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.308 Rifle Opinions - LMT vs. Larue

S

Sniper Monkey

Private
Minuteman
Sep 24, 2010
20
0
52
Far, far, far west Texas
#1
So, I had my mind settled on buying a LMT .308, when my friend (who pushed me to buy the LMT in the first place) emailed me that the .308 LaRue OBR rifle shot 1st, 2nd, and 4th place in the 2010 Sniper Competition. And someone else mentioned that I should buy a Sig .308 rifle. So unless someone has anything impressive to say about the Sig, I will count that one out as I know nothing about it, and have not even researched it. So does anyone have any opinions about which of these two guns I should think about buying? I know both are excellent weapon systems, and both will probably outshoot me, but any pluses or minuses on either one would be helpful. It is so hard to decide...

Thank you for any information.
 
#3
Re: .308 Rifle Opinions - LMT vs. Larue

+1 on Lowlight's advice. Out of those three, the LMT would be my choice as well. I know the OBR is a nice piece too, but the fact that it doesn't seem to have the greatest cheek weld when using collapsible stocks makes it unappealing to me.

Is the Sig 308 even out yet? It looks nice, but seems more like just an Armalite based rifle put together with other manufacturer's parts and rebranded as a Sig. I'd pass on that one, at least for now.

Considering that you can still occasionally find LMT's for around $2,300 combined with it's barrel change capability makes it appeal to me more than the other AR 308's.
 
#5
Re: .308 Rifle Opinions - LMT vs. Larue

I have both. The OBR is more accurate in the current factory configuration, but the LMT is less expensive. I would need to add a new trigger and SS barrel to get the MWS to shoot like the OBR. They are equally reliable.
 
#6
Re: .308 Rifle Opinions - LMT vs. Larue

One correction, this year with the AISC they broke the comp into two sections, Military (7.62mm or 5.56mm) and Open (no cal restrictions)

Both of the Range 37 team that took top Military (Ed and Chance) shot OBR's

The USASOC team that took top Open had an OBR as a spotter gun.
 
#7
Re: .308 Rifle Opinions - LMT vs. Larue

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Lowlight</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Get the LMT... as far as results, it's the Indian and not the Bow, especially when you put new up against, well used. </div></div>

This well used Indian is very happy with his new chrome lined MWS bow. You can change barrels/calibers, the upper is one piece and it is less expensive.

People that can make a chrome lined barrel that shoots like this know what they are doing and are paying attention. Paper target is 100 yards and averages .74" including the uncalled flyer. White steel target is 300 yards rapid and yellow steel is 500 yards and the 5 shot group measures about 3.75". I'm sure the LaRue is a fine rifle but I'm not trading my LMT for one.

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#8
Re: .308 Rifle Opinions - LMT vs. Larue

The 16" OBR is stupid accurate. Sub MOA all day long with M118LR. I've got first round hits at 800m on several occasions using a USO 3.2-17 with H-37, and Horus ATRAG software and one clay pigeon at 998M on the third shot. It did have something to do with the spotter. My only complaint is the FFT. The 20 moa cant top rail feels odd in the hand, and the narrow FFT makes it even more awkward. Also, there's not really a good place to connect a sling on the FFT. As a sniper weapon, the OBR is top notch. The guys at Larue really hit the mark. Bolt gun move out of the way.

I'm also lucky enough to own a LMT 308 as well. The FFT is more of a standard design, thus it handles better for me. There's plenty of rail to mount a sling on the FFT, however the QD sling mount machined in the the upper rotates 360. How did LMT miss that one? The gun is front heavy, I think it helps with the recoil impulse. The weight doesn't seem to slow TGT transition so says the shot timer. The 2-stage trigger that comes with the LMT is inferior to the Geissele SAA in the OBR. The gun shoots 1-1.5 MOA with M118LR. That's respectable. The machining on the LMT is inferior to the Larue. Not really fair to compare anything to Larue machine work, but that makes it easier to get her dirty and not feel bad. I'll say this about the LMT; It's fast. I'm not sure I could match the times with the OBR, but the LMT hangs with my 5.56 setups.

In conclusion, I bought both thinking I would keep the one I liked the best and I've decided to keep both. I like both guns for different roles. The OBR fits the LR role nicely, and the LMT is the best fit for a battle rifle on the market (bellow 5K). I say get both and let me know what you think of them.
 
