What Length Rifle Is Best Or A Do It All?

[@peachfuds]

The "do it all" rifle is the one you have in your hands when you need it.

[@IronInfidel]

Lots of facts there.

[@cainmarko335]

​@@IronInfidel16 inch and 14 inch much better

[@Devin7Eleven]

20in bullpup. There you go

[@WilliamRepsher]

❤ one mind, any weapon

[@Gnolomweb]

​@@cainmarko335 depends where you live. I can't drive 5 miles and see more than 300 yards (unless i'm in the middle of the road)

[@buzsalmon]

Just found your videos and as an old (75) retired police officer I just wanted to let you know how much I appreciated this video. You really do good work. Thank you sir.

[@IronInfidel]

Glad to hear it. Enjoy the holiday

[@Goldenwithaleash]

Agreed. For me, it really depends on rifle purpose/use and if you have a suppressor. I have as long as 18” for precision work and as short as 11.5” for home defense with suppressor. For your average AR owner who doesn’t want to mess with pin/weld, and doesn’t own a suppressor, a 16” with midlength gas system is the way to go. If I had to choose just one for myself, I’d probably go 14.5”

[@robertnicke3259]

FINALLY, an engineer's view of the effects of full power ammo on rifles with shorter barrels. Well done! RECOIL has a good article on ammo for SBRs.

[@andrewcopeland1517]

“There is no one do it all rifle”. Music to my ears

[@IronInfidel]

Not really .. The 14.5 is solid.

[@isaactrujillo76]

😂 no one got what you were saying. Buy em all!!

[@mavrikmavrik3032]

If you are operating from a secure base and if you have multiple rifles that you are capable on then you can pick and choose for each situation. However once you get away from your safe and get out into the wild you have to pick one to take with you (we don’t have a call of duty inventory system on our back). Unless you are part of a squad and have a role within that squad you are going to need a good GP rifle and have to make do with it for whatever situation you come across. So I think building/buying a 13.9” to 16” should be your first investment. From there you can go up and down depending on what you think your mostly like use cases might be.

[@IronInfidel]

I like where you are going with this entire comment.

[@arlissyoung8899]

Good information all around and spot on IMO. I have 10, 12, 13.7, 16 and 18 inch configurations and as stated they have a place that's best for each one. As always well done Big Brother good to see here doing the good stuff.

[@IronInfidel]

Thanks for sharing. Loving this stuff

[@1arrowhead1]

Would you recommend getting a 13.7 over a 16 for your only rifle ?

[@zm1786]

16 inch is the best unless youre running a supressor. It gets good velocity , still good in cqb , always legal. 13.7 is the best general purpose supressed imo .

[@IronInfidel]

1 is generally what most will go with in my experience

[@Dressed2KillTaye]

Flat Out!❤

[@DavidLLambertmobile]

I agree. 2pt sling. Edgar Sherman or Vickers.

[@countryfriedZ71]

I love my M4 Block 1 GWOT clone. I run an EOTech 552 (I know it's old but it still runs like a champ) My rifle does everything I need it to do. To each their own. Great content as usual.

[@IronInfidel]

I miss my old sopmod I first had lol.

[@DMH707]

I agree there isn’t a do it all setup. But I’d say the 12.5-14.5 are the best for general purpose rifle.

[@IronInfidel]

I agree although thst 11.5 is impressive

[@johndecker9983]

I love my 6933 build. 11.5 medium profile barrel,Odin adjustable gas block and geissele super 42 spring and h2 buffer, soft shooting, my shooter for sure. Great info. 👍

[@ajfoyt1163]

Beat me to it, bro 😂...12.5 with a good 1-6 LPVO (with fiber wire dot) can do CQB, intermediate range, and even out to 300-400 yards with lethal effect. 🤙

[@DMH707]

@@ajfoyt1163 yeah that’s basically my go to. If you look on my shorts you’ll see my SLR/Criterion/FCD 12.5 with a razor 1-6. I plan on suppressing it so that’s why I decided on 12.5.

[@hustler539]

I also agree. But more importantly the caliber at these shorter barrel lengths should be taken into consideration. Not all calibers lend themselves well to short barrels or 'do it all roles'.

[@marcusd3212]

Before i lost all my guns in a boating accident, i had a 12.5 with a pin and welded suppressor to make it 16" overall. For that suppressor the internals are the part serialized. So the tube is just a tube that can be pined and welded on the host. This is nice as i could swap around the the internals to different host. But im thinking of going a different route as suppressors have changed tremendously with low back pressure flow through cans. Thinking about an rc3 now.

[@badideaman]

Those boating accidents are a real drag, ain't they?

[@IronInfidel]

tough luck lol.

[@brazzy1467]

I have several different barrel lengths from 10.5 to 20 inches. My favorite that I keep going back to is my Noveske 13.7" with headspaced bolt and a 1x4 lpvo. Awesome video NSDQ!!!!

[@IronInfidel]

Noiiiiiiiiice.

[@Gnolomweb]

Why tho? (what ammo do you shoot?)

[@brazzy1467]

@@Gnolomweb reasoning I keep going back to my 13.7" for me it's a happy medium. Still short enough for close work and accurate enough out to 4 to 5 hundred meters. I only use 62gr green tip, and 77gr otm. I hand load my 77 otm's and I have been doing it since 2007. Plus it's not heavy and bulky.

[@jonathanvelez4385]

Another great video. This is why I watch this and your main channel. I love my 11.5 super duty with rc2 for cqb and my bcm 14.5 for everything else.

[@ricardoguzman7593]

Awesome video, you’ve given me a lot to think about when choosing the proper length for my first AR. I will be using mine for home defense. I think for me the 16inch length will work. I currently carry a Colt M4 outfitted with an Aimpoint M68 red dot along with a Peq15. For my personal rifle I’m going with the more streamlined approach to cut weight where I can when it comes to accessories. A good optic, weapon light, folding iron sights and hand stop. Thanks again!

[@bigmike716]

My favorite length is the 14.5" P&W with the Geisselle MK14 rail, or the MK8 rail. I'm a bigger guy too, 6-5, 285lbs and the 14.5" feels perfect for me using M193 and 77gr OTM. And you are using my favorite trigger as well, the Blackout Defense. I've bought 8 of them now because of you turning me on to them. Thanks again for all the great content brother!

[@IronInfidel]

Blackout triggers are so goo.

[@bobdole7701]

A 16 inch is just fine.DONE!

[@IronInfidel]

Depends on the situation ... DONE

[@Maine307]

awesome video- friggen great points all around.. I had no choice in 94-99 use my 20 A2 for Mout Emout and CQB.. and yes it got heavy and tired..lol.. I agree!!!!! as an old fart & Fud now retired from the Marines,( 94-2014 / 0369 ) i am in the 20 inch and 16 inch camp.. each with its own purpose.. ur points all around truly made sense . great video! truly wish i had a 14 or 16 back in the day! i hear ya!

[@IronInfidel]

I really want to build a 20 now after my 18 spr

[@airborneivan]

Do it all rifle should be capable out to 500 yards, and can be used in CQB environments. For me, it's 12.5". I can make consistent hits on 10" steel out to 600 yards and its well balanced. With my 77gr loads, I'm still supersonic and still good enough energy for 2 legged critters. I've personally tested velocities on everything from 10.5" to 18". From 12.5"-14.5" there's no substantial increase in velocity. On average, 50 fps or less from 12.5" -14.5". I love all the barrel lengths for more specialized purposes, but the 12.5" reigns supreme for me for its versatility and lethality.

[@rivercityracer3683]

I averaged about 3,050 feet per second with a Criterion Core series 13.9" shooting both IMI M193 and a Winchester 5.56 62gr open tip military training export load recently. Also averaged 2,800 fps with AAC 69gr OTM's and 2750 fps with IMI 77gr razorcore. Might wanna consider your barrel manufacturer, the specific barrel profile and type of material used, and whether or not the barrels you're shooting are actually straight/within a very tight specification if you're getting little to no gains from 12.5 to 13.7-14.5. I've seen that before and its common with government profile barrels or just barrels that have big changes in thickness, which majorly affects the way it vibrates amd whips as a projectile moves through it, which affects everything. Also on the same day I chrono'd those numbers with my 13.9, my friend shot the same four loads of ammo out of his Ballistic Advantage 16" SPR fluted barrel within an hour of me and all four loads chrono'd a little lower from his 16" than my 13.9". Criterion is a chrome lined 4150 CMV phosphated barrel. The Ballistic Advantage is a 416R stainless - from what I understand, chrome lining has considerably less drag/friction on a projectile than stainless does. But that is still a 13.9" shooting like you'd expect a well-made 16" to if you're using very hot ammo. There is a good price difference between the two though. 🤷‍♂️ We also shot a few handguns that day to verify the chrono and got normal numbers. Typical 115 hollowpoints shooting 1,150 fps and some underwood extreme defender and G9 external hollowpoints cooking along at right around what the box said.

[@airborneivan]

@rivercityracer3683 I was able to test 2-12.5" barrels and 2-12.7" barrels recently. Triarc Systems 12.5", Rosco Manufacturing K9 12.5", FN gov profile 13.7", and Precision Defense 13.7". There was almost no difference between the two lengths. From the Triarc 12.5" to the FN & Precision Defense 13.7", using AAC 77gr OTM and Australian Outback 55gr SBK, there was no velocity increase. The Precision Defense 13.7" was about 10FPS. Jumping up to my LWRC 14.5" and my wife's BCM ELW 14.5", the increase from 12.5" was about 40 fps using PMC Xtac 55gr xm193 and American Eagle 55gr xm193. The biggest jump I've seen was from 12.5" to LWRC 16" and Ruger AR556 16" was 200 fps using Australian Outback 55gr SBK. There's more testing I've done, too. I've also talked with a friend who competes in LR comps. He switched from a Criterion 12.5" to a Proof research 14.5 and was only seeing a velocity increase of about 25 fps. It's not super in depth or scientific.

[@IronInfidel]

I like where your mind is here.

[@Rossithebull87]

​​@@rivercityracer3683chrome lining increases velocity

[@Kinetic.44]

16" simple and easy, it really is a do it all gun if you dont own NFA items that make your gun longer... 16" is the most reliable with mid length gas due to more dwell time. No pin and weld bullcrap to save 1.3" of over all barrel length. You can actually mount a bayonet properly with a 16" middy if your into that but a 15" free float handguard with 16" barrel is sweet. 20" and 11.5" have roles in my kit and do their specific roles better but the the 16" can flex into both roles nearly as well based on optics selection. 16" has plenty of velocity and its fast and handy with a light to mid barrel profile.

[@IronInfidel]

13.7, 13.9 and 14.5 pinned are not nfa items either. I have yet to have any of those lengths fail reliability wise due to gas system issues compared to a 16 with at this point hundreds of thousands of rounds through the various lengths.

[@ZeldaVStheworld]

Black gun with gray furniture, grip, forward assist, charging handle, take down pins, trigger guard, safety, bolt catch, dust cover. My favorite color scheme.

[@IronInfidel]

nice way to roll for sure.

[@armeddiver]

Great video. I 100% concur that there is no "one gun - do all". I would also like to add that caliber makes a big difference in your choice of barrel length. I saw a video on another channel where they were shooting an 11.5" .308, that gun was an absolute flame thrower even in broad daylight with a can on it. I can not think of any good reason to build that gun. I would also like to say you have the best looking guns I have ever seen. They are works of art. Thanks for making the video and showing us those beautiful guns.

[@IronInfidel]

Oh yeah that was that FAL 308 monster I tell ya.

[@InGratitudeIam]

A good breakdown. Headboards are at the end of a bed. Headliners are overhead inside a vehicle.

[@IronInfidel]

Ahahahah good catch man. Headliner vs headboard I guess I had something else on the mind.

[@petesheppard1709]

New sub here. Great information, but you pretty well ended the discussion for most people when you pointed out the SBR and pistol infringements, which pretty much sets 16" as a hard limit. Given that limit, the 13.9 and 14.5 inch barrels have no practical advantage. Absent those infringements, you have sold me on a 12.5" suppressed rifle! Yes, braces are currently legal, but that is still only some judges' opinion.

[@AdvancedTennisFoundation-ph9zo]

really I think you mean it is only some uninformed opinion that any infringement is allowed.

[@robertyoung7595]

As always you do a great job with your videos and presentations. I just put a 12.5 556 together, it is my Xmas gift. Merry Christmas to you and your Family! 🎄👊🏿

[@IronInfidel]

Much appreciated.

[@Pappa_Wheelie]

Full ambi LMT mars pistol with a 12.5” and 16.25” quick change barrel on a box/belt fed fightlite MCR upper. Peq15, aCog/RMR, white light. Covers all the bases +.

[@IronInfidel]

I like it.

[@linger2001]

I would agree with your take on things. I have a 300 blk. 8.5” suppressed CQB set up and my 16” 5.56. Each does their thing well. I really like the versatility of the 300 blk. With just ammo change from 110 grain to 220 grain changes things up a good bit.

[@IronInfidel]

300 is nice but pricey on ammo these days.

[@linger2001]

@@IronInfidel just keep buying when you can. That’s what I do.

[@Gnolomweb]

this is my setup. under 150 yards, 300blk 10.5 suppressed. Past 150 223wylde 18.5. and 338 lapua 30" for anti-material.

[@thevoiceofreason6339]

Barrel length depends upon its intended purpose. Optimal lengths are 10.5" for CQB, 16" for standard use, and 20" for distance. 20" is actually the "sweet spot" barrel length for 5.56 distance/velocity.

[@IronInfidel]

Yes exactly what I go over in the video.

[@thevoiceofreason6339]

@IronInfidel exactly! Just agreeably reinforcing what you said. You know how everyone has opinions on that subject. LOL! Speaking to recoil on the 10.5, I use an Armaspec SRS buffer in mine and highly recommend it. Quiet and smooth. Even reduces spring noise for a better whisper when running supressed.

[@FinalLugiaGuardian]

Ironically, I think 16 inches is the perfect, for lack of better term, generalist length. The 5.56mm was designed for a 20 inch barrel (for the desired ballistic effect at 300 yards), but 16 inches is right on the cusp of maintaining that needed velocity at 200 meters. For most users, a range of 200 meters is plenty. Hunters may want to sepnd the extra money to get a free floated 20 inch barrel though.

[@Radbrad869]

I personally think 14.5 is great. You really aren’t losing much in terms of velocity and accuracy, I was hitting black every time at 500 yrds in the Marines with my M4, but it is just that much more maneuverable

[@MackTheGovnah]

@@Radbrad869imo it depends on how big a guy you are. If you’re 5’9 then yes 14.5 is enough but 6ft and taller then a 16’ bbl is fine because your physical frame is that much bigger than the rifle.

[@derek3154]

Well Ammo has made a huge impact on the lethality and ballistics of .556, it’s came along way from when we used 20” as the standard.

[@IronInfidel]

Depends on ammo. 77g from a 14.5 is hot.

[@MackTheGovnah]

@@IronInfidel and so is 55gr NATO from a 20’ so you got get the setup that fits the purpose. I say a 16’ or 18’ barrel is the best bet for the cartridge which is ,after all, intended to be high velocity.

[@woodlandreconjoshdrakes5509]

All mine that are under 16 inches, I'm running 300blk. Awesome video. Thanks for sharing

[@IronInfidel]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@stevestrawmatt4738]

My GP rifle is a BCM 14.5 pinned and wlded with a surefire warcomp and Surefire mini supressor. I went that way to avoid the nfa BS for the rifle. I have a 16 BCM inch as my back up rifle because they are easy to get and work.

[@IronInfidel]

Not a bad way to go at all.

[@seanoneil277]

16 or more, lighter contour/fluting for maneuverability. Financially because I'm cheap, ballistically because velocity is my friend. I understand (in my mind) why shorties are preferred. In college & a few years after I played lacrosse, began as defenseman. 6 feet-ish of lax stick between me and the guy I'm defending. Moved to midfield, 3 feet-ish of lax stick. Defended people in both situations, moved offensively through/around them in both. Spatial awareness is undervalued/underrated. Or maybe sometimes ignored. I may be saying this in defense of my thrift and avoidance of SBR related troubles. Or because I don't have a suppressor. Or because I never carried my rifles for pay/work.

[@IronInfidel]

more than 16 is pretty unwieldy in tight areas.

[@seanoneil277]

@@IronInfidel That's me being thrifty on SBR cost & paperwork, and me having no suppressor. Also me never borrowing or shooting any with sub 16". It's tough playing offensive work with the 6ft defense stick but it can be done.

[@victordogeman]

Generally speaking, if you know the muzzle device you prefer (for instance I only run surefire warcomps on 5.56 weapons), a 14.5 pin and weld is almost always a pure upgrade from a 16” - the difference in velocity is between about 50-80 feet per second depending on the ammo type, essentially negligible, and that extra inch and a half saved really does make a difference getting in and out of vehicles, moving in and around tight spaces, etc. The government spent a LOT of time and money determining, through endless testing, the optimal trade off between barrel length and velocity, and they decided on 14.5”. If it’s an option for you? Highly recommend.

[@IronInfidel]

I just took a 14.5 to 948 yards on 75g hornady. Off the shelf URGI

[@jamesvanwinkle7775]

I’ve had a bunch of different length AR’s. I have an 11.5” that shoots very soft and is very accurate. The issue I see with the shorter guns is because of barrel length you are less stable off the bench and no matter the accuracy it’s still a very short range gun. For hunting my 18” Shilen is the best. My all around is my 14.5” pinned BCM. Haven’t tried the 12.5” yet but that may be next.

[@bluegrass4840]

Caliber also comes into play. I remember I got so much flak for building my Home Defense 10.5 300 blk. Like you said purpose driven and for the distances I was working with it did great and it was tame enough for my wife and daughter when running subs. Heck I even put 4 deer in the fridge last season with it.

[@JohnSmith-mo4yh]

That seems pretty diverse alright. What would you say your effective range is with that ?

[@IronInfidel]

Yup subs in a 300 hundo are fart quite.

[@richardanderson4916]

Thank you for the very informative video. I believe i will go with the DD 14.5

[@IronInfidel]

Good choice!

[@theirishman6728]

I'm in the camp of 14.5 I've got my purpose built platforms for specific scenarios. Caliber choice too plays a role. Example being for vehicular use and room clearing, I prefer my 6" 300blk. I currently have a 16" 5.56 for my SPR build and it'll engage at distances I expect for that purpose and stay a little more compact than an 18 or 20". But if I don't have the luxury of choice to my purpose built platforms, my 14.5 pinned & weld set up is my middle of the road goto option. It's the one that if I have to grab something not knowing what I'm going into and not going to be around all my options, I'm grabbing the 14.5 and going to work with it.

[@IronInfidel]

Solid.

[@jerryrobinson8510]

Right on the money!!! I've got the DD 16" and Blackout 14 something. Sold the rest...

[@IronInfidel]

Solid.

[@Olivehollow]

That Blackout Defense is so sexy. What an amazing weapon!

[@IronInfidel]

I agree

[@DrunkChristian03]

Marines did a lot of CQC or CQB with 20” M16s with fixed A2 buttocks… anything else is just a treat. I may or may not be biased but 20” rifles also make “practice” ammo duty ammo… also, I’ve never seen a MK18 with fixed bayonets but I have seen M16s with a spicy treat hanging off the end of the barrel… great deterrent for close engagements 🔪😬

[@SouthpawActual]

Great video as usual. In my opinion, a "Dot-it-all" rifle is the one that you have, train with, and understand its capabilities.

[@Lostflipper24]

Is it though ? A 5 or 7 inch isn’t suitable for long range and isn’t really a do it all length.

[@SouthpawActual]

@tekdoestricks9284 That's not the premise of my statement. If you only have a rifle, you need to understand what its capabilities are. Obviously, if you have a 5 or 7 in rifle, you need to understand that your range reach will suffer.

[@Lostflipper24]

@@SouthpawActual yeah, the premise was “ do it all “ means knowing your equipment . But that’s incorrect, rifles within certain sizes cannot do everything.

[@SouthpawActual]

@tekdoestricks9284 you are right sir, great discussion

[@IronInfidel]

understanding the capabilities is really one of the most important things that people often don't research.

[@HuckleBerry476]

Great informative video, as always! I also have a 13.9. Noticed you mentioned ammo for the 14.5 and curious of your opinion on ammo for the 13.9 where over penetration isn’t a concern.

[@IronInfidel]

77g is the bees knees or 75 badlands munitions on the hornady tip.

[@frankdardano3182]

I took a 16 inch tread,put cmc trigger,random radial charger,sig msr,with two night vision,with eight biightness options,total cost,with vertical grip, 1400,not much more for ammo,tac 6 case.Thats my perfect rifle.Picked tread,after extensive reading and opinions on line,and store.Softest shooting gun I have ever had.Still love theM1 carbine.Have one made in 1944,still accurate,never been cleaned since I have had it, 1965.

[@IronInfidel]

Nice.

[@renegadearms]

I agree I think the best length personally is around 14.5 inch length so anywhere from 12.5-14.5 because I have a 12.5 I built out of all really good parts and the only real difference as far as function between it and my 14.5 is it’s about 100 or so fps lower.

[@IronInfidel]

Not a bad way to go right there.

[@ahumm8280]

My take is it depends on the enviroment or surrounding. No matter what you choose there is going to be some kind of compromise. So being proficient with 12.5 to 16 inch barrels would be solid choices. Im not professional by any means, just a guy enjoying my youtube content!

[@IronInfidel]

You are very right.

[@ArmyMatt79]

I love my 12.5" with the Criterion Core barrel. I don't go under 11.5" with 5.56mm. I use 300blk for 10.3" to 8". I like the idea of the 13.9". That will be my next build.

[@IronInfidel]

11.5 has some good stuff going on.

[@ArmyMatt79]

Absolutely!!!!😃 I want to build a 11.5" Centurion barrel FBI profile.

[@daviddavis1858]

I have 3 10.5 inch I hope I only have to train withe them Rifals 16 18 @20 best for every thing else grateful for the information. Thank’s

[@IronInfidel]

Much appreciated.

[@Masta_E]

On paper 14.5 is the best do it all but in practice it is my 11.5 with an rc2. Just perfectly balanced, lightweight, and handy.

[@mtnbound2764]

i want to disagree because i love 14.5's, buutt.... chances are for a civvie like me, shots past 5, 6, 700 yards, where the longer barrel helps, are pretty unlikely.

[@IronInfidel]

14.5 prints and hammer steel well.

[@mtnbound2764]

@@IronInfidel it is my fav. sure a 10.5" can hit steel at ..300.. but.. the 14.5" just does it better. plus there is no SBR or pistol brace bs to worry about. and it does feel handier than a 16" people say its not much difference but it feels like it to me.

[@Spartisman]

So You need one of each size, then you can do it all. I like my 13.7 or my dd16 inch with red dot and magnifier. Home defense i use 300 blackout 10.5. Great video.

[@miken9484]

Im currently using the iron infidel wrist wraps and battle bottle. 💪

[@IronInfidel]

Awesome glad to hear it.

[@wtdconcepts]

Unless you live out on the ranch and really need to reach out, I always recommend a minimum of 11.5", maximum of 16", and choose a barrel length based on the size/arm length of the shooter. For me 11.5" is perfect but for my taller friends I've recommended 12.5, 13.7, 14.5 etc. Better for the rifle to fit you rather than choosing based on ballistic performance at 600 yards which most shooters never even shoot over 300 yards.

[@IronInfidel]

Lots of love is going out on the 11.5 recently.

[@J.Young808]

Since I live in Commifornia-lite (Hawai’i) I can’t have fun cool rifles. My first ever pew I bought (in 2018) was an LWRCi M6IC DI 16.1” burnt bronze with their proprietary rail and furniture. I also bought a complete BCM keymod 16” 300BO upper to mount as a hunting caliber. The one I would grab is my 13.9” Ballistic Advantage, PSA 13” segmented pic MLok rail, 2A Armament BCG, Radian CH, SOLGW NOX 3 prong pinned, Holosun 5xx ACSS on a Unity FAST, 3x EOtech magnifier Unity FTC, MBUIS PRO, Magpul STR stock, Valhalla Tactical 18350 ODA light w/Modlite PLH-V2 head.

[@IronInfidel]

That is a good rifle.

[@J.Young808]

@@IronInfidel which one? Home build or LWRCi.

[@IronInfidel]

LWRC

[@bonvaicu]

thanks for the video / I have 14.5" DD V7 SLW California Compliant

[@IronInfidel]

Good stuff.

[@patfetizanan5055]

Love the content! Agree that there isn’t a Goldilocks length and application . However, my Tavor SAR with 16 in. barrel comes close. Also, big fan of LAW tactical folder for my some of AR’s. Been 100% reliable thru inclement weather and classes. As civilian, my carbine will most likely be in my trunk and my pistol to fight to get to that position. At home, my preferred tool is Glock 17 instead of carbine for many reasons. Keep up the great work!

[@IronInfidel]

Well getting into the bullpup stuff is very different.

[@PoliticallyInsensitive]

16" with whatever optic blows your hair back (i use a fixed 5x prism). The only reason to go shorter is the tacticool factor. This 12.5 fad will pass just like gripping the mag well or super low mounted optics.

[@sterlingcampbell2116]

Anything shorter than 14 makes no sense for 556. If you need a barrel that short then go 300bo

[@IronInfidel]

Ahh how much time have you spent clearly rooms with a 16 and a suppressor?

[@PoliticallyInsensitive]

@@IronInfidel 0 with a suppressor, other than that; a fair amount. There's nothing a 12.5 can do a 16 can't do better.

[@poolee77]

@@PoliticallyInsensitivethe short barrels are there to be suppressed is what he is getting at

[@horonin]

I like 10.5 because I can keep it shouldered and do a 360 degree turn in the narrowest hallway in my house, and it is highly unlikely it will escape the outer walls of my block and brick home. Were I live is also highly unlikely to have shot opportunities outside 200 yards, so it just makes sense. As a pistol, and it counts as such for CC laws in my State, I could keep it in my vehicle without issue as well. As a second I would go with an 18-20 most likely for the more special purpose ability, and for most folks would say a 16.5 is probably your best bet to get as short as possible without having to worry about overreaching and hoops to jump through.

[@IronInfidel]

That can help.

[@boneharvester_eth4021]

Thank you for this video. It’s all about purpose 💯

[@IronInfidel]

Thanks for watching.

[@Kinetic.44]

Please tell how adding ONE inch (A2 birdcage length) to your barrel suddenly makes it so unwieldy for CQB vs a 13.7" or 14.5" or 14.7" pin and weld with 16" OAL?! Dont need some huge sacrificial chamber suppressor mount (what a actual short barrel is for) or to put a huge prong flash hider on it when more barrel actually burning the powder not only reduces flash but increases velocity...

[@IronInfidel]

Well if you have ever had to clear a bunch of trailer homes you'd know.

[@michaelmathers6739]

Great information thanks

[@BuckF0eJiden]

If i had to pick, id go with a 16" midlength gas. 5.56 for Utility and cost effectiveness. 6mm ARC is money is no object.

[@IronInfidel]

NOt a bad way to go.

[@jamescunningham6251]

Good video. 11.5, 12.5, and 13.7 are my go to barrel lengths

[@IronInfidel]

Solid choice thanks

[@sterlingcampbell2116]

Toys, not weapons

[@gephrygeph6480]

As all ways, thanks for the very good content.

[@IronInfidel]

Sure thing I love provoking though with people so they don't just default to something.

[@scout3058]

I go no less than 16 inch for any rifle of mine. I have one with an LPVO (1:7 twist), one with Red dot and magnifier (1:8 twist), and one with just red dot and irons (1:9 twist). I run appropriate ammo weight in each, heavier to lighter in that order.

[@IronInfidel]

Nice you have it worked out.

[@scout3058]

@IronInfidel My wife is my "DMR/SPR" rifle operator. We're both Marines but she was on a unit rifle competition team, and is more precise at longer ranges than I. If nothing else I keep it realistic and within my skill limits. 😉

[@michaelshanahan4965]

My 11.5’s are pretty awesome out to 300 hundred yards. PSA with EPT trigger and tuned gas system. Primary Arms Slx 2.5 Compact 2.5x32 Prism Scope - ACSS CQB-M1 Reticle. Same setup with my 16’s.

[@IronInfidel]

for sure.

[@djreese1885]

I’m about to buy my first AR and I’m leaning towards a 14.5 pin & weld . For my purposes it will do what I need it to do and if I find myself ever in a CQB type scenario I’m sure it will do that also. Thanks for sharing this info brother! Helped me out for sure. God bless 🙏🏻

[@roberttaylor7451]

I think for your first AR that would be a sound purchase. I own SBRs but I would not want them alone as you can’t easily travel interstate. A 14.5 iOS great on velocity without being overly long except suppressed. Suppressors are overrated for a shtf case in my opinion. Even with a piston gun they get nasty and add wear and tear, not to mention weight. I don’t own one of the latest and greatest flow through cans as they weren’t around when I bought mine. I am sure they keep a rifle cleaner and running with lower bolt velocity.

[@seanwhite304]

Just make sure if you do PW that you pay attention to what Muzzle Device is being PW in case you get a Can . I run Keymo so if I do PW in going with Keymo QD to PW . SOLGW Simple Jack Carbine I believe is 13.7" PW . It's a basic Carbine that comes with everything you need and nothing you dont . Theres obviously 100s of models to choose from . Do the research and get the one you want . Centurion CM4 14.5 MIDWEIGHT HF Upper with CMT Ambi Controls Lower is my personal favorite. SOLGW , and BCM are also very hard to go wrong with and both are tried and true manufacturers. LMT , KAC and Hodge are IMO the absolute best but your gonna have to sell your first born to buy one lol ..

[@IronInfidel]

Thst 14.5 is a fine length for in tight work . It can get a bit tight if your running a full size can but I run 14.5 a lot

[@seanwhite304]

13.7" Middy paired with K Can in my personal favorite. I ran Colt MK18 MOD 0 for damn near 10 years as my go too . I've tried everything from 10.3 - 16" . That 13.7" Middy is what works for me . Definitely not ideal for working out of a vehicle but it also works very well in CQB environments.. I heard a pretty good saying in a podcast that for every inch of barrel that's about what you can expect for barrel life . So 10.3 roughly 10k rounds . Obviously they'll last longer than that but it's a good rule of thumb

[@IronInfidel]

Very nice.

[@seanwhite304]

@@IronInfidel 13.7 Middy with 11.5" MLOK Rail , G43 MAGNIFIER On Unity FTC Mount , EXPS3 On Unity Riser Mount , Cloud Rein Micro , YHM Turbo K on DA428 Adapter , Pinned NOX Keymo Hybrid Flash Hider and All Ambi Controls is my Do all be all Rig. I also have Colt M4A1 SOCOM BLOCK II With TA31 and Top Mounted RMR . I def use 13.7 more but I'd be lost without my M4A1 Block Ii lol

[@John_439]

11.3, 13.7, and 18 inches are my current favorites. 11.3 is just so much better than 10.3 for essentially no percentage length gain. 13.7 is as short as you can go and be a rifle and 18 inches can get you to 800yds with good ammo and easy weather conditions.

[@OldMusicFan83]

I was trained on an Old School M16A1, and so prefer the 20” barrel.

[@IronInfidel]

Yup those long ones in basic. I remember those

[@NoGoBu]

I was too, M-16A1, 🪖🫡🇺🇸

[@Murderface666]

For me, 16 inch with an LVPO, offset dot, but more importantly, a properly torqued barrel with shims and consistent reloads. I stick with 62 HPBT projectiles using WC-844 surplus powder and 77 grain using WC-846 (took advantage of the prices while Trump was in) and loads of No. 41 primers when the prices weren't graping. Never been stingy on brass. Overall, based on where I live, it's it can be drastically versatile, giving one setup the advantage over another in a matter of 100 yards of travel. I pay attention to how my city and neighboring cities are designed based on Google Maps.

[@IronInfidel]

Nice load

[@TheRios7018]

I have 10.5” , 12.5” and 16” my go to is the 12.5” just fits my needs best! Ty bud great video 👊

[@IronInfidel]

Niiiiiice

[@jasongaudreau2075]

I REALLY tried to simplify and keep my arms down to what I can carry if I needed to run. Using only the MOST COMMON ammo in USA. I boiled it down to 5.56, 9mm, and 12ga. Got a 590S shockwave to keep it small and maneuverable. Got a g45 as a proper side arm. And am building a 12.5” as I plan to K can it (which is about 5” on polonium k and rc2 mini. So 12.5 seemed to give a lot of function. That FN chf cl 13.7” pinned barrel with adjustable gas block is so damn tempting. Only 1.2” more than the 12.5” which wil need to be sbr’d. I don’t mind, I can’t debate forever, I needed a build. But, I’ve now caught the bug and really like the zenith zf-5!!! And it’s down to $1549 for the premium package. Then another $1k in optics, rails,slings, and cans! Gotta shake the bug cuz I just can’t carry them all at once. I can backpack attached scabbard the shockwave while I run the ar on a McLean sling and hip holster the g45….i wouldn’t mind a sneaky shorty Chiappa.357 on the ankle too but jeez! $$$$$

[@IronInfidel]

You got a good thing going.

[@oscarhernandez1796]

Great vid! So the 11.5 inch around 300 yards for for the best effective hit on the enemy will be 62 grain or higher right heavy grain ? What aboug 55 graun barnes tsx a sollid coper bullet?

[@IronInfidel]

Solid copper is its own animal. Force delivery is dependent on velocity upon impact which is driven by load, projectile weight , barrel length and powder burn. 77g out of a 10.5 and 11.5 is gonna work well. 75g and 62g also get it done but the higher grain will help to an extend before the barrel wont like it.

[@SantosGunworks]

I don’t get the 13.7/13.9” pin and weld to make it 16”. Why not just get a 14.5” and pin and weld to 16”? The OAL on both is the same, but the 14.5” will have tiny bit more velocity and you have many more muzzle device options to make it 16”.

[@IronInfidel]

The OAL will not be the same on a 14.5 vs a 13.7

[@Echo_6-9]

Rosco K9 Kinetic Consulting 11.5 with the Patrol Length Gas System is my current favorite with a VLTOR A5.

[@IronInfidel]

Very solid rig

[@zm7094]

Great video! i was hoping you were going to pull out a M16 20 incher " the Original" .

[@IronInfidel]

I had it in mind.

[@justinschlenker6486]

You can pin & weld a direct thread suppressor to those 10.3”, 11.5” and 12”.5” taking the OAL to 16” plus. Just another option

[@dav762s]

Griffin gp5 has been my pw go to suppressor. Also ecco has a good 5x5 can that can be p/w.

[@IronInfidel]

There are things that can be done.

[@arthurdsoto5751]

Mike just ran across this Pezz dispenser channel of yours keep up the great work. GOD Bless. Art

[@IronInfidel]

Ahhah thanks man.

[@HKGunPlay]

If you want a short rifle psa has a 300 blk out for 549 right now. 556 shorter than 16 is not worth it at least for me. I prefer my shorties to be 300 blk out. Price on sub sonic ammo is kinda high but there are tons of 300 blk out rounds that are pretty cheap. I got a I’d of my dd vp7 10.3 and got a maxim defense 300 blk out and the total length is 18 inches as it sits. With the brace and can it’s a little longer but the whole gun is almost the same length as a barrel on a normal ar 15 She sweet too

[@IronInfidel]

I just hate the cost of 300 ammo.

[@jdwar11]

I feel your spot on with the various lengths brother. With the caliber I do not think there is a perfect do it all length. Possibly if you start changing the caliber you could find a closer do it all but it is unlikely as well

[@IronInfidel]

Well once you step above 556 costs usually sky rocket .. I don't really do the exotic calibers much since they are the first ones to get dumped in shortages and never really take off like people think they will.

[@adamg574]

I think .300 blackout is the way to go. Subs when you need them and supers when you might need more range, both performing very well out of a very short barrel. Up here in Canada all RCMP ERT teams (our version of SWAT) are now using .300 blackout, perfect for shutting down trucker convoy protests and confiscating AR15’s I suppose.

[@IronInfidel]

300 seems to be a caliber that comes in and out of fashion ever 10 months.

[@LoveLikeaHurricane]

So something else to consider, the Huxwrx flash hider comes in short and long configurations. My understanding is that the Long is to go with the 13.9 , and the Short is to go with the 14.5. Both configurations would end up around 16.2inches?

[@IronInfidel]

Gotta get to 16 on the rifle variants yes.

[@ReubenOaks84]

It depends on what you are doing along with the area and purpose that will likely dictate the best option at that time.

[@MasqUp]

While I understand that bullpup is a dirty word especially to the AR community you have a 16" barrel with the overall length of a MK18, additionally better balanced especially if your using a suppressor, light, laser, etc., the Tavor, Hellion and AUG exist for these reasons. You trade a different manual of arms than an AR for these benifits and training will easily overcome that hurtle, just a thought.

[@johnwalker5622]

The AR platform has gotten too complicated and the market is saturated. The 10.5 is great for law enforcement because they'll do a lot of CQB 95% of the time, also worked well with special operations. 14.5 (i.e. battle proven Block 2) is the best battle rifle length for the basic infantryman. As a civilian, the 18in SPR setup with a good scope should be your go too. Started with the M16 and seems like we are going back to the original set up. I still think the old guy with a 270 and good camo has us all beat.

[@vytautaspleckaitis2275]

All your AR’s are so beautiful!

[@IronInfidel]

Well I appreciate that.

[@trentrockwell6598]

I have 10.5”, 11.3”, 16” love all three if I had to pick one taking distance into the equation I am picking the 16” if I’m in an urban environment and don’t plan on leaving I love the 11.3” it has enough room to be comfortable, Has enough velocity, Rail space to fit everything you need and keeps the weight down

[@IronInfidel]

Nice way to go about it.

[@dsnipedu]

I just ordered the blackout defense in 14.5 its my first and probably only rifle ill buy for a long time if ever ,would you say keep it that way or change it to the 13.9 like yours? I live in a state with no suppressors allowed incase that makes a difference.

[@billyruben116]

What are thoughts on using a thermal scope for a 11.5 inch 5.56 home defense rifle/pistol? It would be for day and night since thermal scopes work in daytime too. It will probably have a 45 degree mounted red dot as well, and be ran with a 4.5 inch long suppressor. Does this sound like a reasonable build or should I scrap the idea for something else?

