The Down Range Forum
Member Section => Tactical Rifle & Carbine => Topic started by: Bigpops on March 22, 2008, 04:38:24 PM
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I am considering an XCR from Robinson Armamnet Co. I like what I see so far and am impressed with the fuctionality of the weapon.
I am new to this side of the house so any input would be appreciated.
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I'm very happy with mine. The rifle has about half the recoil of an M4, easy to maintain and eats everything I've fed it.
I have probably only shoot 3000 rounds through mine but I know a firearms instructor that has tens of thousands of rounds and no failures. So far two other folks I work with now own them. IMHO much nicer than the Sig556 or the old 550
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I'm very happy with mine. The rifle has about half the recoil of an M4, easy to maintain and eats everything I've fed it.
I have probably only shoot 3000 rounds through mine but I know a firearms instructor that has tens of thousands of rounds and no failures. So far two other folks I work with now own them. IMHO much nicer than the Sig556 or the old 550
Thank you! It is always nice to get some positive feed back before a purchase!
Which caliber did you go with?
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Bigpops,
I went with 5.56/.223 because I already have two other rifles in that caliber. I put a EOTech scope on it similar to the set up on my S&W15. Mine did not come with a forward sling mount so I picked up one aftermarket.
I used it at the Steel City Rifle match in AL and could hit the 8 inch plate at 200 yards without trouble. It's a keeper.
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Thanks again.
Which EO Tech model did you go with and why?
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I think I went with the 552? I didn't need the night vision compatablity or magnification.
I look at this as a 0-200 meter weapons system with the 16 inch barrel. There are some good optics, I just think this system will take the most abuse.
If I get another, (November gun) it would be a 20 inch barrel and I would buy an optic with some magnification. I have some buddys who are very impressed with ACOG. That would burn up the budget pretty quickly!
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Funny you should ask. I picked up an XCR a couple of weeks ago. I'm working through the reliability part of my testing now. I have 1,300 rds. through it, the last 900 of which have been without cleaning or oil. I've put several different types of ammunition through it and other than an occasional adjustment to the gas system, it seems to be running very well.
The ergonomics are better than the AR and is does seem to shoot a little softer, but I think that is more a result of having the weight of the gas system out over the barrel. I haven't done any real accuracy testing yet, that will come after the reliability test, but I have no problem making head shots on steel IPSC targets at 200 yards.
The worst part of the rifle is definitely the trigger. Simply put....it sucks. There are things you can do to make it better and I've done a homemade trigger job and got the trigger down to about 4-5 lbs. Prior to that it was up around 8+lbs. Robinson Arms just announced that they have a "match" trigger that will be available shortly. The claim 3-4lbs., so we'll see how that turns out.
All in all, I've been very happy with the XCR. It handles well and the controls are very intuitive to use. Providing the new "match" trigger lives up to it's expectations, the XCR could give my POF piston-driven rifle some real competition as my primary instructing/training rifle.
USSA-1
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Funny you should ask. I picked up an XCR a couple of weeks ago. I'm working through the reliability part of my testing now. I have 1,300 rds. through it, the last 900 of which have been without cleaning or oil. I've put several different types of ammunition through it and other than an occasional adjustment to the gas system, it seems to be running very well.
The ergonomics are better than the AR and is does seem to shoot a little softer, but I think that is more a result of having the weight of the gas system out over the barrel. I haven't done any real accuracy testing yet, that will come after the reliability test, but I have no problem making head shots on steel IPSC targets at 200 yards.
The worst part of the rifle is definitely the trigger. Simply put....it sucks. There are things you can do to make it better and I've done a homemade trigger job and got the trigger down to about 4-5 lbs. Prior to that it was up around 8+lbs. Robinson Arms just announced that they have a "match" trigger that will be available shortly. The claim 3-4lbs., so we'll see how that turns out.
All in all, I've been very happy with the XCR. It handles well and the controls are very intuitive to use. Providing the new "match" trigger lives up to it's expectations, the XCR could give my POF piston-driven rifle some real competition as my primary instructing/training rifle.
USSA-1
Thank you, thank you, thank you!
You just made me feel a lot better about my purchase. ( I ordered it today through my local FFL)
Would you be so kind as to keep me/us updated on how your tests go?
Thanks again,
BP
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Sure, no problem.
Make sure to post some pics when you get the XCR setup with all the goodies. :)
USSA-1
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You all might have just changed my mind! I was after a Vector Arms V-93, but after reading this thread and looking at the site I am in quite a moral dillema. When it says that the 5.56 is compatable with "most M-16" mags, does that mean it accepts most AR-15 mags. Another thing that concerns me are the sights. I have an extreame need for a highly durable gun. I'm not very nice to them. Any help making my choice would be greatly appreciated. I will do a little homework myself and see what I can come up with.
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Ok, so I think I made my desicion. A couple of questions for the XCR owners. What kind of stock? I am interested in the folding colapsable. Also, with the 200 yard shots, are you guys using the light or heavy barrel? Are you using a co-witness setup?
