So, I’m reading the thread about AR’s for home defense ( this) and was wondering what is the RECOMMENDED or PREFERRED length? Keep in mind this will have a suppressor attached - 7,5”, btw, is out of the question.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: craigcpa,

in short barrels 10.3 is the what I use most. That's because dd mk18 came with that not some scientific study. My colt 6933 has 11.5 and also runs fine and the difference is simply not really meaningful in my normal handling of them. I'd stick in that range as its pretty proven. Don't know anything about PSA for this.

In 5.56, I won't go shorter than 10.5", but 11.5" is preferred. If you want a bit more smack, 12.5" ain't bad either.

300BLK, 7-8" is fine.

If SBR, most agree 11.5” is optimal. If not, 14.5 or 16.

quote:

Originally posted by RHINOWSO:
In 5.56, I won't go shorter than 10.5", but 11.5" is preferred. If you want a bit more smack, 12.5" ain't bad either.

300BLK, 7-8" is fine.

This...my 10.5 PSA length barrel seems to work well (a little over gassed...but it does feed the various Russian steel cased ammo without drama).

Something to be aware of; some suppressor manufacturers state a minimum barrel length, and wont warranty if you use shorter and have a catastrophic event ... if thats of any concern.