What are your thoughts on the 26" RRA LAR-8A4 Varmint? I haven't had any experience with Rock River Arms in the past. Are their products up to snuff?
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LAR-8A4 Varmint
- Thread starter SnkBit
- Start date
Re: LAR-8A4 Varmint
Fired two LAR's with no malfunctions of any kind but we did not do any accuracy testing. Neither weapon was the Varmint model.
I have yet to have any problem with Rock River AR's altho their dimensions tend to be extremely tight for ground up builds.
I love the fact that they use FN mags.
Fired two LAR's with no malfunctions of any kind but we did not do any accuracy testing. Neither weapon was the Varmint model.
I have yet to have any problem with Rock River AR's altho their dimensions tend to be extremely tight for ground up builds.
I love the fact that they use FN mags.
Re: LAR-8A4 Varmint
Nothing wrong with RRA as a company. They build some good quality AR-15's and parts/accessories. I have owned RRA rifles and they all functioned without issue and were reasonably accurate. However, 308 semi-autos are a little different. Every platform (Armalite, DPMS, RRA, etc.) has its advantages and disadvantages, but the RRA has a lot more disadvatages working for it than others.
Personally, I would pass on the RRA altogether. I am not suggesting that they are bad rifles or incapable of good operation/accuracy, but they are highly proprietary rifles that the "aftermarket" doesn't seem to be interested in supporting at this point in time.
The only real "advantage" (if you want to call it that) is that the RRA uses FAL mags which are plentiful and fairly inexpensive compared to Armalite mags (which can hit around the $40+ mark) or DPMS-compatible mags (approx. $20 for the Magpul LR-20 PMAGs and C-Products mags...a little more for DPMS factory).
Nothing wrong with RRA as a company. They build some good quality AR-15's and parts/accessories. I have owned RRA rifles and they all functioned without issue and were reasonably accurate. However, 308 semi-autos are a little different. Every platform (Armalite, DPMS, RRA, etc.) has its advantages and disadvantages, but the RRA has a lot more disadvatages working for it than others.
Personally, I would pass on the RRA altogether. I am not suggesting that they are bad rifles or incapable of good operation/accuracy, but they are highly proprietary rifles that the "aftermarket" doesn't seem to be interested in supporting at this point in time.
The only real "advantage" (if you want to call it that) is that the RRA uses FAL mags which are plentiful and fairly inexpensive compared to Armalite mags (which can hit around the $40+ mark) or DPMS-compatible mags (approx. $20 for the Magpul LR-20 PMAGs and C-Products mags...a little more for DPMS factory).
Re: LAR-8A4 Varmint
I have to agree with ORD. I too have had good experience with RRA, and when I heard they were making a .308 I was excited but. . .
They are guaranteeing zero parts commonality with other platforms, I mean come on you didn't even try? For long term survivability I think they made some poor choices. I mean one style has to win out eventually doesn't it. . .*hopeful*
I have to agree with ORD. I too have had good experience with RRA, and when I heard they were making a .308 I was excited but. . .
They are guaranteeing zero parts commonality with other platforms, I mean come on you didn't even try? For long term survivability I think they made some poor choices. I mean one style has to win out eventually doesn't it. . .*hopeful*
Re: LAR-8A4 Varmint
I just got my LAR-8A4 with their free float Advanced Half Quad handguard. It has their standard 20" barrel. After running Tubbs finishing kit through the barrel it consistently holds .75" with M118LR.
I don't plan to change anything on the rifle accept I plan to mount a AAC Cyclone suppressorand make it my mid range DMR type rifle.
I'm working an my CMMG/DPMS long range rifle to which I'll do all the "custom work" I agree with all the above about the unfortunate non-commonality of parts.
As far as their quality...I carry their DEA carbine everyday it's what I use for work. I love it.
I just got my LAR-8A4 with their free float Advanced Half Quad handguard. It has their standard 20" barrel. After running Tubbs finishing kit through the barrel it consistently holds .75" with M118LR.
I don't plan to change anything on the rifle accept I plan to mount a AAC Cyclone suppressorand make it my mid range DMR type rifle.
I'm working an my CMMG/DPMS long range rifle to which I'll do all the "custom work" I agree with all the above about the unfortunate non-commonality of parts.
