My first black rifle / first range report
 

Still a complete newbie in the firearm community, but it seems that its just about mandatory to pickup either an AR or an AK if you own guns! ;)

I found a decent deal on a 20" heavy barrel AR w/ a 6x with a local FTF. Not the perfect AR, and very plain by most accounts but it has the distinction of being mine so back off! ;)

Again, just starting out, so I know the target isnt perfect, but its a start and almost all of the 20 holes are in the oversized bull. I only had access to an indoor range, so these are taken at 75ft. Shots were taken with my elbow on the bench for support.


Im sure nothing fancy for most of you guys, but I was happy! Going back tomorrow w/ my dad (retired). He hasnt shot a gun in about 45 years!


http://members.cox.net/metalmoney/gfx/AR_sm.jpg

http://members.cox.net/metalmoney/gfx/target_AR.jpg

Oh, and as a bonus, the range had brass .223 for $305 / 1000. At least around here and even online that seemed to be a great price. Could only pickup 1 case after the rifle purchase, but thatll keep me busy for a bit!
:36_1_34:

Re: My first black rifle / first range report
 

nice, I am real envious of you guys over there in the US. I believe new zealanders can have firearms like these as well. We have politcians here who are trying to ban all magazined firearms including pistols. Only single shot firearms would be allowed.

Re: My first black rifle / first range report
 

Nice.
Look into a front sight to mount on that gas block.

Re: My first black rifle / first range report
 

It came with a set of ironsights, but it looks like its the traditional carry-handle mounted rear sight which would require the removal of the optics..

I know there are all sorts of trick setup for having BUIS, Im sure that will come as time and experience allow..

Re: My first black rifle / first range report
 

Nice. A good platform to start from.

Re: My first black rifle / first range report
 

Very Nice MetalMoney:
I have been looking at the 22 version GCG-5 or the S&W. They look like good trainers and low cost to shoot. But hey maybe I'll get the real thing and reload instead. Now...if I could only find reasonably prices primers?

Greek

Re: My first black rifle / first range report
 

Supply of primers seems to be coming back, but at ~$35/1000. It's not a great price, but I've seen people asking a lot more...

Here's one instance, but other places may have stock, too. My local store has them in stock at the same price.

http://www.patsreloading.com/patsrel/prices.htm

Re: My first black rifle / first range report
 

Speaking of reloading, Does anyone have the newbie intro to reloading site or book for me to start at? I know it can get pretty complex. I started to price out a reload setup and got a little intimidated when it came around time to pick the powders to buy etc... Started getting more technical than I expected.

Im a smart guy, but without a mentor looking over my shoulder, I'd really like to take baby steps / have simple step-by-step instructions for a basic reloading setup. I know its not that hard to mix bad combinations that wreck guns and / or people!

Any sugestions on a basic reloading setup / brand / kit?

Re: My first black rifle / first range report
 

I went RCBS many years ago, and haven't looked back...

https://shop.rcbs.com/WebConnect/Mai...eId=webconnect

For reloading manuals, this has all the info you will need, including a compilation of manufacturers loading data:

Re: My first black rifle / first range report
 

Reloading-wise, I have to recommend the Lee Classic Cast press. Cast iron, USA made, runs about $80. Not all Lee stuff is great but that press is unbeatable. I also own an RCBS press and other gear, their Rockchucker is also tough cast iron...but made in China.
http://leeprecision.com/cgi/catalog/...g/classic.html
http://www.surplusrifle.com/reviews/leepress/index.asp

Re: My first black rifle / first range report
 

http://members.cox.net/metalmoney/gfx/AR_sm.jpg

I carried an M-16 for 7 years. Looks great to me!

I will second that you need to obtain and practice until proficient with iron sights, both back and front.

Re: My first black rifle / first range report
 

I just completed an Appleseed class a couple of months ago on iron sights on a 10/22. Felt pretty solid and made huge improvements in my shooting and form, but didnt quite get the rifleman patch!

Sounds like a plan though, I'll throw on the iron sights for a while to make sure I know what I'm doing with this rifle!

Thanks to the tips on the reloading gear / data guys!

Re: My first black rifle / first range report
 

Absolutely nothing wrong with that rifle as it sits other than lacking a good set of iron sights. I hope you resist the temptations to load it down with various pieces of bling and instead keep it a simple, well made, battle rifle. Buy ammo and mags instead and shoot, shoot, shoot.

great find....get out and enjoy it!

Re: My first black rifle / first range report
 

Thanks. I dont think you have too much to worry about.. I really dislike all the quad rail setups with crap hanging off all the rails.

I'm gonna swap out the A2 stock for an adjustable one.. the A2 is a little aged looking, and the adjustable would make it a bit more comfortable for other family members to shoot..

Other than that, and an iron sight setup, it will be left alone. Just got 4 extra mags in the mail and some extra rounds... shooting is more fun that accessorizing!

Re: My first black rifle / first range report
 

i am suprized you were allowed to shoot that gun at 75ft (obviously a pistol range) indoors

none of the indoor ranges around here would have allowed that.....is that common elsewhere???

Re: My first black rifle / first range report
 

The range I go to rates the firearm by muzzle energy, not firearm type. They'll allow pretty big rifles. Anything under 8100 ft-lbs as long as its not steel core ammo.

http://www.scottsdalegunclub.com/ind...id=2&Itemid=15

Re: My first black rifle / first range report
 

find an outdoor range and start practicing @ 300+ yds

maybe find a friend who wants to practice distance shooting too and split on a quality spotting scope

Re: My first black rifle / first range report
 

Nice rifle. I just bought my first AR a few months ago and now have the wife and my daughter hooked on it. Prices just started dropping on "Black Rifles" in my area over the last two weeks. S&W MP15OR's are now $500 and the version with the detachable carrying handle is going for $700. Stag, DPMS and Del-Ton have been in the $650-$750 range depending on the model. I hope the downward trend continues.