Concealed Carry
- Thread starter oldsports_
- Start date
Would like to thank S&C et.al for a lot of good info and help with my first gun purchase
Awesome man. You won't be disappointed.
I'll guess you went with the glock19?
Can you link me to the bag?Yea well not paranoid just love guns, always been around them, and feel comfortable knowing if **** hits the fan I'm good. Plus I shoot a lot and sometimes I like to go to the range after work without going home to get a rifle. Gotta takedown carbine on the ready.
this is the SHTF bag I have and similar rifle. Underside holds safety essentials, first aid / knife / lighter / flashlight etc.
Locked up at all times. I'd rather people call me paranoid and have the option over thinking it's paranoid and having no option. Be surprised how many people have these though.
Basically it's gonna be a really slow build.....so, budget isn't as much of an option. (but, let's be honest, it always is)
Now, on to the details.
-Really, I would like to set up 2 builds. The first is more of a lightweight tactical short carbine. The other more of a longer range coyote killer......not, a 600 yd + set up, but maybe 200-400.
For the short build:
-How much difference in feel is the stage 1 vs stage 2 trigger? Since, this is gonna be a shorter range set up can I get by with a stage 1 since precision accuracy isn't as important. No matter what I'm still gonna go with a very reputable brand.
-I'd love an EOtech paralax free holo sight.......but is there a cheaper, but still good option?
-I'd love a light weight foldable stock. Currently, I love the foldable stock on the Sig MCX.......but it'd likely be insanely expensive through Sig
-Should I decide to go with a tac-light and/or laser (depending on weight and budget) what are some good choices.
For the longer build:
-How long of barrel should I go with?
-What magnification would be a good recommendation?
-Obviously a 2 stage trigger and a higher end barrel (maybe Lother or Noveske) are good options, but what else is worth it? Also, what other options should I consider with accuracy?
I
i've got a S&W Bodyguard .380 that is accurate to 10 yards
On the Long rifle....
If you're going to shoot 200-400 yards, in my experience, there's no need in a 18-20 inch barrel. I have a 20 and use it for longer distances than 300 yards. 14.5-16 inch barrel will do what you need done at those ranges. Of course, I've got a friend that won't shoot past 300 yards without his 20 inch. So it's all preference. Depends on how you're looking to use it. If weight is an issue, the shorter the barrel the better (obviously). Since you're looking at two builds, you might like having the option of the longer barrel. Total preference, but for me, I've found very little use in extremely long barrels. They are, however, better for the overall functionality because that's the way an AR-15 was actually intended. ( sounds to me like you'd be fine with a 16".) a far as accuracy, and I'd highly suggest this , make sure to have a free floated rail. It is more expensive, but it takes the load off of pressure points, and allows for much tighter groups. The sights are so diverse, you'll have to take a jump at which you like more based on preference, and really, most of this is all preference. Do good research.
For the shorter lightweight carbine it will all depend on how often you're looking to use it. Keep in mind the barrel life on non C lined barrels is around 12,000 rounds depending. The more expensive barrels (1/7 twist chrome lined ) like LWRC for example can go over 20,000 rounds. Chrome line will effect the accuracy at longer distances, so keep that in mind. But I am more in favor of developing a good shot and not being forced to re-barrel quicker. Thus I go with the more expensive barrel. Again, if you're looking to shoot as a hobby a few times a year, you might not need it.I am very familiar with the EOtech parallax free holo ( although there is debate as to the "free" part, but for the money, great sight. I prefer an acog trijicon, but I pay out the *** nowadays ( and only own 2, one was given) Another budget and preference issue. Bushnell makes a fine cheaper version of the Acog as well. Something to look at.
Triggers are big to me. I am 100% in favor of a stage 1. I do not like tons of travel and shoot under 100 yards routinely. I have a stage 2 on my long rifle, for obvious reasons. It all depends on what your distance is, and how well your muscle memory is working. Since you're looking at shorter range (especially on the short rifle), I'd go with the stage 1. I like fast, and stage 1 means fast. For tighter groups at longer distance, you might want stage 2. Stage two is way more controlled, but again, I like fast. All in what you like. Maybe put a stage 1 on the carbine and stage two on your longer rifle for more control at longer distances. Preference man, every time.
On lasers.
I do not use them. They're cool looking I guess, but there's no need, and contrary to popular opinion, they do NOT help your aim. The only think that will help you shoot better is practice. Limit how much you put on your rifle. Most of the gadgets you see are useless and weight down the rifle. I have one rifle I use for home defense with the most gadgets, and all it has is a flashlight and cheap knock off acog. I'd use a sight of your choice (can be as little as 50 or 60 bucks), flashlight, and backup sights. Anything else is just not necessary, and around gun people it typically is laughed at (still preference though).
