Originally Posted By: GhostmanWhen I decided I wanted to build a Grendel upper a few years back I did a LOT of research on the history of the Grendel and variants of the caliber including 264 LBC, and type II chambers.
After reading the differences of Grendel/LBC chambers, the issues of non SAAMI chambers being short chambered, not chambering factory ammo, breaking bolts (type 1) etc. I made up my mind to stick with a SAAMI spec Grendel barrel, which is what Alexander Arms developed.
I've owned Grendel barrels made by Odin Works, Faxon and Criterion. All have SAAMI spec chambers with 1-8 twists. All are extremely accurate (sub .5 MOA) and trouble free with both factory ammo and handloads.
If I were you I'd build an upper using a quality SAAMI spec barrel instead of taking a chance on an inexpensive upper that is more likely to shoot patterns instead of groups.
You did some great research and you are 100% correct. I have personally spent time with Bill Alexander picking his brain about his baby, and he was VERY generous with his time, and I know how those knock offs irritated him. They are also borderline dangerous if you get the wrong combinations.
But with the SAAMI spec'd chamber, and a well manufactured barrel, they are tack drivers and are a blast to shoot.