Jeff Thomas
New member
I know one of the great attributes of AR-15's / M-16's is their adaptability, especially by using different uppers. I'm still left with some confusion. [Most of my questions relate to Bushmasters, but I assume the answers would apply to all AR's?]
1. Besides the normal .223 configuration, I gather the normal alternatives are 7.62 x 39 and 9mm. If you use one of these uppers:
a. Don't you need special magazines? And, if so, where do you buy them - I don't remember seeing them advertised for sale.
b. And, if you use special magazines, then I assume you need an adaptor for the magazine to fit properly in the lower?
c. What are some of the reasons you might want a 7.62 or 9mm?
2. Back to the .223 version, is it legal to possess a 'pre-ban' upper for use on a 'post-ban' lower, in the hope that the idiotic 'assault weapons' ban expires in 2004? [I'm assuming it is illegal to attach it to a post-ban lower at this time.]
3. If you were buying a .223 upper, which would you choose for your AR, assuming you want the best all-around rifle for defense, hunting, plinking, etc.? I gather the vortex flash hider is considered the best, but what about length and any other features?
4. What is the smartest way to buy an upper? I note the prices in Bushmaster's catalog are pretty steep. Is it smarter to buy less than the entire upper (i.e. just the barrel, or ...) ?
Thanks. Regards from AZ
1. Besides the normal .223 configuration, I gather the normal alternatives are 7.62 x 39 and 9mm. If you use one of these uppers:
a. Don't you need special magazines? And, if so, where do you buy them - I don't remember seeing them advertised for sale.
b. And, if you use special magazines, then I assume you need an adaptor for the magazine to fit properly in the lower?
c. What are some of the reasons you might want a 7.62 or 9mm?
2. Back to the .223 version, is it legal to possess a 'pre-ban' upper for use on a 'post-ban' lower, in the hope that the idiotic 'assault weapons' ban expires in 2004? [I'm assuming it is illegal to attach it to a post-ban lower at this time.]
3. If you were buying a .223 upper, which would you choose for your AR, assuming you want the best all-around rifle for defense, hunting, plinking, etc.? I gather the vortex flash hider is considered the best, but what about length and any other features?
4. What is the smartest way to buy an upper? I note the prices in Bushmaster's catalog are pretty steep. Is it smarter to buy less than the entire upper (i.e. just the barrel, or ...) ?
Thanks. Regards from AZ