Difference in lowers?

[TrillPointOh]

Hello guys, I have a M&P-15 lower, and a M&P 15/22 complete rifle, I was curious if the lowers had any significant difference, I have a Alexander Arms .50 Beowulf upper on my M&P-15 lower, I am looking to buy another .50 upper, But would prefer not to buy another lower, Is anyone familiar with the two? If so what are the differences, I ask because I am told they are the same, But I am new to the tactical rifles genre and just don't see how they could be the same.

Thank you for the help.

 

[Breechloader]

Not the same. The 15-22 is wider than a standard ar.

 

[ragingyeti]

The differences between a 15-22 lower and standard AR15 lower (like your M&P15):

1. 15-22 is slightly wider
2. 15-22 is made of polymer
3. Take down pins are slightly farther apart on the 15-22
4. Receiver extension on the 15-22 is fake and can not be removed without permanent modification to the rifle
5. 15-22 magazine well is narrower at the top for the 22LR round, a standard AR15 magazine will not fit in it.
6. Bolt release on a 15-22 is more forward.
7. The 15-22 rear take down pin detent and spring are held in place by the pistol grip, not the receiver end plate.
8. 15-22 trigger guard is molded into lower, not a separate piece.

All this means that no upper other than the 15-22 upper will fit onto a 15-22 lower safely.

If you want another .50 upper, it can go on the M&P15 lower you have, just share the lower between your two uppers. Otherwise, you will need a new upper for sure.

 

[Dikinalaska]

I was looking into the Beowulf also. There's only one lgs that even reloads them so it'd be somewhat of a hassle for me to shoot since I'm not setup to reload. How do you like yours? And what practical use does it have for you. I live in Alaska so I'm looking into one for bear protection. Sounds ludacris I know, but the lgs owner swears by it and uses one as his personal bear defense. I know it's not a sales pitch because I've been camping with him and that's what he brought. And what kind of realistic range can you group with one?

 

[Juvicator]

New to AR's and went straight to .50 cal. outstanding sir.

 

[Kayback]

Why another .50 upper? What's different with it?

You can get decent lowers for decent prices and still have a trio of great guns.

KBK