New AR build out for a test run

[SSN Vet]

Built an A2 Middy from a Delton upper years ago and after my brother shot it he punted his plans to build his own and bought an M4gery the next day. So I inherited his MP15 stripped lower and hatched a plan to build a precision Varmint AR.... But I had to do it on a tight budget...





Built this one from the ground up... Here's what's inside:

M&P-15 stripped lower.
PSA LPK with a cheep-o black hawk 6 position carbine stock ( hope to upgrade some day)
RRA 2-stage NM trigger (given a little TLC with fine ceramic stones)
FN contract over-run stripped upper from PSA, FWD assist and dust cover from Midway.
Wilson Arms 22" bull barrel, 1-8 twist, 5.56 chamber, target crown
DPMS free float tube
PSA premium BCG
Weaver SPR one piece mount
Nikon Prostaff 4-12x40

I've been scrounging for deals and accumulating parts for 2 years and finally got the glass last week to finish her up.

I took her out yesterday and did an abbreviated barrel break-in and then dialed in the scope.

Best 3-shot group at 100 yds came in at .52" with 55 gr. Z-max reloads shooting off a wobbly block of wood on a bench.



Not to shabby for the first day out

I'm looking forward to tuning in a pet load and mounting a bipod to see what she can really do.

 

[moxie]

I like that. Good work!!

 

[HOOfan_1]

Did you try any other bullets?

 

[SSN Vet]

Did you try any other bullets?

I used my 55 gr FMJ reloads for the barrel break-in and to get the scope on paper....

I loaded up some 69 gr. SMKs with 23 gr of H335 last night... and I hope to try some heavier bullets as well.

Unfortunately, I only have regular access to a 200 yd range. I'd like to have a go at longer ranges.... but don't want to join another club and travel.

No BLM sites in these parts.

 

[bannockburn]

SSN Vet

Nice group for the first time out and with 55 grain reloads! Look forward to seeing what your AR will do with heavier bullets.

 

[SSN Vet]

Just tallied up all of my receipts...

$765 total, including scope and all shipping charges.

A low cost accurate rifle was my objective... I'd say I pulled it off.

 

[MistWolf]

Start saving up for your next trigger. RRA two stage triggers are notorious for their thin case hardening. Stoning only makes the situation worse.

Other than that, you've got a good rifle for the money

 

[SSN Vet]

RRA two stage triggers are notorious for their thin case hardening. Stoning only makes the situation worse.

I had heard this and realized that I was taking a chance. I've never operated a two stage trigger before, so I decided to go with the RRA and see if I liked it before I dropped big bucks on one...

So far I like the concept of the two stage. I ordered the 3.5# Varmint trigger from Legal Transfers, which is measuring 3 lb. 12 oz. on my Lyman Digital. I was a little surprised that there was some creep in the trigger. But after some very light polishing, I've managed to minimize it.

Who knows? I may get lucky with this one.