I hope this is in the right place, I considered factory or military rifles hut seeing as I want to get wierd with it I figured this is better.
Not to head off the answer I know will come, simply plugging or eliminating the gas port still leaves the issue of the charging handle. Side-charging uppers are an option, but I'm looking for a more ergonomic solution for both bench and standing. What I'm looking to emulate is the British straight-pull ARs as offered by Lanner Tactical and the like. Image for edification:
I'd buy from Lanner iff'nit weren't for the pesky pond betwixt us and them and the ITAR import/export woes. So, I'm looking for suggestions on who I might contact for such a conversion on my own rifles, alleviating the need for silly things like whether a load will cycle the gas system or not.
My other option is to sell a bunch of rifles and whatnot and buy a ReVolt or Ruger Precision Rifle, but I'd rather maintain the LEGO-ability of the AR.