From 16” to 11.5”: Why I Swapped My AR15 Upper

Over the past few weeks, I decided to make a big change to my main AR15 setup. I swapped my old 16-inch upper for a brand-new 11.5” Aero Precision R-One.This wasn’t just a random parts swap — it was about making my rifle fit my shooting style, comfort, and balance.

Why I Made the Change

I’ve had my 16” AR15 for a long time, and it’s been rock-solid for everything from range sessions to home-defense practice. But the more I carried and trained with it, the more I realized the rifle felt front-heavy. That extra barrel length was fine for precision and long-range shots, but most of my shooting these days is within 100 yards — sometimes much closer.

The 11.5” upper changed everything.

• The rifle feels lighter, especially up front.

• The balance shifted back, making it more comfortable to shoulder for extended drills.

• It’s just easier to maneuver around obstacles — whether that’s in a training course or working in tight spaces.

For me, the change was about weight, balance, and fitment — and it’s made a huge difference in comfort during long range days.

Pros and Cons of Each Upper Length

16-Inch Upper

Pros:

• Excellent for longer-range shooting — better velocity and more consistent accuracy at distance.

• Often more flexible for hunting and competition.

• Less muzzle blast, especially when unsuppressed.

Cons:

• Heavier, especially at the muzzle end.

• Less maneuverable in tight spaces or vehicle setups.

• Can feel unbalanced when running accessories or suppressors.

11.5-Inch Upper

Pros:

• Lightweight and balanced, ideal for fast drills, CQB-style training, or general range use.

• Compact and easier to handle in vehicles or around barriers.

• Perfect for short- to mid-range shooting (0-200 yards) — which fits my use case 90% of the time.

Cons:

• Loses some bullet velocity compared to a 16”.

• Slightly more muzzle blast and concussion, especially if shooting unsuppressed.

• Limited for precision long-range work.

My Setup

I picked up the Aero Precision R-One 11.5” upper from Brownells and saved with code BOP10 — a solid win for the wallet.

To finish it off, I installed the Anechoic Suppressor (30 cal) that I can run with my .223/5.56 ammo. It’s compact, it looks sharp, and it tames the blast that comes with shorter barrels.

What’s Next for the 16”

Just because I downsized doesn’t mean I’m retiring the 16”. I’m planning to build it into a dedicated long-range setupwith an LPVO.Right now, I’m using the Gideon Optics Guardian and absolutely love the clarity and value it offers — if you’re shopping for one, use code JAYWETH at checkout to save a few bucks.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, the right AR15 barrel length really depends on your purpose. If you shoot mostly at distance, a 16” setup is still hard to beat. But if you’re like me — prioritizing maneuverability, weight, and comfort over long-range performance — the 11.5” upper is a game-changer.

This change reminded me that there’s no “one-size-fits-all” AR build. It’s all about what works for you.