The 6.5 Grendel cartridge has rapidly gained popularity among both hunters and precision shooters, and for good reason. Its impressive ballistics, manageable recoil, and versatility make it a compelling choice. A 20-inch barrel, in particular, offers an excellent balance of accuracy, velocity, and overall practicality for this round. This detailed guide dives into everything you need to know about 6.5 Grendel complete uppers with a 20-inch barrel.
Why Choose a 20-Inch 6.5 Grendel Upper?
A 20-inch barrel offers several advantages for the 6.5 Grendel:
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Optimal Velocity: While longer barrels offer slightly higher velocities, the 20-inch barrel provides a sweet spot where you achieve a significant portion of the 6.5 Grendel's velocity potential without excessive barrel length and weight. This translates to better downrange performance and flatter trajectories.
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Improved Accuracy: The longer barrel contributes to greater accuracy, especially at longer ranges. The increased barrel length allows for more complete powder burn, leading to more consistent bullet velocities and improved grouping.
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Balance and Handling: Compared to longer barrels, the 20-inch barrel offers better balance and maneuverability, making it ideal for various applications, from hunting in tighter quarters to precision shooting at longer distances.
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Versatility: The 20-inch barrel is versatile enough for a broad spectrum of uses, from hunting medium-sized game to long-range target shooting.
Key Features to Look For in a 6.5 Grendel 20-Inch Complete Upper
When purchasing a 6.5 Grendel complete upper with a 20-inch barrel, consider these crucial features:
Barrel Material and Profile:
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Material: Look for barrels made from high-quality materials like chrome moly vanadium steel (CMV) or stainless steel. These materials offer excellent durability and resistance to wear and tear. Consider the benefits of each: CMV barrels are known for their accuracy and relatively lower cost, while stainless steel barrels offer superior corrosion resistance.
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Profile: The barrel profile affects the weight and balance of the upper receiver. Popular profiles include mid-length, lightweight, and heavy profiles. Your choice depends on your intended use and personal preference. A heavier profile generally enhances accuracy, while a lighter profile improves handling.
Gas System:
- Length: The gas system length impacts the weapon's recoil characteristics and reliability. A mid-length gas system is a common and generally well-regarded choice for the 6.5 Grendel, offering a good balance of recoil impulse and reliability.
Handguard:
- Material and Length: Choose a handguard material that offers a good balance of strength, weight, and heat resistance. Popular options include aluminum and polymer. The handguard length should provide sufficient space for accessories like optics and vertical grips, while maintaining a balance that doesn't add too much weight.
BCG (Bolt Carrier Group):
- Material and Finish: The bolt carrier group is a critical component. High-quality materials and finishes ensure proper functioning and longevity. Consider the trade-offs between various finishes; some might offer better corrosion resistance than others.
Choosing the Right Upper for Your Needs:
The ideal 6.5 Grendel 20-inch upper depends on your specific application:
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Hunting: Prioritize a lightweight profile for maneuverability and a reliable gas system.
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Long-range target shooting: A heavier profile barrel with a high-quality gas system may increase accuracy.
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General purpose: A mid-length gas system and a mid-weight profile provide versatility for various situations.
Ultimately, researching different manufacturers and reading reviews will help you choose a 6.5 Grendel 20-inch complete upper that best meets your individual needs and budget. Remember to check for compatibility with your lower receiver before purchasing. Thorough research is crucial to a successful purchase.
