How to build and maintain your own AR-15
We will take a look at building your own AR-15 and some of the many options available. My budget for this build is $1500.00 including optics, but to put it simply I don't want to cheap out either. I am looking for a quality firearm that I can use to defend my family and property as well as target shooting.
Getting started
First lets address local laws concerning firearms and magazine capacity. In Ohio (where I am located) you can own semi auto assault rifles with a magazine capacity of no more than 31 rounds. a couple of great resources for researching your state are the NRA/ILA site or Handgun Law.com.
What do you want from your gun?
I am looking for 2 functions, target shooting and home defense. So my requirements may vary from yours. Example, hunters may want a longer barrel or more powerful sighting system. I however want to be able to move through a structure and need a shorter barrel. I have chosen a 14.5" barrel with a flash suppressor of 1.5" for an overall 16". The twist rate is 1:7. A person wanting to hunt with an AR may want a 20" or 24" barrel. Also realize that anything less than 16" overall length is considered an SBR and would a Class III license from the ATF.
What do you want from your gun?
I am looking for 2 functions, target shooting and home defense. So my requirements may vary from yours. Example, hunters may want a longer barrel or more powerful sighting system. I however want to be able to move through a structure and need a shorter barrel. I have chosen a 14.5" barrel with a flash suppressor of 1.5" for an overall 16". The twist rate is 1:7. A person wanting to hunt with an AR may want a 20" or 24" barrel. Also realize that anything less than 16" overall length is considered an SBR and would a Class III license from the ATF.
How do I decide what parts to use?
That is a great question with a simple answer, research. Use the web, fellow shooters and suppliers listed on this site, they will know best. I have consulted several shooting forums, and a couple of friends that I regularly shoot with. Being that this isn't my first AR I am also relying on my experience.
Picking an Upper
The upper is the biggest part of your gun, it can be built piece by piece or as a complete upper. Major components include the receiver, barrel, bolt, bolt carrier, forward assist and charging handle. Included in the upper are small parts such as the extractor pin, firing pin and ejector pin, plus a host of smaller pins and springs to keep the assembly held together. Uppers are available in several calibers, 5.56/.223, 6.8, .22 and 9mm. the 5.56/.223 is the most common and ammunition is readily available in varied qualities and prices.
I have chosen for this build to purchase a complete upper from Spike's Tactical. However, for the lower I am purchasing the components individually and assembling the lower myself.
I have chosen for this build to purchase a complete upper from Spike's Tactical. However, for the lower I am purchasing the components individually and assembling the lower myself.
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