#10
Re: .308 Rifle Opinions - LMT vs. Larue

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: CST</div><div class="ubbcode-body">How come no one ever considers Noveske?</div></div>

Because it's based on the Armalite AR10 pattern? The DPMS/SR25 pattern is looking to be the evolution of .308 ARs, not the AR10.
 
#11
Re: .308 Rifle Opinions - LMT vs. Larue

Noveske is still throwing parts together and calling it their own. At least with LaRue, LMT, and LWRC, they actually make something.
 
#12
Re: .308 Rifle Opinions - LMT vs. Larue

I just had my new OBR to the range today and I am very impressed with the accuracy. I have not had the pleasure to shoot the LMT however.

As for the cheekweld- I used USO low rings to mount my 1.8-10x37 TPAL, and it is the right height. Had I used the OBR mount, I would have needed some sort of riser.
 
#13
Re: .308 Rifle Opinions - LMT vs. Larue

Thanks to everyone for their help. So from the above posts, I gather that both are excellent firearms. It sounds like I should buy both, but cash would be a problem especially since I just bought another H&K Pistol
smile.gif
. It sounds like the OBR is a bit more accurate at longer distances, but the LMT is a close second. I have seen LMTs on gun broker for about $2,400, and have not been able to find any used Larue OBRs. The base price for the OBR is about $3,000 on their website, so about $600 more for the rifle itself. If I am spending about $2,400 on a rifle, $600 is not that much more for something that will last a lifetime. It also sounds like the OBR is machined a little better, and that it is a bit heavier. Any issues with reliability, construction, etc between the two? Also, if I do go with the Larue, any ideas about barrel length, 16 vs. 18 vs. 20? I am leaning towards the 16. Thanks again.
 
#15
Re: .308 Rifle Opinions - LMT vs. Larue

SM- I found my OBR on gunbroker. A guy had bought it, never fired it, and sold it 6 mos later. They are out there.

I went with a 16 inch barrel.
 
#16
Re: .308 Rifle Opinions - LMT vs. Larue

Remember the cheaper MWS are using chromed barrels, the 3300 ones are uses stainless match barrels.

If you look at what you get, the MWS does give you more nice accessories for the money. Ambi mag catch, full quad rail, quick change barrel, etc.

However in performance the OBR excels.

Decide what you want. Do you want an accurate battle rifle, or a precision rifle that could double as a battle rifle?
 
#17
Re: .308 Rifle Opinions - LMT vs. Larue

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Postal0311</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Remember the cheaper MWS are using chromed barrels, the 3300 ones are uses stainless match barrels.

If you look at what you get, the MWS does give you more nice accessories for the money. Ambi mag catch, full quad rail, quick change barrel, etc.

However in performance the OBR excels.

Decide what you want. Do you want an accurate battle rifle, or a precision rifle that could double as a battle rifle? </div></div>

I think both rifles are capable of filling the accurate battle rifle and precision role. The OBR excels in machining and the MWS in features. As to accuracy I think the jury is still out especially when there have been few reports on the SS LMT. I'm more than happy with my CL LMTs accuracy and am looking forward to a longer barrel in .243 or .260.
 
#18
Re: .308 Rifle Opinions - LMT vs. Larue

The SIG 716 is based on the Armalite AR-10 and is piston driven. Will accept AR10 mags or modified M14 mags. That would be my choice, but I have the Armalite already. LMT and Larue are good, but not worth the money. For the amount you spend on either of those, you can get the Armalite SASS which is better made than both of those, IMO. The DPMS/SR-25 is not the evolution of 308ARs, DPMS just changed their uppers so now they are proprietary, and the SR-25 is just a copy of the Armalite that uses lesser quality mags. The SR-25 is the only one of that style that can compare to the Armalite, IMO. Even then, its not worth the extra $$$.
 
#19
Re: .308 Rifle Opinions - LMT vs. Larue

GoatHead, could you please explain why you think the Armalite SASS is better then the MWS or OBR rifles?

In any event the SASS is heavier then the alternatives. Armalite makes a great rifle, but the SASS never seemed to gain much of a following.

I do agree that I think the Armalite mags are better then the KAC/DPMS pattern. People seem to think that just because the mil uses that type, and that there is a Magpul mag for it, it is better.

I think you are mistaking the mag use for design. Recall the DPMS/KAC pattern mag is the original mag design for the AR10 and AR10A. When Eagle purchased the rights to the Armalite name, they decided to produce a new .308 rifle using the AR10 name. That AR10B used the modified M14 mags (only because there was a ban). The current Armalite AR10 came around at least 5 years after the Knights SR25 was in use by the military.

