Gentlemen, after a year, a larue predatobr in a 7.62 variety is ready to be built/shipped. When I ordered I couldn't make up my mind so I ordered 2 one in a 14.5 and one in a 16. Their policy dictates you cant switch barrel legnths once you order. My plan was to cancel one of them, but a friend offered to buy the one I did not want, so now its time to pick. 14.5 or 16. I will probably never shoot it past 600 yards. From what I understand at this distance either one is capable. Is there a big difference in that 1.5 inch at 600 and closer? So which would you pick. I have 24 hours so any input is appreciated.

With a .308 I'd use the 16 inch minimum.

14.5 in 7.62 sounds like a fireball machine. I like it 

16" for 7.62mm.

 

You lucky dog!

Since you got to pin it either way 14.5 for bad ass fire balls!

Do you want a big boom and a big flash or would you prefer a bit more velocity and accuracy? 

OK- I get it the 16 it is. Thank you for advise.

I'd opt for 16". Unless you like lots of muzzle flash.

 

Just remember, you have about 2" of case length in that barrel, which gives you about 12.5" forward of that of tube length to burn 40+ grs. of powder in a 14.5" bbl.

Thanks I passed the 14.5 onto the new owner. You guys make sense but it sure woulda had some fun/cool factor. And now the wait continues for the 16. Larue said we are only catching up on a year ago's orders now and only cranking out the 14.5 7.62's for now. I asked about when for the 16 and there was a moment of silence, followed by I have no idea when we will get to those. Just as well I could save a little more. SIncere thanks again.

Here is the 16.1, definitely a well made piece of iron, the first thing that will go is that stock. I also handled the 14.5 version today, it without a doubt is more balanced. For what this rifle was built for I think you guys are right, the barrel needs to be at least 16 inches but dam it was hard to put down the shorter one.

 

I was thinking dam for an extra 1.5 inches of barrel I could feel the weight, I removed the rails and learned why. Besides the 1.5 inch more in length, the barrel was noticeably thicker and more stout about 65% of the way up toward the muzzle. Now to find a piece of glass that wont break the bank, to give this rifle it's proper due. Im open to suggestions. Thanks again

Nice rig!

That's a nice looking stick! You made the right choice with the 16". I'm with you though... replace the stock (Magpul PRS or UBR maybe?), mount up some glass and let 'er rip!

 

Give us the usual rundown and I'm sure enough of us here will have an opinion to give you : What are you planning on shooting? How far away? And what's your budget?

On the way out the door , but is it possible to get into something for 1000 or les for a decent scope,  realistically max 300 yards. I don't know quite where to shoot it to exercise it's legs properly.

You could try the Leupold vx-6 1-6 Multigunner scope for around $950.

 

http://swfa.com/Leupold-1-6x24-VX-6-Multigun-Riflescope-P57682.aspx