Stocks are going to depend on budget and preference (broken record?), and a good upgraded magpul is usually what I go with. Sig does make some great stocks too. My AK's have fixed and underfold, my AR's typically have 6 position collapsable stock with magpul. Just never found the need to have anything further, but some do.
I always hit my lower receiver first, then the upper. Don't go all out on the parts kit. The trigger can be upgraded, and pins and springs are pins and springs. No need in spending the extra doe on something so basic.
The types of receivers all depend on budget and preference (there it is again), but I like Daniel Defense and LWRC uppers. Of course, I have others not nearly as expensive and they work like magic. I really like Daniel Defense rails and furniture. Here's a link, great high quality barrels too.
https://danieldefense.com/catalogsearch/result/?q=complete+lower
Don't know if I helped at all. I tried to keep it simple. This is such a diverse topic that it's hard to get into detail until you start. My advice is research, research, research. Keep us posted on the project I love hearing about builds and maybe I'll learn something new to try. I started the sauce early this week (tonight) so if none of that made sense forgive me. :sunglasses:
***edit*** this is the only flashlight I use. excellent for the money, and I personally know cops that use these very flashlights. They attach well and aren't too heavy. Search for Klarus xt12. Bout 80-90 bucks.
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my bag is a Larue that I purchased around 2004? I think.
They don't make the model I have anymore, or not that I can find. The newer larue's are better, but mine has always served the purpose. here's a ling to their bags.
http://www.larue.com/covert-rifle-case-mkII
There are other bags but I've found these to be really popular. I want to buy the luggage bag but damn I'm not spending that kind of money. If you really want something to keep your rifle gorgeous and something that looks great, go with Pelican. I like the tac bags because it's discrete. Carry it anywhere and no one has a clue whats in it.
They don't make the model I have anymore, or not that I can find. The newer larue's are better, but mine has always served the purpose. here's a ling to their bags.
http://www.larue.com/covert-rifle-case-mkII
There are other bags but I've found these to be really popular. I want to buy the luggage bag but damn I'm not spending that kind of money. If you really want something to keep your rifle gorgeous and something that looks great, go with Pelican. I like the tac bags because it's discrete. Carry it anywhere and no one has a clue whats in it.
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Like you said in the post about the AR components, practice in proper form makes a difference
Those bodyguards are great for self defense. I don't think they're intended for much else, but for its purpose, it rarely gets better.
IMO the best self defense weapon for the house is the Taurus judge. Revolver chambered in .410 shells. Haha. Awesome gun. Put a Softball sized hole in the thug.
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I didn't read all your article due to time. (I will later) I find and having spent time at the Army Olympic training facility the weight (heavier) is a lot better for accuracy. It was amazing seeing them create a weapon for a specific user. I never realized what went into Olympic competition events using weapons. (Only JW in the movies could out-shoot those pistol marksman.) I watched them quick-draw a revolver at 50 or so yards as I remember and hit saucer-sized targets consistently.
Those bodyguards are great for self defense. I don't think they're intended for much else, but for its purpose, it rarely gets better.
IMO the best self defense weapon for the house is the Taurus judge. Revolver chambered in .410 shells. Haha. Awesome gun. Put a Softball sized hole in the thug.
I almost bought the S&W Governor....their .410 revolver. Is the Judge solid? It's so much less expensive, I might give that a go. I like the ability to use .45 Colt in the Governor in addition to .,410 and 45 LC, but it's not a deal breaker. Those self defense .410 cartridges are pretty crazy.
I use a .40 S&W semi for home defense now, but those .410 revolvers intrigue me.
Don't. Just buy what you want. Buy once, cry once. I built several back when you could pick up a lower and a parts kit for sub $300 and turn it over for $200 profit. Nowadays, it's not really worth it as any savings is negligible and there are a TON of makers with thousands of configs to offer. Building one these days is just a pain in the *** unless you're just looking for something to do.
My advice is to make absolute certain your feed ramps match between bbl extension and upper. Make sure both are M4 or both are not (rifle ramps). Mixing and matching is bad ju-ju and a common mistake for novice builders. Also, please pay for and learn to use a headspace gauge so you don't blow your face off. Many novice builders either neglect to or just don't know how to set headspace.
Seriously, just buy a rifle.
