New Guy - Build, and Suggestions

[Cannon Fodder]

Hey Guys!

I'm new to WEVO. I've been reading the forums for a good bit of time (in fact, it's helped me decide on an initial purchase). The posts here are well thought out, and usually contain information that is directly valuable.

I'm currently deployed to Iraq, and I'm building myself bit of a present. I'm commemorating my third full rotation here (probably the last one for many Soldiers). I'd like to post what I have, and what picture I've got in my head. If you guys have any feedback before I finish it all up, please let me know. I value your opinions.

I placed an order through Spike's Tactical yesterday (requested delivery Mid-April). I chose them primarily because I've read great things about them, and their Lifetime warranty is not something to ignore. Stickman, Triplebravo, and Quib have done a lot to represent them as a company, and helped to remove some of the fog around selecting them as a manufacturer.

What I've purchased:

ST Complete Rifle (5.56) 16" Midlength LE w/12" SAR Rail (Micro gas block)
Spike's Tactical Biohazard BILLET Upper/Lower Set (I like the Ambi Bolt Release)
Magpul CTR Stock
Magpul MIAD Grip
KNS Anti Rotation Pins Gen 2 Mod 2 (Can't hurt)
Geissele SSA Combat trigger
BCM Gunfighter Mod 4 Charging Handle
Smith Vortex G6 A2 Flash Hider

US Flag on Mag well, and personalization for unit, motto, and deployment rotations.

What I want:

Magpul MBUS Gen 2 Front / Rear
Magpul AFG
Harris 6-9" Bipod (I don't think I need the QD model)
Trijicon TA31F 4x32 w/ Red Chevron
Rear Receiver Swivel Attachment Point (DD? (http://www.rainierarms.com/?page=shop/detail&product_id=1327))

Reasoning:

I'm open to suggestions, but I know these few things:

- I acknowledge that CQB optics have their place. I'm good at sighting using both eyes though, and I prefer magnified zoom. There's just something about SEEING the target, versus visualizing trajectory.

- I don't prefer the grip bipods. I've been issued a few of them and from my experience they're not useful where I need to place them to benefit from both the grip and the bipod.

- FSB can go, for me. I like the idea of folding sights (especially the standard issue Matech (http://www.botachtactical.com/maba60si.html), but I'm not sure what rear sight I want to go with.

- Mil issue slings often run the body of the rifle, and have the potential to get in the way. I'm partial to the slings @ the rear attachment point.

Thank you for your time,

Cannon

P.S. Quib, your Basic Inspections and Procedures FAQ (http://www.weaponevolution.com/forum/showthread.php?1613-FAQ-s-BASIC-INSPECTIONS-AND-PROCEDURES) is invaluable. I've made it required reading for my Soldiers; I hope you don't mind.

[Quib]

Welcome to Weapon Evolution Cannon Fodder, I thank you and your soldiers for your dedicated service to our country.

I look forward to seeing the progression of your build, and thank you for the compliment regarding the FAQ!

Quib

[Paulo_Santos]

Welcome aboard and stay safe over there.

For the BUIS, the MBUS GenII or the ARMS #71 work well. I like the Vltor E-Mod or I-Mod or the Magpul ACS, especially when you plan on using an ACOG and a bipod. For the sling attachment, I like the Noveske End plate. Also check out the TA33 ACOG with the horseshoe reticle.

[Cannon Fodder]

Thank you, Quib and paulosantos.


Welcome aboard and stay safe over there.

For the BUIS, the MBUS GenII or the ARMS #71 work well. I like the Vltor E-Mod or I-Mod or the Magpul ACS, especially when you plan on using an ACOG and a bipod. For the sling attachment, I like the Noveske End plate. Also check out the TA33 ACOG with the horseshoe reticle.

I checked out the TA33-H 3x30 w/ yellow horseshoe. I'm familiar with the TA31F sighting. Are the TA33 markings 100 @ dot, 300 @ bottom of the horseshoe? Also, do you feel that the lower magnification allows for a better compromise between close and distant acquisition?


