Lightweight AR15 Build - CAV-15 MKII Lower & Pencil Barrel

This build started a year or two ago with the purchase of a GWACS Armory CAV-15 MK II one-piece lower/stock.
I wanted a carbine that was light enough for my wife to shoot as she has physical limitations that make shouldering an average rifle too difficult for her to enjoy shooting. By using the polymer lower (it's made of Dupont Nylon 6) you can shave a full pound off compared to a complete standard lower with stock. Couple that with a lightweight pencil barrel, and I think I can get the weight down to where she can handle it.

I'll add a full parts list at some point, but at the time of this posting I have the following:

CAV-15 lower/stock
Anderson Sport upper (no forward assist/no dust cover)
Tom's Tactical LPK with upgraded Nickel Teflon trigger group
Charging handle
Magpul front/rear BUIS
Faxon 16" mid length pencil barrel

I still need:
Muzzle device
Bolt carrier group
Buffer/spring (I have a standard buffer/spring, but may get a lightweight setup)
Hand guard
Adjustable gas block
Gas tube

This should be interesting. I can't wait to see what this totals out at. I'm trying to make it as light as I can, but there's no way I can afford some of the crazy-light parts that are available on the market, so I'm not trying to compete with $3,000 lightweight guns - I just need it to be "light enough" for my wife.


If anyone has any tips, I'm all ears! If anyone has any questions, I'll answer as best I can.

I never knew a carbine could be so light. My first AR (before I had an understanding of barrel profiles) came with an HBAR, so this thing feels unbelievably light (even assuming it will weigh more once completed) and feels more like a toy.

I just got the barrel yesterday so I slipped it onto the upper/lower to get a better feel for it. Now that it's starting to look like a rifle I want to keep going and finish it, but I have to buy as I can afford the parts.
I'll post up some pics in a sec...

Here's the heart and soul of a lightweight build - the barrel.
I don't think there's one other part where you can shave more weight than on the barrel.

I went with the highly regarded Faxon 16" pencil barrel. There are others out there, but this seems to be the lightest - without needing to take out a loan.
I picked it up from Faxon directly for $140 (20% off sale) and was $148 shipped.

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...pshjtf0tla.jpg

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...pshi8zmtwb.jpg

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...psax1abwht.jpg

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...ps40dshbhk.jpg

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...pspadrbxqx.jpg

Some comparison shots - it's hard to believe how thin this barrel is without seeing/holding it in person!

(birdcage is just on there to protect the threads and to get an idea of how it will look with a muzzle device)
http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...psyafrpek8.jpg

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...pswktnqge6.jpg


I should have taken the handguards off the other rifle for a true comparison, but most of you know what they look like.

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...psdms10xdz.jpg

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...psthrrsku6.jpg


There's the GWACS Armory CAV-15 MKII polymer lower. I will comment more on that later, but if you have questions about them, just ask - it's a pretty neat lower and super light and durable - pretty much universally accepted as the best choice out there as far as polymer goes.

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...pskjdoglc0.jpg

I had started a thread in the Rifle subforum asking about lightweight bolt carrier groups and how they may affect recoil.

I was considering the AIM lightweight as it's on sale for $89 and I can't justify spending the crazy amounts that other companies want for lightweight BCGs.

I'm not 100% sold on needing a lightweight BCG and started looking at "standard" bolt carrier groups.
My default would be to just get an $89 PSA premium BCG - I have one in another carbine and I've seen mostly positive reviews.
Some other "good" brands start getting crazy with pricing and I would like to stick near $100 if possible.

I see that Primary Arms has the FailZero EXO coated M16 cut BCG on sale for $99.99
I'm not a BCG fanboy so I don't eat sleep and breathe BCG technical details and I get confused by the various "coatings" and what the purposes are for each of them.

A quick search suggests this is a pretty decent product. I have to wonder if this would be a good move to buy this as opposed to the PSA BCG if I decide not to go with a lightweight. The price sure seems right.

Any thoughts?
Any other suggestions for a quality BCG that doesn't break the bank?

I have a Fail Zero in one of my builds. It has been fine so far, I don't have a ton of rounds thru it, probably 500-750. Cleans up nice. I got mine from PA for $100 also.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by chkrdflg

I have a Fail Zero in one of my builds. It has been fine so far, I don't have a ton of rounds thru it, probably 500-750. Cleans up nice. I got mine from PA for $100 also.

