AR-180 Impessions ?

[Alexei]

Gentlemen: I have about had it with the general lack of accuracy with my various AK's. Harkening back to yesteryear, the M-16 Uncle Sammy gave me was a comparitive tack driver. A economical alternative would seem to be the AR-180 ( new style ). But how is it ? Reliable ? Maintainable ? Any thoughts or comments would be appreciated. ( Comment on the old Sterling and Costa Mesa ones as well ).

[imanaknut]

If you are talking about the AR-180B, it is a very nice rifle, after it is thoroughly broken in. Mine was a very accurate bolt action rifle, until after I spent a night watching TV and constantly racking the bolt. It finally smoothed out, and after about 100 total rounds the AR-180B finally became the reliable semi-auto it was supposed to be. It is piston operated so it isn't as dirt prone as the AR-15, and the carrier is about as loose as an AK's which aids in it's reliability. Using AR mags also is a plus. Now that it is fully broken in, I really enjoy shooting it!

[Alexei]

Thanks, that's exactly the kind of info I like. I will never understand the concept of why something has to be "broken in", by the purchaser, but that's life I guess. Also, what about the barrel's twist ? Is it suitable for the M193 or the newer stuff, or both ?