Building My First AR-15: Need Some Guidance

[rg115]

I've been toying with the idea of building my first AR-15 for a bit now. I finally decided to dive in and start eyeballing parts. I'm noticing some decent deals out there, but I'm still a bit lost on what's actually worth it.

Right now, I'm thinking of going with a basic setup. Probably stick with 5.56 to keep it straightforward, but I'm open to any suggestions. Is there a caliber that's better for a newbie?

Also, are there brands that I should steer clear of? I'm not looking to shell out money for something that's just going to give me headaches down the road. And while I'm at it, are there any hidden costs I should watch out for?

Part of me wonders if I'd be better off just buying a pre-built one. I know that's easier, but building it sounds more rewarding, right?

I'd love to hear any tips or lessons learned from those who've done this before. Even small things make a difference. Thanks!

 

[fullagofast]

I think you are on the right track. 5.56 or 223 wylde is going to give you more flexibility. The things I would avoid are things like polymer lowers (and uppers), calibers that are stupid expensive, and chasing brand clout. Turning money into smoke and noise is the name of the game. Less money and more noise are both better in this.

I would suggest buying an upper already assembled and "build" your lower. Uppers have torque specs and get to be a pain to hold still sometimes. You should be able to put a lower together in an afternoon and still have time to shoot it.

 

[OMCHamlin]

I would suggest this; maybe buy a simple, basic AR15 (M4) for now, shoot it, figure out what you like and don't like about it, research what's out there and THEN start and consider what YOU think of as the perfect AR15? That IS the whole point of building them, is to make them exactly your own. In the olden days, we'd buy a basic AR, take it apart and throw half the stuff away, replacing it with aftermarket. Building your own lets you skip that. And I agree on the .223 Wylde chamber, and select a 1/8" twist and I believe you'll have the most versatility.

 

[DMK]

I've owned a bunch or AR's but have never built one. My plan if I build one is to stick with 5.56 and "Mil-Spec" parts. That will give me the most choices and probably the lowest costs on quality parts.

I bought my AR-10 because when I looked into building one, it would cost more than a complete rifle and because its not Mil-Spec compatibility of components was an issue.

As far as which way is the best, I want to build just to do it. I already have a couple of AR's I bought complete. I don't think you would save much, if any, building your own. Plus, you have to buy build specific tools.

I agree with what's stated above, if you don't have any experience buy one first. You are in Tennessee, its not like you can't sell it quick and get your money back. Start cheap. You don't need a high dollar AR and a high dollar optic, you aren't shooting in competition.

As far as I'm concerned my 308 AR is the only rifle made that will do it all. But its heavy, and its expensive to buy and expensive to feed. But it will put a smile on your face.