16", 18", or 20" That is the Question.

[krazykracker]

Need help people. I just bought a Del-Ton lower receiver, and I am going to pick it up in a couple of days. The guy I am picking it up from says that he will sell me an upper for $435. Is that a pretty good deal for a complete upper? Also what size barrel should I get, 16, 18, or 20".

I was in the Marine Corps and my M16 was an A2. I have shot some friends ARs with 16 inch barrels. I have heard rumors of key holing anything over 300 yrds. Please advise, and thanks in advance.

[Greg-Dawg]

10.5"

[bsim]

I went 24"

[bombadillo]

18" barrel with a rifle length gas system is great! You gain almost all of the velocity of the 20" and still have the maneuverability of the 16" barrel. The rifle length gas system (especially if adjustable) will give you a nice soft shooter and be easy on the hardware and serve its purpose for a long time if cared for properly. WOA makes some great uppers you should consider if you're looking for a nice stainless free floated upper that is assembled RIGHT.

[Noobert]

so what did you think of your 20'' M16A2, and that friend's 16''?

[ETD1010]

Also what size barrel should I get, 16, 18, or 20".

yes. all of them. one at a time. but 16" would be my choice first.

[Josh3239]

Uppers are not made equally, what kind of uppers? What is the intended purpose?

[bombadillo]

^^ Thats the next question.

[mala in se]

all of the above then two of each. BRD.

[3GunFunShooter]

+1 with Bombadillo, 18" is the way to go.

[evidens83]

Well since the guy is selling you an upper, what size is the barrel? I'd go 16".

[krazykracker]

Well guys thanks for all of your help. I think I will go with the 18". My 20" M16A2 was great, it was very accurate and I was nailing all kinds of "stuff" up to 500 yards with the A2 Iron sights. I just wanted to get an idea of what you all have heard, and experienced. As for my friends 16" I liked it but the target I was shooting at was about 300 yrds away with an EOTECH sight.

A heck maybe I will take your advice and just get 1 of each. Oh you said 2 of each, hey you all are the experts....that sounds like a good idea..
Thanks again for all your help.