AR-MPR: Goals and Timeline

AR-MPR logo wide smallHey guys- I’m really looking forward to AR-MPR! I can’t wait to get this build under way, and I’m looking forward to the experiences that we’ll share. I just wanted to give you all more details regarding what this project is about, why I’m doing it, and how long it’s going to take.

AR-MPR Build - Can't wait to get going! - Image Copyright 2010 Ultimate Reloader
AR-MPR Build - Can't wait to get going! - Image Copyright 2010 Ultimate Reloader

The seed for this project was planted when I started using the RCBS pistol bullet feeder. I got to thinking about the RCBS rifle bullet feeder, and why it would make sense to get one (read: how can I justify having one?). That made me think about high-volume rifle shooting, which lead me to think about semi-auto rifle, and that made me think “I need an AR-15!”. You know, there can be a fine line between “need” and “want”, but if I’m going to be loading up 1000’s of rounds of .223, don’t I “need” something to shoot it in?

Well, it didn’t take long for me to progress towards “why buy one when you can build one”. What better way to learn the AR platform than from the “inside out”. So that’s how this project got started. And this project will finish with a wide array of progressive reloading equipment, bullet feeders, case feeders, and more. In this case, it’s not just about the destination, it’s about the process as well. Might as well take our time and enjoy the journey, that’s my thinking.

And what are the goals of this project? The first goal is to learn the AR platform as a shared experience with the online community. The second goal is to take on the .5 – .75 MOA semi-auto challenge – it’s not going to be easy. Third, it’s about examining the wide variety of products and systems related to reloading for the .223 / 5.56 cartridge. There’s so much to cover that it’ll be hard to pick what to show and what not to show (hint- need your feedback here). Finally, I’ll be building an online resource (http://ultimatereloader.com/ar15) that will serve as a reference for future readers and contributors.

So how long is this project going to take? Well truth is, I’m not entirely sure. I would rather take the time to do things right, and for me that means engaging you all in conversation, creating studio-quality HD videos, blogging, and so on and so forth. So, I guess it’s going to take as long as it’s going to take to do it right. How’s that for a vague answer?

4 thoughts on “AR-MPR: Goals and Timeline”

  1. This will be a fun project for you Gavin. Your goals are certainly achievable. I’ve billt 3 AR’s, two of which were .223, on 16″ carbine, one 24″ Heavy Barrel Long Range Coyote gun. The other is a 6.5 Grendel which has preformed very well for me. I shot the “White Buffalo” at the NRA Whittington Center in Raton New Mexico at 1123 yards. I want to try doing same with the 223 next year.
    Good luck!

  2. I am looking forward to this as well. I am somewhat new to reloading and I am really enjoying it. I am currently using RCBS products such as the rock chucker single stage press. I have been reloading .223 rounds for my .223 Remington 700 VLS and I have been achieving .5 and below groupings at 100yds. I am going to start reloading for my M4 style rifle and have been wondering which combination of powder and bullets to try. My M4 style rifle has been upgraded by me to be similar to my military issue rifle. I only have a CCO on it right now and I am not shooting with any magnification. I have been considering either changing my setup to be more of a practical rifle or possibly creating more of a varmit style AR. I am looking forward to you doing this as I will probably use some of the data and possibly offer some input for you. At some point I am probably going to move up to a progressive press to reload in mass quantity. You are going to be trying to achieve thy accuracy with FMJ?

    Thanks,

    Mike

  3. I think you have said all! Take the time you need to do it 100%! Unfortunately, I have no experience of A15 (i can not help also)

    PS It is not typical to have a AR15 in Europe. But I’m curious!

  4. I loved building my first AR-15, which of course got me into reloading and led me to your site. My first rifle bent the brass almost in half, rendering them un-reloadable. I’m looking forward to the video on mating barrel to upper receiver, and I’m going to be patient…. is it done yet??? (silly grin).. Just incase no one else had told you, check out http://www.ar15.com/ for information, schematics and possible cross posting (increased traffic?)…

    Thanks,
    Brian

    PS. I created one of those spring ‘tools’ that’s used on the forward pivot pin, I’ll send you one if you want. Makes it so much easier to install those buggers!

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