The New Anderson Dissipator Is A Vietnam Throwback!

Published on June 27, 2023
Duration: 8:55

This video reviews the Anderson AM15 Dissipator rifle, a retro-inspired AR-15 variant. The hosts, Matt and Ka, discuss its unique 16-inch barrel combined with a rifle-length gas system, a design originating from Vietnam War modifications. They explain how Anderson addresses potential cycling issues by slightly increasing the gas port size and discuss the resulting dwell time. The rifle is tested for reliability, demonstrating consistent ejection and cycling, even during rapid fire.

Quick Summary

The Anderson AM15 Dissipator is a retro-inspired AR-15 featuring a 16-inch barrel with a rifle-length gas system. To ensure reliable cycling, Anderson slightly increases the gas port size, effectively managing the dwell time. This design, originating from Vietnam War modifications, offers ample handguard real estate and is noted for not becoming excessively overgassed even with a suppressor.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Dissipator
  2. 00:28Welcome to Classic Firearms
  3. 00:43Introducing the Dissipator Model
  4. 01:18The Dissipator Concept: Vietnam War Origins
  5. 01:39Dwell Time and Cycling Issues
  6. 01:53Anderson's Solution: Gas Port and Dwell Time
  7. 02:21Range Test Preparation
  8. 03:09Aesthetics and Carry Handle
  9. 03:18Mag Dump Reliability Test
  10. 04:03Initial Reliability Assessment
  11. 04:27Adding the Carry Handle
  12. 04:31Bolt Carrier Group Design
  13. 05:20Post-Test Impressions
  14. 05:51Competition Challenge
  15. 06:17Competition Start
  16. 07:00Matt's Competition Results
  17. 07:13Ka's Competition Results
  18. 08:14Final Thoughts on the Dissipator
  19. 08:31Suppressor Compatibility Discussion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an AR-15 dissipator rifle?

An AR-15 dissipator rifle is a configuration that combines a 16-inch barrel with a rifle-length gas system. This design aims to provide the benefits of a shorter barrel while maintaining the longer gas system, often for aesthetic or historical reasons, though it requires specific engineering to ensure reliable cycling.

How does the Anderson AM15 Dissipator ensure reliable cycling?

Anderson addresses potential cycling issues in their AM15 Dissipator by slightly increasing the size of the gas port. This modification allows more gas to flow back into the system, compensating for the shorter dwell time created by the 16-inch barrel and rifle-length gas system combination.

What is dwell time in a rifle's gas system?

Dwell time refers to the period after a bullet has passed the gas port but before it exits the muzzle. During this time, gas pressure is captured to cycle the firearm's action. A shorter dwell time means less time for gas pressure to act on the system, which can cause cycling problems if not properly managed.

Is the Anderson Dissipator suitable for use with a suppressor?

According to the video, the Anderson Dissipator is reported to not become excessively overgassed when used with a suppressor. This is attributed to its long gas system and relatively short dwell time, which helps mitigate the additional back pressure introduced by a suppressor.

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