planning first AR

[mek42]

I'm planning to build an AR this summer and am totally overwhelmed. This is worse than going to the Chinese restaurant and being afflicted by Chinese menu syndrome.

I live in NY, so the ban is still in effect, so I will be getting a crowned barrel without any other doo-dads like flash suppressor or bayonet lug. (An aside, can pre-ban >10 round mags be used with a post-ban lower?)

I would like for the weapon to be able to be used in a service rifle competition. I read at the CMP site that removable carry handles are now legal. Is an A2 or A4 more recommended for a first AR? (I am still a novice shooter if that makes a difference.)

This would also be used for recreational target shooting. There are no current plans for this to be a defensive weapon (given that any weapon may be defensive, I have a 1911 or a 12 gauge that would come out of the safe if needed before the proposed AR). Can glass optics be attached to a fixed A2 handled weapon?

Left to my own devices, I would buy this kit. Am I overlooking something that would make this not service rifle compatible?

Lastly, I am hoping to find a previously enjoyed stripped lower at the local gun show this weekend. What sorts of things should I be looking for as a "no go" sort of thing? Also, am I forgetting to think about something here?

Thanks!

 

[MMcfpd]

Red dot/holo sights can be fine on an A2 upper, but mounting glass can be problematic as most applications put a scope to high for many people to get a good cheek weld, or consistent head position.

 

[10-Ring]

When my state started this OLL thing, I truely enjoyed my first AR build -- Enjoy your first build! Congrats!!!

 

[GunDoctor]

Mek42
Yes you can attach optics to your carry handle.
Look for excess wear on the out side of the lower. If someone can cause excess wear on the anodized finish there could be other things wrong. Look for cracks around the pivot pin and take down pin holes. Someone not knowing what he's doing can really monkey up the lower trying to put it together wrong. Especially if hammers are involved. Look around the back where the buffer tub attaches.
With every area there could be too much wear or misuse look for small cracks. It's just aluminum. Too much force could not only strip threads but crack the lower as well.

 

[Tarvis]

If I were you, I'd buy a new lower, as they can be found for a hair over $100. I bought six from Colemantyler.com and they were $97 each plus $6 for shipping. If not, look for cracks around any holes, especially on the rear trigger guard holes, the spot buffer tube threads into, takedown/swivel pin area etc.

Optics are a definite possibility. They seem sorta high when atop a carry handle, but thats for you to decide. Bunny blasting, no prob. Shooting competitions/long range, could be. I suggest you learn on iron sights if you haven't already been accustomed to a scope. I've pretty much only shot scope and have no desire or practice for shooting irons, which is not necesarily a good thing.

I think you picked out a good kit. As far as the mags vs reciever go, as long as they are both milspec they will work together.