Free floating std AR, is is worth it?

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Is it worth it free floating a Government profile barrel on a mid-length AR-15? Would I really see any consistency increase in the accuracy dept. with that kind of barrel, or is the difference not worth the cost of the free floating handguards?
 
I noticed notable changes in POI with sling tension.

Free floating would solve the sling tension issue. If you're one of those who never ever use a sling when shooting then it won't make a difference.

If you're gonna spend the $$$ free floating it, try to go the extra mile and get a quality H. Barrel too, then you can really squeeze more accuracy out of her:)Subsidize this by selling the old barrel.
 
zupermann,
how do you mean?

"a sling makes an even higher difference in accuracy"

Do you mean by steadying your position thereby increasing accuracy?

or

By shifting POI decreasing accuracy?

I have been experimenting with a 2 point Vickers sling on a Colt C8 for tightening up the position. Great for steadying offhand in CQB to middle range, but not sure how it will play out at more precise longer ranges.

Non-free-floated barrel.
 
Thanks for the input guys, I think I'm going to be looking for a free floating guard soon. I had the chance to shoot my first reloads for my AR-15 yesterday, and I wasn't impressed. I mean, I got better, MUCH BETTER, groups from my 10/22 at 50m (with the standard skinny barrel no less) than I did with my CMMG midi!

What can you tell me about YHM railed guards? I can't afford anything like the Omega and, since I won't be fighting any battles any time soon, I think I could even get away with an UTG. I just don't want to pick from the bottom of the barrel, if I can at least do a little bit better. :)
 
zupermann,
how do you mean?

"a sling makes an even higher difference in accuracy"

Do you mean by steadying your position thereby increasing accuracy?

or

By shifting POI decreasing accuracy?

I have been experimenting with a 2 point Vickers sling on a Colt C8 for tightening up the position. Great for steadying offhand in CQB to middle range, but not sure how it will play out at more precise longer ranges.

Non-free-floated barrel.

Yes, I meant that the sling tension helps bind/steady the rifle in whatever position you're shooting in. In the past, I've had it to the point where my prone groups were on par with my bechrest groups! That's how much a proper adjusted sling made for me.:)

If you zero/shoot with tight sling tension, be aware that when you shoot off a bench ( and/or without using a sling) your POI will most likely be different. This depends on the rifle, but I've noticed more than a few inches difference.
Technically, a free floated barrel will aviod this problem, but you'll still might see some shifts in impacts simply due to your position changes. (example, when I go from prone to sitting, my POI usually goes down a couple inches).

I'm sure we all have certian shooting habits or styles that contribute to inconsistencies. The thing is to be aware of them and compensate for them.
Good luck in your experimenting. Keep an open mind and be patient and willing to learn.:)
 
UTG is for airsoft. I know a couple guys who went that route only to very quickly swap them out for something else.

YHM is a decent mid quality brand. A huge leap over UTG but not as nice as the $400 jobs. I'm happy with the one I have, no issues over the last few years.

What can you tell me about YHM railed guards? I can't afford anything like the Omega and, since I won't be fighting any battles any time soon, I think I could even get away with an UTG. :)
 
so what are all the options for free float rails? Wanted something long for a rifle build.
 
Midwest Industries seems to have well priced FF rails. Anyone have any experience with them?

Wolverine supplies has them as a stock item.
 
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