I’m new here, but not new to ARs. I’m doing my second build now and, like nearly everybody else, I’m going to do 16", M4, govt config.
Unlike most, I’m not going to put rails on it, but use the old carbine handguards, but do have a problem with the sights.
I think I want the conventional “look” and I’m not planning on any optics. The old A3 handle seems to be the way I want to go…but here’s the rub.
I have no way of knowing what the various vendors and manufacturer’s are offering. The prices are all across the board…from has little as $39 to $140 plus.
I’m not shopping price…I want the best.
Where do I look? What would you recommend? What are the differences?
That LMT carry handle is great quality and they also have a chopped version that leaves much of the rail available if you later change your mind about a red dot, etc.
Since you said price was not an object LMT is a great way to go. Or you could get a carry handle from the same place you get your upper receiver.
Myself, I wanted a bargain and bought a used Bushmaster carry handle locally. It’s just fine, as are most name brands that have common forge marks. The ones to definitely avoid are UTG, Mako, Leapers, etc. for $39.
Edit:
Forgot about your question about differences. Of the true milspec A4 carry handles, they’re all tough and of good quality. The one thing I notice different is the thickness of the base right above the elevation wheel. Most like Colt are slightly thicker and the protective ears of the sight (and the aperture sight itself) sit higher (because they sit on this thicker ledge) than the Bushmaster sight I have. It’s only a few hundredths of an inch but can cause you to need a taller front sight post if you modify your rear sight with the Improved Battlesight Zero (50yd/200m). Even if you have the F-marked FSB. Not a huge problem but I stubbed my toe on it when wanting to have two carry handles zeroed correctly on the same upper without moving the front sight. It can be done but takes some thought.
My one an only other AR is a Bushmaster DCM competition model. I like everything about the rifle…except the rear sight unit. It has a tremendous amount of “slop” from side to side. It “rotates” left to right.
Someone fixed this problem with a pin between the sight and the base, but how are the better (more expensive) detachable handles? Is this rotation still a problem?
it shouldn’t be "slop"py, but all A2 style rear sights, detach carry handle or not, are under rotational spring pressure, and will rotate if you manualy manipulate them.
Yes, that’s exactly what I meant…I just meant the “tolerances” seem awfully large!
It’s just how the front “ears” on the sight base interface with the handle. If the distance is great, the sight turns…what I think is an objectionable amount.
I’ve see ones that weren’t pinned that seemed to be not so objectionable.
