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RobSWVA
22 November 2014, 16:24
Well, guess since the ball is finally rolling, its time to get a thread started. Finally have enough parts in that I can actually mock up some stuff, and even got my trigger installed. About 99.9% sure its going to be a .300AAC Blackout w/ 16" 1/8 twist barrel. Seems to be a good choice to do general target shooting and also for hunting when looking at price of ammo, round size, etc etc. Although, I'm sure this lower will end up having a couple of uppers to swap to and from eventually, covering multiple calibers.

So, for a main 'in hand' parts list:

Black Forge Upper/Lower Receivers
ALG Defense EMR M-LOK 13" handguard
ALG Defense Advanced Combat Trigger
ALG Defense Super Gas Block
Troy Folding Battle Sights set
Hexmag 30 rd Mags

Planned but not purchased parts:
MAS .300AAC Blackout Barrel- 16", 1/8 twist
A2 birdcage flash hider/comp (for now, switch is planned but not fully decided on which option)
Upper/Lower parts coming from multiple sources: Damage Industries, Will paying it forward, etc.
Bolt assembly courtesy of Will paying it foward, Carrier currently undecided regarding source of purchase
Buttstock/Buffer kit from Red Barn until upgrades are made

That generally covers most everything so far, will update as parts arrive and are installed. Ordered a springs, pins, detents, clips kit today from Damage industries, along w/ selector, so should arrive soon and be able to finish lower receiver.

Pics to follow this post showing what I have and what I can mock up so far, along with tools that are currently in hand.

six8
22 November 2014, 16:31
Looking forward to seeing it


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

WHSmithIV
22 November 2014, 16:48
Looking good - saw the pics on your FB page. I'll have that other stuff in the mail for you this week Rob [:)]

RobSWVA
22 November 2014, 16:49
Pics of my mock-up so far, will add more as parts come in and are put to use

https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpa1/t31.0-8/10818267_10204512221941443_1322764221862772560_o.j pg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpf1/t31.0-8/10608416_10204512370625160_8738519852105851948_o.j pg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xfa1/t31.0-8/1421048_10204512371465181_9125741837640729411_o.jp g
https://scontent-a-mia.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/t31.0-8/10517603_10204512224141498_8612921550951233278_o.j pg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xap1/t31.0-8/10623762_10204512224581509_406382924367842428_o.jp g
https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xap1/t31.0-8/10818314_10204512219941393_5343692161899376048_o.j pg
https://scontent-b-mia.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/t31.0-8/1517954_10204512223941493_7508919754130174082_o.jp g

RobSWVA
22 November 2014, 16:50
Looking good - saw the pics on your FB page. I'll have that other stuff in the mail for you this week Rob [:)]

Thanks Will, really appreciate all you are doing to help out, and by proxy the other guys of the forum that are helping by the pay it forward routine. By the time this is all done, I'm sure I will have some stuff to do the same with and return the favor to someone. Can't wait to get further in this

DutyUse
22 November 2014, 16:51
Lookin sweet so far! Grats on a nice build

RobSWVA
22 November 2014, 17:02
Almost forgot to pass on the word, if anyone is currently working on the upper and lower receivers part of their build, Damage Industries is currently offering the springs/pins/detents/clips kit (for both upper and lower) they have for 29.95 until 12pm Monday if you are interested or in need.

If interested, here is the FB link they just put up while I was typing up this post:

https://www.facebook.com/DamageIndustries/posts/770880142977297?notif_t=notify_me

FortTom
22 November 2014, 18:23
It appears you've got a great start to a great build. I'm also impressed that you're buying quality tools for the job at hand. Way to many hacks trying to build a rifle with a claw hammer, nail, pliars and a screwdriver.[:D] I'm also impressed that you're going to pin your gas block. I have access to a Bridgeport mill, but that can be tricky to set up, and not screw up and my vision and steady hands are not quite what they used to be, and a bud helps me out, when things get hairy, but I'm assuming you've got machining skills. If not you've got big cajones.

So, it appears that when your finished, you're going to have one ass kicking rifle. Good for you.[:D]

JHoward
22 November 2014, 18:57
I'm extremely impressed with this as well. You never know what you expect when you read "first build" in the title, but I was not disappointed. One of these Geissele hand guards are on the list of mods for my next rifle.

RobSWVA
22 November 2014, 19:34
It appears you've got a great start to a great build. I'm also impressed that you're buying quality tools for the job at hand. Way to many hacks trying to build a rifle with a claw hammer, nail, pliars and a screwdriver.[:D] I'm also impressed that you're going to pin your gas block. I have access to a Bridgeport mill, but that can be tricky to set up, and not screw up and my vision and steady hands are not quite what they used to be, and a bud helps me out, when things get hairy, but I'm assuming you've got machining skills. If not you've got big cajones.

