TGO build opinion needed regarding length of forearm

[Trekbike]

I need some opinions on the direction I should go on my TGO build.   In summary I'm trying to decide if I want to stick with my mid length forearm that I already have or go with the rifle length which is 3.3" longer than the mid length.   The specifics on the rifle are:

 

Daniel Defense 18" S2W barrel with mid length gas 

Yankee Hill SLR free float forearm

 

Since I already have the mid length forearm, I mocked up how the front end would look.   Nothing is bolted up at the moment but the forearm is in the correct position with the gas block.   Right now the forearm just barely covers where the gas tube enters the gas block.  

 

 

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On the second picture you will have to use your imagination and disregard the big void between the upper and the forearm.   My main reason in showing this view is to see what it would look like with the gas block covered and the area between the forearm and the end of the barrel.  

 

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I can send back and swap for the rifle length forearm but the difference in the part and the return/shipping would end up being about $40-$45.  While the extra cost isn't the final decision maker, it is of consideration.   If it makes any difference in your opinion, I plan on putting a scope on it for optics.  

 

If it was your rifle, would you go with the mid or rifle length forearm?

[Spots]

Rifle length. I much prefer the long rail look. Tapatalk ate my spelling.

[Lumber_Jack]

I have a RRA mid length gas with a rifle length free float YHM forearm. It looks really nice, however it's heavy. Maybe the newer YHM rails are lighter I don't know. But you might consider a forearm with les weight. Maybe a MI Gen 2 or similar. But as to the original question: my rail would definitely completely cover the gas block [URL=http://s680.photobucket.com/user/owensnj/media/17221B22-AEA8-472C-BF67-AEF7732C7FAA_zps00httbtt.jpg.html][/URL]

Edited December 24, 2013 by Lumber_Jack

[JeffL]

Cover that gas block. Looks way better.

[jacob]

I would 3rd (?) the longer free float rail....

[Chucktshoes]

I have a RRA mid length gas with a rifle length free float YHM forearm. It looks really nice, however it's heavy.

Maybe the newer YHM rails are lighter I don't know. But you might consider a forearm with les weight. Maybe a MI Gen 2 or similar.

But as to the original question: my rail would definitely completely cover the gas block

 

I am putting a MI SS-15 Gen 2 on mine. This pic (obviously) isn't my rifle, but it is representative of what it will look like on my 16" barrel. If you are going for the longer rail, might as well go all the way.

 

Edited December 24, 2013 by Chucktshoes

[mikegideon]

It's pretty cool that you have all those choices. Mind boggling at first

[TrickyNicky]

I'd go for the longer rail personally. I'm sure it handles fine but as it sits now it just looks awkward IMO. Plus you'll gain a slightly longer sight radius which is nice.

[Dustbuster]

Fortis rails are super light with a nice look Rainer arms has some nice stuff as well


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk 2 of course it ate my spelling.

[Trekbike]

Thanks guys!  I'm thinking this is the first time there has been a 100% agreement in opinions on a question.   :)   I'm going to go with the rifle length.  

[reed1285]

lumber_jack the newer YHM rails are still heavy. I bought one a few months back to put on one of my ar's, and it is pretty friggin heavy. Thats my only gripe with it.

 

Also, to the op, i would go longer as well.