Any reasons to choose a 16 inch vs 18 inch barrel?

[promiseofwar]

I hear a lot of talk about which barrel length is better, i.e., to wit, e.g., in lieu, 16 inch vs 18 inch. I would like some feedback from my fellow shooters who can shed light on this issue. Primary POU is dedicating a variable magnification scope on an Ar-15 for beyond 200 yards. I am looking at adding one of the these types of rifles to my collection. Please tell me your thoughts on barrel length and gas system. I am looking at spending under 1700.00 for the rifle. Thanks in advance.

 

[PanhandleGlocker]

What caliber you want?

 

[promiseofwar]

Daaaang, I forgot to add that. 5.56 NATO.

 

[jc5420]

Either barrel length will get you well past 200y. 18" barrel gives you a little more velocity and depending on mid / rifle length gas you will have a smoother running rifle as well. 16" mid length or 18" rifle length are the better choices for both barrels IMO. Really if I were going to do an 18" barrel I would almost rather go ahead and get a 20" for even more velocity. Thats just me, I have always ran with 16" or less and 24" for my varmint / predator rigs.

 

[ASP785]

http://www.okshooters.com/showthread.php?175482-Suggestions-for-AR-15-Build&highlight=16+18+barrel

Look at this thread. We discussed this very topic and it gives both sides of the argument well. My opinion: 16 inch mid length barrel!

 

[promiseofwar]

Thanks ASP785, I read the thread. A larger caliber would be great, but cost wise, not so much. I was just trying to see if there is a significant difference in the 16 vs 18. Currently I am leaning towards the 16.

 

[promiseofwar]

Either barrel length will get you well past 200y. 18" barrel gives you a little more velocity and depending on mid / rifle length gas you will have a smoother running rifle as well. 16" mid length or 18" rifle length are the better choices for both barrels IMO. Really if I were going to do an 18" barrel I would almost rather go ahead and get a 20" for even more velocity. Thats just me, I have always ran with 16" or less and 24" for my varmint / predator rigs.

That makes sense if 18" why not 20" gotta consider that.

 

[Jwryan84]

Bench gun, go long.

 

[dennishoddy]

I'd go for the 20" any day for most applications.
I have a 16" carbine that fits in the tractor for varmints. Its all about what your going to use it for.

 

[jc5420]

Bench gun, go long.

Totally agree, although, my last long barreled ar15 weighed in right at 17lbs. Would like to have that rifle back