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Thanks for the input.
I tend to over think things, but when you don't have money to "waste", you want to be sure you're making the right decisions and not end up having to "buy twice".

I haven't nailed down what BCG I want and the Fail Safe is no longer on sale.
I'm looking hard at the Right to Bear brand lightweight BCG for $105 but it's out of stock at the moment.
https://cdn3.volusion.com/jreda.hxva...jpg?1491211872

I ordered a gas block instead.
I'm getting the SLR Rifleworks (not the titanium) Sentry 6 from Righttobear.com
I looked all over and the current sale coupled with free gas tube (I needed) and additional discount is the best price I can find.
It came to $117.40 including the gas tube and shipping.

http://ep.yimg.com/ay/yhst-137019325...ck-0-875-1.gif

I've always heard that polymer lowers are inferior to aluminum but I've been intrigued with the idea because I want to get an 80% and mill it out. Without a drill press, I've been looking at polymer 80%s with jigs that you can complete with just a cordless drill and router.

Anyone tried one of them or have doubts that one could hold up?

Quote:

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Originally Posted by alpacaheat

I've always heard that polymer lowers are inferior to aluminum but I've been intrigued with the idea because I want to get an 80% and mill it out. Without a drill press, I've been looking at polymer 80%s with jigs that you can complete with just a cordless drill and router.

Anyone tried one of them or have doubts that one could hold up?

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These CAV-15 lowers are unlike the common polymer lowers on the market. For one, the known weak spot on typical polymer lowers is where the buffer tube threads into the lower. They are known to crack at that weak point and some companies now put metal thread inserts there to strengthen it.
The CAV-15 lower is stronger due to the one-piece design.

I have a New Frontier poly lower that i used for a 22 build and it seems to be made of an entirely different polymer - more "plasicky". I don't care for it and won't buy another.

These CAV-15 lowers have pretty universally good reviews as far as durability goes.

Here - I posted this info in my 7.62x39 build thread...

Since this tread may gain views from those interested in the GWACS Armory CAV-15 lower (formerly Cavalry Arms CAV-15) I'm going to post links to articles, reviews, videos, and how-to/maintenance info in this post and add to/update as I find them.

http://cdn2.bigcommerce.com/server90...g?t=1366745867

From the company website:

GWACS Armory, is now located in Jenks Oklahoma, is a 07 FFL manufacturer of firearms focused on quality product and a high level of service. Our products are made in the USA. We support the second amendment. Many of our employees are veterans. GWACS Armory is also a 08 FFL importer of firearms. Our flagship product is the CAV-15 MKII AR15 lower receiver.

GWACS Armory is registered with SAM. CAGE CODE: 6KRL2
CAV-15 MKII Receiver Features:

GWACS Armory, LLC, produces and sells the CAV-15 MKII, a versatile, lightweight, durable rifle that resists corrosion and impact better than traditional aluminum based AR15-type weapons.

We offer a life time warranty on our CAV-15 MKII and will also honor the warranty of the CAV-15 MKII offered by Cavalry Arms. Contact our staff for further details.

Choice of colors.

Receiver weight (complete) is almost a full pound lighter than a many complete aluminum receiver with an A2 stock.

A1 Length Integral Stock (5/8" shorter than A2) with sling loop. 13" Length of Pull.

Uses standard AR15/M16 magazines. The wider magazine well accepts submachine gun magazines in pistol calibers. With caliber conversion upper receivers and magazine blocks.

Uses all standard mil-spec parts with the exception of the take down pins. The front pivot and rear pins are a Quick Take Down style with Detents built into them. This allows for quick and easy removal of the pins while maintaining a positive lock.

Longer life, Nylon6 resists impacts and wear better than aluminum.


Links pertaining to the GWACS Armory CAV-15 MKII:

History of the cavalry Arms CAV-15 (good read!)

VIDEO - Abuse test

Technical - Triggers - what works and what doesn't

Review - Detailed review (2012)

Customizing - Article about custom mods that can improve upon the base product

Technical - Video tutorial showing complete installation of lower parts kit!


Torture test video (full version)...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xjhvi8c0MF4

I'll take a green one!

Quote:

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Originally Posted by alpacaheat

I'll take a green one!

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I was tempted when they had some blems available.

