Walt

I’ve decided to build a 600m, sub-MOA capable AR. My goal here is to keep the cost AND weight down by avoiding gadgets/capabilities I don’t need. I don’t need to be able to mount a suppressor, tac light, M203 or PEQ-2. I don’t need name brand parts for the “cool guy” factor.

I’m starting with the stuff I’ve got laying around; a DPMS stripped lower, A2 stock, DPMS “target” style grip and a Rock River NM two stage trigger.

Slims is suggesting a 20” stainless steel barrel. I agree and will probably be going with a medium weight barrel, “rifle length” gas system and 1:7 twist as I will be shooting 70-80 grain bullets.

I’m thinking of using a simple tubular fore end because it’s cheaper, and I won’t be mounting anything more than a bipod. Beyond that, I’ve got no clue.

So what do you guys/gals think? What has or hasn’t worked for you? Suggestions would be appreciated.

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Bear Cub

I'm kind of partial to Bushmaster uppers, and 1:9 twists. For sub MOA accuracy at 600 yards, you should probably be thinking heavier match grade barrel. That's what I used when I used to shoot across the course matches from 200-600 yards. 1" under the forearm, and tapered down out front to meet service rifle rules. If weight is a huge concern, consider having it fluted. Obviously if you're going to be using a scope you'll be going flat top upper, but the Bushmaster national match uppers have sights with screw in apertures and 1/4" MOA adjustment.

Fore end use whatever you want, as long as you free float the barrel. Will you be shooting strictly prone off the bipod? In any other position, you may want to give more thought to adding a little overall weight to the rifle. Nothing is worse than having a match grade barrel up front and no weight in the ass end at all.

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Walt

Thanks, Pedo Bear. I will look into the heavier barrels, though will probably avoid fluting as its more expensive and is pretty easy to screw up. Can you recommend any specific barrel manufacturers?

Weights not a big concern, though balance certainly is. I will wait and see how the rifle turns out. Adding weight to the ass end is easy enough.

I like the Bushmasters (they use the small reciever pins, yes?), but I want to avoid any kind of fixed sights. I will definitely be using optics and really like the LaRue SPR-S mount. Im not building a tactical rifle so Im not concerning myself with BUIS.

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Bear Cub

Bushmaster stuff comes stock with the small pins/pin holes, but can be ordered to match up with the large pin stuff if needed.

Schneider, Kenyon, Hart, etc all make good barrels. However, Lilja are above and beyond the finest barrels I've ever used. After having shot one on my Anschutz .22 when I shot in college, I was convinced that they're absolutely in a class all their own. They've got the records to show for it, too, and have really gained popularity with the benchrest guys, who are by far the most anal group of guys I've ever met.

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The_Dunedan

Seriously consider Konus glass to keep cost down. Etches reticles, the M-30 line have all the bells 'n whistles for under $500.00, and their customer-service is great. Absent that, I'd think seriously about a Shepherd. If cost is no object, come by the shop and pick up and ACOG, dude.

Walt

I appreciate the advice. Ive never heard of Konus but I would love to get my hands on a Shepherd and ACOG makes my dick twitch. Unfortunately cost is a big issue. Im enjoying the challenge of scavenging what I can and bargain hunting for the rest.

I got a Leupold 3-10x50 Vari-X III for Christmas YEARS ago that Im planning on using. It doesnt have any bells and whistles (not even target knobs) but its good glass and its going to waste sitting on my .22 plinker.

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Calmer than you are...