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Well, staying out of the pistol AR's (fun as hell though but I don't think you're looking at those) I'd go with a 14.5 pinned. Rememeber to comply with federal regulations the barrel must add to 16" (stupid as hell) but a 14.5" can be pinned +flash hider makes 16.
But seriously it's all preference. For your first build, id go 14.5+flash hider on your smaller (average) AR, and maybe an 18" since you want a "longer" barrel. Anything more is designed for long distance only and won't be that great for close quarters. I would recommend a hammer forged barrel too, forgot to add that I think.
But maybe you'd like having a 20" barrel and a (sniper) style rifle and if so, make sure the smaller carbine is standard 14.5+ muzzle device.
The problem with owning a rifle and never building one is knowledge. Building an AR is the best way to understand what's going on inside the rifle. It can also save a lot of money when there is a failure. Gunsmiths make a fortune off of people simply not nunderstanding their rifle.
I always recommend people build for their first or second rifle. But it's all preference of course.
The judge is the gold standard IMO and built like a tank. For the money (375 last I looked?) you'd definitely love the investment. My local shop (that has former vets employed) recommend the Taurus as the best home defense hand gun on the market.
^Im just looking to tinker. Not planning for resale, etc.
I've not built an AR but I'm familiar with them. I've also built several long rifles (Remington 700's) and although they are different platforms I'm not a stranger to trouble shooting and safety.
And yes, I had to measure and adjust headspace on the 700's.
Oh, and I have tinkered with my 10/22 as well.
I've not built an AR but I'm familiar with them. I've also built several long rifles (Remington 700's) and although they are different platforms I'm not a stranger to trouble shooting and safety.
And yes, I had to measure and adjust headspace on the 700's.
Oh, and I have tinkered with my 10/22 as well.
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14.5" is what I was thinking as well. I've read it's nice, short, LW, but also gets decent use of the gasses.
I don't think I'll go over 18" for the long build. I have a nice modified Remington 700 for long distance calls.
Absolutely. I competition shoot and the heavier the barrel, he better accuracy. But I've always found a proper balance is best. And really anything around 50-75 yards and it's really moot. I most definitely prefer lighter barrels on anything under 18". Those guys you're talking about are amazing. And yea those are all cut for preference. Those guys have their **** down to a science for their needs.
The LWRC barrels are my favorite. I own several and it's not only the best on the market (my opinion) but they spiral flute the barrel making it lighter and the looks are super sick. Same heavier hammer forged CL barrel, with extra craftsmanship to lighten it (did I mention its looks).
Did I mention how awesome they look?
From the sound of what you're looking for, I'd agree. 14.5 and 18.
This is making me want to leave work and hit the range. My golf game has taken a massive hit.
Absolutely. I competition shoot and the heavier the barrel, he better accuracy. But I've always found a proper balance is best. And really anything around 50-75 yards and it's really moot. I most definitely prefer lighter barrels on anything under 18". Those guys you're talking about are amazing. And yea those are all cut for preference. Those guys have their **** down to a science for their needs.
The LWRC barrels are my favorite. I own several and it's not only the best on the market (my opinion) but they spiral flute the barrel making it lighter and the looks are super sick. Same heavier hammer forged CL barrel, with extra craftsmanship to lighten it (did I mention its looks).
Did I mention how awesome they look?
Rambo would be proud!
Are you familiar with Hi-Point? I was at Gander Mountain looking around (Snooping guns) and ended up buying their 9mm C-9. The gunsmith, and he was a gun smith (A first at a gun store of the chain variety.) told me to take it and fire 200 rounds and come back and let him know. I did and did. No issues. I liked it. $169.00 I keep them for self defense.
Man I just looked. They have a .380 for $139.00 Dang, I already have a taurus.
My brothers Father In Law carries this with him at pretty much all times
Him showing me this made go from "eww Guns keep them away" to "holy **** dude that is bad ***"
I've heard of people who like John Wayne's ways but Clint's ways? Clint would be proud...
"Excuse me but if I kill all the golfers on the course there gonna lock me up and throw away the key..."
Ha I hear ya. Just razzin ya.
They're good for what they're good for I agree. Hard to find a new gun for that price.
Always fun to play a guessing game with an intruder.
Is it gonna fire?
Adds suspense.
Ha, I read reviews and have shot about three hundred rounds with two different clips without a misfire but i do understand. It is supposed to get better with age but who knows with a newer gun manufacturer.
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Come on BBUK, you know those high capacity clips make that assault machine rifle extremely dangerous.
Take down a damn plane it will.