The C15A1 was tested around various barricade structures involving magazine change drills from the BACKHAWK! Bandoleer.
W
the AR or AK series of weapons. Both have stereotypes that are not necessarily true. AKs are more accurate than given credit for and have better ergonomics when viewed through a fighting-rifle lens. ARs are much more re- liable/rugged than most give them credit for.
piston-driven varieties, multiple cali- bers, pistol
and various barrel lengths. The inher- ent modularity of the AR with its up- per and lower receivers is its greatest attribute for adapting to individual preference; whether it’s for competi-
ARs can be had in everything from configurations, flattops
hat comes to mind if someone men- tions getting a rifle for defensive pur- poses? I bet most would first consider
While the AK is gaining ground in popularity in the US, the AR is still king in terms of num- bers sold, backed up with a cottage industry of suppliers making accessories and refine- ments for it. The AR is rivaling the other US icon — the 1911— in terms of available after- market parts and accessories, not to mention the number of different manufacturers and versions available.
tion, target shooting, military & law enforcement or personal defense. This same adaptability can also lead indi- viduals astray as to what is necessary versus desired in setting up a defen- sive rifle. In an effort for disclosure, I have ARs that have quad fore-ends festooned with lights, lasers, vertical
grips and even night-vision devices. These were set up for specific roles I had in mind, either real or imagined. As I have continued down the path of learning and adapting for defensive purposes, it has grown more clear that not all of these items are neces- sary and could even be detrimental to efficient use for most civilian and even law enforcement roles. A lightweight, fast handling rifle is a premium when having to react to a threat.
Todd’s Confession I am a self-confessed, full-time
The C15A1 has a forward-assist plunger with no shell deflector, which is typical of A1-style M16/ARs. The A1 rear-sight’s windage elevation knob is visible and some consider it ideal for a fighting rifle due to once it is adjusted, it stays put.
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member of the gun culture, always considering another weapon or acces- sory. At times I need to remind myself this is not the case for everyone, even if just as committed to a self-defense mindset as I am. Not all weapons need rails and an array of accessories to be considered viable. While reliabil- ity should never be compromised in terms of cost/performance ratios, oth- er items considered a must for some,
PERSONAL DEFENSE • SPRING 2011 SPECIAL EDITION
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