I can't speak to the quality yet, but if you're looking for a deal on these soon (next few hours), check DSG arms. 179 for the stock or 259 with bottom metal and a mag.
DSG arms is having a 24 hour Magpul sale. Glock mags $11.99, AR mags starting around $9. I may pull the trigger on a Remington 700 hunter stock for $179.
You won't be disappointed going with Engage. If you don't find one you like off the shelf, they'll build you whatever you're looking for. The AR bug is dangerous. You might scratch it for now, but believe me, it'll start itching again soon...
So you don't have a preference on gas system length, you just want a rifle length handguard to give you a longer sight radius for you iron rights? If this is correct, your options are endless. Find a 16" heavy barrel, low profile gas block (doesn't matter what gas length you go with) and a long...
That's always been a dream of mine. I would be broke if I could just walk out the front door every time I felt like shooting. Either that or I would spend a lot of time reloading.
I have an Incog for my G43 and a Bravo concealment for my G27. I have nothing but good things to say about either one (except maybe the price of the Incog).
You're correct. Spacers are used to limit over travel with carbine length buffers. Since the ST9X is longer than a standard buffer, no need to use a spacer (if you do, the bolt likely won't have enough travel to cycle).
The bottom line is that the word "heavy" or "HBAR" must be in writing SOMEWHERE. It can be stamped on the barrel, or advertised as such. You could try contacting Ranier, and ask them if they consider a certain barrel to be heavy (even if they name it something like DMR, SPR, whatever). Get an...
Tell her you really wanted a rifle, but you thought she would be mad so you only bought a lower. She can't put you on the couch for that...maybe you'll even get brownie points!