Frag Out! Magazine
Issue link: https://fragout.uberflip.com/i/1542142
Messerschmitt Messerschmitt ...Messerschmitt is also linked to modern small arms production. The company offers high-quali- ty bolt-action rifles, Colt M1911A1 clones, and, recently, introduced AR-15 rifles in the mid-to-lo- wer price range. I recently had the chance to exa- mine one of these rifles and can now offer a closer look. This German brand, primarily associated with aviation, has produced a respectable AR-15—what you might call a „standard" AR-15, meaning „no bells and whistles." For approximately $1,450 (5,800 PLN), you can buy a rifle with a government profile barrel in 10.5", 14.5", or 16.75" lengths. Asi - de from the barrel, gas system, and handguard length, the models are identical. I played with the 14.5" version, which I consider the most versatile length. • The 14.5" barrel uses the classic carbine-length gas system. Surprisingly, the 10.5" barrel also uses a carbine-length too, while the 16.75" barrel uses a Mid-length system. Design and Features • Barrel: The Lothar Walther barrel is made from 4140 chrome-molybdenum-vanadium steel. It has a 1:9 twist rate, making it optimized for li- ghter, common 55gr ammunition. The muzzle is 1/2-28 UNEF threaded and fitted with a standard A2 flash hider, which can be easily swapped. • Handguard: A defining feature is the long, slim profile handguard. It features a MIL-STD-1913 rail on top and M-LOK slots at the 3, 6, and 9 o'clock positions. Crucially, regardless of barrel length, the handguard is extremely long, covering the barrel almost entirely. On the 14.5" version, only about 2 inches of barrel are exposed (about 1 inch on the 10.5" and 16.75" versions). It uses a relatively simple three-screw clamp mounting solution. • Receivers: The forged 7075-T6 aluminum upper and lower receivers are finished with Type III hard anodizing—the industry standard for quality AR - -15s. The machining is high-quality, and the pro- tective finish has a pleasant, semi-matte sheen. • Magazine well: Standard M16/M4 profile, wor- king with virtually every AR magazine available. • Fire Control Group (FCG): It features a MILSPEC single-stage trigger unit but is tuned for a smooth 2.5 kg (approx. 5.5 lbs) pull weight. FIREARMS