I’ve got a trust and just bought a Noveske Gen 1 lower to Form 1 as a second SBR while the e-file thing is going quickly. Where I’m struggling is with upper configuration. I love pretty much everything about my MK18 seen above. I also like the look of the MK18 Mod 0 and the simplicity of the fixed irons. Then again, the 7" non-floating rail isn’t exactly cutting edge technology. Still, it might be fun to have one to play with, and appreciate the nostalgia. At the same time, I have these ideas floating around in my head about a 12.5" with a custom FSP cutout NSR 11. Maybe building another MK18 clone but with a Geissele MKIV?
Or, like anyone who’s seen Lone Survivor, the MK12 thing appeals to me. Although, I wouldn’t need to SBR the lower for that route, but that sort of defeats the purpose of buying the lower right now. What about a 12.5" Recce-ish rifle? Enough velocity to be worth it?
Thanks for reading my rambling and any input. I hate to even post a thread about this, but I’ve been going in circles in my head with this project for about a month now.
Get a good barrel that’s thick enough to handle the heat that will be experienced with the planned firing schedule but don’t over-think it. Either go SOCOM profile for a little added insurance or a pencil barrel and slow the trigger finger down a bit. Add the handguard of you choice and an optic to match what you plan to do. Again, don’t over think it. It’s better to have too little magnification than too much.
Me, I don’t worry about my rifles matching a certain configuration unless I want it to be correct, such as when I built as StG-58 FAL. Even then, I made deviations so the rifle suited me better.
A few things I’ve learned over the years, taken from general firearms experience and applied to ARs- Having a skinny or short barrel or open sights or low powered optics or a pistol caliber didn’t stop me from taking long range shots. To be a correct RECCE, your AR needs to be configured a certain way. However, to do the same thing, to take the same shot, not so much. To do the same thing, it needs a quality barrel and an optic with the appropriate magnification.
My advice is don’t build a RECCE or MK whatever, build a simple rifle that is solid foundation to perform as you need it to. The all you have to do is change the sights as needed. As you shoot the rifle, you’ll find what your practical range limits are with it and it’s likely to surprise you. For myself, to make my carbine ready for RECCE duty is a simple swap of optics.
Ash, I’m thinking 12.5 if you want to build an SBR with a little more versatility. If you want a fixed FSB, go with an extended FSP wrap around rail like the Centurion or DD. Personally, my next one will be a 14.5 midlength to run on my SBR lower. I wanted something that was different enough from my 11.5 to actually offer some advantage.
Maybe you could pick up a less expensive SS barrel and shoot the piss out of it to see how well it fares over time. Especially if you’re thinking of putting any magnification on it. Maybe something like one of the Rainier barrels?
12.5 Noveske barrel with a 11" LaRue rail. I have that is it is my favorite set up hands down. Put a low power optic (3x ACOG or a 1x4) on it and you will have a great GP Set up to go with your MK18.
I keep going back and forth, and have gotten varying opinions from highly credible people, about the 10.5 vs 12.5 noveske for a suppressed SBR. Im taking the advice on going with the vltor buffer.
I know it’s EXTREMELY unpopular and most would say, “Why no just go with a 12.5?” but I got one of Noveske’s 13.7" Infidel barrels and no it’s not just because it has a cool name. I’ve heard a lot of people speak on it’s supposed lack of reliability being a middie and the issue with dwell time; however, if you run the proper ammo, the reliability “issues” are a non factor. If you run PMC Bronze and have an H2 in your gun then yeah, you might experience some short stroking.
I wanted the shortest possible upper yet try to retain as much velocity out to distance as possible; therefore, I decided on the 13.7. It also allows me to shoot bullets that are bit heavier, as well. Finally, I typically run it suppressed so I get some back back pressure, as well.
Threw the barrel in a Noveske/MUR and an NSR-11 with QD bipod from Larue and a 3.5-10 Leupy in a QD from Larue and it’s a pretty nasty set up. Swap back and forth from that and my LMT MK18. Versatility galore.
12.5 Noveske with either the 11 inch NSR, 12 inch Centurion slick rail,( could get the upper complete from Centurion) or the URX3 midlength. I’d go the Centurion route.
Although I have a NSR (free floated) on my 11.5" DD LW, on a SBR that’s not in a precision role, a non-free-floated handguard isn’t an issue for me.
For my next SBR, I’ll probably go for a FSP, if I can get a slim handguard to accommodate it.
I have to say, 12.5 is my favorite all around setup. Just about done with these two, need some lights, aimpoints, and front sights. Centurion should be coming out with a 11" CMR rail soon too, another option instead of the NSR.
^^ Man, those look great! I’ve decided on a 12.5" Noveske Crusader barrel with a Nightforce 1-4. Now I just have to save up. I’m having a really hard time convincing myself that I need my .308 M&P10 more than I need a 12.5" Crusader…would be so much handier and I already have the suppressor…mmmmmm.
12.5" with SS barrels are incredible. I’m selling mine, but might take it off the market if I can save enough money for my next project. Great accuracy and it still reaches out. I’ve got many threads on here where I’ve shot mine out to almost 600 yards…accurately.