[@IronInfidel]

Well a full time thermal depending on environment can wash out if its not a really high dollar unit.

[@Levi-r1h]

You should interview someone who has been shot by a 16in. Then ask someone who has been shot by a 14.5in. Then ask someone who has been shot by 10.3 inch

[@mindtrickskiller2766]

Dudes were clearing rooms with 20 in barrels and A2 stocks in Iraq. It’s all about the shooter

[@IronInfidel]

And by that logic we should still rock muskets. Just because a branch of the military fell like 4 decades behind on barrel length choice doesn't mean it was the best choice even though it worked. This is boomer thinking.

[@chtomlin]

Exactly ​@@IronInfidel

[@jonathancordova3394]

​@@IronInfidelI have a 20 AR-15 with a government profile barrel and loved it but it does have its limitations it's more for the open terrain as you stated in your video

[@capthappy345]

Good info 👍

[@IronInfidel]

Glad it was helpful!

[@CertifiedSunset]

I think 12.5 - 13.9 is the sweet spot for a "do it all" rifle. You retain a compact size with superior ballistics over a MK18 and assuming you have good ammo, you can stretch the range past 500 yards with decent accuracy. That being said if I'm shooting past 500 yards I'd want a different caliber all together because the type of fighting at that range is different. past 500 yards I want a battle rifle or dedicated long range gun in 30 cal or larger.

[@IronInfidel]

I think its noveske that swears by the 11.5 . I took a giessele 14.5 urgi to 948 yards recently and it was shockingly easy.

[@CertifiedSunset]

@@IronInfidel Yeah, the only reason why I think 12.5 is better than 11.5 is because you can use mid length gas systems in it.

[@fanman8102]

The maximum effective range for the 14.5” is 300 yards. Muzzle velocity at the barrel is ~ 2750 so at 300 the projectile is ~ 2500 which is where the magic happens. But not everyone agrees. Some say the magic doesn’t happen lower than 2700 which is the most likely cause of the 5.56 being “ineffective” past 250 during GWOT. The max effective range of a 12.5 is 200 yards if the magic happens at 2500 FPS. That’s a big “if.” I, and most I know, agree the magic doesn’t happen less than 2700 FPS. You do get temporary cavity damage at 2500 but if you want yaw and breakage then 2700 FPS minimum. That makes the 16” barrel the optimal barrel length out to 500.

[@ThrashTillDeth85]

Without fully watching I’m going to say either 11.5 or 16in due to the laws around firearms in the US as well as both offering the best set of ups and downs for their respective areas

[@IronInfidel]

Nope,

[@Gnolomweb]

0:18 why no afterburner? looks like you could take some time off those follow ups (looking at your muzzle flip)

[@IronInfidel]

Wasn't out when this was filmed.

[@warmachine3185]

Ive been trying to decide which length to get and this video helped. Thanks. Im going with 16" MK2 BCM upper.. lol now just have to get 855$

[@IronInfidel]

Solid choice.

[@ScottyBennitone]

I run 14.5 with pin n welded thin profile vg6 epsilon. That way can still remove gas block if need be. Works well for me.

[@IronInfidel]

Yeah drilling out pins sucks .. I have been bit by that before.

[@gmale5150]

On the blackout defense did you undo to pin and weld and get a smaller muzzle and if so what was the Device you went with to replace it. What’s your experience I’m about to get a preorder one but they have me out to 16 with the muzzle device

[@IronInfidel]

Nope that is factory from blackout.

[@Richy0352]

Id say general purpose is 400yd and in. So whatever is the shortest and best balance for the shooter and that work area is where it's at. Outside of 300 to 400yds 5.56 can definitely hit but with too little authority and shot placement at 400 plus yards is almost luck on a moving target or someone thats behind cover maybe exposing only 1/5 of their body. 5.56 can definitely travel but realistically, for combat, I don't think its the correct caliber for the distances people are pushing them too.

[@brandonchandler9032]

I'd definitely agree with that. 5.56 does have more power at closer ranges. It may reach out far like other calibers, but it doesn't necessarily mean it has the power at those distances. Personally I don't think I'd be to much more affective at more than 300 yards or so and if I'm needing to reach out that far it'd be in question if it was a self defense situation. Hunting or target practice is different, but if I'm going far out, I'm using a different caliber and rifle. Bump it up to a 7.62×51/.308 or I've got a nemo arms omen recon AR chambered in 300 win mag with a 18 inch barrel. I'd say 400 to 1,000 yards 300 win mag is a much better choice. 7.62×51/.308 would be better to but not more than 300 win mag. Then there's 338 lapua and others, but now we're really talking 300 win mag and up more of a long range spr. Nobody is doing cqb stuff with magnum 30 calibers and up.

[@IronInfidel]

Yes the 556 isn't the greatest after a few hundred if fired out of less than a 20 inch. It's like when I said you can hit steel far away and get a report but it's likely not an effective delivery at certain distances to drop a target

[@commies.are.not.people]

I was reading that 14.5 is good for 400yrds and closer

[@IronInfidel]

Depends on what you are doing with it. Max effective for 556 is usually around 650 with the right barrel and ammo. I regularly take 13.9 and 14.5 rifles to 1k yards and I have hit a mile with a 16 inch 556. Obviously those lengths are not combat effective energy delivery but again all depends on what you want to do with it.

[@kryptonite77f6]

I’d say 13.7” is the sweet spot do it all style riffle. Just don’t stop there. Acquire 10.5, 11.5, 12.5, 14.5, & 18”

[@IronInfidel]

I do like them.

[@DanTheGolfer]

nice review. also what rail is on the 10.5 looks like a ris 2 but ast the same time it doesnt

[@IronInfidel]

That'd the old og rail