So, it appears that when your finished, you're going to have one ass kicking rifle. Good for you.[:D]

I actually got lucky in the last Gunstruction contest and placed 4th, so alot of what you see was part of the prize pack, including the tools. I'm very thankful for having them; I know you can 'make due' with what you have around you if it comes down to it, but still happy to have the proper tools to avoid any moments of self hate and listing of four letter words, lol. As you stated, this is my first build, so not completely up to par w/ what pinning the gas block entails regarding milling and stuff like that. If it's over my head, I'll either have someone competent do it for me or just go with another option regarding the gas block. That was another part of the prize I received, so definitely not going to go into it thinking I'm supersmith when I'm new to the scene. Guess I'll just have to roll with it and make smart decisions regarding deciding if steps are something I can handle or handing it off to someone w/ some skill to do it for me

RobSWVA
22 November 2014, 19:38
I'm extremely impressed with this as well. You never know what you expect when you read "first build" in the title, but I was not disappointed. One of these Geissele hand guards are on the list of mods for my next rifle.

Yeah, since I got my hands on it I've been very happy to have received it. Mocking up my parts made me even happier with it, as it fits very nicely with what I had in my head prior to getting it. It was also very good timing when I did get it, as it seems that the M-LOK system is really exploding now regarding modular options. Had heard very little about it prior getting the ALG handguard, but that may have just been my lack of keeping up w/ newer products. Seemed that the big thing was keyhole when I first received it.

toolboxluis00200
22 November 2014, 19:45
Pics of my mock-up so far, will add more as parts come in and are put to use

https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpa1/t31.0-8/10818267_10204512221941443_1322764221862772560_o.j pg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpf1/t31.0-8/10608416_10204512370625160_8738519852105851948_o.j pg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xfa1/t31.0-8/1421048_10204512371465181_9125741837640729411_o.jp g
https://scontent-a-mia.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/t31.0-8/10517603_10204512224141498_8612921550951233278_o.j pg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xap1/t31.0-8/10623762_10204512224581509_406382924367842428_o.jp g
https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xap1/t31.0-8/10818314_10204512219941393_5343692161899376048_o.j pg
https://scontent-b-mia.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/t31.0-8/1517954_10204512223941493_7508919754130174082_o.jp g

man that is going to look sweet

FortTom
22 November 2014, 19:49
I actually got lucky in the last Gunstruction contest and placed 4th, so alot of what you see was part of the prize pack, including the tools. I'm very thankful for having them; I know you can 'make due' with what you have around you if it comes down to it, but still happy to have the proper tools to avoid any moments of self hate and listing of four letter words, lol. As you stated, this is my first build, so not completely up to par w/ what pinning the gas block entails regarding milling and stuff like that. If it's over my head, I'll either have someone competent do it for me or just go with another option regarding the gas block. That was another part of the prize I received, so definitely not going to go into it thinking I'm supersmith when I'm new to the scene. Guess I'll just have to roll with it and make smart decisions regarding deciding if steps are something I can handle or handing it off to someone w/ some skill to do it for me

Yes, pinning that gas block will require some machining on the barrel, and a jig, store bought or homemade so you'll need to get it to a very competent armorer who has a milling machine. There are several companies around that this would be a "no brainer" for, and you can probably get info on who to get to do it, it's a bit tricky to as a DIY project, and yes you will need machining skills.
But like I said, there are a bunch of companies who do this, and it's not that expensive. You've got too good of a start to try to shave a few bucks off now. However, with your gas block, you can install it without pinning it. Still, I'd want to dimple the barrel with a milling machine, vs. a drill press, as that mill will not let the drill walk, if you do it with a drill press.

That's the one step, if I were you, that I'd let a pro do. You can learn that stuff down the road.

Anyway, it looks like you're good 2 go, and won some pretty nice damn stuff to start you off with. Take your time and do it right, and try not to smile too much when you go to the range and all your buds are drooling out of both sides of their mouths.[:D]

RobSWVA
22 November 2014, 19:54
Yes, pinning that gas block will require some machining on the barrel, and a jig, store bought or homemade so you'll need to get it to a very competent armorer who has a milling machine. There are several around that this would be a "no brainer" for, and you can probably get info on who to get to do it, it's a bit tricky to as a DIY project, and yes you will need machining skills.
But like I said, there are a bunch of companies who do this, and it's not that expensive. You've got too good of a start to try to shave a few bucks off now. However, with your gas block, you can install it without pinning it. Still, I'd want to dimple the barrel with a milling machine, vs. a drill press, as that mill will not let the drill walk, if you do it with a drill press.

That's the one step, if I were you, that I'd let a pro do. You can learn that stuff down the road.

