Been doing research, got questions

[KingAirDriver]

Okay, so after the replies to my other thread about my first rifle, I'm kinda leaning towards building my first AR...well, buying an upper kit and then a stripped lower w/parts.

I was looking at the Del-Ton site and they have several options for LPKs, including types of triggers. I can get a standard LPK, or one with a RRA 2 stage trigger (more $), or with a JP adjustable trigger, etc. Those start sending the price upwards quickly, so do I even need to consider it?

Now, uppers: I want a flat top to put future optics, and would probably get a flip up sight or an A3 handle. Del-ton gives more options, including a flat top w/M4 feed ramp. Wtf? Big deal? Also, I'm assuming "T marks" are what you hang everything off of, or, in this case, where I'd put my optics. Correct me if I'm wrong, but that's the way I take it.

Flash hider: Does it matter? Comes with an A2, but don't know the difference, really.

Finally (for now), the Bolt and Carrier: Should I try to get a chrome one? Or no biggie for what I'll be doing with it? BTW, I'm not going to be able to afford to shoot it a lot either, maybe 100 rds/mo if I'm lucky...and won't be shooting to really long distances, at least not now: 100 yds max.

I have been doing my research, guys...I spent hours on AR15.com (still awaiting confirmation e-mail, grrrr) yesterday going through thread after thread, and started a MSWord Doc with all kinds of notes and things to look for, or to stay away from. I never realized how much is out there...nothin' like pistols!!

[RobFMJ]

Trigger is a matter of preference... If you want a nice one, get the JP. Otherwise, just shoot the stock one till it smooths out.

Since you want optics, get a decent flip-up rear sight... a detachable handle would be money wasted.

The M4 feedramps are simply feedramps machined into the upper and barrel extension (both should match... a M4 cut upper with a traditional barrel extension = no bueno). If you're buying the upper completely assembled from a reliable manufacturer, you dont have anything to worry about. Their effectiveness has been debated with no real conclusion.

T-marks are simply numbers on the rail on the top of the upper. They allow you to detach an optic and remember where on the rail it went. Get em if you want, or not if you dont. Its a cosmetic thing, no change in functionality.

Flash hider, get what you want. They all work well enough.

And I'd pass on the chrome bolt carrier.

[KingAirDriver]

Thanks, Rob. Helped a lot!

[zac07]

If your not shooting precision or in comps you probably do not need a fancy trigger.

The different flash hiders are mostly personal preference, of looks.

[Hooz]

I'd get the standard trigger and then drop in the ($10) JP reduced power spring kit. It makes the break acceptable, but doesn't really do anything for the pre and over-travel. If you're only shooting 100 yards, there is no need to spend money on a match trigger.

Chrome bolt carriers are slicker and more "durable". But you are only talking about shooting 100 rounds a month, so your normal BCG will last you a lifetime instead of two lifetimes.

Now you see why the AR guys are constantly "upgrading" their rifles. There are just too many options out there, and something new is always coming out.

[KingAirDriver]

Originally Posted by Hooz

Now you see why the AR guys are constantly "upgrading" their rifles. There are just too many options out there, and something new is always coming out.

OMG I know! Kinda makes a noob wanna run his head through a wall, eh? Haha.

Thanks for the tips; gonna stick with a standard trigger and bolt/carrier. I will look for that JP spring though.

[zac07]

If you are looking at kits here are the main websites:

Del-ton.com - they are pretty, never hear of any complaints

jtdistributing.net - They are also highly recomended, I hae heard their LPKs are a little better than deltons. If you can talk a friend into buying a kit too(spending $1000+) you can get dealer pricing. It knocks the standard kits down to $420.

Model1sales.com - They have more options but get mixed reviews some say they are ok and others say they are complete junk

[hardwarz]

Flash hider.... different ones do better than others. There is a definate difference in flash report during night fire.

I belived that the Vortex (by Smith Enterprises?) is the most efficient. I'll look for the comparison to see if I can find it for you.

Hardwarz

[dust_101]

As for the T marks, here's an example from my A4 style upper:

http://img373.imageshack.us/img373/3240/stag1504ky7.jpg

as it's been said they are just there so you can make a mental note of where your optic/3x/carry handle/whatever was mounted... makes little difference other than looking sweet

As for a flash hider, you want one that looks MEAN:

http://cmmginc.secure-mall.com/shop/...p?shop=1&cat=8

There is another one out there where the end of the hider drops into sharp blades... can't find it at the moment...

Oh and for the trigger... get the stock one first, try it, then you can always add a new spring etc later.... you may find you have no need for it at all, and that is one less thing to worry about.

[KingAirDriver]

Oh man, those flash hiders are COOL! Would love to have one of those glass breakers. So, if I buy a rifle w/a 16" barrel (which is what I'm looking at), then I don't have to have a permanent flash hider, correct? I'm getting so excited...!