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The XCR is a good rifle but when it started there were some problems, it seems they have ironed them out now. I actually shot one of the first 25 made. Good to hear they got that one off the drawing board, sounds like I may have to pick one up now.
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Sorry Lucas...have not checked this in awhile.
Sorry, I am not a XCR expert as of yet,(though I did stay at a Holiday Inn) but I highly reccommend that you check out the XCR forum. You will find some straight forward questions and answers there.
I pick my XCR up in a week or so. I did get mine with the collapsable/folding stock. Besides looking cool :), I figured it gave me more options.
For what it is worth.....I was within a day of purchasing an AR. I was looking very heavy at a Panther, Sig, and a few others. Then my local FFL showed me the info and a XCR. Love at first sight!
Visit the forum...read all about it. Ask a million questions.
I plan to break my XCR in as soon as possible after I get my hands on it. If your interested let me know, and I will keep you informed.
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Definatly, I would be interested! I am in the market for about $1700 worth of assault rifle. I thought I had looked at everything then I saw this post. I am interested in the piston operation. I am currently looking into getting an AK in .223 and an AR for the same price as the XCR. I have been racking my brain figuring this will be my last chance at an assault rifle. I dont own one yet so I want every thing but I want it to last for the rest of my life. As you can see this is driving me nuts!!!
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would you consider putting a scope on your rifle/
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Not exactly, my plan thus far is to get one of the Eotechs that will co-witness.
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Bigpops,
Thought I'd give you an update on my testing.
So far, my round count is 1,500 rds total. 1,100 with no cleaning and not additional oil. The last 100 rounds I used my suppressor, which really fouls things up fast.
I'm going to bore snake the chamber and barrel and add some oil tonight. I'm teaching a course at USSA this weekend and I plan on running the suppressor for most of the course so it should get another couple of hundred rounds through it. The suppressor should really help get it gunked up. If it works well through the weekend, I'll clean it up and start some accuracy testing.
Nothing to report except it's boringly reliable to date (as long at the gas selector is properly set for the ammunition being used)
One thing I did notice was that my two ejector screws were loose. I will definitely lock tight them into place when I decide to clean the rifle. I wanted to see how long it would take before they started to loosen up. I would call it around 1,200 rds. as to when they started getting loose.
Erik
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Sure, no problem.
Make sure to post some pics when you get the XCR setup with all the goodies. :)
USSA-1
Maybe I should sell my Colt H-BAR and get a XCR? Sounds like an idea.
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Maybe I should sell my Colt H-BAR and get a XCR? Sounds like an idea.
If it aint broke don't "fix" it
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We don't sell guns in my family!!! However more than once someone has gotten a loan from a relative, and left one as collateral!
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Bigpops,
Thought I'd give you an update on my testing.
So far, my round count is 1,500 rds total. 1,100 with no cleaning and not additional oil. The last 100 rounds I used my suppressor, which really fouls things up fast.
I'm going to bore snake the chamber and barrel and add some oil tonight. I'm teaching a course at USSA this weekend and I plan on running the suppressor for most of the course so it should get another couple of hundred rounds through it. The suppressor should really help get it gunked up. If it works well through the weekend, I'll clean it up and start some accuracy testing.
Nothing to report except it's boringly reliable to date (as long at the gas selector is properly set for the ammunition being used)
One thing I did notice was that my two ejector screws were loose. I will definitely lock tight them into place when I decide to clean the rifle. I wanted to see how long it would take before they started to loosen up. I would call it around 1,200 rds. as to when they started getting loose.
Erik
Erik Thanks!
I picked my XCR up last week. I had some ammo on order so while I waited I sent the lower off to Bill Springfiled in Colorado. As evident by the XCR forum, he is the trigger guru for the XCR. His price and turnaround time is outstanding too.
Would'nt you know it....the day after I mailed it off the ammo arrived! So hopefully this weekend I will be a' blasting! I am using the Federal American Eagle 55 gr FMJ's to break her in, and if it goes like I plan I will probably keep using the same ammo until I start to reload.
I'll let you know how my "backyard" testing goes. I am sure it is not as rigorous as yours but I will try. Hmmm, maybe I should attend one of your schools.....I'll have to start dropping hints around the house for Fathers day or my birthday.
Thanks again,
BP
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Well, here's the final update. During the course this weekend, I put another 300 rounds through the XCR with the use of the suppressor. When I wasn't using it, I left it on the range with all the swirling dust and dirt. This thing is absolutely filthy. So much so, that I can't stand it anymore and I'm finally going to clean it up. I can feel the dirt dragging and grinding on the bolt when I cycle it....UGH!
Final round count? 1,500 rounds. The last 500 with a suppressor attached.
No cleaning, although I did pull a bore snake the clear out the chamber at the 1,000 round mark.
Except for the previously noted issue of having the ejector screws starting to loosen, The rifle ran perfect. No jams of any kind.
I officially pronounce the Robinson Arms XCR fit for duty. My recommendation....buy with confidence if it strikes your fancy.
