Requesting Advice: Long awaited AR-15 build:

[mikeasu]

Hello all,

Figured this is the year to start work on my first AR-15 - had the goal a while back (~12 years back when I lived in AZ) to build from parts, and something for more long-range/precision - 100-400yds. So, finally going to get started. I'd like to build from parts for the experience (not unlike building my own computer from components), so looking for advice. I think I'd like a Wylde chamber, so thinking a 20" wylde HBAR barrel (MD compliant). I think I can muddle my way through all of the rest - lowers and lower kits seem pretty much the same, although I may look for a better trigger. I like the idea of a collapsible stock with the 20" barrel (similar to the canadian M-16 variant, IIRC), and will probably still start with iron sights, then drop a scope on. I also like the idea of building a bit at a time - get the lower, then the parts kit, get that together, then start on the upper. Any specific recommendations or gotchas this forum could provide?

 

[calicojack]

If you want long range precision, then for a folding stock the Magpul UBR stock is a great choice where you get a very steady stock that also collapses. Pictured here is my 18" 6.5 Grendel build. OBTW - for longer range, 6.5 Grendel is a great choice. I like Aero Precision for the upper and lower receiver and either Aero or Midwest Industries for the free-floated handguards. I would recommend a Geissele 2-stage Super Semi Auto Enhanced (SSA-E) trigger. If you prefer single stage, then I recommend a Timney trigger.

https://palmettostatearmory.com/geissele-super-semi-automatic-enhanced-trigger.html

 

[MattFinals718]

It's funny you'd ask...I'm getting ready to do an Olympic Arms C7-style rifle myself, and I was asking about barrels in another topic. (Mine will be styled after the original C7, not the later C7 variants, and the upper and lower will be Olympic Arms.)

At the moment, I think I'm going to be using a Rock River Arms 20" heavy barrel, which has a .223 Wylde chamber.

 

[outrider58]

Spend the money on a good barrel(non chrome lined) and and fire control group. The rest can be mil spec or better, depending on the thickness of your wallet.

 

[rbird7282]

OP not sure where you're located but I like Engage Armament stripped lowers/uppers (at Engage in Rockville) or Aero.
Toolcraft phosphate coated BCG
Geissele SSA-E or G2S trigger. A lower cost option is a Larue MBT trigger.
Barrel, I've had good luck with White Oak Armory barrels.
Free float hand guard of your choice

I would true the face of the upper and bed the barrel with Loctite 620

 

[engineerbrian]

Spend the money on a good barrel(non chrome lined) and and fire control group. The rest can be mil spec or better, depending on the thickness of your wallet.

Whats the problem with chrome lining and accuracy?

 

[mikeasu]

OP not sure where you're located but I like Engage Armament stripped lowers/uppers (at Engage in Rockville) or Aero.

I'm up in Eldersburg, but can manage a trip down to Rockville if needed - thanks for the tip!

 

[silver78]

If you are looking for accurate it's hard to go wrong with a White Oak barrel. Most of his barrels are HBARs. Personally I prefer 1 in 8 twist.

White Oak Armament | Quality Parts for Competitive and Casual Shooters

Looking for parts or accessories for your rifle? White Oak Armament is the destination for quality parts for competitive and recreational marksmen.

www.whiteoakarmament.com

 

[outrider58]

Whats the problem with chrome lining and accuracy?

It's not always known for it.

 

[Overboost44]

Have a 16" White Oak with a 1:8 twist and it is the most accurate AR in my collection. Got it from Engage a while back. Haven't had the chance to shoot it past 200 yards though.

 

[engineerbrian]

It's not always known for it.

I didnt know that. Thanks!

 

[KRC]

"long-range/precision - 100-400yds"
barrel, barrel, barrel - as in SS/match/varmint (.936")/lapped
chambering - as in BR/ARC/Grendel-ish

 

[Russ D]

I’ve got an 18” White Oak and I’ve yet to see another AR shoot better.

 

[outrider58]

OP not sure where you're located but I like Engage Armament stripped lowers/uppers (at Engage in Rockville) or Aero.
Toolcraft phosphate coated BCG
Geissele SSA-E or G2S trigger. A lower cost option is a Larue MBT trigger.
Barrel, I've had good luck with White Oak Armory barrels.
Free float hand guard of your choice

I would true the face of the upper and bed the barrel with Loctite 620

I concur.

 

[mikeasu]

I suppose the next question - I know I said I want to build one - what's the cost savings (if any)? Not averse to just buying outright, I'd have it to the range sooner, esp. if there really isn't much savings to building one from parts vs buying a complete rifle (or near complete).

 

[outrider58]

I suppose the next question - I know I said I want to build one - what's the cost savings (if any)? Not averse to just buying outright, I'd have it to the range sooner, esp. if there really isn't much savings to building one from parts vs buying a complete rifle (or near complete).

Unless you have a good working knowledge of AR parts, good and bad, you'd probably be better off buying a quality rifle.

 

[rbird7282]

I suppose the next question - I know I said I want to build one - what's the cost savings (if any)? Not averse to just buying outright, I'd have it to the range sooner, esp. if there really isn't much savings to building one from parts vs buying a complete rifle (or near complete).

So it’s not so much cost savings but you can build a better rifle that’s tailored to you. Not going to say it will cost the same but it will be a much better rifle assuming quality parts are used and assembled properly.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[DaemonAssassin]

I’ve got an 18” White Oak and I’ve yet to see another AR shoot better.

A 20" Shilen can....

 

[Ski169]

I’d recommend a Centurion Arms 18” SPR barrel and BCG. I have the barrel on my MK12 build and it’s more accurate than I am on the trigger. Sub MOA without question. And they are MD compliant as well as offering HBAR engraving if you are so inclined. However, it is specifically chambered in 5.56 and is optimized for the 77gr OTM MK262 cartridge with a 1/7 twist. Definitely better for heavier (longer) projectiles.
The rest of the parts I’d recommend getting from a known trusted source (local LGS if you have a business relationship with them, known internet dealers). Everything in my rifle was gauged through and built at a SOTAR class so I know and trust it’s as good as can be.

Mk12 Barrel

These barrels are the result of tens of thousands of dollars in development done to give our Special Operations the best weapon system they can have.

centurionarms.com

 

[crtjebstuart]

i just completed my first ar build. i went through optics planet (opticsplant.com) and purchased areo precision parts (aeroprecisionusa.com). ive also purchased uppers from radical firearms (radicalfirearms.com) out of texas.