Anyway, it looks like you're good 2 go, and won some pretty nice damn stuff to start you off with. Take your time and do it right, and try not to smile too much when you go to the range and all your buds are drooling out of both sides of their mouths.[:D]

lol, yeh after reading the included info w/ the gas block and touching on a couple of youtube videos, it is definitely something that I will hand off to a competent person to help with. I'm sure the gun shop in town will either have someone there that can handle it, or direct me to their go to guy for help. I'm sure that getting this done wouldn't be a wallet breaker for a competent smith, so you are correct. I'm definitely not going to wing it and turn this gun into a turd in the process. I know when I'm out of my element, and the gas block is one of those times, even just dimpling the barrel. One video I watched just to get an idea of what is involved, the guy did the drilling completely dry the entire time. I have no machining exp whatsoever, but that just seems stupid to me, but what do I know. Thanks for the info and tips on how to proceed.

Gaspipeshooter
23 November 2014, 05:43
Congrats on winning the tool set up! I've got that same Armorer's Package and it is definitely a quality group of tools and a huge help when building ARs.

RobSWVA
23 November 2014, 13:47
Congrats on winning the tool set up! I've got that same Armorer's Package and it is definitely a quality group of tools and a huge help when building ARs.

yeah, especially the reaction rod, no worry about putting tourque on your receiver. Plus if you need to rotate the receiver upside down its a breeze.

UWone77
23 November 2014, 13:52
Rob,

Maybe I missed it, is this your first "build" or first AR?

RobSWVA
23 November 2014, 16:48
Rob,

Maybe I missed it, is this your first "build" or first AR?

Both actually; have never owned my own.

camomike
23 November 2014, 16:54
Nice looking set up so far, especially for a first.

UWone77
23 November 2014, 17:12
Interesting you would pick 300 BLK for that.

I have 1/2 dozen in 300, and I just don't shoot them all that often or as often as I'd like because the price and availability of ammo.

RobSWVA
23 November 2014, 17:21
Interesting you would pick 300 BLK for that.

I have 1/2 dozen in 300, and I just don't shoot them all that often or as often as I'd like because the price and availability of ammo.

Well, I want to be able to deer hunt with this rifle; was originally leaning to the WLV, but the cost of the barrel and availability and cost of the ammo was gonna really hamper me. When I compared the price of barrel, ammo, etc to the 300 blk, the 300 was cheaper on both barrel and ammo, as well as more readily available. I'm not going to be burning tons of ammo through it; of course I'll go out and burn through a few boxes here and there, but probably not on the level that some of ya'll go through ammo, lol. I plan on working on an addt'l URG for it (5.56 most likely) as well, but wanted to make sure I had my deer hunting covered first.

UWone77
23 November 2014, 17:38
When you throw hunting into the mix, that makes perfect sense. I would love to shoot more 300, but at a buck a round, it's painful to shoot 500 rounds on a weekend.

And you're right, you can always slap on a 5.56 upper down the road.

Gaspipeshooter
23 November 2014, 17:39
If you want cheap, readily available ammo, you could build a 7.62 x 39. Cheap, and 123-124gr. HP ammo capable of killing a deer is out there and very inexpensive, relatively speaking.

WHSmithIV
23 November 2014, 17:57
If you want cheap, readily available ammo, you could build a 7.62 x 39. Cheap, and 123-124gr. HP ammo capable of killing a deer is out there and very inexpensive, relatively speaking.

If you go to Ammoseek though you can find .300 Blackout for .51 a round in bulk of around 500 rounds. Ozark Ordinance sells 147 grain FMJ for $254.99 for 500 rounds. Add the shipping to that and it will drive the cost up some, but not by a lot. Probably around $25 more for the UPS shipping.

The 7.62 is certainly cheap, not reloadable, and you really want to use an enhanced firing pin for those Berdan primers. MGI makes a strengthened bolt since that steel cased ammo has been known to break flanges on the bolt face. Just the bolt and firing pin is $125 though. Rob and I chatted about this all. 300 Blackout is a good choice for also using for hunting. I use my Lee Enfield .303 for hunting and that British .303 does cost a little over 1.00 per round.

RobSWVA
23 November 2014, 17:57
If you want cheap, readily available ammo, you could build a 7.62 x 39. Cheap, and 123-124gr. HP ammo capable of killing a deer is out there and very inexpensive, relatively speaking.

true, and that could become a future project idea for the next top to bottom build. I guess once I get to thinking about things and coming up w/ plans, I get kinda bullheaded and set on my idea. It took Will a good bit of talking to convince me of the better choice when comparing price and availability of both the barrel and the ammo for .277 and .300 blk, lol.

FortTom
23 November 2014, 18:03
When you throw hunting into the mix, that makes perfect sense. I would love to shoot more 300, but at a buck a round, it's painful to shoot 500 rounds on a weekend.

