What's the advantage of a carbine-length gas system?

[510dat]

I've been doing some research in preparation to build my first AR, and this has puzzled me.

Carbine-length gas systems are necessary for the 11.5" and 14.5" barrels used on M-4s.

For the most part, us "regular people" aren't allowed to have barrels shorter than 16" (pinned flash-hiders not withstanding).

Carbine-length gas systems, from what I have been able to find out, operate the action much faster and harder than longer gas systems, to the point where the US military had to develop ways to slow the system down, and there's still the issue of increased wear and tear on the system as a whole.

But for some odd reason, there are dozens or hundreds of uppers available with carbine-gas systems, and a relative handful of mid-length uppers here and there.

What gives?

[upinflames2400]

As far ad wear and tear I've never heard of anyone having any problems. The only thing that would make me think why the military had to slow it down is because soldiers are shooting full auto and burst fire and the rounds wouldn't eject fast enough before the bolt closed again

[majorcajones]

As far ad wear and tear I've never heard of anyone having any problems. The only thing that would make me think why the military had to slow it down is because soldiers are shooting full auto and burst fire and the rounds wouldn't eject fast enough before the bolt closed again

ive always *heard* that the shorter system is alot more violent on the action....im sure for most of us with rec. shooting it wont matter......