Free float?

_Shay_

thing 2
Full Member
Minuteman
Jun 5, 2009
1,804
17
USA
I'm thinking about getting another ar upper. I'm thinking a 16". I will probably run irons on it for a while, and maybe put a low powered scope on it later.

Would it be bennificial to free float it? Ill probably only shoot it to 400 yards max. Would it be bennificial to put a free float rail on it? I'd rather keep the standard handguards on it.
 
Re: Free float?

in theory yes free floating should enhance barrel harmonics for a "cleaner" bullet exit resulting in better groups or some such hullabaloo. will you see a marked difference in practice? probably not at the distances your likely describing.
 
Re: Free float?

Shay what are you planning on shooting with this rifle? If its plinking and no target shooting then run the factory hand grips.
The main reasons for a free float tube is first the obvious it adds accuracy, second is it offers a way to add accessories to the rifle if you go the way with a rail or rails mounted on the forearm. I have always ran free floated but I also shoot competition and use a magpul AFG so a rail was also a must. I also like a large rail to hold onto which the one that fit the ticket didn’t come until Seekins offered the BAR (Big Ass Rail) through Spikes. If you do go with a rail check out the spikes BAR they are priced good and tough as hell. With what you said you wanted to do it sounds like the basic hand guards should work fine. Get out and shoot is always priority one regardless of gear 
 
Re: Free float?

Its going to be a light weight plinker and occasional coyote killer. I thiniim going to get a rail on it though. Its going to have an AFG and a bipod on it, or I'd like it to at least. Now comes the fun part of persuading my parent and earning more money.