[Reflex]

I thought I'd point this question at you, primarily because you've done the highest quality research on the subject. Have you any recommendations for barrel length using standard milspec ammunition? If anyone else has an opinion on this, please contribute as well!!

Thanks in advance,

Reflex

 

[cajungeo]

Hi Reflex, we haven't heard from z man for a while. Z man, and I had similar results, but used different approaches. We did almost the same mods, but he cut his barrel, and I didn't. At 100 yds a std 18" or a 16 1/2" can shoot the same. At 300 yds or more the bullet out of the longer barrel will have a higher velocity, and energy. My purpose was to hit coyotes at up to 300 yds. I prefer the longer barrel, for the longer range. Just my 2 cents.

 

[Reflex]

Thanks for the input Canjuego. My approach is a little different. I'm trying to build a Caliban-approved tactical carbine, so I'll try to go as short as I can, for any close-quarters eventuality. 16.5 is what DRC recommends, so I'll probably go with that.

 

[Red]

Hey podnuh....

Maybe this'll help.
http://www.ammo-oracle.com/#history

It's an action packed FAQ concerning .223/5.56 capabilties, both 62 grain and 55 grain type offerings.

True enough, it was written for the AR, BUT the Ruger uses the same milspec chamber (5.56) as the AR, so the pertinent portions concerning barrel length and performance WILL be the same.

Twist rate is also discussed.

Good luck on your CQB rifle. Were it me (and I realize it ain't) I'd go no shorter than 18 inches for accuracy and flash suppression.

 

[Reflex]

Much obliged, Red. I'll give that a good look.

 

[cajungeo]

thanks for the link Red. I'll be studing it.

 

[Z-Man]

...but uncle same sent me on a litte TDY vacation.

As for mil-spec ammo and barrel length, I have found that most civillian/OTC rounds pretty much follow the "norm" of about 100fps per/inch of barrel shortening. Not really big deal for a CQB weapon, but if you stretch the range out to 300-400M, it might become more of an issue.

When I shortened my stock barrel, I did lose a couple hundred fps, but the accuracy improvments were well worth the loss. The improved accuracy more than offsets fps any day. I'd much rather drop a slug into a target than send them whizzing past it at 200 fps faster....know what I mean? lol

As for a Mini as a CQB weapon, I think you will find that the barrel will perform nicely around 16.5", although as Red mentioned, you will get a noticable muzzle flash.

The muzzle flip with a non-supressed/braked 16.5" barrel is very pronounced, and with the stock gas bushings, the problem is compunded. Two things I would definitely do if you plan to go this short :

1) Install the smaller gas bushings...a great modification all around.

2) A silver-soldered brake / flash hider....your only option once you chop the barrel.

I think you'll find good mil-spec rounds and a 16.5" to be a great combo.

Hope this helps.

 

[Reflex]

Sorry for the delay in replying, Z-man. Hope your TDY went well. Thanks to your input, now I will definitely go ahead with that barrel cut. Hope to get this bad boy in the gallery soon!!

 

[Z-Man]

No problem.

Just remember, pick the best ammo for your rifle, take the time to measure/record/document your results, shoot the hell out of it, and then tell us all about it.

I look forward to seeing, hearing, and learning from your results.

Best of luck to you.