Building a precision AR - thoughts

misterzr

misterzr

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Looks like we might be doing some PRS shooting around here this summer. Trying to decide which direction to go, either buy a precision rifle, likely the new Ruger, or build a AR based precision rifle in 223 to keep costs down a bit. Will only be shooting up to 500 yards so I think the 223 would be plenty accurate enough with a bit of load development.

Looking for suggestions as far as a precision AR build, parts, advice, etc

BTW, Just finished a new 3 gun build for this season and am very happy with the results
 
Won't an AR that's even halfway competitive with a bolt gun run you about double? Seems the opposite direction to keeping the cost down.
 
I wouldn't go with a gas gun for Accuracy based shooting, especially at long range. The benefits of a semi isn't really felt in LR shooting? At least that's what I think. Getting a half moa bolt gun is much cheaper and easier than half moa ar.
 
If you're on the fence about it, go with a bolt gun. Cost wise it's much cheaper. I've got a Remington 700 20" 1-10 twist 308, with a vortex PST scope, factory stock and a JB weld bedded scope base can shoot sub MOA on a good day with factory match ammo. All in cost was about 1700.
On the other hand, I'm still gathering the parts for a mk12 ish rifle and expect the cost to be about 2200 without optics. Will be interested to see the accuracy I acheive out of it, but will probably start out running factory 77 gr SMK's to determine a base line but with a lack of plentiful ammo of that kind available in the great white north I'll more than likely end up hand loading for it which will be an even further investment.

If your concern is cash, bolt gun all the way but if you really want a gas gun there's no reason not too.
 
bsand said:
I wouldn't go with a gas gun for Accuracy based shooting, especially at long range. The benefits of a semi isn't really felt in LR shooting? At least that's what I think. Getting a half moa bolt gun is much cheaper and easier than half moa ar.
Click to expand...

I would prefer a bolt also.
But if the OP had an AR could he upgrade the barrel to suit long range and block the gas system.
I am asking because I have never used an AR.
 
The nonsense floated that a bolt gun is going to be more accurate for cheaper is just that - nonsense.
The only thing an AR needs for exceptional performance is the same stuff that a bolt needs (actually less, but we'll get into that).
- match quality barrel (Krieger or other)
- match quality ammo
- float the barrel
- a quality trigger (Giesselle or... Giesselle)
- egonomics to suite the driver
- quality glass

There is no need to true the action or bed it to the stock like a bolt gun.
You won't be able to hot rod the ammo like a lot of guys do with their bolt guns, but that just means your ammo will remain safe to use on a hot day...
 
Your gun won't rival your optic choices and ammo once you go down the rabbit hole. That said I'd spring for a CC SA 20 if I was looking for another firearm for 500 yard fun.
 
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I have a number of Precsion AR's that can provide extreme accuracy, however they are not standard .223/5.56 Calibers. Usually to achieve sub MOA's the shooters must reload so I selected wildcats like the 30 HRT and a 5.56 x 42. A 277 Wolverine, 270 AR, 22 Hellcat and the 6.5 Grendels are also very accurate in the AR rifle.

A custom match grade barrel with a target crown (no muzzle device) matched to a good bolt is vital. I also use adjustable gas blocks that are dialed off to eleminate the DI process for longer ranges. A good charging handle facilitates operation the rifle as a bolt gun. Good furniture adjusted to your ergonomics helps with comfort. Assembly by lapping the barrel to receiver and proper accurate torquing of the barrel nut is also important. As with any long range gun quality optics and mounts are critical.

All precision rifles will cost money however you can build a highly accurate AR that rivals most bolt guns.

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If you don't want to spend a ton of money but still want pretty decent accuracy, an IUR set up as a half-assed DMR rifle may fit your bill. Free-floated, with a really good barrel. I've been happy with mine. Even with the low-end optic and cheap Norinco ammo, it nails clay pigeons at 200 with boring regularity. With good glass and match ammo, I think it'd be pretty amazing. Best part was the price of the upper - amazing deal for what you get.



 
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Just have a look at Jerry's post in the 1 MOA challenge thread. Basically a Norc with a match barrel that holds sub-MOA. Pretty slick and minimal outlay of cash.
 
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