As far as their quality...I carry their DEA carbine everyday it's what I use for work. I love it.
Re: LAR-8A4 Varmint
The LAR-8 with 26in SS Bull barrel is EXTREMELY accurate.
I recently fired 3 consecutive 3 shots groups that averaged ~.35 MOA!
I took the targets over to a friend who owns the same version. He claimed that his would do better....
I was shooting 155 Amax, Lapua brass, 45.0 Varget, CCI BR2.
Velocity around 2810 at 10ft.
My friend is using 168 Amax, Black Hills, ?gr Varget, Fed 210M.
I am VERY pleased with the rifle!
Only complaints-
Its heavier than I would prefer and the magazines fit is a bit "sloppy" compared to some rifles. I experienced one "last round" failure to feed in the first 40 rounds.
Overall, I have no regrets!
The LAR-8 with 26in SS Bull barrel is EXTREMELY accurate.
I recently fired 3 consecutive 3 shots groups that averaged ~.35 MOA!
I took the targets over to a friend who owns the same version. He claimed that his would do better....
I was shooting 155 Amax, Lapua brass, 45.0 Varget, CCI BR2.
Velocity around 2810 at 10ft.
My friend is using 168 Amax, Black Hills, ?gr Varget, Fed 210M.
I am VERY pleased with the rifle!
Only complaints-
Its heavier than I would prefer and the magazines fit is a bit "sloppy" compared to some rifles. I experienced one "last round" failure to feed in the first 40 rounds.
Overall, I have no regrets!
Re: LAR-8A4 Varmint
Good to hear varying opinions. For my intended purposes I don't see that the incompatibility will be a problem. It's not something I intend to buy to build on. My only plans for it are a new buttstock and grip along with a decent optic. Sounds like this might just be a decent rifle for me.
Good to hear varying opinions. For my intended purposes I don't see that the incompatibility will be a problem. It's not something I intend to buy to build on. My only plans for it are a new buttstock and grip along with a decent optic. Sounds like this might just be a decent rifle for me.
Re: LAR-8A4 Varmint
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: SnkBit</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Good to hear varying opinions. For my intended purposes I don't see that the incompatibility will be a problem. It's not something I intend to buy to build on. My only plans for it are a new buttstock and grip along with a decent optic. Sounds like this might just be a decent rifle for me. </div></div>
Depending on which buttstock you intend to install, it may be a problem (or at least a speedbump on the road). The Magpul AR-10 PRS for example which is incompatible because of the proprietary charging handle length (it has a longer OAL than other AR-10 type charging handles on the market). To install one, you either have to: a) install a 1" stock extension in front of the buttstock; or 2) cut down the adjustable comb piece to allow for additional clearance.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: SnkBit</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Good to hear varying opinions. For my intended purposes I don't see that the incompatibility will be a problem. It's not something I intend to buy to build on. My only plans for it are a new buttstock and grip along with a decent optic. Sounds like this might just be a decent rifle for me. </div></div>
Depending on which buttstock you intend to install, it may be a problem (or at least a speedbump on the road). The Magpul AR-10 PRS for example which is incompatible because of the proprietary charging handle length (it has a longer OAL than other AR-10 type charging handles on the market). To install one, you either have to: a) install a 1" stock extension in front of the buttstock; or 2) cut down the adjustable comb piece to allow for additional clearance.
Re: LAR-8A4 Varmint
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: SMH</div><div class="ubbcode-body">The LAR-8 with 26in SS Bull barrel is EXTREMELY accurate.
I recently fired 3 consecutive 3 shots groups that averaged ~.35 MOA!
I took the targets over to a friend who owns the same version. He claimed that his would do better....
I was shooting 155 Amax, Lapua brass, 45.0 Varget, CCI BR2.
Velocity around 2810 at 10ft.
My friend is using 168 Amax, Black Hills, ?gr Varget, Fed 210M.
I am VERY pleased with the rifle!
Only complaints-
Its heavier than I would prefer and the magazines fit is a bit "sloppy" compared to some rifles. I experienced one "last round" failure to feed in the first 40 rounds.
