Did they change the diameter of the firing pin hole? This paired with their lack of handguard options (not a MI fan) and short gas system length's is what I dont like.
Innovative? Yes.
A game changer? Not sure about that.
Still using a 0.085 firing pin hole. Factory ammo has a nice primer crater. I don't think it will be an issue but I may have to bush it if it causes problems with handloads.
There will be lots of handguard options simply because of how easy it will be to modify existing AR-15 handguard for the Gen II. The barrel nut in the Gen II is the same outside diameter as the barrel nut in the AR-15. In fact the Gen II MI tube will install on the AR-15 MI barrel nut.
This gun really is going to be a game changer because of how well it handles. The average guy looking at large frame ARs in the LGS is going to choose the Gen II most of the time. Other manufactures are going to have to come out with a version or they will lose market share.
DPMS large frame ARs have always been pretty decent and they do know how to build them. The price point on the Gen II is also very attractive.
I have been using a lot of the newer Midwest Industries handguards for lighter weight guns and have really been impressed with the uptick in quality.
I ordered 2 of the DPMS Gen IIs for R&D and really think this might be the better mousetrap in the large frame AR game.
They come with a barrel extension held on with setscrews?
No. The barrel extension threads on to the barrel in the conventional manner but is smaller in diameter than the standard AR-10/SR-25/DPMS pattern guns.
There is a steel feed ramp insert in the upper that is held in with roll pins. The feed ramp is supported and there really does not appear to be any way it could come lose. The idea if using steel for the feed ramp instead of just machining the ramps into the aluminum of the upper looks to be more durable under hard use.
John, now that you've rebarrelled one, what do you think of the barrel extension setup?
Eric,
I would say the design is really solid. By reducing the diameter of the barrel extension and the bolt carrier group DPMS has brought the feeding stack of cartridges 0.040 closer to the bore centerline.
This reduces the feed angle and this thing really does feed slick.
Add the dual ejectors and the elastomer extractor spring and I think the design is inherently more reliable than the old style.
A sub 10lbs .243 Gen II would make one heck of a coyote rifle.