Looking for advice before I purchase a PA-15

I am considering 2 AR15s and would like some advise. Here are the 2 rifles:
PSA PA-15 16" MID-LENGTH 5.56 NATO 1/7 NITRIDE A2 EPT DISSIPATOR RIFLE

PSA PA-15 20"NITRIDE A2 RIFLE-LENGTH 5.56 NATO CLASSIC AR-15 RIFLE, BLACK

The only difference I can see in the 2 descriptions are the barrel length. Is this correct? If I purchase the 16" barrel, can I swap it later for a 20"?

I hope this is in the right place and formatted properly. I’m starting my journey with owning firearms and I would like to get it right.

1 Like

The answer to your first question is yes, from what I can see. The answer to your second question is also yes, provided that you have the tools to do it with.

The dissipator uses mid-length gas system and the EPT (Enhanced Polished Trigger) while the 20" uses a rifle length gas system and a mil-spec single stage trigger.
The 20" will be softer shooting from weight and the gas system.
I use both Carbine and (more) mid-length and no experience with rifle length gas systems. I prefer mid-length over carbine. I love the EPT and have a few of those. Not expensive nor overly difficult upgrade to install. Just make sure you install the hammer spring right side up.
I’m hoping somebody here with more experience with rifle length will chime in.

1 Like

Thanks for the info. I’ll now have to read up EPT. Any and all info is welcome.

Kick around this section of the forum in this area. There is a ton of great information here. I’m hearing you’re new to this platform as well.
To save a lot of possible frustration on your part I highly recommend looking up @rockymountainjeep 's link regarding lubrication. I’ll keep looking but I’m struggling to find it right now. It’s from “School of the American Rifle”

Found it

I’m used to reading forums, so I think I’ll be reading till my eyes bleed. I re-read the descriptions and I’m now seeing the difference. I read the product description for the EPT and I can see why it would be a positive.

2 Likes

I did not realize that they used two different gas systems, thank you for correcting me. Serves me right for not reading the descriptions fully.

No big deal, I literally looked at the pictures from the ones he posted for way too much time.
Dizzy- First thought? There’s no way that’ a mid-length in the picture.
“Oh wait, that’s a dissipator, DOH!”
Looked at the 20" pictures for about as long as well. First thought? There’s no way that’s a rifle-length gas system.
“Oh wait, it’s a 20” barrel, DOH!"
Been awhile since I’ve seen somebody ask a comparison question on 2 different barrel lengths.

1 Like

I personally would go with the dissy. A 16" rifle is all around gtg. You can hunt with it, protect your house, carry it, etc. 20" gets heavy and is harder to use in a defensive situation.

Mid length is softer shooting than a carbine length, and rifle length is even more. But im also a short barrel kind of guy…

3 Likes

Personally I’m not a fan of the classic style AR, I know…:joy:

I much prefer a more modern version with Magpul furniture, especially the adjustable stock…because one size NEVER fits all. An MLOK hand guard to attach all kinds of goodness, and a modern optic or scope vs a carry handle and A2 sight post

Regardless of what you choose, I’d definitely recommend a 16” barrel with mid length gas system and H or H2 buffer system regardless of style

2 Likes

Folks,
Thanks to all for great insights. I think I can choose the dissipator and be very happy. I have no expectations that this will be my last purchase. Now I need to make sure I understand the paperwork involved to get weapon in my hands.

That’ the easy part. Pick an FFL that’s near you and and has their paperwork current with PSA, fill out the BATFE form 4473 (Ask your FFL if you have any questions). AS always comply with all Federal, State and local regulations regarding firearms purchase.

Thanks for all the great info I ordered the dissy. I am now lookin for the overall length of the rifle (for a bag) I have been unable to find the product manual for the rifle.
Model Number 5165492157