16 Inch Midlength Build, need a little help...

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Seyek

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Milton, ON
I don't own an AR yet, though I own a VLTOR Carbine Modstock that I plan on using for it. I want a sixteen inch barrel with midlength gas system, and a twist rate of either 1:7 or 1:9, not sure as to which would be better. Quad rails, not sure as to how much of a benefit free float or not would be, and if free float then a folding front sight. As for stock, already have the VLTOR, and I'd get a MIAD for the grip, some kind of flashglight and foregrip (Tango Down I suppose). As for optics, I want to shoot the first 1k rounds with a detach carry handle then switch to optics with a BUIS, either Eotech or Aimpoint and a Troy for the BUIS.

I was wondering what companies offer 16 inch midlengths, I noticed on the Wolverine Supplies site they have on the Armalite price lists a 16inch with midlength handguards, but I'm not sure if its just the handguards or the whole gas system, thinking it might be a good place to start building from. I'm not buying it yet, probably not for a few months. Also, any other suggestions on rails, other optics options, any other tips or places to buy would be greatly appreciated.
 
Your twist rate isn't super critical. The 1:7 will permit the use of 77gr ammo and down. The 1:9 will stabilize up to 69gr. Most ammo is 55gr so there's no worry either way. The 1:7 will not reliably stabilize the light 45 gr varmint loads.

A free float rail is nice but again, not necessary. Depending on what your intended use is, the benefits of a free float could very well be negligible. If you're looking at building a range toy for competition and general screwing around then the only real benefits to a free float are added stength and/or protection for your hand and gas system. Increased air flow for better cooling and the ability to hang a metric sh*t ton of accessories(If you wish).

if you're looking into a precision setup, a free float is a must if you expect to print consistent groups. Some free float rails require the removal of the delta ring and springs(The knurled looking nut that holds the handguards in) which can be accomplished by either cutting them off the rifle(dremel) or removing the front sight base and barrel. Personally I don't like to play with the gas system at all. Cutting it off is easier, faster and has zero effect on the gas system. Other FF tubes require the removal and replacement of the barrel nut which naturally involves removing the front sight base and the barrel. if your goal is a range blaster, pay close attention to weight. It adds up quick and every ounce makes a difference.

If you decide to go with a FF tube and a low profile gas block, you'll obviously need a front BUIS. PRI, Troy, GGG, are some of the many choices available. To keep things simple I would buy your front and rear BUIS together as a set from the same manufacturer. Troy is the general winner when it comes to BUIS.

Vertical grips are a love or hate item. Try the rifle with and without one. Some days I love mine, other days I take it off. Your intended role will play heavily into whether or not it is needed. As for brands, its a personal thing. Many use cheap grips with zero issues and aren't concerned if they break. Others run high end grips and swear by them. Again, watch the weight on the grips and watch the size. Many are very long and only add additional weight.

The MIAD is excellent. I wouldn't waste your time purchasing a particular "insert" model. The grips hold a lot more sh*t if you remove the insert altogether. They usually come with the near useless "3 extra round" insert. Without any insert the grip will accommodate a spare bolt, bolt cam pin, firing pin and several retaining pins and a couple of allen wrenches.

Lights are very much a personal thing. Your intended role will again be key in deciding whether you need one, and which one you need. Buy quality, and buy LED. Surefire, Pentagon light, Insight Technology, Streamlight are a few of the better brands available.

Hope this helps.

TDC
 
Mid-lengths are still not the most common configuration, Armalite makes it (until recently they were the only ones), other posibilities are CMMG, LMT ? I don't think RRA makes any nor does Stag. Look at the offerings of the sponsor dealers (Wolverine, Armseast, Questar, Socom supplies..).

I agree that 16" mid-length is a very good platform, I run an Armalite setup and it's very nice.

The Magpul enhanced trigger guard is a very nice addition.
 
Your biggest problem is going to be finding a barrel. Armalite, RRA, BCM, Denny's and Sabre all offer midlengths. Of all of these the only ones that are probably coming in to the country right now are the Sabre's from the UK (Call Wolverine). Not sure if any of the US manufacturers are making midlengths that comply with the current State Dept restrictions (no 5.56 chambers, not threaded at the muzzle).
 
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