes so far. Buy the best up front and there'll be no need to upgrade later...

but no added "stuff" will make one shoot straighter; there is no magic bullet or magic rifle.

Sight picture through the iron sights of Springfield Armory's M1A Socom 16