Overall, I have no regrets! </div></div>
I also have a Lar 8 varmint that is very accurate with my reloads using 168 amax and Sierra 168's needing extra magazines was not a problem as I have 14 that I share with 2 FAL's.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: SMH</div><div class="ubbcode-body">The LAR-8 with 26in SS Bull barrel is EXTREMELY accurate.
I recently fired 3 consecutive 3 shots groups that averaged ~.35 MOA!
I took the targets over to a friend who owns the same version. He claimed that his would do better....
I was shooting 155 Amax, Lapua brass, 45.0 Varget, CCI BR2.
Velocity around 2810 at 10ft.
My friend is using 168 Amax, Black Hills, ?gr Varget, Fed 210M.
I am VERY pleased with the rifle!
Only complaints-
Its heavier than I would prefer and the magazines fit is a bit "sloppy" compared to some rifles. I experienced one "last round" failure to feed in the first 40 rounds.
Overall, I have no regrets! </div></div>
I also have a Lar 8 varmint that is very accurate with my reloads using 168 amax and Sierra 168's needing extra magazines was not a problem as I have 14 that I share with 2 FAL's.
Re: LAR-8A4 Varmint
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: ORD</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: SnkBit</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Good to hear varying opinions. For my intended purposes I don't see that the incompatibility will be a problem. It's not something I intend to buy to build on. My only plans for it are a new buttstock and grip along with a decent optic. Sounds like this might just be a decent rifle for me. </div></div>
Depending on which buttstock you intend to install, it may be a problem (or at least a speedbump on the road). The Magpul AR-10 PRS for example which is incompatible because of the proprietary charging handle length (it has a longer OAL than other AR-10 type charging handles on the market). To install one, you either have to: a) install a 1" stock extension in front of the buttstock; or 2) cut down the adjustable comb piece to allow for additional clearance. </div></div>
Well damn! Thats exactly the stock I was intending on installing. The one inch spacer idea doesn't bother me. I will most likely need the added length of pull anyway. Im pretty tall and have to stretch everything I shoot out to its max in order to be comfortable.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: ORD</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: SnkBit</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Good to hear varying opinions. For my intended purposes I don't see that the incompatibility will be a problem. It's not something I intend to buy to build on. My only plans for it are a new buttstock and grip along with a decent optic. Sounds like this might just be a decent rifle for me. </div></div>
Depending on which buttstock you intend to install, it may be a problem (or at least a speedbump on the road). The Magpul AR-10 PRS for example which is incompatible because of the proprietary charging handle length (it has a longer OAL than other AR-10 type charging handles on the market). To install one, you either have to: a) install a 1" stock extension in front of the buttstock; or 2) cut down the adjustable comb piece to allow for additional clearance. </div></div>
Well damn! Thats exactly the stock I was intending on installing. The one inch spacer idea doesn't bother me. I will most likely need the added length of pull anyway. Im pretty tall and have to stretch everything I shoot out to its max in order to be comfortable.
Re: LAR-8A4 Varmint
I figured that you were looking at the PRS...most people looking into the longer barreled "target/varmint" rifles want the PRS.
Here is a link to a spacer/extender like I mentioned. Just slide it onto the receiver extension first, then install the extended spacer on the end of your A2 receiver extension, then slide your PRS on and tighten down...no big deal:
http://www.midwayusa.com/viewproduct/?productnumber=613589
I figured that you were looking at the PRS...most people looking into the longer barreled "target/varmint" rifles want the PRS.
Here is a link to a spacer/extender like I mentioned. Just slide it onto the receiver extension first, then install the extended spacer on the end of your A2 receiver extension, then slide your PRS on and tighten down...no big deal:
http://www.midwayusa.com/viewproduct/?productnumber=613589
Re: LAR-8A4 Varmint
Does anyone know the maximum cartridge length allowed by the FAL mags? I'm wondering how it compares to the DPMS mags and others.
Does anyone know the maximum cartridge length allowed by the FAL mags? I'm wondering how it compares to the DPMS mags and others.
Re: LAR-8A4 Varmint
2.81 on mine.
They grudgingly fed some 2.84 OAL Amax but I would not trust the reliability. (tips were dragging against the front of the mag)
My mags measure around 2.85 inside.
2.81 on mine.
They grudgingly fed some 2.84 OAL Amax but I would not trust the reliability. (tips were dragging against the front of the mag)
My mags measure around 2.85 inside.