And you're right, you can always slap on a 5.56 upper down the road. ..277 is commercially available now, and like 300 BLK it's a buck a round, so either way you're going to be shooting a lot of money up, if you only shoot 100 rounds at the range. Don't know where you live, but availability might be an issue for you also, if it's a mail order proposition it will get really expensive, fast. So the .277WLV and the .300BLK is a wash, either way you go.


If you want cheap, readily available ammo, you could build a 7.62 x 39. Cheap, and 123-124gr. HP ammo capable of killing a deer is out there and very inexpensive, relatively speaking.
I would give Gaspipes idea, a hard, second thought. Yeah, it's not as "glamorous" shooting surplus commie ammo, but I get a sense that you don't reload, and would start second guessing yourself after you run about 500 bucks of ammo down your gun in one or two settings.

I've commented before that I could tell who reloads and who doesn't. The reloaders couldn't buy 300 uppers fast enough, and non-reloaders couldn't sell them fast or cheap enough.
Anyway, do what you will, but I'd think it through, especially for a first time owner.

FT

Dstrbdmedic167
23 November 2014, 18:25
Most of the good points have already been made but I'll throw in my perspective. I reload so the WLV makes better since to me for hunting over the 300. Yes the 300 is better for subsonic but that's not my intent when hunting.

However my thought if your not planning on blasting and plan to use as a hunting rifle is to take a look at the 6.8 Yes it uses a different mag and bolt but you can buy commercial ammo for $.60-$.80 / round depending on your taste of poison(bullet) lol. S&B ammo can be had for $12.50 a box if you can get it at the right place at the right time. To me it is a much better round but that's a debate as old as 9mm vs .40 lol.

Just my thought and perspective on things, but as FT said you'll do what you want/original intent regardless of we say in the end. We all do lol...

DutyUse
23 November 2014, 18:57
Well, I want to be able to deer hunt with this rifle; was originally leaning to the WLV, but the cost of the barrel and availability and cost of the ammo was gonna really hamper me. When I compared the price of barrel, ammo, etc to the 300 blk, the 300 was cheaper on both barrel and ammo, as well as more readily available. I'm not going to be burning tons of ammo through it; of course I'll go out and burn through a few boxes here and there, but probably not on the level that some of ya'll go through ammo, lol. I plan on working on an addt'l URG for it (5.56 most likely) as well, but wanted to make sure I had my deer hunting covered first.

Is .223 illegal for deer where you live?

Gaspipeshooter
23 November 2014, 18:59
My deal with the 7.62 x39 is that ammo is available for less than $.25 a round shipped to your door. I don't feel bad at all going to the range and cranking through several mags worth of ammo. We have a range on a state wildlife area not too far from me. $24.00 for an annual pass. Usually when I go to shoot, I take a couple .223/5.56 ARs and the 7.62 x 39 upper. I even let the range guys who work for the state blast through a few mags. They enjoy trying different stuff like the 7.62 x 39. My whole point is, why build a gun if you can't afford to shoot it?

WHSmithIV
23 November 2014, 19:33
Most of the good points have already been made but I'll throw in my perspective. I reload so the WLV makes better since to me for hunting over the 300. Yes the 300 is better for subsonic but that's not my intent when hunting.

However my thought if your not planning on blasting and plan to use as a hunting rifle is to take a look at the 6.8 Yes it uses a different mag and bolt but you can buy commercial ammo for $.60-$.80 / round depending on your taste of poison(bullet) lol. S&B ammo can be had for $12.50 a box if you can get it at the right place at the right time. To me it is a much better round but that's a debate as old as 9mm vs .40 lol.

Just my thought and perspective on things, but as FT said you'll do what you want/original intent regardless of we say in the end. We all do lol...

This wouldn't make sense for him Dstrbdmedic167 for a few reasons. The package he won came with 6 Hexmags. They would be useless for 6.8. As I pointed out earlier, .300 blackout does NOT cost 1.00 a round. It can be had for .51 a round. Then there's the separate bolt issue. Since hunting where he lives is scrub forest his max range is likely to be 75 yards or less. He can build this one up in .300 Blackout then just build another upper in .223 and interchange them both without needing any extra parts - same mags, same BCG. So, this is his most economical solution to be able to use a reasonable hunting caliber - not subsonic ammo (which is more expensive) and still be able to change later on to .223 for other things.

The caliber that has taken more deer in the US than any other is the 30/30. It's not the 'best' hunting caliber, nor is a lever action saddle rifle the best hunting rifle. However it has killed more deer than any other rifle. It's a versatile and flexible rifle for what one may need it for. That's why I've carried one in my scabbard on my saddle.

It's all fine and well to want to build this or that to be the absolute best at something, but economics, terrain and other factors need to be considered also. Some of us can't afford to have a safe full of guns just for the fun of having a safe full of guns. Our guns are useful tools and designed to be flexible and useful - and they do get used.

