HOW TO BUILD AN AR-15
Building an AR-15 is a rewarding experience and it allows you to configure your rifle exactly how you want it. Building your rifle from scratch is usually less costly and helps you avoid having to deal with any unwanted parts you might be left with when upgrading an existing rifle. Cheaper Than Dirt! wants to help you create your custom rifle by not only providing you with the tools, but also the knowledge you need to build your perfect AR-15.
WHAT YOU WILL NEED:
1. Lower Receiver
The first step in the building process is to purchase a stripped lower receiver. The lower receiver is considered a firearm, unlike the rest of the AR-15 parts you will need. If you want to know more about how to buy a firearm online you can refer to our easy-to-follow guide.
Lower Receiver
The first step in the building process is to purchase a stripped lower receiver. The lower receiver is considered a firearm unlike the rest of the AR15 parts you will need. If you want to know more about how to buy a firearm online you can refer to our easy-to-follow guide.
Lower Parts Kit
A lower parts kit typically includes all of the pins and springs you'll need to build the lower. This includes the takedown pins and springs, trigger guard, mag release, safety selector, etc. Some lower parts kits also include the fire control group and the pistol grip.
Buffer Assembly
A buffer assembly kit will include a buffer tube, buffer spring, buffer, & castle nut. Some kits will also include the stock. The buffer is what helps cycle the rifle after each shot.
Stock
If your buffer assembly doesn't include a stock you'll need to purchase one separately. There are several types of stocks including fixed stocks, popular 6 position adjustable stocks, and stocks with adjustable cheek risers.
Trigger
If your lower parts kit doesn't include a trigger you'll need to purchase one separately. Drop in triggers contain the entire fire control group in a single until that you just "drop-in" to the lower receiver and pin. Whether you use a drop-in trigger or a trigger assembly, there are two popular types of triggers, single stage, and two stage. You'll also want to look at the weight of the trigger pull when selecting your trigger.
BUILDING THE LOWER RECEIVER
When you have all of your parts ready to install on your stripped lower receiver, make sure you have a clean and clear workspace.
2. Upper Receiver
The second step is to buy all the parts you need to assemble the rifle. Complete rifle kits with a prebuilt upper will include everything you need to complete a functioning rifle (minus the stripped lower receiver). You can also buy the parts à la carte if you would like a more customized rifle.
Upper Receiver
Bolt Carriage Group
Charging Handle
Barrel
Gas, Block & Tube
Handguard
Muzzle Device
Upper Parts
3. Optional Parts
Once you've completed your upper and lower, you're nearly done with your AR-15 build. You just need to add a pair of sights and any other optional parts you'd like. Sights for your rifle include iron sights, red dots, and scopes. You can also add a foregrip to your rifle, lights or lasers, or a sling.
