Changing one of the ARs into a long range rifle?

[Neko456]

Changing one of the ARs into a long range rifle? I have two AR 15s both setup with a short barrels or M4 configuration one with a rifle stock. I want to change one into a sniper/long range rifle. I hear I need to change out 4 things 1.) trigger 2. Free float the barrel 3.) Change out buffer 4.) Lengthen the barrel. Can't i just buy an upper with all that on it and change out the trigger. Tell me this how does the DIY sanding trigger jobs turn out. Or should I change each part separately which produces the best results new upper or parts change out/upper rebuld?

I don't need two assault rifles in the same caliber. I got a AK47 setup for what it does best and thats ok.

[Dasbalddog]

How long a range are you considering?

I trigger is a good idea for most setups, and I personally recommend against a sand/polish job. I believe the stunning lack of how-tos in that regard is testament to some problem with the concept.

The range/precision requirement will change the rest of the comments though.

[Neko456]

How long a range are you considering?

I trigger is a good idea for most setups, and I personally recommend against a sand/polish job. I believe the stunning lack of how-tos in that regard is testament to some problem with the concept.

The range/precision requirement will change the rest of the comments though.

456 - Doesn't the .556 peters out at 350-400 yards I'd like to do that with my rifle. I know the .308 is a 500-1000 yard rifle but the .556 can't do that. I'd like to shoot 200-300 yards I do pretty good with my .308 and 06 rifle at those ranges, I'd hope the AR platform could do the same. I'd like to start with clover leafs at 100 yards usually equals 2-3" at 300 yards.

[Legion_Prime]

456 - Doesn't the .556 peters out at 350-400 yards I'd like to do that with my rifle. I know the .308 is a 500-1000 yard rifle but the .556 can't do that. I'd like to shoot 200-300 yards I do pretty good with my .308 and 06 rifle at those ranges, I'd hope the AR platform could do the same. I'd like to start with clover leafs at 100 yards usually equals 2-3" at 300 yards.

Uhh, no the 5.56 out of a 14.5" barrel is more than capable of reaching out 5-600 meters, further if all he's looking to hit is paper.

[Kodiak]

456 - Doesn't the .556 peters out at 350-400 yards I'd like to do that with my rifle. I know the .308 is a 500-1000 yard rifle but the .556 can't do that. I'd like to shoot 200-300 yards I do pretty good with my .308 and 06 rifle at those ranges, I'd hope the AR platform could do the same. I'd like to start with clover leafs at 100 yards usually equals 2-3" at 300 yards.

In the USMC we had to "qualify" at max 500 yards with iron sights....this was back in '94 mind you

[NathanB]

In the USMC we had to "qualify" at max 500 yards with iron sights....this was back in '94 mind you

and when i got out in 08 it was still the same. Ive seen it fired accurately at 600 yards.

[Neko456]

In the USMC we had to "qualify" at max 500 yards with iron sights....this was back in '94 mind you

456 - Of course I'm not just wanting to hit a man size target I want MOA like I said 2"3" at 200-300 yards. Clover leave at 100 yards.

[Caeser2001]

456 - Doesn't the .556 peters out at 350-400 yards I'd like to do that with my rifle. I know the .308 is a 500-1000 yard rifle but the .556 can't do that. I'd like to shoot 200-300 yards I do pretty good with my .308 and 06 rifle at those ranges, I'd hope the AR platform could do the same. I'd like to start with clover leafs at 100 yards usually equals 2-3" at 300 yards.

There's plenty of documented hits out to 700 meters over in Afghanistan. Is the ideal? No but 1 platform for 2 jobs is much better on the wallet, especially if it's just punching paper.

http://www.m4carbine.net/showthread.php?t=80882

You'd be better off with a stainless steel upperbut there are plenty of other factors that come before that like ammo, the shooter, optics. PSA has some good deals. A better trigger isn't a must IF you have a decent stock trigger but it's better to change it. Geisselle SSAE or SDE would be the top 2 on my list.

Free floating the barrel helps at longer distances, as do heavier barrels. Ammo will make a huge difference, especially if you reload. As do optics.

http://palmettostatearmory.com/2421.php

http://palmettostatearmory.com/2522.php

[mikal90]

If your looking for 350/400 yrds to hit 3" to 4" groups. All you need to do is put a decent scope on it. 3x9 or 4x12 with a 40mm bell and try different brands of ammo till you find one that your rifle likes best. Most AR's are capable of that accuracy. 223/5.56 is a 400 yd groundhog round.

[Neko456]

So a scope and good ammo can do 2"-3" at 400 yards, I haven't given the .556 its due I didn't think the M4 configuration was that accurate.

What if I wanted better maybe 1.5" at 400 yards or 500 yards. Would I need a 18"-20" thicker barrel, good optics 3x12x40 or better, free floated with a target trigger then?