Trying to decide between a Sporter 2 and MP15(Model 811000)

[MICoyote]

I can get my hands on a NIB MP15(Model 811000) for under $700 and a Sporter 2 for $500.

Other than the carrying handle/rear sight and the M4 barrel, is there anything that makes it better than a Sporter for $200 more?

 

[DAVIDFL]

When I look up the 811000 on S&W's site, I see something that appears contradictory. It says it has the Armornite finish, but it also says it has a chrome lined barrel and chamber. I would doubt that they would nitride the barrel, then chrome line it as well. It also says a 1:9 twist, which I believe it would have a 1:7 particularly if it is chrome lined.

I would go with the Sport for a couple of reasons. The Armornite (nitride) treatment is excellent for a semi-auto. I would prefer that over a chrome lined barrel. I also think the barrel profile is preferable on the Sport. Parts are probably the same otherwise throughout.

The only reasons I could see going with the 811000 would be if it does have a 1:7 twist barrel and you want to shoot the heaviest of bullets, 77gr then perhaps you may get better accuracy. The other would be if you prefer the carry handle, but those are available anyways for less than the difference in cost.

 

[Skeptic 9c]

Take a look around. S&W prices are low. My local discount gun shop had a SWaMPy 15 with Magpul furniture for just under $600.
Geoff
Who added Magpul grip and handguard to his Sport I, which set me back $600.

 

[cyphertext]

As you have noted, the big differences are the barrel and the carry handle. The barrel is the M4 profile, and is chrome lined. Same steel and twist rate used in both models.

Another difference is the hand guards. The Sport does not have heat shields in the hand guards, but the 811000 does. If you are planning to swap out hand guards for Magpul or some other type, this may not matter to you, but the 811000 is better in that regard.

The fire control group is also different. The Sport uses MIM parts, where the 811000 has the standard, cast trigger assembly. Personally, I can not tell the difference when shooting, and have not seen any issues with the MIM parts on my Sport I.

These are the known differences, but there may be others.

 

[MICoyote]

Thanks guys!

I didn't think there was that big of a difference to justify the price.