__________________________________________________ ________________

The SLR Rifleworks adjustable gas block and gas tube came in today.
I think the remaining big ticket items needed are a BCG and a handguard.
Getting closer.

http://www.gwacsarmory.com/cav-15-mk...h-ar-15-black/


Is a "fully-populated lower" a fancy term for finished lower?

Quote:

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Originally Posted by alpacaheat

http://www.gwacsarmory.com/cav-15-mk...h-ar-15-black/


Is a "fully-populated lower" a fancy term for finished lower?

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Correct.
Depending on your skills, it may be worth considering.
There's a few minor variations you need to do when installing a LPK and one reason I haven't installed mine yet.
There are very detailed instructions and a video, but I keep putting it off.

These lowers are not for everyone and the "finish" on them isn't the greatest (the material scuffs easily), but I'm glad I got the two I have.
SO light!

It's going to get scuffed with use anyway. If you're going to use it, who cares if it comes with a little scratch?

Muzzle brakes... the search is on.

I think I'll post links to interesting ones I find in this post in order to more easily find them again. (and so I can close the dozen muzzle brake tabs I have open currently)

I'd like to keep it near $100 - less would be better, but I'd go a bit over for the right unit.

I haven't decided if I'll get a titanium brake or a steel brake so I'm looking at both.

It has to be black. (I know some titanium devices don't come in black)
Under 2oz if possible
2" in length or less preferred

A few I've found or have had suggested to me:

Venom "Viper" (only the steel version is avail in blk) $69
1.7 oz / 2" L
https://www.rainierarms.com/media/pr...efense-862.jpg


Synergy Mini Comp 5.56 - Titanium (A bit pricey)
1.4 oz / 1.24" L


V Seven FURION Titanium (also pricey)
1.6 oz / 2.3" L
https://www.rainierarms.com/media/pr...ystems-321.jpg
VP-09 INTERCEPTOR Muzzle Brake $89 (titanium in black)
0.95 oz / (unknown length)
https://megiddotacticalgroup.com/wp-...TG-510x510.jpg

A few other muzzle brakes that get good reviews and aren't overly expensive...

JP Enterprises $89.00
(far left)
https://black-rifle.net/brakes/JP%20...ompensator.jpg



VG6 Gamma $64
Weight 2.03 oz
Length 1.75"
This is quickly becoming a top contender due to it's small size (near identical to A2 birdcage), low price, and glowing reviews.
http://www.graniteridgeoutfitters.co...449291532.jpeg


Miculek clone APOC Armory competition brake - $32.00 (on sale 20% off)
(looks identical to the Voodoo Innovations brake I bought for my 7.62x39)
No specs given - clearly on the longer/heavier side
https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/12...g?v=1486576329
and another top contender...

ALG Defense Sidewinder - $36 on sale
No specs given - appears similar in length to A2 birdcage
It's not the prettiest looking brake and Bill Geissele says it's not a "competition brake" - more of a "duty" brake, but I trust their products and the price is right. If she doesn't like it, I could put it on my own carbine.

https://4b1e874935ea5d25a97e-f099844...ALG05325NX.jpg

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Emptymag

I haven't nailed down what BCG I want and the Fail Safe is no longer on sale.
I'm looking hard at the Right to Bear brand lightweight BCG for $105 but it's out of stock at the moment.
https://cdn3.volusion.com/jreda.hxva...jpg?1491211872
snip...

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I ended up ordering one of these when they became available again (at same sale price) rather than risk waiting and have them sell out again.

It's pretty nice looking. Clean machining and finish. I think it's just under 3 oz lighter than a standard BCG. I compared it (by feel) to my PSA BCG and it does feel lighter, but not by a whole lot.
$105 - lifetime warranty - shaved a few oz... I'm happy.

After looking at the VG6 Gamma 556 I started reading up on the newer VG6 Epsilon 556 and deemed it a suitable contender as well.
Then I showed photos of each of the devices to Mrs EM.

She chose the Epsilon 556. "I want that one - it looks badass."
Can't say that I disagree. Muzzle device chosen! :cool:

VG6 Precision Epsilon 556
$51.99 SHIPPED (sale Granite Ridge Outfitters)

LENGTH	2.21"
DIAMETER	0.86"
WEIGHT	0.16 lbs (2.56 oz)
MATERIAL	17-4ph® Heat Treated Stainless Steel
FINISH	BLACKNITRIDE™ - Satin Finish (Half Gloss)
SURFACE HARDNESS	68RC
CALIBER	5.56mm/.223 Rem Only
THREAD	1/2x28 RH
INSTALLATION	Crush Washer (included)

http://www.graniteridgeoutfitters.co...116457904.jpeg

Here's the SLR Rifleworks Sentry 6 Clamp-on Adjustable Gas Block (.625) mfg link
purchased from righttobear.com - promo/sale included a free nitride gas tube

(I just slipped it onto the Faxon pencil barrel to take some pics)

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...ps3ynwjwny.jpg

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...psxf4ml5x3.jpg

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...pslxwfjrzx.jpg

Here's the Right to Bear Lightweight bolt carrier group mfg link
purchased from righttobear.com

Specs:

• Enhanced 9310 Steel (Bolt)
• 8620 Tool Steel (Carrier)
• Mil-Spec Extractor Spring, black extractor insert, Viton O-Ring
• Tool Steel Extractor
• Shrouded Firing Pin
• Mil-Spec Gas Key (4130 Steel) attached with Grade 8 hardware and Properly staked
• Bolt is shot Peened and MPI
• Forward Assist Serrations

• Weight: 8.9 Ounces / 252.5 Grams!

• Black Nitride Finish

• Lifetime Warranty (you break it, we replace it)

Since it's a relative newcomer, I thought I'd post a bunch of pics so people can get a good look at it.

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...pssqijsjv9.jpg

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...psrwiapqji.jpg

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...psbgnxz17r.jpg

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...psxkjojbpn.jpg

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...psrjp06bk0.jpg

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...psshy7svki.jpg

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...ps5kfklcmt.jpg

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...psnz51qzyl.jpg

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...psrq3jeqvh.jpg

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...psveh5fhdd.jpg

Another part came in...

Anodized PURPLE ALG Defense 12" Ergonomic Modular Rail (EMR) model V0 mfg link
purchased from algdefense.com
Got it for 40% off during Memorial day sale! $93 shipped vs $155 reg price (colors are slightly more than black)

7.84 oz - nice and slim. Even though it's a "dated" design, I love the look of this handrail.
It comes with one co-witness height rail section for mounting a front sight and one accessory rail section.
I'm going to take more photos in different lighting because the color isn't displaying accurately in this photo. It looks more "blue" to me in this pic, but it's definitely purple. Mrs EM likes the color and that's all that really matters. :)

Sneak peek...

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...psaslukuty.jpg


Here's a pic I found online that looks a little more accurate as far as color representation. Different handrail - same color.

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-of3LXjsetj...0/DSC00273.JPG

Here's the VG6 Precision, Epsilon 556 muzzle brake mfg link
purchased from graniteridge.com on sale for $52 shipped

Bottom (where all logos belong in my opinion)
http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...psq1cz7k7o.jpg

Top (slightly angled)
http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...psm2mgi5sp.jpg

Side
http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...psohwwscfn.jpg



http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...psxse6hcn4.jpg

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...psyq6g2aup.jpg

Ordered the Taccom Ultra Light Weight recoil system last night. It shipped out this morning.
$37.90 for the buffers and the spring (free shipping over $25 - ordered direct from Taccom)

It's the two piece buffer set and 10% reduced power buffer spring in the photo - not the carbine buffer shown with it.
http://firespeedtactical.com/wp-cont...accom-9758.jpg

And here it is...

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...psorip3j0n.jpg


And here's the knucklehead who likes to get in all my gun pics now...

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...psowxr4fxp.jpg


THIS CARBINE IS SLATED FOR COMPLETE ASSEMBLY and TEST FIRING TOMORROW!!!

I met up with Nate7667 today and he got my upper parts assembled for me and we took it out and put a few rounds through it to dial in the adjustable gas block.

She is COMPLETE and FUNCTIONING!

Recoil is almost laughable. Weight is... well, I don't have a scale and it's not going to win a contest with a $2,500 titanium lightweight build, but it's pretty damned light. I can hold the rifle level in an outstretched hand - and I'm not exactly a strong dude.

I gotta go get my lawn cut and bathe the dog, so I'm just posting this up real quick. More later.

A coordinating case was a priority...
http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...psi3ba439z.jpg


Right after the initial test firing... (a newborn)
http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...pshcfpnp1r.jpg



Awesome.
If I can find a good match for the handrail, I may shoot a few of the controls in purple.
I have all sorts of ideas for the stock. Time will tell if I customize it any further.

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...pspgmo5eds.jpg

More pics...

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...psuaec06i3.jpg


I forgot to get a good shot that shows the difference in thickness of the CAV-15 lower vs a standard lower but you can sort of see it in this photo. The inside is cut out pretty much the same so a standard lower parts kit is used, but along the upper edge, the lower is thicker "on the outside" and extends about 1/8" out beyond the width of the upper.
The way it was executed you'd never even notice unless you knew to look for it. I assume that making these areas thicker adds strength to the lower.

The pivot pin and takedown pin are proprietary and are the only two "lower parts" that differ from standard.
No springs or detents to piss around with on these pins either!
The "negative" is that you can't pull/push these pins out/in with your fingers - they need to be tapped out with something.
The fit is intentionally tight and technical info indicates that it will loosen a bit in time with repeated disassembly.

Overall, I found the assembly of the lower parts kit to be easier than with a standard AR lower. I was expecting (fearing) the worst, especially after reading that two detent springs may need to be trimmed, but even with needing to snip a coil off a spring, it all went together with relative ease. I put it together right here - literally on my laptop with rag over the keyboard to lay the parts out on while I watched the assembly video.

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...psf0kwuqel.jpg

Anderson slick side upper - no more trying to explain what "that button" (forward assist) does. LOL!
Odin Works XMR extended mag release. I handed my other rifle equipped with one to Mrs EM and another rifle with a standard mag release and asked "which one?"
I already knew the answer, but she got to see the difference and chose the XMR release.

I think I pointed out and explained this in the other build thread, but note the hammer pin hole. See how it almost looks like there's no pin in it? That's because of the thicker wall in that area that I spoke of above - the pins used are standard trigger and hammer pins - the trigger pin goes through the "normal" width section of the lower and the hammer pin is located in that "thicker" area. So long as it's centered, it's good to go.
Also, the very small hole behind and above the rear takedown pin is for a roll pin that gets tapped in to hold the buffer retainer in. Since this lower doesn't use a buffer tube (it's molded into the inside of the stock) to hold the buffer retainer in, the roll pin holds it in.

Obviously the grip and trigger guard can't be sapped out. Haters love, and I mean LOVE to point this terrible, terrible "flaw" out, but honestly, the grip feels pretty good - much better than an A2 grip. Anyone buying one of these lowers knows it going into it. I took a chance - I like the grip - I like the LOP of the stock (A1 length - shorter than A2) too. (another "flaw" that gets thrown out there)
In the end, I have a few extra grips and trigger guards as well as some springs and detents I have no use for.

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...ps33hspgfd.jpg

Mrs EM wanted a "Purple" handguard. I wanted to get her one of the really ornate "scrollwork/cutout-type" handguards we found while searching for custom handguards, but after factoring in adding the upcharge to get the purple Cerakote, the thing ended up at $300 plus shipping. I was willing to put some money into this build - within reason - but that was just too much.
This anodized purple handrail from ALG defense worked out great and was only $93 shipped including the two rail sections. (one cowitness height for front sight) A great product for sure. I think the slight oval shape of the slots gives it a more stylish look than boring M-Lok slots.
More than anything though, Mrs EM likes the color - and that's what really matters. :cool:

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...psx65wvasx.jpg

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...psctzeaiii.jpg

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...psfayccl3t.jpg

I think the VG6 Epsilon muzzle brake was a solid choice - both aesthetically and functionally.
While I have only done some limited test firing, I don't recall much movement during firing.
I think it looks pretty good on here too. Some others I had in the lineup would have ended up looking too "blocky" or simply too "big" visually mated to the pencil barrel, where I think this muzzle device blends well with it. She thinks it looks badass, so again, that's what really matters. :)

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/a...pswy9dyns5.jpg

Now that you have finished your project, this shows up on the web: http://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2...ghts-database/

Quote:

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Originally Posted by gghbi

Now that you have finished your project, this shows up on the web: http://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2...ghts-database/

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LOL! Thanks!

I have to wonder how much the author of that article knows about AR15s if he says "A good way to shave off ounces from your AR build is to use a lightweight lower and a lightweight bolt carrier group."

