Was wondering if some of the experts here could chime in with their $0.02 regarding some thoughts I’ve had recently on the “quality” of the AR-15 rifles out there today. I only propose these questions because it seems that some folks around this forum are the experts in their field.
OK.
From what I gather there are only a few “real” manufacturers of AR components. I’m talking forgings not machinings. The two BIG players being Continental Machine (for lowers) and Cerro Forge for the uppers. Is this not correct?
Now you have “equal” lower forgings from CMT being sent to LMT, RRA, Stag for final machining (not 100% sure that each of these manufacturers use CMT but just for the sake of arguement). If each of these operations machine their forgings “to spec” and apply the correct milspec finish why the heck do people feel the need to slander to hell one operation while praising another?
It seems to me that whatever little logo in “en vogue” gets the nod of approval while the red headed step child gets kicked to the curb? Mind you I am focusing on upper and lower forgings here not barrels or other components.
I approach this from a builders perspective. I can even use a punch to stake a fastener properly. Takes alot less time than even typing this post.
rob_s. I should have clarified. I’m not specifically speaking about this forum. I meant in general and on several other AR related websites.
From what I gather this site seems to have the highest level of accumulated knowledge regarding the AR rifle. Basically you guys know your s*it.
Guess I’m just tired of the “My LMT is superior to your RRA because I say it is” routine even though they were both (uppers and lowers) were both “produced” (forged) by the same company using the same Alcoa 7075-T6 aluminum.
If they want to talk trash,take them to the range sometime…Sure they will be suprised to see that a no name will do the exact same thing as a brand name will do.
Generally speaking, when someone says something like that they are talking about the COMPLETE upper including barrel, barrel extension, front sight base, and possibly even bolt & carrier too. In which case their statement would be correct.
I don’t know the context from which your concerns that started this thread came, so I’m not sure I can really address this accurately.
By and large though, the basic stripped uppers and lower (so long as the M4 ramps, if they exist, are done properly and before anodizing) are going to be indistinguishable to all but a very, very, very few.
While I agree that many people do, many people have also taken the time to educate themselves and are paying for a superior product, not just the name on the side. The name on the side just allows them to identify the superior product.
If they want to talk trash,take them to the range sometime…Sure they will be suprised to see that a no name will do the exact same thing as a brand name will do.
As often said 'round these parts, “it’s the singer, not the song”. Or, as I prefer it, “it’s the indian not the arrow”.
I’m approaching the AR from the back end I guess. Didn’t “start” building rifles using this platform rather the FN FAL. In that game you really don’t have alot of options when seeking out a “primo” product. Nowadays DSA pretty much rules the roost. The original Belgians are more collectors items than shooters (unless you have more money to spend than I do) although FN NOS parts are still available if you look hard enough.
Something else to consider, just because something comes from the same shop, doesn’t mean it is of the same quality. One company might have tighter QC or more exacting standards than another.
I worked for a name brand Manf, and I can tell you that It is the guy at the bench putting the gun together that makes the biggest diff. Most all the parts came from the same place that all the other one’s do. :eek:
