6061-T6 or 7075-T6: Pros, Cons, and Decisions By Brian McCombie

6061-T6 or 7075-T6

Those of us who build our own AR’s invariably come across the debate: should I use upper and lower receivers made from 6061-T6 or 7075-T6 aluminum? For many, it’s a no brainer. 7075-T6, right, because 7075-T6 is mil-spec for M4 Carbine uppers and lowers, as determined by the U.S. Military. Right? Not so fast. While 7075-T6 has … Read more

AR-15’s for Deer and Hog Hunting? You Bet!

AR-15’s for deer and hog hunting

AR-15’s for Deer and Hog Hunting?  Every fall, the same argument gets churning in the chatrooms and on the hunting websites: is an AR-15 chambered in .223 Rem/5.56 NATO “enough gun” for deer and hog hunting? The short answer: Hell, yes! Despite the nay sayers–and there are many–thousands of hunters fil their deer tags with … Read more

Understanding Twist Rate for the 5.56

Understanding Twist Rate for the 5.56

Matching bullet weight to twist rate is vital for maximum accuracy. How do you know which twist rate is right for you? In the 1960’s, when the 5.56×45 and the accompanying AR platform debuted, but rifles had barrels with twist rates of 1:14 inches, or one full rifling twist for every 14 inches of barrel. … Read more