I don't believe that either one (or even both combined) factor into shaving weight nearly as much as the barrel does.

Anyway, I'm happy I did it, and I'm happy I was able to create a suitably light carbine without spending absurd amounts of money just to shave an ounce off.

Thanks for the link. I'm sure it will help others who happen across it while reading this thread.

Mrs EM gave the OK to take it to the group shoot today for "further testing".

Let me just say that in regards to
weight, recoil, and muzzle rise,
all I can say is...

http://s2.quickmeme.com/img/a9/a9ed8...54cb9b2c59.jpg



This grapetastic featherweight stays rock steady and is tame enough for a child to shoot.
It barks pretty loudly, but damn.

I was watching while some other people shot it and that barrel just didn't move.
I'm VERY happy with the results.

The only issue I found is the mag release. In order to get the Odin Works extended release to function, I had to back the mag catch post out a few turns so the end was "recessed" in the mag release button just a bit. (rather than screwed in all the way until it's "even" with the mag release button)
The magazine dropped out while firing a few times, so I'm certain that the mag catch needs spun in more. I have a few ideas to try and see if I can get it to work with that extended release, but worst case scenario, I just go back to a standard mag release button.

"Thank you" to anyone who helped me put this together - the info and suggestions made steered me in the right direction and I was able to build this without breaking the bank and still get the results I was looking for.
:)

Well, Photobucket is holding EVERY user ransom and demanding to upgrade to the $400/year plan or your photos will no longer be displayed on forums and such. (what 99% of people use Photobucket for)

Fuck them.

In other news, ALG Defense is clearancing their color handrails so if you happened to see this gun before Photobucket hid the photos, and you were thinking of getting one, do it quick before they are gone.
ALG Clearance link

Here's a 4th of July photo until I can get the other photos in the thread re-hosted...

https://i.postimg.cc/RZV8t4dG/20170704-192411.jpg

We went to the range the other day and Mrs EM can shoot it, so the goal of making it light enough for her has been met! YAY!!!

I love this thing. I told her I was jealous of her light rifle!
I even shot a mag through it again, shouldered, but with my support hand behind my back - HA! No muzzle climb.

Oh yeah, the mag catch issue was resolved by spinning the mag catch in one more turn. :)

Interesting video on the Faxon pencil barrel and heating.
https://youtu.be/QTovPt4weIs

GOOD NEWS!

For anyone who had followed either of my build threads using these CAV-15 Mark IN lowers and had any interest in getting one, only to find that production had ceased, the redesigned/improved Mark III polymer lower is coming SOON!!!

Apparently there's a collaboration between Brownell's, InRange TV YouTube channel, and KE Arms, who will be producing the next generation of the original CAV-15 one-piece polymer lower.

Here's a quick video from SHOT Show 2020 talking about the soon to be available WWSD (what would Stoner do) 2020 complete rifle.
The stripper lower as well as a completed lower are also available as a pre-order RIGHT NOW from Brownell's.
The stripper lower is an amazing $89.99 - that's what I paid on clearance for mine in 2015!!!

Brownell's link to lowers, complete rifle and full story of how this next step in the evolution of this polymer lower came to be.
https://www.brownells.com/guntech/ww....htm?lid=17958

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hw0HriCgbt4

Going into more detail...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fEciLKtSIHA

The announcement several months back that I did not know about...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NCkvBgZCDrE

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Emptymag

The announcement several months back that I did not know about...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NCkvBgZCDrE

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I just recently found this channel and I love it. Their WWSD series has me really questioning my rifle setup and I handled some basic used M4 setups at gun shops and they're so much lighter! There will certainly be a WWSD build in my future but probably with a 10" handguard.

I just picked up a kitchen scale and one of the first things I weighed was this rifle!
FINALLY! I know exactly what it weighs!

5 lb 7 oz with BUIS and SIG Romeo MSR red dot - without magazine
6 lb 2 oz with 20 rd USGI mag loaded with M855 green tip "penetrator" ammo

https://i.postimg.cc/NFdgtMYD/20221220-235116.jpg

https://i.postimg.cc/BZpZHhDF/20221220-235304.jpg


I had to go look it up... how much does the $1,850 WWSD 2022 rifle weigh - empty, with no sights/optics???
5 lb!!!
https://www.brownells.com/firearms/r...rod146942.aspx

:D :D :D