Building an AR-15

Looking to build an AR-15? What caliber will you choose? .223 is just the start. Before you get into the build, you need to know exactly what you want your rifle to do. You can always stick with the traditional 5.56, but is that the right choice? Here’s a list of the most popular calibers and what they deliver.

As we continue our series on how to build an AR-15, we ask a complex qeustion. Direct impingement or piston operation. Should the gun stick to the time-tested formula for basic gas operation, or do you want a cleaner running machine? We’re looking at the differences in this week’s installment.

In our continuing coverage of the ins-and-outs of AR-15 construction, we’re going to break it down. The rifle, that is–and the tool box. Ever seen a list of all of the parts of an AR-15? It is long. So put together a checklist, and make sure you have all the tools. If you are going to build an AR-15, you will need to be at least somewhat organized.

When deciding how you want to build an AR-15, the lower often takes center-stage. The lower receiver ties the whole rifle together. And it is a popular stating point for most builds, which means there are numerous options for material construction, style, and how much effort is required to finish them.

I’ve had lots of conversations with gun-geeks about barrels and lowers. We can talk triggers until we’re blue in the face. But I’ve yet to anyone truly debate the AR upper. Uppers are just not that sexy. But this is a crucial aluminum shell that holds some of the AR’s most active components. It can’t be overlooked!

In many ways, the upper and lower receivers on an AR-15 are just shells that hold pieces and parts together. But the barrel? Now we’re getting complex. How much you can expect from your rifle depends in large part on its barrel. Here are some things to look for and some answers to the complicated questions.

Proof that the AR-15 can be almost anything you want is easy to see in the wide selection of available stocks. Fixed? Adjustable? Minimalist? The choice is up to you. We’re here with some tips that will help you narrow down the list, and we’ll lay out everything you need to know when you build an AR-15.

When deciding on the perfect optic for your AR build, the very first thing you need to do is match the performance window of the optic with the performance window of your rifle. And we’re here to help. Here’s a guide designed for those building their own AR-15s.

Brownells has teamed up with three major players in the AR industry, Aero Precision, Anderson Manufacturing and Bravo Company Manufacturing to offer three cool partially-complete DIY AR kits.