Erik
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Erik Thanks!
I picked my XCR up last week. I had some ammo on order so while I waited I sent the lower off to Bill Springfiled in Colorado. As evident by the XCR forum, he is the trigger guru for the XCR. His price and turnaround time is outstanding too.
Would'nt you know it....the day after I mailed it off the ammo arrived! So hopefully this weekend I will be a' blasting! I am using the Federal American Eagle 55 gr FMJ's to break her in, and if it goes like I plan I will probably keep using the same ammo until I start to reload.
I'll let you know how my "backyard" testing goes. I am sure it is not as rigorous as yours but I will try. Hmmm, maybe I should attend one of your schools.....I'll have to start dropping hints around the house for Fathers day or my birthday.
Thanks again,
BP
Please let me know if your happy with the trigger modification. The trigger on mine is useable but unlike Eric, I am not confident enough to work on it to get it a little lighter.
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Thanks alot for the good info. Coming from Erik I take it as gospel.
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Yeah, the trigger has smoothed out some after the work I did. It's useable, but take my complaining with a grain of salt. I'm used to having a 2lb. competition trigger with no take-up or overtravel, so I'm a bit spoiled when it comes to triggers.
Lucas,
Thanks you for the very kind words. I don't know about Gospel though, but thanks! ;D
Erik
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OK folks.....chaulk up another SATISFIED CUSTOMER!
Shipped my lower out to Bill (in Colorado) from Maryland, on Thursday. Emailed him on Monday to see if it arrived. I got a response of "sure did, work is complete and on it's way back". I got it in the mail yesterday....which was Wednesday!!!!
Silky smooth trigger, great service, and a great price. What else can you ask for? I had mine set for 4lbs.
Now...if the weather holds out for this weekend....BANG BANG!
Erik, thanks again for all of your input. Very reassuring when a pro gives a thumbs up!
BP
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I don't own a XCR but have always thought that it was a rifle that was well thought out and practical.
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Sweet weapon...add it to the list. A very long list. ::)
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Okay, here's an update to the final update.
I used the XCR two weeks ago at a training conference in the desert and I put another 1,000 rds. through it in 3 days. I had one malfunction when I was shooting from supine prone and I basically "limp" wristed the rifle. I had another 2 fails to feed while testing a new magazine design for a new manufacturer. All three failures could not be attributed to the rifle.
I just returned from instructing a Tac Rifle course at USSA, where I put another 300 rounds through the rifle with the suppressor for a grand total of 1,300 rds. with no cleaning/no oil....again.
Total round count through the rifle? Around 3,200 rds. No failures attributable to the rifle.
Rifle has earned a spot on the short list of "starters" for serious social work.
Erik
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I'm on my 2nd XCR. I think its an outstanding product. My 1st was a pencil barrel model, and my 2nd was an HBAR. I have nothing but good things to say about the XCR
(http://home.comcast.net/~armandoc14/XCRsig.jpg)
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as stated ay earlier I have a Colt HBAR thetI like a lot and now I think its time for a shorter barller and the XCR looks like the one, after this piurchase I will be looking for a AK. But that is another subject.
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I wish I had not seen this forum. Getting my AR the way I want it with good groups with break-in ammo. Now I see the XCR which has everything that I want and lots of good reviews. I'll drop hints to my kids on what I want for Christmas.
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FYI, the XCR can now be had in 7.62x39 as a factory gun or conversion to existing XCR; that whole multicaliber feature...
Not my gun, but these were recently posted after the kit went public...
(http://a486.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/21/l_63ee4daea3d06bca28a5f933ac683f15.jpg)
(http://a542.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/22/l_d16022d03dbc7e6f63c02f5ba9e22cc5.jpg)
(http://a927.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/94/l_67ac27d478a68c37af7f6688050907e6.jpg)
(http://a183.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/41/l_69e5cd08b81ca788eb73ec50fd7427d6.jpg)
The owners Granny proving she is ready to take on the zombies...
(http://a985.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/65/l_2a27b76b16d923f331f988c52939a9e0.jpg)
(http://a824.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/50/l_249b2cfa2a3c03a23e3a5fc8036db2b7.jpg)
(http://a325.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/122/l_642197b96b85514cdda67ed44cff717c.jpg)
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Santa is getting my wishlist for an XCR, it will accompany my Sig 556 I bought in Feb. (which is humming along nicely).
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm182/twyacht/Sig556.jpg)
With ammo prices, the 7.62x39 seems to be a "deal" with the ability to change calibers on demand, all the better.
I think Granny is more than ready for zombies! :o :o ;D
I found out when I went to the "darkside" of rifles,, they have cookies too. 8)
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I'm still wary on my purchase. Parts availability would be my only concern. Any thoughts?
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I'm still wary on my purchase. Parts availability would be my only concern. Any thoughts?
SKS or AK, if you need a part, other than a spring or barrel, that you can not find, any competent machinist can make it with standard machine shop equipment.
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TOM YOU ARE THE MAN!