Building My First AR: Need Some Guidance

[rg115]

I've been toying with the idea of building my first AR-15 for a while now. Finally started browsing parts and honestly, it's kind of overwhelming. There are so many options and some decent deals out there, but I'm not sure what's really worth it.

I want to go with a basic rifle build, probably sticking to 5.56 for now. Is that a good choice for a newbie, or should I consider something else? I'd love to hear what you guys think.

Are there brands or specific parts I should steer clear of? I've read some horror stories about parts not fitting together or being unreliable. Also, any hidden costs I should keep in mind? Like, does it add up quickly with tools and whatnot?

At this point, I'm also wondering if it's just smarter to buy one already built. I know it's a different experience, but I also don't want to end up with a bunch of parts that don't work together. Any insights would be super helpful, especially if you learned some tough lessons along the way.

 

[joepistol]

As described in another post, a PSA (Palmetto State Armory) kit gun is a good way to get started.
Inexpensive to get started, parts are warrantied by a company that stands behind their products, their kits include everything you need ,except a serial# lower, which is purchased separately. You can use a PSA lower, or any other milspec brand. The kit can be mailed directly to you home, since it doesn't have the lower .A lower must go thru an FFL dealer, as is registered, like it was a firearm. You tube videos will show you how.

 

[bigred]

look for some assembly tools. google is your friend mil-spec. all the way

 

[joepistol]

to the OP.. watch the youtube assembly videos. Watch several different ones. When you start to assemble pieces, work slowly. You will probably find that it's far easier than you could have imagined. I didn't purchase any specialty tools, just used what I had..a small diameter punch ( or nail set) works well.. & if afraid you'll damage a finish while installing a part, cover the area where you're working with masking tape, painter's tape, duct tape...etc to protect the surface. Easy-peasy

 

[SHOVELHEAD82]

One suggestion I give anyone that comes into the store I work at, find the biggest ZipLock bag you can find, like a two gallon one. Assemble your lower inside of it so if a spring or plunger goes flying at eleven o'clock,at night you'll have a better chance of finding it in there than in your carpet or basement sump pump pit.

 

[joepistol]

well, any plastic bag will do. I've done the same, it actually works.
I try to work in a very clean space, ( clean work surface & below where you're sitting) so if I drop anything, it's pretty easy to find.
Springs can send parts flying pretty far, or launch themselves impressive distances..

Just today I was cleaning a Sig 232 after last night's range trip.
A tiny wire spring fell off. Fortunatelty, I found it quickly. Took awhile to figure out where it came from & even longer
to determine how it fit in place. Ex-watchmaker wife to the rescue, she's got tons of patience..(& great fine motor skills)