So the SR25 may be a copy of the old Fairchild AR10, but its certainly not a copy of the current Armalite.
 
#20
Re: .308 Rifle Opinions - LMT vs. Larue

Any of these 308s are mostly about the barrels... as far as accuracy is concerned.

I just did a demo using 4 different models and the clear winner for accuracy was the POF... it shot sub .5 MOA out of the box, over an over. Why, they use Rock Creek Barrels. So the barrel is the deciding factor in terms of accuracy.

So, beyond simple 'accuracy" you have to look at other factors, because honestly what is the Larue that a custom AR10 from say GAP can't do ? Besides not being built to spec ? You can spec out a custom AR10, and easily have .5 MOA accuracy simply by getting the rifle fit and finished with a good custom barrel.

Now back to the comparison... I have question ? Where does the innovation lie and who has it, as well what are the long term benefits.

Getting in the door with a $2400 rifle, CM barrel, while it may not be as accurate as the rifle with the match SS barrel, has a lot of great <span style="text-decoration: underline">features...</span> I think features are key. Like allowing the user to order any barrel that can handle a 308 cartridge case and change it themselves in minutes. Be that 243, 260, or 308, you have multi system platform.

Now, let's talk DI versus Piston... in a 308, a piston drive the bolt and chamber area stays 100X cleaner, which is going to translate to function. Especially if you are going to run a suppressor.

I honestly think one of these is way overhyped compared to features... I don't see why someone can't build it just as accurate, cheaper when you consider this site built a custom GAP AR10 back in 2004 that was an absolute Hammer for $1900. If it's simply a matter of the 20MOA receiver... I am sure a upper kit from someone like a JD or if you have one from IRA can work. IRA has 23MOA to suit the S&B crowd so you get more elevation out of it.

Make you're decision but don't fall into the accuracy trap... look at the features, look at the use, and look to the long term. If you want accuracy alone POF has it in spades and I know someone with a bunch in stock right now looking to do a group buy at a SH discount. Accuracy within the system is nothing more than a good barrel.
 
#21
Re: .308 Rifle Opinions - LMT vs. Larue

The LMT feels front heavy. The Larue is a lighter rifle, and Larue's CS is superior. Give Larue a call and ask what a barrel change in any of their rifles cost. Then see if the QC barrel on the LMT is worth the money.
 
#22
Re: .308 Rifle Opinions - LMT vs. Larue

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: epaultmbt</div><div class="ubbcode-body">The LMT feels front heavy. The Larue is a lighter rifle, and Larue's CS is superior. Give Larue a call and ask what a barrel change in any of their rifles cost. Then see if the QC barrel on the LMT is worth the money.

</div></div>

Change the stock... a UBR or PRS will balance it... and if you need the CS there is usually something wrong.

I highly doubt you can change the barrel like on the LMT... not to mention the Brit Army has picked it up. Says alot right there.
 
#23
Re: .308 Rifle Opinions - LMT vs. Larue

I have had a few (4) FTJ's with my LMT but they were with the Pmag (10rd CA legal magazine) and not the KAC mag. I also think that running a blocked Pmag with low power handloads (41.3 varget 155gr smk)caused the bolt to not cycle all the way back as hard as it normally does. I bumped up the powder to 42.3 and have been using the KAC mag and have not had an isuue in the last 300 of 800 rounds total.

I really like the LMT with my JP brake as the recoil is nill and staying on target to hammer a big hole is lots O fun.

_U6L0310.jpg
 
#24
Re: .308 Rifle Opinions - LMT vs. Larue

I cant say I know from much experience, but Armalite uses better materials than most, not Larue or LMT but DPMS and others, their barrels for the SASS are very high quality, they are all equally matched I guess, but you get more for your money from Armalite. I know the SR25 uses the old style mag, but it was not a good mag, it was supposed to be a throw away. I didnt say they were copies, I said the SR25 is worthy adversary to the AR10. With the full size rifles, the SASS also feels better balanced to me. It may just be a preference, and like LowLight said, its about the barrel. I think Armalites SASS barrel is pretty damn good standard, and you can always get it cryo treated like the LMT. I just think Armalite is the best because of what you get for the money spent.
 
