Hello, new member here. This forum has been extremely helpful for a new AR shooter and my thanks to everyone for all of their time and help.
After growing up with bolt action hunting rifles, I recently caught the AR fever and purchased a Daniel Defense DDM4.
Are there any tips for how close or how far out to mount the VFG beyond an obvious “where it is comfortable”? I wasn’t sure if there are any starting points for a better personal and tactical fit.
I will be using this rig primarily for HD and some range shooting.
There are MANY threads on this and using “search” or better yet “google” to search this site will find you much info with photos of different ways to hold and use the VFG,etc.
The use of the VFG has gone thru different evolutions over the years starting in close and many of the Higher Speed folk believe the advantage (currently) is to have it as far forward as you can to allow you to drive the gun faster from target to target. My advice (and its free from the internet:eek:) would be to train with it at close, middle and far until you find what works and remember that what works isn’t always what is most comfortable at first. My VFG has migrated from the middle slowly out as far forward as it will go on an N4 Carbine which is not nearly as far as some Middie and Rifle shooters might have their VFG.
The great thing about ARs is that they are so customizable that you can tweak them to fit you and your mission(s) for your gun and shooting don’t let any “one” person or forum’s advice rob you of the enjoyment and learning of going thru the tweaking process yourself… Tweak-On Brother:p
The previous reply gave you a pretty good answer. Also, don’t assume you must use the grip as an actual grip. Placement & how you use the grip are something you need to experiment with, and it will make a difference depending on your build and length / weight of rifle/carbine being used.
You’ll figure it out, nice thing is you can move it anytime you want.
Most will tell you as close to the receiver as possible. I myself have a longer reach and I prefer it all the way out on my 16" carbine rifle. I also have a Elzetta light mount which I love and the forward placement makes activating the light very natural and quick.
The only thing I have mounted on the forend of my rifle is my light so my grip is not limited by any of those factors. I find myself gripping right around the gas block of a midlength system. THis is where my arm reaches too naturally in terms of its length. If I was taller, or had freaky long arms, I would grip further out.
I originally used a VFG as a reference point but have since ditched those and moved to the KAC or Gear Sector handstop. It provides an excellent reference point, a solid way to pull the weapon in and it provides a surface to stop your hand (like the name implies) for light manipulation.
Depends upon your build, and how long your arms are. Depends upon how long your stock is. Depends upon your stance, and how bladed vs. square you are. Depends upon how much railspace you have on your rifle.
Generally speaking, you will gain more control over your rifle the further out you can get your support hand. Unfortunately, too many people seem to think that their solution should be everyone’s solution. Make sure that all of the above “fits” right for you and lets you mount and shoot the rifle well and with repeatability.
Just because <insert trainer x here> runs his gun a certain way does not mean it will be the best fit for you… but if you are new then keep your mind very open and try it.
Guys, thanks for all the help and advice, both directly with this question as well as all of the countless hours I have spent reading on this forum through everyone’s archives.
Now in the words of Rob_s I need to “Go out and shoot the gun!” and see what works best for me.
