I'm not so sure anymore about saving money buying everything separately. Shipping costs add up if you have to make 10 separate purchases to get your parts, add in people overcharging for things like bolt carrier groups that are in low supply, plus the cost of the tools to do the job properly (if you don't borrow them or have someone else assemble it), and you would be hard pressed to save money. Maybe 4-5 years ago before dealers started pricing thier rifles low enough to make home building less of a "deal". Especially in the case of DD where they install their rails at the factory. Trust me it is a time-consuming job and something you probably don't want to do or pay a gunsmith to install!
Now, if you want a very specific configuration, you will save some money and hassle by not having to remove and later sell/trade unwanted components.
Also, just because you assembled an AR doesn't mean it was done correctly. As a gunsmith I'm always advising people to be cautious. Please make sure the headspace is gauged, and have a gunsmith, armorer or someone who really knows these rifles look it over before you shoot it if you do decide to build it yourself.
Building an AR is a rewarding and fun experience. I think of it as a financing plan, I will get a lower, and over a year or so buy the parts as I can afford them or as the parts become available. I'm not really trying to dissuade anyone from trying a build, just advising anyone who cares to read this of the pitfalls, and urging due diligence when it comes to safety!
Si vis pacem para bellum
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Just remember you will get a ffl build fee tacked on to total price . I think it was 180-195.
ObsceneJesst is correct you will gain knowledge by building one IF YOU can locate the parts needed right now at a reasonable price. That is the only catch .
If it was me , I would build one with DD. but then again is am biased I am waiting for my completed build .
