I am trying to decide between either the 12" DD Lite or the 9" DD Lite version of the BCM 14.5" Mid-Length Upper.
I would like something quick handling for shooting within 50 meters mostly.
Does any one have any feedback of the overall balance of either one of these ? I can’t seem to find any numbers on the weight difference between these two.
I plan on building something compact and lighter than my N4 Light Low Pro Recce with out going with an SBR.
One thing I have learned about my preferences is that I can shoot more quickly and accurately using the thumb break grip with a VFG pushed out to about 8-9" on the rail. This makes me gravitate more towards the 12" rail.
My purpose for this build will be to have something light enough that my girlfriend will enjoy shooting unsupported, home defense (I know FSC556 is LOUD indoors), and training.
Not sure if you have already reviewed the write-up from USMC03 regarding the weight comparison of various BCM uppers, but his article has some of the info you are looking for.
According to the info from that site it appears the 12" version should only weigh 2.6oz more than the 9" rail version after adding more rail covers and a front sight.
I only use about 9 XTM panels total on my current upper so it may not even be that much of a difference.
Its not a midlength, but it is a 14.5" LMT with the DD 12" lite rail. I can only imagine that the midlength would be a tad lighter that this.Either way, it feels very light in the hands, and doesnt feel too front heavy or unbalanced, even with a lightweight CTR stock. my fiance has no issues spending a day at the range shooting it, and shes rather petite.
Here are a few pictures just for reference, since you’d be adding MBUS and a TLR-1 just like I have; not sure if you’d be mounting it @ 12 oclock. I absolutely love this setup and its more accurate than me anyday, admittedly.
That upper looks awesome. I’m definitely looking forward to putting this rifle together.
Your set-up looks almost exactly like what I imagined for this next build. I am pretty sure I will mount the TLR-1 @ 12 o’clock so it will be easy to get to from left or right shoulder. It may seem strange but I prefer the MBUS over the Troy BUIS for a build like this.
I normally mount my VFG far out enough on an 11" rail to where I can fit one XTM rail panel between the VFG and end of the rail.
With the 12" rail and TLR-1 I will give the AFG a shot again. It did not work with my inline surefire g2 light set-up.
One thing I’m still torn about is that PWS muzzle brake.
I have ran the PWS FSC 556 on a previous recce build and it was a great performer but hella loud to people all around me. I currently run the KAC mount version of the FSC 556 which offers a little less performance in terms of a muzzle brake but is shorter. I like them both a lot because they both perform very well in reducing muzzle climb.
I have also shot mid length and carbine length systems with standard a2 and vortex flash hiders. I feel the mid length is pretty easy to handle in terms of shot to shot control but with these muzzle brakes, the rifle doesn’t move. I’m still trying to decide on that one.
I might shoot my N4 recce with a vortex flash hider to remind myself of what the a2 might feel like with this new upper and decide from there.
Both middys are a great choice. Im a big fan of the standard fsb so I am building something in between. A 14.5 bcm carbine with a 12" omega x fsb. That way i can keep the a2 fsb and still get 12" of rail and run the TLR-1 at 12:00. Good luck with the build…
