Mid-length or carbine gas?

[Alan]

I'm trying to figure out whether carbine gas systems are outdated for 16" barrels or if mid-length setups are just the latest trend. Which one is actually better?

 

[Magus]

Gas works. Buuuuuuuuuuuuuuuut. Ruger's piston, and the rhino systems get lots of praise!
Anything based off an SKS or FAL system has got to be tough!

 

[Brucer41]

In my new 7.62X39 I went with a mid-length. All my others are carbine. After a while, I will let you know my feelings about it.

 

[Samie]

 The mid-length gas system really took off on those 16-inch barrels and for good reason. It just gives you a bit of a softer kick and the gun cycles a lot less aggressively. Plus, over time, it tends to be easier on all the internal parts. But don't get me wrong, carbine gas systems still absolutely do the trick especially when you really need the gun to run, no matter how nasty the conditions get.

 

[Magus]

Whatever became of the adjustable gas system RHINO was developing 20 years ago?

 

[Brucer41]

Have about 300 rounds through the Ruskie AR now with the mid-length and have to say I am not hating it at all. It is a nice soft (er) recoil that definitely makes the old bones appreciate it. I do miss the nice quick crack of the carbine length, but I can always grab one of the other AR's out of the safe and go play. When I get to doing the AR10 it will have a mid-length as I will need it due to aging shoulder issues.

 

[Magus]

My PSA already has one.