whats the deal with side charging AR's?

Nevermind.



Just saying the gas comes out the side because of the block in the back instead of sneaking out the back.


AND you can reach it easier with bigger optics like NV.
 
Originally Posted By: texas_localNevermind.



Just saying the gas comes out the side because of the block in the back instead of sneaking out the back.


AND you can reach it easier with bigger optics like NV.

There shouldn't be any gas coming back in your face with either type of charging handle. If there is, ya got more problems than charging handle style.

Will agree with the easier with optics operation though.
 
Last edited:
It's like a BMW or a hot girlfriend. If you don't have one, you just won't understand and you will hate the guys who DO have one....
tt2.gif


Is it necessary? No. Is it functional and looks awesome? YES!
 
Originally Posted By: texas_localJust saying the gas comes out the side because of the block in the back instead of sneaking out the back.


What block are you talking about? Is it the one where the charge handle would be? Where does the gas leak from on an SBR?
 
Originally Posted By: texas_localWhen you have a SBR it has a lot of gas in your face. Side charging is supposed to minimize the blow back

I don't follow, please elaborate.
 
Originally Posted By: texas_localWhat SBR/suppressor combo do you shoot?

You asking me this?

If so, I don't have or shoot any. Why you wanna know? And what has it got to do with side or conventional charging handles?

Before you ask, I don't own a side charger and don't know anybody that does. But, I've shot a bunch of different AR's with conventional style handles and have never felt any kind of gas blown back on my face. NEVER.

Don't know where your coming up with this. Any documentation any where you can link us to that may support your claim?
 
Last edited:
Side chargers are nice if you have to clear your chamber while you are on the scope. In a lot of long range competitions, we have to start with an empty chamber, and on the buzzer load and engage the targets. It is slick to be able to already have your weld, and then simpley reach up and work the bolt, as opposed to chambering and then dropping into the slot.

I have seen gas blowback out of the charging handle, but that was mainly with supressed rifles. While it is not a lot of gas, it can be enough to be annoying, as it sometimes gets into a shooters eyes/glasses.

Here is a gas vent that helps to solve that problem:
http://www.weaponoutfitters.com/products/ar-gas-vent
 
I can see the advantages of a side charger but I still like my charging handle and forward assist. Five round mags (at least the ones that I have) don't feed too well on initial charge so it's nice to be able to close the bolt that way. As far as not being able to reach the charging handle very comfortably with an optic mounted just get a badger tactical latch and it sticks out far enough so there's no worries. At least for me.
 
Doggin, I have fired at least three suppressed AR's that had at least a little gas leaking back around the charge handle. Some do, some don't. Suppressed here is the key, as the can does increase back pressure(some more than others). We are talking about DI guns here, the piston barreled ones I have played with didn't do this. After a couple 30 round mag dumps and some powder bits spit in your face, you understand. In a carbine class and several hundred rounds later, any AR is gonna blow some carbon crud on you. Our handguns do this as well, but because we don't necessarily feel or see it doesn't mean much.
 
Originally Posted By: doggin coyotesOriginally Posted By: texas_localWhat SBR/suppressor combo do you shoot?

You asking me this?

If so, I don't have or shoot any. Why you wanna know? And what has it got to do with side or conventional charging handles?

Before you ask, I don't own a side charger and don't know anybody that does. But, I've shot a bunch of different AR's with conventional style handles and have never felt any kind of gas blown back on my face. NEVER.

Don't know where your coming up with this. Any documentation any where you can link us to that may support your claim?

I am sorry I was reading that you have shot a lot of them meaning suppressed AR's. There is no need to go on about this. I am not trying to prove anything. I just stated the fact that you can get blow back from a suppressed weapon. I am sorry for acting like I was being an jerk because I am in no way trying to. Side charging handles are nice for suppressed weapons. That is all. Sorry
 
Originally Posted By: texas_localOriginally Posted By: doggin coyotesOriginally Posted By: texas_localWhat SBR/suppressor combo do you shoot?

You asking me this?

If so, I don't have or shoot any. Why you wanna know? And what has it got to do with side or conventional charging handles?

Before you ask, I don't own a side charger and don't know anybody that does. But, I've shot a bunch of different AR's with conventional style handles and have never felt any kind of gas blown back on my face. NEVER.

Don't know where your coming up with this. Any documentation any where you can link us to that may support your claim?

I am sorry I was reading that you have shot a lot of them meaning suppressed AR's. There is no need to go on about this. I am not trying to prove anything. I just stated the fact that you can get blow back from a suppressed weapon. I am sorry for acting like I was being an jerk because I am in no way trying to. Side charging handles are nice for suppressed weapons. That is all. Sorry

I have fired a suppressed SBR'd AR and it does get you a little bit. Not so much as say a 357 Magnum, but there is definitely some blowback.
 
Trshootem, thanks for explaining that about the suppressed rifles..

Texas local, no need to be sorry. I learned something today. I really had no idea.

Good shooting to ya.
 
Back
Top