Should I build my first AR?

[1xdmshooter]

Build build build. You will know how everything works and you will be more appreciative of your rig if you gave it all the love and pieces that you picked for it. Ton of companies out there to help you along the way but you should be able to build a lower for less than $200.

[Bigboye]

I agree, AR's can suck you in. That's why I make sure I have no leftover parts. They all end-up turning in to a new rifle. Here Delton M4 kit $449 less stripped lower receiver and you can find a receiver for under $100.

http://www.classicarms.us/semi-auto%20rifles.htm

[t_byrd]

I have never fired or broken down an AR either. But two nights ago I put my very first AR lower together in a matter of about 15 minutes. Just followed the directions found in these two places:

AR-15 DIY

ar-15 diy 2

[Bigboye]

Originally Posted by t_byrd

I have never fired or broken down an AR either. But two nights ago I put my very first AR lower together in a matter of about 15 minutes. Just followed the directions found in these two places:

AR-15 DIY

ar-15 diy 2

AR15.com is a great site. Lots of information and you can find some great deals on new and used parts.

[Gunboy]

I already have a mini, but I want something that is sub MOA

[Gunboy]

what are the good brands for lowers and lower parts kits?

[LuckyStrike21]

Originally Posted by Gunboy

what are the good brands for lowers and lower parts kits?

Honestly, I can't tell much difference between a bushmaster, noveske, spikes, or the CMMG lowers I have. Any forged lower will work fine, as you'll pay more for billet and it just looks "cooler" in my opinion. A friend is going the budget route and picked up a CMMG from buds for less than $100, which I now have and am doing the build for him.

As for LPK, theres spikes, DPMS, etc..., but it really depends. I like to use my own grips and load geissele triggers in all mine. I go for the DPMS small parts kit from brownells. Its a LPK without a FCG, the only throw away is the grip.

Just get a plain 'ol spring and carbine buffer if youre going adjustable stock route. Choose a mil spec tube as mil spec stocks seem more plentiful.

If you are building the upper and need a BCG. (And I suggest you build the upper, because YOU WILL END UP CHANGING SOMETHING LATER). Most will tell you to go BCM, which are really good. I prefer to spend the extra $100 or so for the Spikes NiB coated by fail zero.

Troy has a great selection of handguards for a decent price, and Rainier arms is a decent site for selecting items for the build. I like Rainier and Brownells. Model 1 Sales for low cost builds.

If you run into problems, feel free to ask, as I am sure there's a ton of advice for you on the boards. As for me, I think I've had the opportunity to screw up and fix just about everything on an AR.

Have fun!!

[Gunboy]

Thankyou, I'm thinking I'm going to put a quad rail on it and get some rail covers because I want to be able to put a bipod or anything else I might want to but I hate vertical fwd grips.

[iDominate]

I think you will find many people on here have fallen prey to the "black rifle"...
I had never fired one or anything before I began reading up on them too. Ended up building the lower and buying the upper to put on it. Pretty easy stuff as long as you have a few ounces of mechanical ability in your tank. I think the reward of building something yourself makes it more fun. Good luck whichever road you choose.

[malot1]

I think building is the way to go. It gives a person a better understanding of how they work and what options will work for you.Plus the satisfaction when you fire that first round outta "Your" rifle. Watch out though, as others have said, it can be addictive. As for parts, I've used Rainier Arms,Delton,Midway and Surplus Arms and Ammo with good results.AR15.com and Brownells are great for info on building. Have fun