308 AR

[wcd]

Looking at a father son project, from my understanding AR’s are kind of like Legos? Is this something the average person could undertake? Any specialized tools needed? Would Palmetto or Brownell’s be a good choice?

Thanks

 

[Ggreen]

Go with an aero precision set for your first. Ar10s are not as easy as ar15s because they aren't milspec. There are differences and compatibility issues with ar10 parts.

 

[wcd]

Go with an aero precision set for your first. Ar10s are not as easy as ar15s because they aren't milspec. There are differences and compatibility issues with ar10 parts.

So perhaps 556 would be the way to go?

 

[Ggreen]

So perhaps 556 would be the way to go?

Easiest to start with

 

[Mgderf]

There are two (major) .308 AR "patterns".
They are the Armalite pattern, and the DPMS pattern.

The most prolific by far is the DPMS pattern. I believe it is also known as the SR25, or something similar.

There is nothing inherently more difficult in the "AR10" assembly than there is with the "AR15" assembly.
Just make sure ALL of your parts are the same "pattern", and all will be well.

 

[DoggyDaddy]

My first build was a PA-10 kit from PSA. That got me hooked and I went a little crazy for a minute. Next thing I knew I had 7 rifles (6 in 5.56 and one in .308). The .308 is still my favorite.

 

[DadSmith]

Go sign up for Aero Precision emails they give you 10% off everything one time purchase. I just built me one used all Aero Precision parts except bcg and charging handle

 

[OZZY.40]

I built an Aero M5E1. I went with all Aero parts which made it extremely easy to put together. The barrel nut on the M5E1 upper uses a standard AR-15 barrel wrench, and there are NO ROLL PINS!! Every month they come out with a new camo pattern, but they sell out of those pretty quick.

 

[RCB]

Just built one myself. Like they said, it's not hard. You will want an AR wrench and make sure to buy barrel and muzzle shims. Other than that, it's about as straight forward as it gets. I also recommend buying some snap caps to test cycling before hand. I've built a few other firearms that were much more involved than the AR that were never meant to be assembled in pieces. The AR is straight forward. Like was mentioned, just pay attention that the parts mention DPMS. Most will. For your buffer tube, make sure it's mil-spec.

What I like best about building a rifle (or pistol) is that you really get the chance to understand what's happening in your firearm rather than it being a magic box. So when things fail you will have an easier time identifying the issue.