WHSmithIV
23 November 2014, 19:39
My deal with the 7.62 x39 is that ammo is available for less than $.25 a round shipped to your door. I don't feel bad at all going to the range and cranking through several mags worth of ammo. We have a range on a state wildlife area not too far from me. $24.00 for an annual pass. Usually when I go to shoot, I take a couple .223/5.56 ARs and the 7.62 x 39 upper. I even let the range guys who work for the state blast through a few mags. They enjoy trying different stuff like the 7.62 x 39. My whole point is, why build a gun if you can't afford to shoot it?

I agree that 7.62 isn't a bad choice - I'm building my AR pistol in 7.62 for a few different reasons of my own. You have an actual range around and it costs you something to go to shoot? I go one mile to the lava rock fall that we use as a backstop around here in the mountains. The nearest actual 'range' has to be at least 80 miles from here. To test a gun, I test it in my front yard. My counterpoint would be "why build a gun just to go blast through ammo for the fun of it?" My guns are tools, not some toys for having fun. I practice most with my .45, I do practice with my other guns but less than with the .45. A couple times a year to make sure they are still sighted in. When I take one to use it, I need it to be on target. I never go blasting through ammo 'for the fun of it'. That's not what the military taught me that ammo was for. Besides, some of us just can't afford to take 300 rounds of ammo and go blast away with it for no useful purpose.

FortTom
24 November 2014, 14:00
Rob, shoot as much ammo as you can budget for. You stated that this is your first AR. How are you going to become proficient, without proper training, even if you have to buy a video and train yourself. This is an AR shooting forum, first and foremost. Yes, we all have different budgets, and have to take that into account, but throwing a box or a can out in the yard and shooting a few rounds will not make you proficient, any more than shooting 300 rounds makes your weapon a "toy", and not a serious tool. Actually that weapon can be both, used for hunting/training for self-defense, and HELL no, just because you want to run a couple of mags through it for the hell of it, doesn't make you a non-serious hobbyist of some sort.

If you ever do plan and get to take a carbine class, count on shooting up to 1000+ rounds in a 2 day course.

Many of us, who own multiple AR's, and you already seem to be heading in that direction, with your mentioning you want to build multiple uppers for variation, would be hard pressed to do any meaningful training with 4 or 5 weapons in the truck, and 1 or 2, 30 round mags loaded for them. And no matter how well you may have been trained, believe me, if you don't keep training, it's like golf, or anything else, it's use it or lose it.

Some here picture WEVO members as folks who are just plinkers, or playing with toys because we like to stay sharp, and knock the rust off of our skills, and themselves as the only folks who are serious about their weapons and only ones to consider their weapons as tools. Part of WEVO is about shooters going to the range and combining training and shooting, and considering it, no matter how physically demanding, fun.

Consider hunting. You need and want some meat, and the buck of a lifetime bursts out, literally under your own feet. (I think we've all had that happen, or those of us that hunt). Lack of training, or little training, will catch you off guard, and see your game bounding away as you fumble for the safety, because you want to save money on ammo and forego training and practice. If ammo is an issue, I believe that a good bolt action rifle would make a better rifle for hunting than an AR that you can't afford to feed. I'm not saying that's an issue for you, but just saying.

The point is, it makes no sense for posters to tell forum members you shouldn't "blast ammo", in a forum that is dedicated to people who are serious AR shooters, and would happily shoot every round of ammo they can get their hands on.

Whether doing serious training/familiarization or just blasting away for fun, it's all o.k., despite anyone's opinions. If it quits being fun for anyone, no matter if they're doing drills, taking a low light carbine class, or just seeing how tight a group they can keep while doing a mag dump, maybe a serious AR forum is not for those folks. Maybe a forum dedicated to hunting would be more suitable.

Have fun, and Happy Shooting, looks like you've got the ingredients to put together a rifle that will serve any function within it's limitations.

RobSWVA
24 November 2014, 21:30
Well, as I said before, the BLK upper I'm concentrating on is mainly for hunting. While I can use .223 in VA, I would just prefer a bigger round to make sure its an ethical kill. I wont be pumping alot of rounds out of that upper, but will be shooting it some. Plan is to work on a 5.56 URG after the build is finished, so I can use that for burning up ammo, as it will be a much cheaper option to do so regarding ammo costs. I know it may make more sense to get the 5.56 done first after that explanation, but I just want to make sure I have the core reason for the rifle done and then I can go on to the fun stuff. I understand you cant just shoot 20 rds a month and be a deadeye; I've seen some pretty fair deals on fmj for the BLK, roughly around 35 for 50 rds, give or take a few bucks, so the price of shooting it until I get the 5.56 URG finished wont be too bad, just have to not let myself go crazy and start unloading like Rambo, lol.

