Just to add something I forgot in the previous post; when I started this project it was to build a 7.62x39 upper for the SIG 551 but with a .308" barrel (not .311") so I could shoot US factory ammo (.309 - .310 bullets) as well as heavy subsonic loads (the AK will cycle with subsonic loads). The endless argument over the lethality of 5.56 caused me to rethink 6.5mm. Loose logic was that if 7.62x51 is too powerful and 5.56x45 is too ineffective, halving the performance differences (bullet diameter, bullet weight, velocity) should be the answer. Hence 6.5x39.
I know what you mean about the ARs, I have a DPMS heavy (not bull) 16" barrel that will do 3/4MOA with 50gr Federal AE HPs and 5/8" with handloads. very nice rifle to shoot but the chamber is tight and will blow primers with Winchester White Box ammo. I also have a loose-chambered Colt M4 that will fire anything but nothing under 2.5MOA.
I use bolt guns for hunting, the military guns are for funnin'
Both guns are .223 and set up for the same bipod and QD suppressor. Same loads work in both as well.
