AR15 Build Class Discussion and Q&A

During the class we talked about having a thread on Talk for any questions and general discussion. Great class @thatguy @Nick

Can we start by getting the parts list for the upcoming assembly session?

I’d also like a list of online and local brick 'n mortar vendors.

How about any other online resources for information sharing and/or used parts sales/swap/trade?

Maybe we can compile the info and get it on our wiki at some point.

Thanks,
Pinewoodnut

3 Likes

Local places to buy the lower from,


They have a store in Coppell, if you have the item delivered there you can save the transfer fee and shipping when buying from their site.

Component Vendors:
Magpul - https://www.magpul.com/
Bravo company - https://www.bravocompanyusa.com/
Anderson - https://andersonmanufacturing.com/
Brownells - http://www.brownells.com/
Midway - https://www.midwayusa.com/
F1 firearms - http://f-1firearms.com/

1 Like

I’ve found some great deals on parts and no games on Palmetto State Armory’s web site.

1 Like

http://reddit.com.com/r/gundeals
https://gun.deals/

Brownells
Midway USA

Local
Gun Masters
Bullet Trap
Dallas Gun Range

Here is a link to the AR 15 Builder.
http://www.ar15builder.com/
The parts selections is kind of small, but a good way to make sure your not forgetting anything.

Trigger Manufacturers:
Geissele - https://geissele.com/lower-parts/triggers.html
This is a very well respected match trigger
Timney - https://www.timneytriggers.com/shop/ar-replacement-triggers.aspx
Another well respected match trigger
Fostech - https://fostechoutdoors.com/shop/index.php?l=product_list&c=15
Crazy trigger that fires on pull and release
Tacocon - http://tacconautotrigger.com/
Auto Resetting Trigger kind of crazy

1 Like

Be sure to use a disposable credit card number when ordering from them.

The CC security is notorious.

I used PSA a few years ago, it was Black Friday & took about 3 weeks to get my stuff. I like them & they were good parts, just took forever and a day.

If I wanted to build a basic mil spec AR-15, what is my parts list?

Chris you buy all parts that advertise as mil spec.
This link explains the a build, on the right are links to the different parts and takes you to the midway purchasing links.

It doesn’t look to cover the stripped lower receiver or trigger though, so you will want to add those to the build.
Does this help?

I would suggest 16 inch barrel if you are looking for what many consider the standard AR15. But, stick with all parts that advertise milspec if that is what you want.

I the link will be helpful later. I am just looking for a parts list. I don’t want to forget a spring, indent pin or castle nut somewhere.

The Mil-spec buffer tube assembly’s I have bought in the past included the castle nut, detent spring, detent & of course the buffer with spring.

1 Like

Another good source is to go to the larger gun shows. That way you can put your hands on it to see if you like it.

I’ll keep looking for a parts list. Thanks.

Here is a cool part you probably won’t see on many build lists.

Battery Assist Lever:

It allows you to release the bolt with your trigger finger.

1 Like

Your best option here are to purchase what is generally known as a Lower Parts Kit.

Almost all components have kits contain the sub-components necessary to install them. For example, don’t buy the dust cover, buy the dust cover kit, that way it includes the rod and the spring. Same with your forward assist, get the kit instead of trying to piecemeal the forward assist, the spring, and the retaining pin.

Lower parts kit, dust cover kit, and forward assist kit. What other kits do I need to add to the parts list?

OK, so, the best way to do this is to think about the main sub-assemblies of the firearm, and then go from there.

So, for an AR-pattern rifle, you have 2 basic sub assemblies:

The Upper Receiver and the Lower Receiver.

The upper receiver is a non-serialized part, so every component can be purchased on the internet.

There are 3 essential components of the upper: the Barrel Assembly, the Upper Receiver Assembly, and the Bolt Carrier Group assembly.

From there, a mat like this is your best friend:

1 Like

That is great. I will get one of those. Thanks!

Do you recommend getting stripped lower and dropping in a trigger assembly?