#25
Re: .308 Rifle Opinions - LMT vs. Larue

Now if Armalite started making AR10 with pistons themselves, it would be done. The 308AR evolution would end. just my biased opinion. I know each of these rifles will do what you want. I just like Armalite better. If Larue used the AR10 mag, I would be all over that. If I had to pick from the 2 provided, it would be Larue, made in Texas. You cant go wrong. LMT is over priced, I know its a one piece upper/rail, but you can get the ambi controls after market, not for Armalite yet, but for the precious DPMS pattern its available. So LMTs features are not that great of a selling point to me.
 
#26
Re: .308 Rifle Opinions - LMT vs. Larue

My GAPs are built on the AR10 platform, they used Eagle lowers... so I have that part... but really when comparing features, please, the LMT does a great job.


User Switch Barrel Capable
the Ambi I can do without...
Either Stainless or CM, and a nice rail compared too...

It's really a smart system, one word come to mind, modern.
 
#27
Re: .308 Rifle Opinions - LMT vs. Larue

LMT gives you those features standard, yes. But its parts you can get anyways. Just not if you own an Armalite pattern, dammit. You spend 3000$ on either of these guns brand new. They are all going to do what you expect out of them. I just like Armalites, I guess I gotta be different. Actually, when I first started getting into the ARs, I went with Armalite for the history and what not. Did not do my research properly, and kinda pissed off that no one makes after market stuff for AR10s as much as SR25 style. It sucks no one carries Armalite mags, but they do work better. So thats what keeps me loyal to Armalite. Those are my picks, the SR25 or AR10.
 
#29
Re: .308 Rifle Opinions - LMT vs. Larue

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Lowlight</div><div class="ubbcode-body">My GAPs are built on the AR10 platform, they used Eagle lowers... so I have that part... but really when comparing features, please, the LMT does a great job.

Piston Driven...
User Switch Barrel Capable
the Ambi I can do without...
Either Stainless or CM, and a nice rail compared too...

It's really a smart system, one word come to mind, modern. </div></div>

i believe the MWS is actually operated via direct impingement and not piston driven
 
#30
Re: .308 Rifle Opinions - LMT vs. Larue

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: zinny</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Lowlight</div><div class="ubbcode-body">My GAPs are built on the AR10 platform, they used Eagle lowers... so I have that part... but really when comparing features, please, the LMT does a great job.

Piston Driven...
User Switch Barrel Capable
the Ambi I can do without...
Either Stainless or CM, and a nice rail compared too...

It's really a smart system, one word come to mind, modern. </div></div>

i believe the MWS is actually operated via direct impingement and not piston driven </div></div>

D'oh, I need to stop confusing that with the POF, seeing I have a LMT sitting 6ft away from me.
 
#32
Re: .308 Rifle Opinions - LMT vs. Larue

Armalite. I built both of these for less than 2 grand each (less optics and bipod), and I think both will do anything either of those others will except one thing, and I really don't care about switching barrels in a hurry. The top one is a 20" with an IOR 3x18x42 and the second is a 16" (SASS barrel) with an Aimpoint. Both are easy sub moa guns with FGMM. With the IOR on the 16" it's good to 800yds.
wink.gif


0227.JPG
 
#33
Re: .308 Rifle Opinions - LMT vs. Larue

So, I am leaning towards the Larue, any comments on barrel length? I know that barrel length affects velocity and does not really affect accuracy. I am thinking 16 vs. 18. Have pretty much ruled out the 20". Any input would be helpful. Any pros/cons on the above lengths??? Thank you.
 
#37
Re: .308 Rifle Opinions - LMT vs. Larue

I have owned standard AR10's, GAP AR10's and now the MWS. I seem to be attracted to moduler, user changable systems. 1st the DTA and now this. Mine is set up primarily as a MBR with the ability to pull double duty as a DMR type rifle. I shot it in a 3 gun match this weekend and I posted the 3rd fastest run in the match with it. I was the only 308 so thats 3rd fastest against 5.56's. I have a USO 1.8X10 going into a QD mount so next will be to see how it does in the DMR roll. I am exceedingly happy with the rifle. Also worthy of note is I live in a ban state and the stubby pmags from Midwest PX worked FLAWLESSLY!!!! Unfortunately modified pmags from other vendors in my 5.56 didnt fare so well.
 
#40
Re: .308 Rifle Opinions - LMT vs. Larue

The POF Group buy will be happening, there is a change of space happening and he needs ATF approval for the new business location, then the buy will be on.

