The HCAR and The BAR

Published on February 19, 2015
Duration: 11:37

This review compares the classic BAR (1918A3 semi-auto) with its modern counterpart, the HCAR. The HCAR offers significant weight reduction (42% lighter), enhanced modularity with Picatinny rails, and improved ergonomics. Despite a shorter barrel, the HCAR maintains sub-MOA accuracy and extends effective range with hotter loads, while also featuring a bolt-hold-open system on its new 30-round magazines.

Quick Summary

The HCAR is a modernized Heavy Counter Assault Rifle that offers a 42% weight reduction (11.75 lbs vs 19.5 lbs) compared to the classic BAR. It boasts enhanced modularity with integrated rails, an AR-style stock, and a suppressor-ready muzzle brake, while maintaining sub-MOA accuracy.

Chapters

  1. 00:15Intro: Ohio Ordnance Works BAR & HCAR
  2. 02:53Introducing the HCAR: Modernized BAR
  3. 03:30HCAR vs BAR: Weight & Modularity
  4. 04:28HCAR Accuracy & Range Potential
  5. 05:45HCAR Magazines & Caliber
  6. 07:14Range Demo: Full-Auto 1918A2 BAR
  7. 09:37Range Demo: HCAR with Suppressor

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key differences between the HCAR and the classic BAR?

The HCAR is significantly lighter (11.75 lbs vs 19.5 lbs), offering 42% weight reduction. It features modern modularity with Picatinny rails, an AR-style stock, and an AAC muzzle brake, while the classic BAR has a traditional wood stock and fixed design.

How does the HCAR's accuracy compare to the BAR?

Despite a shorter 16-inch barrel compared to the BAR's 24-inch, the HCAR maintains sub-MOA accuracy. Its robust gas system allows it to handle hotter loads, extending its effective range to 1,400-1,500 yards.

What caliber is the HCAR chambered in, and what are its magazine capacities?

The HCAR remains chambered in the powerful .30-06 Springfield caliber. It utilizes new 30-round magazines that include a bolt-hold-open feature, distinct from the standard 20-round BAR magazines.

What improvements does the HCAR offer for shooting comfort?

The HCAR features a hydraulic buffer and a specialized muzzle brake that significantly reduce recoil. This makes the rifle more manageable and comfortable to shoot, especially during extended firing sessions.

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