Building an AR

[85t5mcss]

OK, my brother is looking into building an AR vs. buying 1. I have been watching the classifieds and seen a few that I like, but not necessarily what he likes. I am a Glock guy and don't know much about ARs to really help him. Is there a guide on here that will help me out? No luck using the search feature. And who has a list of links on where to look and get parts? Seems like AR parts are like Chevy parts. Everyone has 'em.

 

[jd4320t]

What does he want to do with his AR? Tactical? Long range? cheap plinker?

 

[42769vette]

imo build your first one so you know more about the workings of the gun. after that buy or build you wont save much but you will have more control of how it turns out.

 

[ViperJock]

You can build a nice one for the price of buying a cheap one, but you have to find the parts (helps if you pick them up on sale here and there) and you have to have the tools (which are not common household tools, typically) and you have to know how to do it. Some ranges/stores will sponsor "build your own AR" kits and assembly help classes such as Applied Ballistics in Lafayette. There are also undoubtedly INGO members that are expert at this as well.

 

[esrice]

imo build your first one so you know more about the workings of the gun. after that buy or build you wont save much but you will have more control of how it turns out.

I'm the opposite. I would buy your first so you can shoot it immediately, all while learning more about the platform.

You really can't go wrong though.

Whatever you decide, read this first: So you want to buy an AR-15, huh?

 

[usmcdjb]

Make sure and check out ar15.com. Lots of articles and information.

 

[RTDoug]

Buy or build?
You can have all the control on what "bells and whistles" you want on the piece.
You will save a little over an assembled rifle.
I have heard one gunshop owner say he won't take a home built one in on trade. This would be referred to as a "franken rifle".

If building is what he wants to do, use quality parts such as Bravo Company, Lewis Machine and Tool, or other Mil-spec suppliers. It will hold value better.

If cost savings is the main goal, then there is nothing at all wrong with an Olympic Arms piece. Mine has had one small problem, and was an easy fix.

Ford, Dodge, Chevy, it's what he decides he likes. Colt's are nice, but pricey.
But Bravo Company is reported to be a good solid Mil-spec rifle.

The ar15.sumthing site has info, along with several others, to help him educate.


My 2 cents.

Regards

 

[LEaSH]

I built my first and am working on two more.

I'd probably go with esrice's advice if I had to start fresh.

Indecision and switching directions made my completion of the first rifle over a year and two months. Also had left over parts and didn't want to sell them, so what to do? Build another rifle of course.

It was easy to build the lower with a book that I'd found. The upper I found was mostly complete and had what I wanted.

Strange thing is that I never had an attraction to the AR or a desire to have one until I started really building it. By the time it was finished I could hardly wait to take it out. And after only 50 flawless rounds, my little rifle has a place in my heart. And I buy it presents sometimes, like a bayonet for valentines day.
Ok, that last part is kind of weird.

 

[gblank]

definately AR15.com.

 

[85t5mcss]

OK, after reading a lot to make my head spin, I may just join him and build myself one as well. I'm leaning towards a 9mm plinker, he's leaning towards range (200 yds). Lots of good info, I will try to get up to speed on them.

Background has been handguns and plinking rifles for us both. Throw in a couple SKSs into the mix. So, off to find more info.
Thanks for the info and keep it coming.