These Crazy Guys Test Run Shorty AR 15's: Epic Fail Or Will It Work?

Published on December 17, 2022
Duration: 18:28

This video explores the challenges and modifications required to make short-barreled AR-15 platforms reliable. It highlights issues like dwell time, extraction failures, and the importance of lubrication and cleaning. Solutions discussed include adjustable gas blocks and pigtail gas tubes to manage gas pressure and dwell time, making these compact firearms more functional.

Quick Summary

Short-barreled AR-15s face reliability challenges due to increased dwell time, leading to extraction failures. Solutions involve managing gas pressure with adjustable gas blocks and pigtail gas tubes, alongside custom buffer systems. While not ideal for duty, their construction and performance, including large fireballs, offer a unique 'fun factor' for enthusiasts.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Shorty AR-15 Family Reunion
  2. 00:42Testing Shorty AR-15s: .308 vs .556
  3. 01:17Initial Malfunctions and Troubleshooting
  4. 02:04Why Build Short AR-15s? The Competition
  5. 02:23Building the Shortest AR: Constraints and Contestants
  6. 02:54Custom Lower Receivers and Hank Strange Logo
  7. 03:16Modifications for Short Barrels: Carrier, Buffer, Tube
  8. 03:45Front End Components and Barrel Modifications
  9. 04:00The 'Hacienda' Effect and Performance Anxiety
  10. 04:25The .308 Shorty: Dwell Time and Gas System
  11. 04:47Adjustable Gas Port and Pigtail Gas Tube
  12. 05:06Custom Buffer System and Lower Receiver
  13. 05:19Reception to Shorty Builds: Crazy or Cool?
  14. 05:37The Fireball Factor: Fun Over Practicality
  15. 05:51Reliability Issues and Loudness
  16. 06:17.300 Blackout Subsonic with Suppressor Potential
  17. 06:28Barrel Length and Overall Dimensions
  18. 06:47Attempting a Full Magazine Run
  19. 06:59Shell Casing Ejection Incident
  20. 07:15Lubrication as a Key Factor
  21. 07:37Continued Malfunctions and Ammunition Changes
  22. 08:05Chamber Cleaning and Further Testing
  23. 08:49Final Thoughts: The Challenge of Shorty Builds
  24. 09:21The Fireball is the Point
  25. 09:34Learning Curve and Building What Works
  26. 09:47Pigtail Gas Tube and Adjustable Gas Block Explained
  27. 10:06Suppressor Limitations on Short Firearms
  28. 10:14Where to Find More Content: Flying Rich & Walt
  29. 10:30Potential for Shorty Components from Safety Harbor
  30. 10:45Concluding Remarks and Thanks
  31. 10:53Outro and Support Information

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main challenges when building and operating short-barreled AR-15s?

The primary challenges with short-barreled AR-15s include managing dwell time, which can lead to extraction failures and cycling issues. These platforms are also significantly louder and produce larger muzzle flashes compared to standard rifles. Reliability often requires specific modifications and meticulous maintenance.

How can the dwell time be reduced in short-barreled AR-15s?

To reduce dwell time in short-barreled AR-15s, modifications such as installing an adjustable gas block and a pigtail gas tube are recommended. These components help regulate gas pressure and duration, allowing the bolt to cycle more reliably after the projectile has exited the barrel.

What kind of modifications are needed for the buffer system in very short AR-15 builds?

For extremely short AR-15 builds, modifications to the buffer system are often essential. This typically involves using a shortened bolt carrier, a shorter buffer, and a shortened buffer tube to ensure proper function within the compact firearm's dimensions.

Are short-barreled AR-15s practical for self-defense or duty use?

While short-barreled AR-15s are concealable and can be fun to shoot, their practicality for self-defense or duty use is questionable due to significant reliability concerns, extreme noise levels, and potential for malfunctions. Their primary appeal often lies in the challenge of building them and the visual spectacle.

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