My First AR Build - Bought My First Parts!

[brockgl]

Okay, I accompanied a friend last Saturday to the gun store where he bought his first semi-automatic large-caliber rifle, an AR-15... And somehow, even though I have a flawlessly functioning AK-47 already, I caught the AR-15 bug.

Today while in the shop I was able to work out a good trade with the owner which I know very well, and I ended up with an AR lower setup. It is a brand new Smith and Wesson M&P-15 stripped lower, a Double Star lower parts kit (the trigger feels awesome, though I don't have any others to compare it to), and a Tapco telescoping stock...

Firstly, is this a good quality setup to build a nice AR with? I literally know nothing about AR's; I've never even shot one.

I have LOTS of questions about upper types. I don't know if I want to build a varminter, a carbine, or what. I would love it if anyone knows of a good website that told about the different "types" of AR's that one should consider when building one. Or if someone wants to explain the different types to me, that would be awesome.

Also, I am not sure what brands of upper kits would match well with the S&W lower.

Any and all help would be much appreciated!!

Here are pictures of my new lower assembled.

 

[P.B.Walsh]

I think ANY upper will fit, but that's coming from a AR10 owner wanabe.....,I'm a noob also.

 

[carbine85]

You said the trigger feels good? Just a little advice, don't pull the trigger without a bolt or something for the trigger hit. There have been many a damaged recievers from pulling the trigger and letting it hit the mag well.
As far as uppers go I would suggest that you figure out what style you want and what length barrel.
I prefer the flat top since it opens up the options for accessories.
1/8 twist is real good with heavier bullets an the 1/9 is good for just about anything under 69 gr.
Most of the main brands make good stuff so look for the best overall deal.
I would also recommend not getting caught up in the M4 feed ramps unless it's a small cost difference. There isn't any real benefit in a semiauto.

 

[brockgl]

Oh, I didn't pull the trigger and let it slam. I held the hammer with my other hand and just felt the trigger release. Yeah, I definitely wouldn't want to dry fire it like this! I should have been more clear.

 

[10-Ring]

Congrats! You have a fine base for your 1st! Tough part now is deciding how you want that upper

 

[RP88]

I have two ARs, and built both. If any play between the upper and lower causes concern, you can just get an accu-wedge. It's like a re-shapened piece of plastic that goes in the rear bottom of the lower that tightens the fitting of the rifle.