-- Additionally

I forgot to post a few things. Well, probably more than a few... I won't be able to post pictures of the final build until April. I'm just getting a head start!

- The 'Why': I like to maintain proficiency on my own time. I've got 1000 rounds of M855, and I'll pick up a few boxes of 75-77 gr to sight in. I don't expect to build a super precision rifle... at least not for the first attempt ;) This build will allow me to test out the worthiness of a few parts, and put them on my M4 if I like them.

- I've heard some good things about the Battlecomp (http://battlecomp.com/) series compensators. Has anyone been able to compare them to the GOGUN Talon brakes (http://www.brownells.com/.aspx/pid=32320/Product/AR_15_M16_AR_STYLE__308_TALON_BRAKE)? Also debating necessity here. I like low recoil application.

Thanks,

Cannon

[Paulo_Santos]

The TA33 is setup like the TA31. Sight it in at 100 and the tip of the line is 300.
I've had the TA31 and the field of view on the TA31 is bigger, but the eye relief on the TA33 is very forgiving. The TA33 is faster for closer shots and I am more accurate with the TA33. I'm more precise with a center dot. I couldn't tell the difference between the 3G and 4x magnification.

The Vortex is a great flash hider and it would be my first choice over anything else.

[mlosi762]

I dig the Noveske end plate as well, but have the Magpul ASAP on mine, and paired with their MS2 sling, I couldn't be happier. Along have the ACS, AFG, and XTM rail panels. Also just picked up the RSA which is mounted on the midway on my handguard, so I can trasition the MS2 from a single point to a 2 point sling in a snap. I've heard really good things about the Battle Comp muzzle break, but roll with a Surefire MB556K myself. While it breathes a healthy fireball out the muzzle, paired with my Spikes ST2 buffer, and Larue buffer spring, felt recoil even with M855 is damn near a .22LR. Good luck with your build, I started the same adictive project before I got back from my last deployment. By asking for others opinions first, you can save yourself a lot of money and headaches. You're on the right track. Stay safe, and thanks for your service brother.

[Cannon Fodder]

paulosantos,

I checked your blog and comments regarding the TA33, as well as the Noveske plate and sling. Nice detail! I've given some thought to the Trijicon CP25F (http://www.trijicon.com/na_en/products/product3.php?pid=CP25F) front sight post replacement for assistance in low light situations.

mlosi762,

I think I'm starting to understand how the WEVO forum members have such beautiful collections. Once you get the fever, the only cure is more cowbell.

I intend to pick up an alternative muzzle break, to swap for days when I want to shoot for extended periods. I've heard that muzzle brakes like yours produce quite a bit more noise, but I can't imagine it's worse than some of the higher caliber rifles. What are your thoughts on this?

[Cannon Fodder]

Continued research. I'm still looking into items, and if you guys don't mind I'm going to keep this as a running list of the parts and my thought process.

