Modifying Puritan 156: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Puritan 156 is a popular rifle developed by Colt Defense for law enforcement and military use. It is a reliable and accurate firearm, but like any weapon, it can be improved upon. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of the modifications available for the Puritan 156, along with their pros and cons.

Barrel Modifications

The barrel is one of the most important components of any rifle, and there are a number of modifications that can be made to improve its performance.

• Threaded Barrel: A threaded barrel allows you to attach a suppressor, which can significantly reduce the noise level of your rifle. This can be a valuable asset in tactical situations or for hunting.
• Extended Barrel: An extended barrel can increase the accuracy and range of your rifle. However, it also makes the rifle heavier and less maneuverable.
• Fluted Barrel: A fluted barrel has spiral grooves cut into it, which reduces its weight and improves cooling. This can be beneficial for rifles that are used for rapid fire or extended periods of time.

Stock Modifications

The stock is another important component of a rifle, and there are a number of modifications that can be made to improve its comfort and functionality.

• Adjustable Stock: An adjustable stock allows you to customize the length of pull and cheek weld to fit your body. This can improve your accuracy and comfort when shooting.
• Folding Stock: A folding stock makes the rifle more compact for storage and transport. This can be a valuable asset for law enforcement officers or military personnel who need to be able to deploy their rifle quickly.
• Pistol Grip: A pistol grip can improve your control over the rifle, especially when shooting from a standing position. However, it can also make the rifle more difficult to shoot accurately from a bench rest.

Trigger Modifications

The trigger is the mechanism that fires the rifle, and there are a number of modifications that can be made to improve its performance.

• Adjustable Trigger: An adjustable trigger allows you to set the pull weight and travel to your preference. This can improve your accuracy and consistency when shooting.
• Match Trigger: A match trigger is a high-performance trigger that is designed for precision shooting. It typically has a very light pull weight and a crisp break.
• Electronic Trigger: An electronic trigger uses an electronic solenoid to fire the rifle. This can eliminate the need for a physical trigger pull, which can improve accuracy and consistency.

Optics Modifications

Optics are essential for accurate shooting, and there are a number of modifications that can be made to improve the performance of your rifle's optics.

• Red Dot Sight: A red dot sight is a small, lightweight optic that projects a red dot onto the target. This can make it easier to acquire and track targets, especially in low-light conditions.
• Holographic Sight: A holographic sight is a similar to a red dot sight, but it projects a holographic image of the reticle onto the target. This can provide a more precise and durable aiming point.
• Scope: A scope is a magnifying optic that allows you to see targets at a distance. Scopes are available in a variety of magnifications, and they can be used for both target shooting and hunting.

Accessories

There are a number of accessories that can be added to the Puritan 156 to enhance its performance.

• Bipod: A bipod is a two-legged support that can be attached to the rifle's forend. This can provide a stable platform for shooting, which can improve your accuracy.
• Suppressor: A suppressor, also known as a silencer, can significantly reduce the noise level of your rifle. This can be a valuable asset in tactical situations or for hunting.
• Muzzle Brake: A muzzle brake is a device that is attached to the end of the barrel. It helps to reduce recoil by directing the gases expelled by the bullet sideways. This can improve your accuracy and make it easier to control the rifle.

Pros and Cons of Modifying Puritan 156

There are a number of pros and cons to modifying the Puritan 156.

Pros:

• Improved performance
• Increased accuracy
• Enhanced comfort
• Added functionality

Cons:

• Increased cost
• Warranty may be voided
• May require specialized tools and knowledge

Strategies for Modifying Puritan 156

If you are considering modifying your Puritan 156, there are a few strategies that you should follow.

• Start with the basics: Before you start making major modifications, it is important to make sure that your rifle is properly sighted in and functioning correctly. This will help you to identify any potential problems that need to be addressed.
• Do your research: There are a lot of different modifications available for the Puritan 156, so it is important to do your research before you make any decisions. Read reviews, talk to other shooters, and consult with a gunsmith to find out which modifications are right for you.
• Start with small modifications: If you are new to modifying rifles, it is a good idea to start with small, simple modifications. This will help you to gain experience and build confidence before you tackle more complex projects.
• Use high-quality parts: When modifying your rifle, it is important to use high-quality parts from reputable manufacturers. This will ensure that your modifications are durable and reliable.
• Get professional help: If you are not comfortable modifying your rifle on your own, you can always take it to a gunsmith. A gunsmith can help you to select the right parts and install them correctly.

FAQs

1. How much does it cost to modify a Puritan 156?
   - The cost of modifying a Puritan 156 will vary depending on the specific modifications that you choose. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $1,000 or more.
2. Will modifying my Puritan 156 void the warranty?
   - Modifying your Puritan 156 may void the warranty, depending on the specific modifications that you make. It is important to check with the manufacturer before making any modifications.
3. Is it difficult to modify a Puritan 156?
   - The difficulty of modifying a Puritan 156 will vary depending on the specific modifications that you choose. However, most modifications can be performed with basic tools and knowledge.
4. What are the most popular modifications for the Puritan 156?
   - The most popular modifications for the Puritan 156 include:
   • Threaded barrel
   • Adjustable stock
   • Red dot sight
   • Muzzle brake
5. What are the benefits of modifying a Puritan 156?
   - The benefits of modifying a Puritan 156 include:
   • Improved performance
   • Increased accuracy
   • Enhanced comfort
   • Added functionality
6. What are the risks of modifying a Puritan 156?
   - The risks of modifying a Puritan 156 include:
   • Increased cost
   • Warranty may be voided
   • May require specialized tools and knowledge
7. Is it worth it to modify a Puritan 156?
   - Whether or not it is worth it to modify a Puritan 156 is a personal decision. However, if you are looking to improve the performance, accuracy, comfort, or functionality of your rifle, then modifying it may be a worthwhile investment.
8. Where can I find more information on modifying a Puritan 156?
   - There are a number of resources available online and in print that can provide you with more information on modifying a Puritan 156. Some of these resources include:
   • The Colt Defense website
   • The National Shooting Sports Foundation website
   • The NRA website
   • Gun magazines
   • Gun forums