What's the verdict on a mid length gas system on a carbine? Is it worth pursuing on an off-the-shelf rifle?

Thanks.

I've got mid-length gas systems on a 16" and a 14.7". I don't think there is any down side to them.

Short answer is yes.

I'm with MontanaMarine. My 16" AR's have mid-length gas on them and I have another 18" barrel in the wings that also has a mid-length gas system.

Ed

Yes, & if you were going to build it, I would also advise you to use an adjustable gas block with it.

Depending on what kind of spring & buffer it might come with, an H1 buffer & a Blue (slightly enhanced) Sprinco recoil spring generally proves to be good with a mid-length 16" gun.

MM

The gas port size makes more difference than where it's at.

If your off the shelf midlength is ported right, it'll be a little softer shooting. If not it'll be no better than a carbine gas system that is ported right.

Truthfully my 3 carbine gassed Colt's are gassed better than my LaRue or Noveske mid lengths. I've been looking at a new choke system to try but it's not bugged me enough yet.
http://www.blackrivertactical.com/concrete5/customtune-gas-port/

Truth.

That's my experience as well; either one can be tuned to be very soft shooting, and either one can be overgassed and violent. If I have my choice I'll pick a midlength, but expect it to need tuning same as a carbine length system.

My 14.7" middy was ported generously, and was jumping the rim on extraction. I put an H3 buffer in it and that settled it right down.

Thanks all. Focusing on mid length systems lead me into what seems like a great deal at CDNN. I ordered the M&P15 MOE Mid. Bite me, Schumer.

I’ve got that one and that’s a great deal. In fact, it may be the best deal out there on an AR right now.

They’re a little gassy, but much better than a lot of options and a heavier buffer gets them running very smooth.

That's good to hear because there are so many choices - confusing for a newb. Regarding the gas system, I appreciate all the input. In addition to getting the rifle to run efficiently I'm left handed so minimizing gas and debris flying out the ejection port is a priority.

Does anybody have any recommendations for a soft case? I'm thinking good quality, but I don't need a ton of extra storage - one rifle and 1/2 dozen magazines or so.

Just finished putting together a 243 upper together with rifle length tube and a Superlative adj. gas block. Loaded up some 70gr NBT and when I adjusted the block it landed in the center of the range of adjustment. Was able to go from no BCG movement to eject but not locking back to full function easily. Seems way too easy so far......