OP - I did a review a while back that compared some black rifles - you may find that of use. If this is your first foray into black rifles, I would suggest a Norc M4 to see if you like the idea before spending 2K plus on something you may not really be into. My own views on this - well of the blacks I own/owned I currently favor my LMT over others.
SL8 or XCR, or AR ?
- Thread starter pantz
- Start date
blaxsun
CGN Ultra frequent flyer
It's really an oranges-tangerines-apples comparison... The application, desired status (restricted or non-restricted) and price will really make the determination. And certainly ergonomics and even aesthetics will be a factor, as well.
If I was looking for the cheapest non-restricted 'plinker' that took AR magazines I might look at the Benelli MR1. With the XCR you have the choice of a 6.8SPC kit and various AR enhancements. The SL8 becomes more appealing with some of the G36 conversions, but this places it well into the range of a SAN classic. Swiss Arms makes a first-rate rifle; I just find they're a tad on the heavy side.
Then there are the non-restricted bullpups: FS2000, Tavor and Keltec RFB. And of course, the whole gamut of AR15 manufacturers and variants. I haven't met anyone who didn't like an AR; there's just something about the feel of them that's just hard to describe. The biggest selling point is that if you don't like anything, you can basically change everything.
The only other comment that I would make is that if you do want a shorter barrel, the AR is the way to go - since you can go all the way down to a factory 7" if you really so desire.
- I was not previously aware ! 
I respectfully disagree by saying the AR is F@$k ugly compared to the SL8 IMO
But I would gladly own both because the AR is a whole lot of tacticool sweetness with the right bits and pieces which just arn't available for the SL8.
SL8 wins in my book because its non-restricted, I am looking to get one after I get my truck next month. So if you have one you want to sell in 5-9 months flip me a PM now and we can work something out.
I don't own an SL8.
I own/owned all of these rifles. I'll give you my opinion.
The sl8 is the coolest gun to shoot. If it is comfortable to hold you will love how it shoots. Crisp and smooth. The charge handle is a pain in the but with the low rail. If you convert to ar mags it will not lock the bolt open once the last shot is fired, but at least adapters are available for ar mags. Picky about ammo, what works for one wont necessarily work well in another. If your not a handloader you could go broke trying to find a bullet that does this gun justice. Non restricted is always a plus in my eyes.
AR's are definitely the most accessorizable long gun out there. I like mine because its not picky about what you feed it and always delivers a consistent performance. Lots of cleaning as mine is a gas impingement. As it is restricted I'll admit mine spends more time sitting then being shot.
The XCR I cant say to much about as I've only had it a couple months. I got the 7.62 because bulk ammo is cheap in my parts. (although I've heard to run good ammo for the initial 300-500 round break in). Very similar feel as the ar but with different charge handle and forward assist. With different uppers available it definitely give this gun versatility. Its non restricted status is nice as well.
Cheers
Brad
The sl8 is the coolest gun to shoot. If it is comfortable to hold you will love how it shoots. Crisp and smooth. The charge handle is a pain in the but with the low rail. If you convert to ar mags it will not lock the bolt open once the last shot is fired, but at least adapters are available for ar mags. Picky about ammo, what works for one wont necessarily work well in another. If your not a handloader you could go broke trying to find a bullet that does this gun justice. Non restricted is always a plus in my eyes.
AR's are definitely the most accessorizable long gun out there. I like mine because its not picky about what you feed it and always delivers a consistent performance. Lots of cleaning as mine is a gas impingement. As it is restricted I'll admit mine spends more time sitting then being shot.
The XCR I cant say to much about as I've only had it a couple months. I got the 7.62 because bulk ammo is cheap in my parts. (although I've heard to run good ammo for the initial 300-500 round break in). Very similar feel as the ar but with different charge handle and forward assist. With different uppers available it definitely give this gun versatility. Its non restricted status is nice as well.
Cheers
Brad