Re: LAR-8A4 Varmint
Very cool. I'm still doing a lot of research and really looking at my options but I just might have to buy one of these.
Very cool. I'm still doing a lot of research and really looking at my options but I just might have to buy one of these.
Re: LAR-8A4 Varmint
In the FWIW department, I have about 1k rnds through my RRA LAR15 16" CrMoly rifle without a failure, shooting everything I can find. It is sub MOA. I am a big fan, but have no experience with the LAR 8. My 308 is a REPR.
In the FWIW department, I have about 1k rnds through my RRA LAR15 16" CrMoly rifle without a failure, shooting everything I can find. It is sub MOA. I am a big fan, but have no experience with the LAR 8. My 308 is a REPR.
Re: LAR-8A4 Varmint
I bought the mid-length with 16" barrel. I wanted the varmint but the price was right on this one. Im putting the Daniel Defense 12" quad rail on it now. This quadrail gets rid of everything in front and the upper rail makes the flattop monolithic thru the length of the rifle. This after research to find the right barrel nut for the RR barrel. Also required low profile gas block. Got it from Yankee Hill. Worked out great to put the long quad rail on. I have all the parts in hand but waiting on the barrel nut wrench from Daniel Defense. My next accessory will be the PRS stock. That research found the need for new tube, spring and buffer as well as the tube extension. Find the 1" tube extension at Brownells. Pics soon.
I bought the mid-length with 16" barrel. I wanted the varmint but the price was right on this one. Im putting the Daniel Defense 12" quad rail on it now. This quadrail gets rid of everything in front and the upper rail makes the flattop monolithic thru the length of the rifle. This after research to find the right barrel nut for the RR barrel. Also required low profile gas block. Got it from Yankee Hill. Worked out great to put the long quad rail on. I have all the parts in hand but waiting on the barrel nut wrench from Daniel Defense. My next accessory will be the PRS stock. That research found the need for new tube, spring and buffer as well as the tube extension. Find the 1" tube extension at Brownells. Pics soon.
Re: LAR-8A4 Varmint
Here are some results and pictures of my RRA LAR-8's, The mid-length has a Trijicon 3.5x ACOG scope with .308 ballistic reticle, It is great fun!
With the LAR-8 Varmint 26" barrel, I get some excellent results! Every round fed fine. I had no failures of any kind.
Temp = 77 F
Elevation = 2500
RH = 27%
Baro = 27.12 (station)
Distance = 100 meters (110 yards)
Here's a load using 155 gr. Lapua Scenars:
Winchester Case
Fed 210M primer
155 gr. Lapua Scenar
RL-15 44.5 gr
Here's a load with 175 gr Sierra Match Kings:
Winchester Case
Fed 210M primer
175 gr. SMK
RL-15 43.5 gr
This one was the best:
Winchester Case
Fed 210M primer
Nosler 180 gr. Ballistic Tip
RL-15 42.5 gr.
AVG. = 2624 FPS
SD: 15 FPS
ES: 39 FPS
Looks like the Noslers are the winner! I only had 5 rounds, and all went into the same hole, as you can see in the picture.
Here's a picture of the rifles:
Here are some results and pictures of my RRA LAR-8's, The mid-length has a Trijicon 3.5x ACOG scope with .308 ballistic reticle, It is great fun!
With the LAR-8 Varmint 26" barrel, I get some excellent results! Every round fed fine. I had no failures of any kind.
Temp = 77 F
Elevation = 2500
RH = 27%
Baro = 27.12 (station)
Distance = 100 meters (110 yards)
Here's a load using 155 gr. Lapua Scenars:
Winchester Case
Fed 210M primer
155 gr. Lapua Scenar
RL-15 44.5 gr
Here's a load with 175 gr Sierra Match Kings:
Winchester Case
Fed 210M primer
175 gr. SMK
RL-15 43.5 gr
This one was the best:
Winchester Case
Fed 210M primer
Nosler 180 gr. Ballistic Tip
RL-15 42.5 gr.
AVG. = 2624 FPS
SD: 15 FPS
ES: 39 FPS
Looks like the Noslers are the winner! I only had 5 rounds, and all went into the same hole, as you can see in the picture.
Here's a picture of the rifles:
