Wanting to build a light(er) weight AR

[NeverEnoughFDE]

I'd like to build a, at most, 6 lb AR rifle. I would like that to include the optic (PA micro prism 8oz). I will be running it with a can. That goal weight does NOT include can weight.

I already have a couple lowers built. Mostly trying to pick the upper parts (Or even a complete upper if a quality company has something worthwhile.) However, are there lighter weight options for things like the buffer tube that actually matter? Likely running the Geissele Super 42 buffer & spring. Either MFT minimalist stock or the B5 SOPMOD (Not enhanced).

Anyone use the Fortis handguard that weighs about 8 oz? Not sure what barrel. Maybe Faxon gunner as I have that on another build. Looking at a 14.5" or 16" barrel as this rifle may replace my Geissele SD. The SD is heavy, especially with the scope & can on it.

 

[6.8 hunter]

I have never gone that light but I think Carbon fiber is gaining acceptance for super light furniture.

 

[NeverEnoughFDE]

I have never gone that light but I think Carbon fiber is gaining acceptance for super light furniture.

Not really wanting a carbon hand guard. I want something I can still put rail covers on for grip & a hand stop

 

[Lo-Profile]

You can do it, but light costs money.

I have a polymer lower that's been perfect with a bunch of rounds through it. Built it with a NATO pencil barrel and a lightweight handguard.

You can also lighten the upper and lower by removing areas of non stress

 

[Ohen Cepel]

With an 8oz optic, grip and hand stop I think staying under 6lbs is going to be very difficult and $$.

I have looked into this in the past, there are articles out on it. Every part needs to be analyzed to keep that weight down. Small things, like an upper without the forward assist, skeltonized bolt, etc on it all add up.

 

[js8588]

This barrel
https://www.opticsplanet.com/2a-armament-5-56-lightweight-barrel.html (quickly. They're disco'd and accurate)

V7 Titanium gas block.

Timber Creek Enforcer CF handguard

Titanium TD/Pivot pins from the manufacturer of your choice

Personally, I'd build it off a ZEV receiver set. Full featured and lightweight.

Under 6lbs isn't that difficult. It *is* spendy.

 

[Dave DeLaurant]

Have you already looked through the What Would Stoner Do component list? There's some good lightweight options there.

TFB Review: KE Arms KP-15 WWSD 2020 Ultra Lightweight Carbine

Today we take a look at the complete KP-15 WWSD 2020 rifle produced by KE Arms, and sold by Brownells - How does this lightweight AR-15 hold up?

www.thefirearmblog.com

I just had a PA 1x prism delivered to me last week for my Fightlite build, which is not-so-light at 8 lb. 4 oz. (with loaded 10-shot Pmag and optic)

 

[Mosin Bubba]

Have you already looked through the What Would Stoner Do component list? There's some good lightweight options there.

TFB Review: KE Arms KP-15 WWSD 2020 Ultra Lightweight Carbine

Today we take a look at the complete KP-15 WWSD 2020 rifle produced by KE Arms, and sold by Brownells - How does this lightweight AR-15 hold up?

www.thefirearmblog.com

I just had a PA 1x prism delivered to me last week for my Fightlite build, which is not-so-light at 8 lb. 4 oz. (with loaded 10-shot Pmag and optic)

View attachment 1194578

I like the stock on that.

 

[Show Me]

DPMS ORICAL was very light like a kids toy

 

[NeverEnoughFDE]

This barrel
https://www.opticsplanet.com/2a-armament-5-56-lightweight-barrel.html (quickly. They're disco'd and accurate)

V7 Titanium gas block.

Timber Creek Enforcer CF handguard

Titanium TD/Pivot pins from the manufacturer of your choice

Personally, I'd build it off a ZEV receiver set. Full featured and lightweight.

Under 6lbs isn't that difficult. It *is* spendy.

Definitely will be using some V7 parts. Already have a lower. Looking at the 2A upper receiver, but will also look at Zev now.

 

[NeverEnoughFDE]

Anyone use the Fortis Rev II handguard?

 

[bassjam]

This is do-able and I don't think it needs to be that spendy. My only "lightweight" parts are the faxxon gunner 14.5" P&W barrel and a Raptor LT CH. My BGC, buffer, buffer tube, spring, etc, are all milspec. Handguard is a 12" Atlas S-one. 6 lbs 2 oz as is, although I generally run a Magpul MOE stock which adds an ounce and a half to this. With just a quick google search I could drop in Brownells' $110 lightweight BCG and drop 3.5 more ouces and be under 6lbs. Or just remove my MBUS sights.

 

[NeverEnoughFDE]

This is do-able and I don't think it needs to be that spendy. My only "lightweight" parts are the faxxon gunner 14.5" P&W barrel and a Raptor LT CH. My BGC, buffer, buffer tube, spring, etc, are all milspec. Handguard is a 12" Atlas S-one. 6 lbs 2 oz as is, although I generally run a Magpul MOE stock which adds an ounce and a half to this. With just a quick google search I could drop in Brownells' $110 lightweight BCG and drop 3.5 more ouces and be under 6lbs. Or just remove my MBUS sights.

View attachment 1194784

Looks good. I'll be running a can so using the Super 42 buffer system. Ordered a Centurion 14.5" barrel. Will add a surefire muzzle device/suppressor adapter, 2A Armament upper receiver, some V7 parts & still undecided on a few things like the HG

 

[DesertFox]

Barrel is where the fat is. Carbon fiber, titanium parts, etc. shave off very little weight. Lightweight BCG saves weight but usually requires tuning buffer and springs.

 

[NeverEnoughFDE]

Barrel is where the fat is. Carbon fiber, titanium parts, etc. shave off very little weight. Lightweight BCG saves weight but usually requires tuning buffer and springs.

I wanted to go light BCG, but do not want to mess with tuning so I ordered a good ole reliable Toolcraft BCG. Leaning toward Midwest Industries for the handguard

 

[DMW1116]

That’s my goal for my current rifle. I’ll have to weight it once it’s put together. B5 systems furniture, Roscoe mid-length barrel with front sight gas block pinned in place, standard BCG and charging handle, and a rear Magpul MBUS.

 

[DMW1116]

Double post.

 

[Walkalong]

for my Fightlite build, which is not-so-light...

....but really cool rifle.