-- To Buy --

ProMag PM108 Picatinny Harris Adapter (http://www.amazon.com/ProMag-PM108-Harris-Bipod-Adapter/dp/B000KK95YC)
Harris HBLM-S 9-13" Bipod (http://www.cgwgun.com/Bipods/Harris-Bipod-9-13-Swivel-Notched__HBLM-S.aspx)
Magpul MBUS Gen 2 Front / Rear BUIS (http://www.brownells.com/.aspx/cid=0/k=magpul+mbus/t=P/ksubmit=y/Products/All/search=magpul_mbus)
Magpul XTM Rail Covers (http://www.rainierarms.com/?page=shop/detail&product_id=1090)
Magpul AFG2 (http://www.rainierarms.com/?page=shop/detail&product_id=2257)
Trijicon TA31H-G (http://www.rainierarms.com/?page=shop/detail&product_id=1661) or Trijicon TA33G-H (http://www.trijicon.com/na_en/products/product3.php?pid=TA33G-H)
- paulosantos got me thinking about the green horseshoe reticle. I like that, after having done the research, over the red chevron which I've used. Now it's only about eye relief and magnification.
Noveske QD End Plate (http://www.rainierarms.com/?page=shop/detail&product_id=1363)
Noveske TRX QD Mount (http://www.rainierarms.com/?page=shop/detail&product_id=2420)
- Debatable, the Spike's Tactical SAR rail holes appear to conform to standard dimensions. If not, see below.
Daniel Defense Rail Mount QD Swivel Attachment (http://www.rainierarms.com/?page=shop/detail&product_id=412)
- This one comes with a QD attachment swivel.
IWC 2:1 Triglide (http://store.impactweaponscomponents.com/2to1potr1for.html)
SKT Industries Adjustable QD Sling - 2 Point (http://www.rainierarms.com/?page=shop/detail&product_id=2228)

In my mind, out of all possible accessories (not to include the sights / optics), the sling assembly is hands down the most important consideration of a weapon. A stock / grip combination is simply preference. A shooter llikely won't suffer anything except emotional duress if those aren't to preference. But, if your sling fails or binds to equipment / objects when you need mobility, quick breakdown, etc... then you're SOL. I'm probably stating some seriously common sense stuff here, but for me, I'm going to pay to get the right gear here. The only thing I'm wary about is the durability of the QD system. Typically an object that binds in that manner can fail more easily than a fixed sling.

As always, I'm open to comments!

Thanks,

Cannon

[CLBME]

Good afternoon Cannon,

Thank you for your service. I'm enjoying watching your list evolve. I didn't build my first rifle but I've gone back and forth and continue to do so with options and features- the potential is overwhelming. Luckily my wallet cannot allow much. After looking at slings for a long time I ultimately purchased a 1/2pt convertible sling from Savvy Sniper. The Quad sling. It's a small husband and wife business. Brian in a LEO. They couldn't have been more friendly and responsive via emails. I have no military or LE experience- I use the sling only for recreational shooting and it's the only one I've owned outside of traditional rifle slings for hunting but I really like it. It's easy to adjust with nothing dangling anywhere and very well made. I attached it at the rear using a SLAP plate and I used a Mount-n-slot for HK snap hooks on my MOE handguard. Just another idea for you among many!

Links:

sling: http://savvysniper.com/
SLAP: http://www.ikickhippies.com/
Mount-n-slot: http://mount-n-slot.com/

[Cannon Fodder]

Thanks for your comments CLBME!

I checked out that Quad Sling. It looks pretty nice, and I may go with the Quad Dual QD Sling (http://savvysniper.com/dualquad.html). It seems to integrate both features I was looking for, and may save me a little money in the overall build cost.

I'm just waiting for next month at this point so I can finish up my purchase :D I also had the chance to change my mind once again on the bipod; I'll probably opt for the Harris S-BRM 6"-9" (http://dsgarms.com/ProductInfo/HBSBRM.aspx) for less overall weight. I've had the chance to work with the 9"-12", but I don't think I'll need it in most cases.

Picked up 1000 rounds of XM193 on sale for $300 at Glen's Army Navy Store, so that and probably a case of M855 will be waiting for me when I get home. I can't wait to get this build to the range to give it a good welcome :)

[CLBME]

You're welcome! I'm glad it's of interest to you. And thanks to you for your comments in the "optics education" thread I started- like you I'm getting close to making a decision as some funds may come in faster than I thought.

I've not used a bipod but your choices are looking great. I can see where a shorter legged/lighter one may suit a person well. With your ammo on its way you must be getting excited.

Keep us posted,

Christian.

