Suggestions on m305 build please...

[xeelee]

Hi guys, I'm looking to get into the m14/m305 platform as it seems like a great platform for the price...who can argue with a sub $500 full-powered semi-auto with a killer receiver?. I'm looking to do a build using the upcoming Blackfeather RS chassis being released by M14.ca (eventually). However I am undecided between the shorty m305 from CanAm @ $450 or the standard length which SFRC has for $399 right now. I prefer the 18.5" and if I were to get the standard length I would get the barrel cut down to that length. The reason I am undecided between the two is that I have read that the QC on the shorties is even less so than the standard m305 and are more likely to be more out of spec. To those of you with more experience with the platform, what is your take? If you were in my position what would you do? Sorry about the noob questions but there are a lot of folks here on GCN tons of knowledge and I am looking to be enlightened.

P.S. Im not planning to do the upgrades right away, but rather after I get to know and shoot the sh*t out of the rifle as is

 

[Buzzballer]

I have the regular length m305 and love it! Iv considerd cutting it down but besides the length, the longer barrel offers more advantages such as a slight increase in accuracy and velocity. But if you are for sure planning on cutting it down it would be far cheaper to buy it that way. The nice thing with the full length is you will not have any problems finding USGI components to fit on it and it actually looks like an m14

 

[xeelee]

Thanks for the input! I guess my main concern is whether there are enough differences between the two other than barrel length (ie. receiver dimensions etc.) that I will have difficulties upgrading/changing/fitting aftermarket parts without major modification?

 

[Perforator]

I have a shorty and it's certainly better built than the long barrel I got in 2009.
The factory short barrel is still going to have the stock threads and splines for the flash hider. Cut one down and you'll have more options for a hider/ brake.

 

[Rocket Surgery]

I wouldn't say the longer barrel increases accuracy, but it does give you a little extra velocity. The 308 cartridge is one of the better ones out there for maintaining velocity in a short barrel, this is why Ruger chose the 308win in their 16inch barreled scout rifle. The m1a family of rifles has thin barrels which are prone to whippiness, so shortening the barrel will reduce that and may increase accuracy.