M4 or Mk12 for 3 gun use?

[BaileyMoto]

I am currently overseas, but when I return, I would like to get into some competitive shooting. I have never watched any 3gun competitions, but I've been reading more and more about them and my interest is perked. Other than that, I am unfamiliar with 3gun. I'll watch a match or two before I decide to dive in.

As of now, I'll use the only pistol I have that I trust, which is a glock 23 (.40), along with a basic remmy pump shotgun. However, I do have 2 rifles that should fit the bill:

* LMT 14.5" M4ergy with 1:7 barrel (I can squeeze out 1moa w/o TOO much effort)

* MK12 Mod 1 w/ Douglas premium barrel - I just purchased this and have not shot it, but it's an easy 1MOA rifle, with reports of 1/2 to 3/4 MOA. This particular upper was built by an ex-crane employee who was on the initial team that designed the weapon for US spec ops. It's pretty much identical to the rifle currently used in the field.

I have a Trijicon TR24 1-4x (red triangle) that I assume would be a decent optic for such a thing, no?

So, out of these 2 rifles, what would you consider the better option? Also, out to what range do they generally shoot to? My local gun club/range goes out to 600 yards.

Thanks

 

[stefan73]

Re: M4 or Mk12 for 3 gun use?

I would like to try my hand at a 3 gun match also! I just got back from Iraq.

Honestly probably just watch a match and then go with what feels comfy to you.

Good luck!

 

[SSGN8]

Re: M4 or Mk12 for 3 gun use?

Love my mk12!! Any where by SLAYER (OGA TOWN) 3years in & out of BIAP.
Gods speed my friend
PS i kinda miss passing the angle, never thought i would.

 

[c ward]

Re: M4 or Mk12 for 3 gun use?

The 3gun game is quite regional in nature . Typically the longest shots are in the 2 - 300 yard range with most clubs running the rifle like a big pistol that holds lots of rounds with the shots inside of 50 yards . With your home range having 600 yards they may run stuff out further , we run out to 425 here because thats as far as we have .

Either of Your rifles and the scope will work fine . The biggest thing is to get a solid Zero , the military 25 meter zero wont cut it , and know your hold overs . Any rifle / scope / ammo combo that will hold 1.5 - 2 moa will be fine . A rifle that shoots tighter gives you a bigger margin of error . Given the same choice of rifles 200 and in I'd go with the LMT and 200 and out the MK12 .

 

[rrflyer]

Re: M4 or Mk12 for 3 gun use?

The go to gun is an 18" barrel with a good brake on it.

the MK12 is the closest to that.

 

[jevonniespapi]

Re: M4 or Mk12 for 3 gun use?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: rrflyer</div><div class="ubbcode-body">The go to gun is an 18" barrel with a good brake on it.

the MK12 is the closest to that. </div></div>

While I havnt shot 3 gun, i have been doing some research myself, as I too am in Iraq (JBB). I think the 18" SPRis type build is going to suit you best. While your basic 16" gun can do what you need, the 18" has just got that added accuracy. Makes no sence to be quick, if you cant be accurate. The 18" just gets you to that level.

Plus the 18" rifle can get you farther than the 16". Most of this info can be found on brianenos.com.

 

[tim3gun]

Re: M4 or Mk12 for 3 gun use?

3gun matches are about speed and accuracy, mostly speed. any AR type rifle will work for the game. The 18 inchers are becoming more popular because they dont have a problem (making minor power factor for USPSA) with 55 grain FMJ's. I have been shooting 3 gun for almost 20 years, its an addicting sport. Dont just go to watch, take your gear and join in. 2 major rules in any shooting sport. 1. Be Safe, 2. Have fun.

 

[VJJPunisher]

Re: M4 or Mk12 for 3 gun use?

I just shot in one last weekend, as mentioned it depends on the club and what distance they have available. The ones I have experience with are,like said, very short distances. The furthest I've shot in three gun with an AR is 70 yds, with that it is all about the speed so In my opinion go with the 14.5 with good reflex sight. There more than likely will be VERY short distance stages, as in room clearing that the longer barrel can impede you ever so slightly. Also on rifle/pistol combo stages generally in my experience you have got to retain the rifle on your person so again I'm nit picking, but I prefer the shortest little package possible as to not bang around while slung as your tryin to negotiate the rest of the course with yer pistol. By the way, the Fort Benning 3 gun furthest rifle targets are 100 yards. I guess just research where your gonna compete and see what type of distance they have and make the call, your good to go either way. HAVE FUN

 

[c ward]

Re: M4 or Mk12 for 3 gun use?

Ft Benning 3 gun in 08 had targets to 450 IIRC on the sniper range after the ride in the Striker . Been a while and I don't remember for sure .
Don't buy a bunch of gear until you shoot some . See what works and doesn't before plunking down a big chunk of change .