AR-15 Weight Loss Program! Getting there, but I need more!

[ms6852]

You do not really need a forward assist or dust cover.

 

[coloradokevin]

You do not really need a forward assist or dust cover.

I've actually been trying to figure out how much weight savings I'd get if I swapped the standard upper with a slick-side upper. That could save an ounce or two, perhaps.

 

[captain awesome]

I would ditch the flash hider, and use an aluminum thread protector, as someone else said.

 

[Everready73]

If you go polymer for the lowers GWACS is the only one that isn't junk. Check out inrange TV on YouTube they have done some good testing on them and used one on their what would stoner do rifle

 

[dodo bird]

Flame suit on!!!! Maybe download your magazine 5 rounds to save weight??? That's a light rifle and does look good with the trash can.

 

[Walkalong]

Magnesium lower?

https://gunprime.com/product/mag-tactical-lower-receiver-ar-15/

Picked mine up from Classic Firearms when they had them in stock. $35 IIRC.

 

[Elkins45]

Magnesium lower?

https://gunprime.com/product/mag-tactical-lower-receiver-ar-15/

Picked mine up from Classic Firearms when they had them in stock. $35 IIRC.

View attachment 778499

How much of a weight difference is there to a standard Al lower?

The good thing about a Mg lower is that in a survival situation you can shave off some to use as a fire starter.

 

[jmorris]

How much does the weight change from being full, then shooting it empty?

Then ask yourself if the weight you are talking about makes any difference.

Kind of like the photos you posted. A couple ounces worth of sights will make it much more useful that shown.

 

[Walkalong]

How much of a weight difference is there to a standard Al lower?

I don't know, but it is like holding air.

The good thing about a Mg lower is that in a survival situation you can shave off some to use as a fire starter.

Hah! Good thinking.

 

[chicharrones]

The good thing about a Mg lower is that in a survival situation you can shave off some to use as a fire starter.

And that lower receiver gets lighter and lighter with each fire started.

 

[greyling22]

I believe a standard AR lower weighs 8.5oz. that magnesium one is advertised as 35% less weight. so 8.5 x .65 = 5.5 so you save roughly 3oz.

 

[axxxel]

Couldn't you mill the picatinny rail bits that you're not going to be using?