AR-15 Help

[JaxNovice]

Hi,

I am in the process of deciding on buying an AR-15. I think I might want to explore either buying a kit or seperate uppers and lowers. I have never done this before and I was hoping to solicit some advice from a board member. If someone would be willing to help me it would be appreciated. I warn you ahead of time that I might pose seemingly stupid questions

Thanks!

 

[tsidorus]

check out ar-15.com they have all the info you need... stuff like most of the lowers are made by the same 4 machine shops and exactly how to assemble each and every piece. Im going through the same process right now.

-Tsi

 

[DnPRK]

How to assemble your AR-15

 

[4v50 Gary]

The Lego of guns

Literally, it's the first gun since muzzleloaders than an individual can assemble and get it to work.

First, get good parts. So, stay away from Hesse & Vulcan. I like Bushmaster, Olympic Arms, Stag. I limit myself to those because they're the only products (other than Colt) that I have. There's some other makers who are equally good too. I heard that the owner of ASA (if they're still around) and Model 1 Sales aren't the nicest people in the world so I've never bought from them. You might want to buy everything from one supplier so if something doesn't work, you don't have to run around trying to get it resolved by multiple parties. You also have to make sure that the parts are compatible. For instance, there's a difference in buffers (they fit into the buttstock and are part of the recoil mechanism) and you have to get the right buffer for the (fixed or collaspable) stock you have in mind.

You can download the Marine Corps M-16 Armorer's Manual and learn how to assemble one from it.

 

[funfaler]

I quickly scanned the above link, and it looks to be very useful for new "builders", I also recommend the AGI AR15 video.

Keep in mind that you really are not "building" anything, just putting some parts together, and the important assemblies are already done for you, in most kits.

Really, an average Joe, with standard hand tools and a spare hour (perhaps a couple of beers) can assemble a Kit AR15. Just take your time and assure yourself that you understand the next step, not that tough.

A buddy of mine has done so many that he can assemble an AR15 in 15 minutes, and a beer and 1/2

My general recommendation is that unless you are going to build an AR15 that has some "bells and whistles", like flat top, flat top gas block, M4 or Pencil barrel, etc, you are not going to save a ton of $$, and you might be better served buying a manufactored rifle. If you are just going to build a standard 16" A2 kit, you will only save $75-100 by building a kit, not sure it is worth the hassle. However, if you are going to "deck it out", you can save @200-300, or more and then it becomes more worth the effort.

Either way, it is fun, and pretty easy, and red-blooded!

 

[JaxNovice]

Thanks for all of the help. Very helpful!

 

[SeanMTX]

If you aren't experienced with the AR or if you're not 100% comfortable with putting together all the little pieces and parts, I'd recommend buying a complete lower and getting the parts for the upper, which is easier to put together.

You can interchange the fore grips, barrell, etc to configure it how you'd like. You're not limited to the same brand on both sides, but know that a name brand lower can get a bit expensive. (i.e., $400+ for a Bushmaster lower vs $600+ for a Colt).

I agree with the other posters here...stick with the brands listed above.

 

[wdlsguy]

Be sure to check out the Build It Yourself forum at ar15.com.

Del-Ton and J&T seem to get good reviews. You can put me down as a satisfied customer of Del-Ton.

 

[buenhec]

go to the CMMG website. Last week I bought two AR15's for $550 each. I got two perfect DPMS rifles three days latter. I shot one of them at the range today and it was flawless. Its one hell of a bargain.

 

[RandomMiss]

Check out www.midwayusa.com. They have a section with schematics and some step-by-step stuff. Best of luck with your rifle.

 

[jpwilly]

There are some tools that will simplify the assembly but expect to spend some time chaising small parts that may go flying...you may want to prepare for that ahead of time so you don't lose them.

 

[ugaarguy]

On one hand I see assembling a lower as a great thing to learn the internal workings. On the other, if you buy a stripped lower and a lower parts kit from DPMS they'll install the parts kit for $5. It's a small price to pay to have the assembly work done professionally.