Ok, have built a few AR-10s... And now going for the gusto. I want to build a lightweight AR-10 that is functional for hunting. Not looking for a tactical gun, or high round count gun, but one that can hold its own out to 600ish yards (or more). I have a "stretch" goal of putting it sans optic below 6 lbs, but that is a target. Since it is a working gun I want functionality over absolute minimalism.
I have started my research on this and have run into some obstacles...
Top Weight hogs:
Barrel, BCG, Receivers, Fore guard,Buttstock
Probably in that order. Then there are lots of ozs that can be shaved from other parts.
Barrel - Who is making the best quality lightweight profile, but near match grade barrels for AR-10s. A lot of the barrel makers is like a maze figuring out profiles and weights. Since I am looking at either 308 or 7mm-08, I would probably be looking at a 22-24" barrel for the 7, and an 18 or 20 in for the 308. Who's waded this quagmire and figured out the best vendors to look at? I know all the top names, but when I look at their sites its like comparing apples and organges because profiles don't always match and weight characteristics aren't always there.
BCG - It seems like the JP bcg is the only one that really saves weight. Anyone found anything else?
Receivers - Another quagmire. Xanthos seems to be the lightest weight combined profile, but everything has been out of stock and no one is answering phones. All over vendors I have looked at AP, Mega, etc seem to be pushing nearly 2lbs for the set. Would like to shave a pound here.
Foreguard - I have found several vendors in the 11 oz range for 15" tubes and 8/9 oz for 13"... Would like to push that down. And NO carbon fiber tubes don't really save weight. Already did the math.
Buttstocks - I have found several minimal buttstocks. Want to keep those as an option, but balance is also important so I am looking to see what more normal buttstocks have gone on diets.
In addition if any of you have input on pins, triggers, etc that can save weight... Please forward it.