[Cannon Fodder]

Just an update:

Hey, guess what I changed my mind again! I purchased a Trijicon TA11HG (http://www.trijicon.com/na_en/products/product3.php?pid=TA11H-G). This one will be coming back to Iraq with me. I chose this because of the increased eye relief, and the ranging options. I will be wearing an ACH (http://www.google.com/images?um=1&hl=en&biw=1280&bih=961&tbs=isch:1&sa=1&q=advanced+combat+helmet&aq=f&aqi=&aql=&oq=) and believe this optic will pair best with scenarios I may encounter.

Rainier Arms filled the order on almost everything else (Thanks Guys!). Now, I just need to buy the BUIS, Sling, and Bipod. I still haven't decided if I want to go with the Magpul MBUS 2's or not.

Oh, and I added a B.A.D. A.S.S. ambi-safety selector in attempt to make this weapon more lefty friendly. Not for me especially, but I never mind letting someone try out a weapon. And a Battlecomp 2.0.

I love my wife. She says "Hey your packages arrived," and doesn't complain about the ammo that keeps showing up.

[Cannon Fodder]

Well, crud.

(Disclaimer: I am not flaming, ranting, or generally mad, and mean no slight towards the manufacturer. I very much like ST and maintain what I think is a good relationship with them. The text below is only to explain my situation.)

I called ST today to verify the status of my order, and they're still waiting on Billet Uppers to begin my build. Quoted arrival "Sometime in April." Since I'm less than two weeks from heading back to the states, this leaves me in a bit of a pickle. Now I've got to internally decide whether or not to stick it out and wait, or request a configuration change. The problem with that is if I request any change to my order, it places me completely at the end of the line. Unless I can, I suppose, come to an agreement with ST to expedite I may be SOL. If I miss the mark on this one, I will have no rifle... period... and I'll be back in Iraq by the time it matters.

Option 1:

Wait. See above.

Option 2:

Request Configuration change. Option 2 hinges on the presumption that ST can assemble and distribute No Later Than 11 April.

ST Customized Standard Lower
- Geissele SSA Combat Trigger
- KNS Pins - Mod 2
- Magpul CTR Stock
- Magpul MIAD Grip
- Custom engraving for personalization of combat tours, US flag, unit motto.

Rainier Arms (Really like these guys):
- Noveske Reece Lo-Pro 16" Upper (http://www.rainierarms.com/?page=shop/detail&product_id=1047)

Option 3:

Rainier Arms option + Figure out how to build my own lower combination, probably from parts on their site.

---

I literally have everything else I need to complete the build. I just need the rifle, heh. Too bad, I really like the ambi bolt release idea on the ST billet system. What I'd like from you gentlemen is information on the Noveske upper. Looks very reasonable, and I'm well informed enough that I know Noveske is worth the effort.

- Cannon

[Denver45]

I just bought that same Noveske upper (and I love Rainier as well). I have only put 90 rounds through it but so far it purrs like a kitten. I am new to the AR world so I can't be really helpful here yet and don't know what the accuracy is like with anything other than irons.

I can say that from a fit and finish perspective I am really happy and I can't wait to run it through the paces more. Also, with the spikes lower and ST-T2 buffer tube is really shoots soft. When I get a battlecomp on it I expect it to practically eliminate muzzle flip as there is very little now.

Good luck and thanks for your service!

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y246/jay_t/boom/P3270110.jpg

[Cannon Fodder]

Denver45,

The more I look into that upper, the more I realize that my ST build is nearly identical to that outside of the billet system and the obvious brand differences. I had no idea! But now that I know it's on the radar it's looking like a drop-in upgrade heh.

--

I'm talking with the ST crew and it's clear to me that they will do everything in their power to meet my deadline. I'm consistently impressed by their business ethics (as I am with most of the companies I've dealt with on this long process of building). If I did not have this very concrete set of dates that I will be home, I would be perfectly happy waiting until it showed up at my FFL. Damned tax refunds flooding the market! :D

[Denver45]

It is that time of year. [:D]

I loved working with Spikes to get my Enhanced LPK et all. I can tell you that at least in my case there is zero wiggle between the uppen and lower. In fact I need a tool (Magpul snapcap) to pop out the pins to get to the internals.