He has them in stock, in his hands, no waiting once this moves forward he will post it... I think he has something like 30 different rifles from POF ready to roll.
 
#41
Re: .308 Rifle Opinions - LMT vs. Larue

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: BamaMike</div><div class="ubbcode-body"> +1 (Interested in group buy too...) </div></div>

Same here.
 
#42
Re: .308 Rifle Opinions - LMT vs. Larue

wink.gif


magpulobr.jpg


And here's Travis, apparently just waking up from a quick nap!
smile.gif


magpulobr2.jpg


As for the fella that thinks Noveske stuff is worthless because they just "throw stuff together and call it their own"....I'm just not quite sure how to respond to that. That's kinda what most companies do, along with a refined design or two. Like switchblocks, better handguard collaborations, barrel profiles and rifling design, etc. Noveske stuff may resemble any other AR15 rifles, but that's where it stops. I'm sure LMT makes a good product, too. I've owned and shot the OBR, and it dang sure IS a good product.
 
#44
Re: .308 Rifle Opinions - LMT vs. Larue

fwiw,
It is too early to make any categorical statements, however, I am very happy with my 16.1" Larue OBR. Dunno what AAC Can it will ultimately wear, however, my only concern is just how filthy it is going to get with the extra back pressure...

As an aside I've yet to find a rifle short of an AIAW that I truly can't fault with and I've yet to find a scope that truly satisfies me short of a Schmidt Bender PMII. That said I can find, so far, NO PART of this rifle has failed to impress...fwiw & imho

Mark and crew seem to have done another excellent job... I will only note that my favorite AR stock, the SOPMOD/Crane Stock is too low to work properly with this rifle. That said Larue is change that out to a more suitable combination as we speak... We shall see.

Machine work is beautiful...

Regards, Matt Garrett
757-581-6270

Btw, I came close to missing this rifle. I was on the list ALMOST from the very beginning. A 2 year plus wait. At any rate I got the rifle for $2500, the 30/34mm OBR Mount, VTAC Sling(my favorite 2 point), Two Magazines, Rail Guards, Extra lengths of rail, Troy Front 180 degree Sling Mount, OTIS Cleaning Kit, Gas Buster Op Handle, Not to mention more Hats, Dillos, Etc all gratis... The only thing that cost me above the $2500 tab was the Crane Stock which is going back for a credit. Color me a happy camper...
 
#45
Re: .308 Rifle Opinions - LMT vs. Larue

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Lowlight</div><div class="ubbcode-body">The POF Group buy will be happening, there is a change of space happening and he needs ATF approval for the new business location, then the buy will be on.

He has them in stock, in his hands, no waiting once this moves forward he will post it... I think he has something like 30 different rifles from POF ready to roll.

</div></div>

Frank,

Is this the 6.5 Creedmoor group buy, or an SH POF 308 special that's in the works? I've been eyeing a 16" POF 308 for a few months now but if an SH group buy is in the works, I'll wait for it.
 
#46
Re: .308 Rifle Opinions - LMT vs. Larue

this is a completely different thing not the creedmoor buy... when it opens it will be posted.

ps. you can' t argue with the guys impressed by a hat, bumper sticker and some sugar flavored pepper... on the other hand the LMT did come with a full sized torque wrench not as cool as a can opener but a tool none the less. LOL
 
#47
Re: .308 Rifle Opinions - LMT vs. Larue

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Lowlight</div><div class="ubbcode-body">ps. you can' t argue with the guys impressed by a hat, bumper sticker and some sugar flavored pepper... on the other hand the LMT did come with a full sized torque wrench not as cool as a can opener but a tool none the less. LOL </div></div>AHAHAHA
internet-high-five.jpg
 
#49
Re: .308 Rifle Opinions - LMT vs. Larue

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: jasonk</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Technically I think it's pepper flavored sugar....but I do like the stuff on ribs.</div></div>

I stand corrected, Pepper flavored Sugar... I like mine on steak.
 
#50
Re: .308 Rifle Opinions - LMT vs. Larue

+1,000%

Reason why I went POF was accuracy hands down. Great rifle and very user friendly. Shoots anything I put into it and is the easiest to clean gun aside from the mini windrunner LOL.

LMT barrel swap feature is something I have been considering for a while and maybe by the spring of next year I might have another .308 semi sitting in the safe.
 
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