Building your own AR-15 can be an incredibly satisfying experience. But, it can also be overwhelming for first-time builders. With the right AR-15 build kit, you can take the guesswork out of the process and ensure you get the best parts for your dream rifle. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through how to choose the perfect AR-15 build kit. We’ll provide tips for selecting components, explain the benefits of AR build kits, and more. So, if you’re ready to get started on your AR-15 build, read on!
Understanding AR-15 Kit Components
When it comes to building your own AR-15, understanding the components of an AR-15 kit is essential. An AR-15 build kit is a collection of parts that you need to assemble your rifle. These kits from Moriarti Armaments typically include the upper receiver, barrel, bolt carrier group, handguard, lower parts kit and the stock.
One of the benefits of AR build kits is that they provide all the necessary parts in one package, saving you the time and effort of sourcing each component individually. This ensures that all the parts are compatible and designed to work together seamlessly.
When choosing an AR-15 kit, it's important to consider your intended use for the rifle. Are you building a long-range precision rifle, a lightweight carbine for competition shooting, or a versatile all-around firearm? Your intended use will dictate the specific components you need, such as barrel length, handguard style, and caliber.
Additionally, it's crucial to choose a kit with a compatible upper receiver. The upper receiver houses the barrel, bolt carrier group, and other critical components. It's important to ensure that the upper receiver is Milspec and is compatible with the specific components included in your AR-15 kit.
Overall, understanding the components of an AR-15 kit is essential for building your dream rifle. By choosing the right AR build kit and considering your intended use, you can assemble a rifle that meets your specific needs and preferences.
Defining Your Intended Use for the AR-15
When it comes to building your own AR-15, defining your intended use for the rifle is crucial. This will guide your decision-making process and help you choose the right components for your AR-15 build kit. Whether you're planning to use your AR-15 for long-range precision shooting, competition shooting, or self-defense, understanding your intended use will ensure that you end up with a rifle that meets your specific needs and preferences.
If you're looking to build a long-range precision rifle, you'll want to focus on components such as a longer barrel with a heavier profile, a free-floating handguard for increased stability, and an optic with magnification capabilities. On the other hand, if you're building a lightweight carbine for competition shooting, you may want to prioritize components such as a shorter barrel for maneuverability, a lightweight handguard for reduced weight, and a red dot sight for fast target acquisition.
Considering your intended use will also help you determine other factors, such as the caliber you want to use, the type of stock or brace that suits your shooting style, and the type of trigger that best fits your preferences.
Selecting the Right Barrel
Selecting the right barrel for your AR-15 build kit is crucial for achieving optimal performance and accuracy. The barrel is responsible for guiding the bullet's trajectory and ensuring consistent and reliable shots. When it comes to choosing a barrel, there are several factors to consider.
Firstly, you'll need to decide on the barrel length. The length of the barrel will impact the overall weight and balance of your AR-15, as well as the velocity and accuracy of the bullet. Shorter barrels, such as those around 10 to 14 inches, are great for maneuverability and close-quarters shooting. On the other hand, longer barrels, typically between 16 to 20 inches, are better suited for long-range shooting and improved accuracy.
Next, consider the twist rate of the barrel. The twist rate refers to how many inches the bullet needs to make one complete rotation within the barrel. This affects the stability of the bullet in flight and can impact accuracy. Generally, a faster twist rate, such as 1:7 or 1:8, is suitable for heavier bullets, while a slower twist rate, like 1:9 or 1:12, is better for lighter bullets.
Lastly, you'll want to choose the appropriate barrel material. The most common options are stainless steel and chrome-moly steel. Stainless steel barrels offer superior corrosion resistance and are generally more durable, while chrome-moly steel barrels are typically more affordable.
Considering the Bolt Carrier Group
When it comes to building your own AR-15, the bolt carrier group (BCG) is a critical component that you must carefully consider. The BCG is responsible for chambering rounds, extracting spent casings, and ensuring the smooth operation of your rifle. Choosing the right BCG is essential for achieving reliable performance and functionality.
When selecting a BCG for your AR-15 build kit, there are a few key factors to consider. Firstly, you'll want to determine whether you prefer a standard mil-spec BCG or a more enhanced option. A mil-spec BCG is reliable and will get the job done, but if you're looking for added features such as improved corrosion resistance or reduced friction, you may want to explore enhanced options such as Nickel Boron BCG.
Next, you'll want to consider the type of coating or finish on the BCG. There are several options available, including phosphate, nitride, nickel boron, and chrome. Each coating has its own benefits in terms of durability, lubricity, and ease of cleaning. Consider your preferences and the conditions in which you'll be using your AR-15 when making this decision.
Finally, you'll want to ensure that the BCG you choose is compatible with your upper receiver and barrel. The dimensions and specifications of the BCG should align with the other components in your AR-15 build kit to ensure proper function and reliability.
Handguard and Gas System Options
Now that you have a good understanding of the key components of an AR-15 build kit and have defined your intended use for the rifle, it's time to dive into the world of handguard and gas system options. The handguard is an important component that surrounds the barrel and provides a platform for attaching accessories such as lights, lasers, and grips. It also protects your hand from the heat generated during rapid-fire shooting.