Plus in this neck of the woods I'm sure I am surrounded by guys that reload, so I'm fairly confident that I can work out a deal regarding getting some BLK rounds done up for me for even less than online prices; pitch em some extra powder, brass, projectiles etc on top of my own components to make it worth their while

RobSWVA
25 November 2014, 10:08
Now here I go contradicting myself. With all the black friday stuff going on, I'm slightly considering going for a 5.56 barrel first due to prices. Having a 16" melonited carbine gas thrown in your face for $99 is hard to pass up. May end up breaking away from my plan if that is still available come friday when my check hits the bank

WHSmithIV
25 November 2014, 10:23
Now here I go contradicting myself. With all the black friday stuff going on, I'm slightly considering going for a 5.56 barrel first due to prices. Having a 16" melonited carbine gas thrown in your face for $99 is hard to pass up. May end up breaking away from my plan if that is still available come friday when my check hits the bank

The first one I built was in 5.56 and that is a great price for a barrel. Don't know when hunting season is there but here it's over already for any weapon. There are a couple possibilities left, but I've already filled our tags anyway. Hunting season is likely to be over this year for you too by the time you have it finished. What twist rate is the barrel? With some rounds of more expensive ammo like 77 grain you could easily take down a deer with 5.56 and you have a year to practice with it almost. If it's 1:7 or 1:8 twist, jump on it I'd say.

FortTom
25 November 2014, 12:29
Now here I go contradicting myself. With all the black friday stuff going on, I'm slightly considering going for a 5.56 barrel first due to prices. Having a 16" melonited carbine gas thrown in your face for $99 is hard to pass up. May end up breaking away from my plan if that is still available come friday when my check hits the bank
Sounds like a plan.[:D] Then you can just take your sweet time, as budget allows, to build other uppers, while having something in your hand that you can actually shoot.[:)]

UWone77
25 November 2014, 12:39
Get one of these. 4150 Steel 16" barrel, AAC Nitride coated and comes with a gas block. $119

http://www.brownells.com/rifle-parts/barrel-parts/rifle-barrels/ar-15-m16-16-5-56-nitride-barrel-1-7-sku276000069-71313-150693.aspx?aid=10621&source=ir&cm_mmc=affiliate-_-Itwine-_-IR-_-60594

Pyzik
25 November 2014, 12:55
The more I see those rails the more I like them.

Looks like you've got a good start going.

WHSmithIV
25 November 2014, 13:13
Get one of these. 4150 Steel 16" barrel, AAC Nitride coated and comes with a gas block. $119

http://www.brownells.com/rifle-parts/barrel-parts/rifle-barrels/ar-15-m16-16-5-56-nitride-barrel-1-7-sku276000069-71313-150693.aspx?aid=10621&source=ir&cm_mmc=affiliate-_-Itwine-_-IR-_-60594

He already has a gas block UWone. It came with his win from Gunstruction.

UWone77
25 November 2014, 13:19
He already has a gas block UWone. It came with his win from Gunstruction.

Unlike you cheapskates... having extra parts if the price is right, makes no difference to me.

Nothing says you can't sell off your old parts!

Dstrbdmedic167
25 November 2014, 14:16
Unlike you cheapskates... having extra parts if the price is right, makes no difference to me.

Nothing says you can't sell off your old parts!

Agreed!! Never have enough extra parts or ammo...

camomike
25 November 2014, 16:57
PSA is letting complete 5.56 uppers go on black Friday for a song. Might be worth dropping the dime on one of them. The BCG is swappable between URGs until you can save for a dedicated one for each. Something else to consider...

Pyzik
25 November 2014, 17:09
PSA is letting complete 5.56 uppers go on black Friday for a song. Might be worth dropping the dime on one of them. The BCG is swappable between URGs until you can save for a dedicated one for each. Something else to consider...
Crossing my fingers for a 10.5 upper...

WHSmithIV
25 November 2014, 20:23
Unlike you cheapskates... having extra parts if the price is right, makes no difference to me.

Nothing says you can't sell off your old parts!

Something "oooh, that's a roll pin, gotta build it into an new gun!" ? [:D]

RobSWVA
25 November 2014, 21:28
Well, unfortunately the barrel I was eyeballing was that price only until 12pm Tues (36 hr sale), so I missed out on that. I went ahead and ordered a stock/buffer kit that Will posted to my FB page since I've got all my lower parts on the way right now. For under $50, including shipping, and getting everything for the back end that I need, I didn't wanna pass it up; pretty good deal. That way I can go ahead and finish my lower up completely. Hopefully everything will arrive by next week and I can get into finishing it up. Then all I have left is the bolt carrier, barrel, charging handle, gas tube....oh, and muzzle device. I think I have it all covered after those few things.