I think either way it works out you will be happy.

[zollen]

Too many Magpul fans. if you enjoy a little uniqueness, Check out these new products.

REACT™ Short Vertical Grip (http://www.missionfirsttactical.com/Products/REACT-Vertical-Grips/REACT-Short-Vertical-Grip)
BUS - BATTLELINK™ Utility Stock (http://www.missionfirsttactical.com/Products/Rifle-Stocks/BATTLELINK-Utility-Stock)
ENGAGE™ AR15/M16 Pistol Grip (http://www.missionfirsttactical.com/Products/Pistol-Grips/ENGAGE-AR15-M16-Pistol-Grip)

[Cannon Fodder]

Too many Magpul fans. if you enjoy a little uniqueness, Check out these new products (from Mission First Tactical).

Those guys need to get something other than CAD renderings on their site! I'm more than happy with choosing battle tested equipment, which is why I chose Magpul.

Here's my finalized "Plan B" list:

Noveske Reese 16" Lo-Pro Complete Upper (http://www.rainierarms.com/?page=shop/detail&product_id=1047)
Seekins Precision SP223 Billet Lower w/ Ambi (http://www.rainierarms.com/?page=shop/detail&product_id=1511)
Magpul MIAD (http://www.rainierarms.com/?page=shop/detail&product_id=220)
Magpul CTR MILSPEC w/ Buffer Tube Kit (http://www.rainierarms.com/?page=shop/detail&product_id=484)
Geissele SSA-E (http://www.rainierarms.com/?page=shop/detail&product_id=2252)
KNS Pins Mod 2 (dogbone) (http://www.rainierarms.com/?page=shop/detail&product_id=325)

- Already Have -

[Links shown are where I got them from, as applicable]

DD LPK (http://www.rainierarms.com/?page=shop/detail&product_id=1641)
BattleComp 2.0 (http://www.rainierarms.com/?page=shop/detail&product_id=2447)
Magpul MBUS2 BUIS (http://www.magpul.com/gen-2-mbus-now-shipping.html)
Aimpoint PRO (http://www.aimpoint.com/us/products/all-products/product-singleview/product/compc3-2/)
Trijicon TA11HG (http://www.trijicon.com/na_en/products/product3.php?pid=TA11H-G)
Magpul AFG2 (http://www.rainierarms.com/?page=shop/detail&product_id=2257)
Magpul XTM Rail Panels (http://www.rainierarms.com/?page=shop/detail&product_id=1090)
B.A.D. A.S.S. w/ Standard & Short Levers (http://www.rainierarms.com/?page=shop/detail&product_id=2289)
Harris S-BRM 6-9" Bipod (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000JJGXAI)
Promag PM108 Picatinny Adapter (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000KK95YC)
Noveske QD End Plate (http://www.rainierarms.com/?page=shop/detail&product_id=1363)
SavvySniper Quad Dual QD Sling (http://www.savvysniper.com/dualquad.html) - Requested both QD and HK snap-hooks at both ends, so I can use this with any weapon.

Does it look like I've forgotten anything if I were to have to assemble this rifle by myself?

[Denver45]

I can't wait to see what you end up with.



And for the record I try to buy American first and then local if possible. In Magpuls case they qualify as both since they are about 20 minutes up the road from me. So I said F it and went crazy.

[Cannon Fodder]

Whew! Alright, we'll I've received my new rifle from Spike's Tactical, and have taken it to the range. I couldn't be happier with the team at Spike's Tactical, and the rifle performs quite near to my expectations.

I apologise but I'm pressed for time at the moment. I will definitely post my thoughts, and tidy up some pictures when I have the time.

Here's my Flickr page, where I have uploaded a few snapshots of the rifle: http://flic.kr/ps/WXCK2