Introduction: Hey there, John Faulkner from Firearms Depot here. We often receive questions about our builds and what cool projects we have in the shop. Today, I wanted to share with you one of my personal favorite rifles in my collection. This top five rifle is a result of careful assembly and customization over the years. In this blog post, I’ll walk you through the build from front to back, highlighting the components and explaining the rationale behind each choice.
The Basis of the Build: I draw inspiration from the early 2000s, a period that witnessed significant advancements in military technology. To start this build, I took cues from the DARPA XM3 rifle, developed in 2004-2005 to replace the longer M40A3 for the Marine Corps. My aim was to modernize this concept and create a rifle fit for 2022. Let’s delve into the details.
Front-End Features: At the front, I’ve added a KG&M Technology R6 suppressor. This compact and short can, with a 1.5-inch diameter, is a personal favorite for coyote hunting and other applications. It is direct-threaded onto a 16-inch carbon fiber barrel chambered in 6mm Creedmoor. The decision to use 6mm Creedmoor was influenced by its flat trajectory and availability of ammunition in 2022.
The Defiance Ruckus Action: To achieve exceptional smoothness and reliability, I incorporated a Defiance Ruckus action. This action features a fluted bolt with an enlarged handle for quicker follow-up shots. The magazine is detachable, accommodating up to 10 rounds.
Manor Stock and Leupold Optic: The rifle boasts a Manor stock with an adjustable cheek piece, allowing for precise eye alignment with the Leupold Mark 5 HD scope. This scope, with a 3-18x magnification and Tremor 3 reticle, offers excellent wind holds and precise long-range shooting capabilities.
Night Vision Capability: To enhance nighttime capabilities, I added an L3 Harris CNVD unfilmed white phosphor night vision clip-on. This clip-on attaches to the bridge mount on the rifle’s stock, providing easy adjustment with a large throw lever. Its front focus adjustment simplifies usage and ensures optimal performance.
Tab Gear Sling and Harris Bipod: For convenience and stability, I chose a Tab Gear sling, which has served me well for a long time. Additionally, I kept the early 2000s vibe intact by using a Harris bipod, adding to the nostalgic appeal.
Be Myers KIJI IR Illuminator: One of my favorite additions to this build is the Be Myers KIJI IR illuminator. With its impressive range and throw, I can easily identify targets at extended distances. Mounted on the side, its beam can be activated with a thumb-operated lever.
Unique Camo and Overall Fun: For a touch of personalization, I opted for a unique camo pattern. A skilled friend shrunk down a multicam pattern and applied a dark wash, resulting in a subdued and appealing appearance. This rifle has become my go-to choice for fun shooting sessions and range visits.
Conclusion: Building this top five rifle has been a rewarding journey. From the early 2000s inspiration to the careful selection of components, this build combines modern features with a nostalgic touch. I hope you’ve enjoyed this detailed look at my favorite custom build. Feel free to share your own current projects and builds in the comments below. And for all your firearm needs, be sure to visit firearmsdepot.com. Don’t forget to hit that like button, and we’ll catch you next time!
