Hand guard... Size matter?

[Sugarbug]

Any size queens in attendance? I've got a 223 Wylde 24" Krieger barrel going onto an AR upper. This rifle will be for FPR, F-class, and Any other whimsical desires I might have. It will be fired from a bipod.

As you all know, increasing the lever distance from the pivot point to your shoulder, lessens the severity of small movements at the rear of the rifle.

With that in mind, what length do you guys use/like for this type of shooting.

I want to go at least 15". There are several options at that length, and I am also looking at the Noveske NSR 16.7". Additionally, I may talk to a shop about a custom 20".

Interested in your thoughts.

 

[Sugarbug]

Not a single reply. Impressive

 

[XTR]

You are talking about using a 24" 223 in F class, that's taking short iron to the first tee. Sure it will work, but the length of your hand guard is least of your issues. If you think long will work go long. What twist is it, is it a 1:7 or a 1:8? If it's not it won't run the heavy bullets you will want to push from the 600yd line

The point is that the rifle that you are describing is going to be significantly disadvantaged at 600 yards, and probably a waste of ammo at 1000, from that perspective it's pretty obvious that you are participating for fun and not seriously competing, so take what ever you want out and shoot it and have fun. In F-TR you are shooting against 18# bolt guns running 80Amax or 90 Bergers at ~2900, or 308s running Berger 185s in the 2800 range. The rifle you describe will have a significant windage handicap. By all means come out and shoot but don't get too wrapped up in the techy stuff. Just have fun. You'll figure a lot of stuff out that you never considered while you are shooting.

 

[MrMajestic]

Great answer XTR!

 

[jonbearman]

While I agree with xtr,I would get a handguard that is comfortable to your needs and of course the bipod adaptor.What twist is your barrel.I figure it is at least 1in8 and you can shoot the 80 grainers.He is right about the competition you will probably face,but it doesnt mean you wont do well.If anything since you already have the gun and barrel,why not go for it.There is one handguard available that has a flat bottom,but I cant remember who make's it,I would think it would suit your purpose very well.Keep us posted about progress with the project.

 

[Sugarbug]

Thanks for the replies, guys.

It is a 24" Krieger 223 Wylde with a 1:7.7 twist.

It's my first "precision" build so it's going to be for me to learn on mostly. I've decide on the 80gr Amax to start. Might eventually go to the 82gr Berger, but the Amax represent a better cost-savings while I'm learning.

I decided on the 15" SP3R handguard from Seekins Precision (the flat-bottomed one you mentioned), but they, every vendor, every website, everyone is out of them. Been looking for about a month and just cannot find one.

In hindsight, I really wish I had gone to a bolt gun rather than an AR, but hindsight is 20/20. I'm learning tons just by getting started in this great hobby. Actually shooting my first 600y match this weekend with a friend's borrowed Rem 700 in 223 Wylde.

I'm just waiting on that handguard and I'll be able to finish my rifle.

Appreciate the comments, gentlemen.

 

[FroggyOne2]

The 7.7 twist will work for a lot of bullets, but at the risk of being a skeptic, you may have problem with the 80 Amaxes In that bbl. I know that they have a good BC on them and that they have a good price on them, which make them very attractive. If your going to shoot from 600 yards and in, may make the recommendation to try the 75Amax first. It likes several powders, but I have found in the past that 24.0 grs of H4895 has worked in several rifles. The 80 Amaxes from previous experience on my part and observation, seem to work better in a faster twist than the 7.7 twist that you have.
It is something to consider.

 

[CarolinaBrass]

15" sounds great, for me the bigger the better I don't like to see too much barrel sticking out and I like to mount the tripod way out there!! GL with your quest.

 

[Sugarbug]

Thank you for the advice. I'll see what I can do with the 80gr amax. If they prove to be lack-luster in this gun, I'll try the Bergers or 75gr amax.