When it comes to handguard options, the choices are vast. You can opt for a traditional round handguard or choose a more modern free-floating design. Free-floating handguards are popular for their enhanced accuracy, as they do not touch the barrel and thus minimize any potential interference. They also offer more real estate for attaching accessories.
Gas system options refer to the different ways in which the AR-15 cycles and operates. The most common gas system is the direct impingement system, which relies on gas pressure to cycle the action. Another option is the piston-driven system, which uses a piston to push the bolt carrier group back instead of relying on gas pressure directly.
When selecting handguard and gas system options for your AR-15 build kit, consider your intended use, personal preferences, and budget. Do you want a sleek, minimalist handguard for a lightweight build, or do you need a longer handguard for more accessory attachment options? As for gas systems, the direct impingement system is widely used and reliable, but the piston-driven system may offer enhanced reliability in adverse conditions.
By carefully considering these factors and exploring the various handguard and gas system options available, you can choose the perfect components to complete your AR-15 build kit and create a rifle that suits your needs and preferences.
When it comes to optimizing your AR-15 build kit, selecting the right optics and sights is crucial for enhancing your shooting experience. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned shooter, having the right optic can greatly improve your accuracy and target acquisition.
When choosing optics for your AR-15 build kit, consider your intended use and shooting preferences. Are you planning on long-range precision shooting, close-quarters combat, or a combination of both? This will determine the type of optic you should go for. Options include red dot sights, holographic sights, magnified scopes, or a combination of both, such as a variable magnification scope.
Red dot sights are a popular choice for close-quarters shooting due to their simplicity and fast target acquisition. Holographic sights, on the other hand, offer a more precise aiming point and are great for rapid target engagement. If you're looking for more versatility, a magnified scope can provide enhanced accuracy at longer ranges.
Additionally, consider factors such as durability, battery life, and reticle type when selecting optics. Ensure that the optic is compatible with your AR-15 build kit, as some optics may require specific mounts or rails.
When it comes to choosing sights for your AR-15, you have a variety of options to consider. Popular choices include iron sights, flip-up sights, and offset sights. Iron sights are reliable and can serve as a backup to your optic. Flip-up sights are versatile, allowing you to easily transition between using an optic or iron sights. Offset sights are great for quick transition between targets at different distances.
Choosing the Best Trigger for Your Needs
When it comes to building your own AR-15, choosing the best trigger for your needs is crucial for optimizing your shooting experience. The trigger is arguably one of the most important components of your AR-15 build kit, as it determines the feel, break, and overall performance of your rifle.
There are a few key factors to consider when selecting a trigger. First, you'll want to determine your shooting style and preferences. Are you looking for a trigger with a light pull weight for faster, more precise shooting, or do you prefer a heavier trigger with a crisp break for improved accuracy? Different triggers offer varying pull weights and characteristics, so it's important to find one that aligns with your shooting style.
Next, consider the intended use of your AR-15. Are you building a rifle for precision shooting, competition, or self-defense? This will help you determine if you need a single-stage or two-stage trigger. A single-stage trigger has a consistent pull weight throughout the entire travel, while a two-stage trigger has a light take-up followed by a distinct break, allowing for more precise shots.
Picking Out a Stock or Brace
Now that you've selected the perfect AR-15 build kit, it's time to pick out a stock or brace to complete your dream rifle. The stock or brace is an important component that plays a crucial role in the comfort, stability, and overall shooting experience of your AR-15.
When choosing a stock or brace for your AR-15 build kit, there are a few factors to consider. First, think about your shooting style and preferences. Do you prefer a traditional stock that provides a more secure and stable shooting platform, or do you want a brace that offers more versatility and maneuverability? Consider the intended use of your AR-15 and how the stock or brace will affect your shooting experience.
Next, think about the adjustability options. Some stocks and braces offer adjustable length of pull, cheek risers, and recoil pads, allowing you to customize the fit and feel of your rifle to your specific needs.
Durability is another important factor to consider. Look for stocks or braces that are made from high-quality materials, such as polymer or aluminum, to ensure they can withstand the rigors of regular use.
Lastly, don't forget about compatibility. Make sure the stock or brace you choose is compatible with your AR-15 build kit, including the buffer tube and other components.
Putting It All Together: Assembling Your AR-15 Kit
Now that you've carefully selected each component of your AR-15 build kit, it's time to put it all together and assemble your dream rifle. This final step can be both exciting and challenging, but with the right tools and a bit of patience, you'll soon have a fully functional AR-15.
First, gather all the components of your AR-15 build kit and ensure that you have everything you need. Lay them out in an organized manner so you can easily access each part during the assembly process.
Start by attaching the upper receiver to the lower receiver using the appropriate pins and screws. Take care to align the components correctly and tighten them securely. Next, install the barrel into the upper receiver and ensure it is properly seated and aligned.
Continue by adding bolt carrier group to the upper receiver, ensuring smooth movement and proper alignment. Install the handguard, gas system, and any additional accessories.
Finally, attach the stock or brace to the lower receiver, making sure it is securely fastened and comfortable for your shooting style. Double-check all connections, screws, and pins to ensure everything is properly tightened and aligned.
Once your AR-15 build kit is fully assembled, take the time to clean and lubricate the rifle before taking it to the range for testing. Familiarize yourself with the operating controls and safety features before firing your first shot. Happy Shooting!