RobSWVA
25 November 2014, 21:34
Get one of these. 4150 Steel 16" barrel, AAC Nitride coated and comes with a gas block. $119

http://www.brownells.com/rifle-parts/barrel-parts/rifle-barrels/ar-15-m16-16-5-56-nitride-barrel-1-7-sku276000069-71313-150693.aspx?aid=10621&source=ir&cm_mmc=affiliate-_-Itwine-_-IR-_-60594

Pretty good deal there. May have to look back into it in a day or two once I know for sure what $ I have to work with after stock kit order, check deposit, and the 'honey I need...' list, lol

WHSmithIV
25 November 2014, 22:35
I took a look at that barrel UWone pointed out. It's a good deal for sure. The barrel is already grooved for the gas block pin too.

mustangfreek
26 November 2014, 02:32
Get one of these. 4150 Steel 16" barrel, AAC Nitride coated and comes with a gas block. $119

http://www.brownells.com/rifle-parts/barrel-parts/rifle-barrels/ar-15-m16-16-5-56-nitride-barrel-1-7-sku276000069-71313-150693.aspx?aid=10621&source=ir&cm_mmc=affiliate-_-Itwine-_-IR-_-60594

Damn that looks like a good deal..gas block and all...Shit..my oldest son hinted he wants a ar, so have been thinking how i could pull that off

RobSWVA
26 November 2014, 09:42
yeh, unfortunately the asshats that handle our pay deposit didnt put it through for the holiday, will probably sched it for tomorrow night/fri morn, which means there is a chance it wont show until monday...jackasses...

Gaspipeshooter
26 November 2014, 10:44
Get one of these. 4150 Steel 16" barrel, AAC Nitride coated and comes with a gas block. $119

http://www.brownells.com/rifle-parts/barrel-parts/rifle-barrels/ar-15-m16-16-5-56-nitride-barrel-1-7-sku276000069-71313-150693.aspx?aid=10621&source=ir&cm_mmc=affiliate-_-Itwine-_-IR-_-60594

Damn that's tempting to buy 1 or 6 to have around...

camomike
26 November 2014, 14:38
Primary arms has a 16" barrel for $64 right now. http://www.primaryarms.com/Radical_Firearms_16_Mid_Length_Barrel_1_7_Twist_p/rf1617m.htm?utm_source=bronto&utm_medium=email&utm_term=Radical+Firearms+16-Inch+SOCOM+Mid-Length+Barrel&utm_content=Black+Friday+Sale+at+Primary+Arms&utm_campaign=14-11-3+Black+Friday+%231

RobSWVA
26 November 2014, 16:39
Primary arms has a 16" barrel for $64 right now. http://www.primaryarms.com/Radical_Firearms_16_Mid_Length_Barrel_1_7_Twist_p/rf1617m.htm?utm_source=bronto&utm_medium=email&utm_term=Radical+Firearms+16-Inch+SOCOM+Mid-Length+Barrel&utm_content=Black+Friday+Sale+at+Primary+Arms&utm_campaign=14-11-3+Black+Friday+%231

Now that looks like a damn fine deal there. Hopefully my check deposit comes in by friday and I can jump on that one

UWone77
26 November 2014, 16:50
Primary arms has a 16" barrel for $64 right now. http://www.primaryarms.com/Radical_Firearms_16_Mid_Length_Barrel_1_7_Twist_p/rf1617m.htm?utm_source=bronto&utm_medium=email&utm_term=Radical+Firearms+16-Inch+SOCOM+Mid-Length+Barrel&utm_content=Black+Friday+Sale+at+Primary+Arms&utm_campaign=14-11-3+Black+Friday+%231

LOL.... are people able to make a barrel for under $65?!

camomike
26 November 2014, 17:37
Might be selling them a t a loss just to move product. Gun industry is tight right now. Get it while you can.

HardEight
26 November 2014, 18:04
I would imagine in bulk with the right material and labor contracts you could probably manufacture one of those for pretty cheap. That is a good deal though. But I'm not real sure about the company. Haven't heard much about them yet.

But for that price I can do my own T&E!

FortTom
26 November 2014, 18:33
Might be selling them a t a loss just to move product. Gun industry is tight right now. Get it while you can.

Wish you could convince Aimpoint of that.....[:)]

WHSmithIV
26 November 2014, 20:50
LOL.... are people able to make a barrel for under $65?!

And it's Melonite processed too!!! Holy cow!! That's one heck of a deal!

RobSWVA
26 November 2014, 21:27
And it's Melonite processed too!!! Holy cow!! That's one heck of a deal!

yep, and knowing my luck by the time my damned check shows up it will be out of stock

Computalotapus
27 November 2014, 07:23
Wish it was an 18" barrel lol

UWone77
27 November 2014, 11:38
Just keep in mind you typically get what you pay for, especially when it comes to barrels. At $65, it might be worth it to take a flier on, but just be realistic about the performance, and the possibility it may not be built to specs.

