I have the hots to turn my stock DPMS into more of a SASS configuration. At least a 18" match barrel and a rifle length handguard. I was ready to send to GAP but they aren't taking work like that for a while. I've started to look at the parts to do it myself, but I'm concerned about ending up with an accurate rifle. I've never built one before and I don't want $'s wasted on something I'm not sastisfied with. Other smith recommendations or experience in your own build is appreciated. Thank you.
-
Having trouble using the site?
Contact support
DPMS 308 AP4 q's - How hard to upgrade
- Thread starter Surffshr
- Start date
Re: DPMS 308 AP4 q's - How hard to upgrade
Do it yourself...it will take some time and some special tools.
Installed a Daniel Defense full length guard on mine in about an hour...you'll need their low profile gas block as well.
Tried to cut and modify the stock block but wasnt happy with the results.
As far as barrels...i think DPMS factory new are the way to go i've been looking at the fluted 18" heavy barrel that Midway lists. I believe this will need to be threaded at the muzzle though by a smith.
~Mike
Do it yourself...it will take some time and some special tools.
Installed a Daniel Defense full length guard on mine in about an hour...you'll need their low profile gas block as well.
Tried to cut and modify the stock block but wasnt happy with the results.
As far as barrels...i think DPMS factory new are the way to go i've been looking at the fluted 18" heavy barrel that Midway lists. I believe this will need to be threaded at the muzzle though by a smith.
~Mike
Re: DPMS 308 AP4 q's - How hard to upgrade
I did something similar. I took an LR an turned it into this:
I haven't pumped many rounds down range yet, but I did manage some sub MOA five shot groups at 100 yards.
Here is the short list of the specs on the gun:
Factory DPMS SASS barrel (threaded from the factory)
Troy 13.8 rail
DPMS A3 style upper
Custom muzzle break (forget, somewhere on the Hide, ask Joeyhotfizzle, he knows)
Magpul PMAGs
Troy Low-Pro Gas Block (I recommend the DPMS SASS gas block)
The Troy Gas block really doesn't work with the barrel. It is too low (as all .936 gas blocks except the SASS gas block are), and kinks the gas tube. The gun still works properly, but if I had it to do over, I would have shelled out the extra bread for the SASS gas block (about $100).
I did all my work in the garage with some basic tools and a few AR tools. You will need a dremel to install the Troy handrail.
If you are serious about doing the swap shoot me a PM. I can give you the details, plus I am a DPMS dealer and I can get you the needed parts cheaper than most others.
I am happy with my build, but I would recommend doing another upper in addition to your AP4. I think each has its place. You can use your same BCG and charging handle to save money.
My gun tips the scales at just about 15lbs unloaded with scope.
I did something similar. I took an LR an turned it into this:
I haven't pumped many rounds down range yet, but I did manage some sub MOA five shot groups at 100 yards.
Here is the short list of the specs on the gun:
Factory DPMS SASS barrel (threaded from the factory)
Troy 13.8 rail
DPMS A3 style upper
Custom muzzle break (forget, somewhere on the Hide, ask Joeyhotfizzle, he knows)
Magpul PMAGs
Troy Low-Pro Gas Block (I recommend the DPMS SASS gas block)
The Troy Gas block really doesn't work with the barrel. It is too low (as all .936 gas blocks except the SASS gas block are), and kinks the gas tube. The gun still works properly, but if I had it to do over, I would have shelled out the extra bread for the SASS gas block (about $100).
I did all my work in the garage with some basic tools and a few AR tools. You will need a dremel to install the Troy handrail.
If you are serious about doing the swap shoot me a PM. I can give you the details, plus I am a DPMS dealer and I can get you the needed parts cheaper than most others.
I am happy with my build, but I would recommend doing another upper in addition to your AP4. I think each has its place. You can use your same BCG and charging handle to save money.
My gun tips the scales at just about 15lbs unloaded with scope.
Re: DPMS 308 AP4 q's - How hard to upgrade
thanks gentlemen. I like the SASS barrel idea quite a bit. What is the deal with the chamber needing to be cut to the bolt? The custom barrel makers I've researched all say that. This is one of the items that make me wonder about doing it myself.
thanks gentlemen. I like the SASS barrel idea quite a bit. What is the deal with the chamber needing to be cut to the bolt? The custom barrel makers I've researched all say that. This is one of the items that make me wonder about doing it myself.
Re: DPMS 308 AP4 q's - How hard to upgrade
good looking rifle. the ap4 was my first thought as well. i have my lower built and i am really torn on my upper configuration. they dont sell the exact configuration i want so its gonna require some swapping or building. Dustin i may be talking to you in the future if you dont mind...
good looking rifle. the ap4 was my first thought as well. i have my lower built and i am really torn on my upper configuration. they dont sell the exact configuration i want so its gonna require some swapping or building. Dustin i may be talking to you in the future if you dont mind...
Re: DPMS 308 AP4 q's - How hard to upgrade
Since my original bolt was DPMS, I just checked it with a Go, No-Go gauge and all was good. All I did was swap parts, no gunsmithing was required.
If you are getting a barrel blank chambered I would recommend sending your bolt to the barrel maker, or buying a matching set.
Since my original bolt was DPMS, I just checked it with a Go, No-Go gauge and all was good. All I did was swap parts, no gunsmithing was required.
If you are getting a barrel blank chambered I would recommend sending your bolt to the barrel maker, or buying a matching set.
Re: DPMS 308 AP4 q's - How hard to upgrade
It cleans easier, but other than that I haven't noticed any other advantages.
It cleans easier, but other than that I haven't noticed any other advantages.
Similar threads
