Re: Iron Ridge Arms NEW AR-10 D model Uppers.
today I spent the afternoon with Oliver from Iron Ridge shooting two new complete rifles at their local range.
This was essentially the first time out with their new 20" rifle and 14.5" rifle, in fact not all of the pieces were in place, we had to use the optics available, however now that these two complete units were built, I'm gonna work with them to get them glassed up properly as what we had was a little less than desirable, although they worked fine for todays' application.
The guys were very smart by ordering several cases of Cor Bon Match 308 ahead of time. Pete Pi Jr mixed them up a case of 168gr Match, 155gr Match and 175gr Match ammo to help put the rifles through their paces.
Have to say, these units are hammers, the 20" Thor had my S&B Klassik on it, a 1.5-6X FFP in a Larue SPR mount and while not ideal for group shooting, it did give us much better than 1 MOA performance from all 3 lots of ammo. the best was right about 1/2" using the 175gr stuff, although I would say with all 3 difference loads the rifle was easily shooting 5/8" across the board. 90% of the groups were easily hidden under a 1" paste -- which I tried to shoot the paste itself, but the reticle completely covered it and I couldn't even see it. I can't wait for our next outing when I can slap a NF on it with the extra magnification and the finer reticle.
The 14.5" had an Elcan 1-4X and I wish I had know there would have been two rifles, I would have brought my 1.5-6X Elcan instead, but we can save that for next time. We are going to try and make it out again before Xmas.
We only shot at their very local 100 yard range, but it was very good to see the progress being made with the complete rifles. The 14.5" had a Noveske adjustable gas block, a little picky with no can on, so next trip we'll have a can with us. the standard gas block on the 20" was no problem at all. But overall they functioned very well.
For those waiting like I am for the complete rifle, it's getting closer and closer everyday, and they guys are definitely doing it right.