New build project - 2 duplicate MSRs

[Calculon]

Almost finished assembling the parts for a fun MSR build. As you guys and gals know MSRs are like legos - you can build with parts from different manufacturers and end up with a functional and customized rifle. I have a couple stripped lowers and thought I'd try my own long term test to find out which options/upgrades really improve performance and usability.
Here's the plan. Build 2 identical rifles and ensure both operate hitch free. I'm assuming a break in period of a couple hundred rounds each to get the kinks out. Then upgrade elements of one rifle to see if any noticeable improvement in performance or usability. Other rifle will stay bone stock (mil spec) as a "control."

Here's the build list so far:

• Aero precision stripped lower multical
• PSA mil spec LPK
• PSA stripped upper
• Bear Creek Arsenal 16" SS barrel chambered in .223 Wylde with carbine length gas system
• BTE Micro Gas block (adjustable)
• Midwest Industries Super Slim hand guard
• Mil spec charging handle
• Thordsen stock
• Mil spec buffer, buffer tube and spring
• Magpul front and rear BUIS

The only item I have yet to source is a faux suppressor or a threaded end cap. I'm avoiding pinning and welding something on with an OD greater than 0.74" in the event I have to service gas block. I have been speaking to a vendor who is considering manufacturing something that would fit the bill and be NY compliant. If it comes through I'll start another thread.

I'll update as I get the project off the ground in the next week or so. Let me know if you have questions or suggestions on future upgrades (triggers, optics, charging handles, etc).

[LibertyOrDeath]

That's pretty cool but Man do I think those Thordsen stocks are but ugly!

[Calculon]

That's pretty cool but Man do I think those Thordsen stocks are but ugly!

Totally agree on the Thordsen being ugly. Priority for me was to maintain detachable magazine so builds will be featureless. Not a fan of fixed mag.

ETA: also gives me the opportunity to modify with a spur or a hammerhead grip.

[Cgrutt]

I HATE Thordsen stocks but am thinking about building a lower with one so I can run different uppers with it. unSAFE Sucks... good luck with build

[LibertyOrDeath]

looking forward to seeing updates on this. I won't be having any new toys for a while. I've only been a homeowner for like 5 weeks and money is flying!!!

[usmcveteran]

Wow this is an awesome idea you have! What constitutes upgrades vs different rifle? For example barrel would be off limits right but a compensator wouldn't?

[Calculon]

Wow this is an awesome idea you have! What constitutes upgrades vs different rifle? For example barrel would be off limits right but a compensator wouldn't?

Correct. At least at this point. If I change the barrel early on than I'm substantially changing the rifle and it will difficult to know where improvements come from. I may change it in future but I'd rather start with other components that supposedly improve usability and accuracy (eg upgraded trigger, optics vs irons, etc.). Would be a great opportunity to try muzzle brakes or comps but not in People's Republic of New Yorkistan.

[Calculon]

Meketrefe Meke haven't heard from you yet on this. As our resident guru of Gunsmithing I'd love your perspective and suggestions.

[GUNSICK]

You really need to build 4 for a comparison like this or is it 6. Can't remember, need more coffee.

[Calculon]

You really need to build 4 for a comparison like this or is it 6. Can't remember, need more coffee.

Ok but you guys will have to support my gofundme site for the build.

[MilesTeg]

Curious have you thought about how your going to quantify the difference in improvement? Precision isn't always a 100% indicator of an upgrade. Maybe have a few of the same people come to the range with you at each equipment upgrade to give a broader test sample. Also it might be helpful at each upgrade post what you plan and we as a group could come up with good test parameters. Very interesting thread hope you follow up on it!

[Calculon]

I realize that a good portion of the improvements may fall in the usability or subjective bucket vs quantifiable or measurable results. To do a true scientific study I'd have to only change one thing at a time as the cumulative benefit would be impossible to attribute to individual upgrades. I think Gunsick may be volunteering to fund the test for multiple rifles .

I plan to measure the things I can like:

• overall weight
• trigger pull weight
• accuracy shooting from bench rest at various distances
• accuracy shooting offhand
• malfunctions introduced when changes made if any
• impact if using different brands and weights of ammo
• etc

Please let me know if there are other things I can/should measure. Other than being a fun experiment it would be good to know, at the end of the day, if upgrades really do make a difference or is it all just subjective like rally stripes on a car.

[Calculon]

Quick update - I'm 99% done with the build. Waiting on a gas block exchange - vendor sent me 1 adjustable and 1 non-adjustable. Need them to be same. Here are the assembled rifles. Thanks to GUNSICK for the great cerakote job. The picture doesn't do these rifles justice - they look awesome. Still open to suggestions on things I should try to test.

image_4847.jpg

[usmcveteran]

I wonder about different types of sites and how some may be easier to use?

[thughes]

Binary triggers