I took a flier on the AAC barrel, simply because it was from AAC. I'll report back with some shooting.

Gaspipeshooter
27 November 2014, 12:38
I took a flier on the AAC barrel, simply because it was from AAC. I'll report back with some shooting.

He who hesitates, loses. The AAC barrels at Brownell's are sold out.

RobSWVA
27 November 2014, 15:41
Yeh, I knew that the delay on my paycheck would end up screwing me on the barrel....damnit...

RobSWVA
27 November 2014, 16:02
Did a bit of searching regarding Radical Firearms and came across a forum thread about em on AR15.com talking about their product. Seems that people are pleased with their orders. Only saw one post with actual range info; stated with sub par optic and ACT trigger grouping was 2" @ 100yds, but poster said he was confident that with better optic, trigger, and more stable rest it could pull sub moa groups. That plus everyone saying that they have not experienced any operational issues under normal to moderate stress has me sold on it for the price. Plus I wouldnt think Primary Arms would stand behind a sub par product.

WHSmithIV
27 November 2014, 20:47
Did a bit of searching regarding Radical Firearms and came across a forum thread about em on AR15.com talking about their product. Seems that people are pleased with their orders. Only saw one post with actual range info; stated with sub par optic and ACT trigger grouping was 2" @ 100yds, but poster said he was confident that with better optic, trigger, and more stable rest it could pull sub moa groups. That plus everyone saying that they have not experienced any operational issues under normal to moderate stress has me sold on it for the price. Plus I wouldnt think Primary Arms would stand behind a sub par product.

It's a really good deal Rob. Jump on it. All you'll need is a mid length gas tube.

UWone77
28 November 2014, 19:41
Did a bit of searching regarding Radical Firearms and came across a forum thread about em on AR15.com talking about their product. Seems that people are pleased with their orders. Only saw one post with actual range info; stated with sub par optic and ACT trigger grouping was 2" @ 100yds, but poster said he was confident that with better optic, trigger, and more stable rest it could pull sub moa groups. That plus everyone saying that they have not experienced any operational issues under normal to moderate stress has me sold on it for the price. Plus I wouldnt think Primary Arms would stand behind a sub par product.

Did they say what kind of ammo they were using? 2 MOA isn't bad at all with bulk ammo.

RobSWVA
28 November 2014, 19:46
Did they say what kind of ammo they were using? 2 MOA isn't bad at all with bulk ammo.

I don't remember if they mentioned the ammo used or not. I'll edit this post w/ the info if it was provided...if I can find it again...


EDIT: Finally found the same posting. He showed pictures of targets as well.

1.41 @ 50 yds w/ 69 grain SMKs

1.97 @ 100 yds w/ 69 grain
2.01 @ 100 yds w/ 77 grain

That is all of the info he provided other than using an under-magnified optic and just free shooting from a bench and not using a lead sled or anything. For the price, I'm sure I will be satisfied; I'm not competition shooting or anything, just burning through rounds for fun.

Did go ahead and grab a Seekins melonited gas tube as well due to the black friday sales. for under $13, and the plain jane tube from Daniel Defense being $12, I figured what the hell, whats $0.50?

RobSWVA
28 November 2014, 20:28
Starting to worry about USPS. My springs, pins, detents, etc etc kit I ordered Monday still hasn't left Indiana where it originated from. Strange considering it was Priority Mail 2-day and picked up from shipper on Tuesday. I know the holiday may have slowed it down a bit, but I would think it would have moved at least beyond the pickup USPS location in a week. Ordered a stock/buffer kit from AR15goa on Wednesday and it has already left the Roanoke, VA USPS hub and heading this way; probably deliver tomorrow as promised, so kinda curious as to why the other order is lagging. Guess I just have to hurry up and wait [bash]

WHSmithIV
28 November 2014, 22:01
It may have moved Rob and the tracking info wasn't updated

RobSWVA
29 November 2014, 10:42
Yeh, they both came in today. Guess I just get a bit impatient when something is shipping that I am really wanting my hands on, lol

WHSmithIV
29 November 2014, 11:52
Yeh, they both came in today. Guess I just get a bit impatient when something is shipping that I am really wanting my hands on, lol

got the other package in the mail for you too Rob. Sent you the tracking number in FB

GOST
29 November 2014, 14:04
That's the way USPS likes to roll sometimes. The last time I tried tracking a package through them their site said the package hadn't been picked up, when I got home there was a note on the door where they had tried to deliver it.

WHSmithIV
29 November 2014, 14:29
That's the way USPS likes to roll sometimes. The last time I tried tracking a package through them their site said the package hadn't been picked up, when I got home there was a note on the door where they had tried to deliver it.

USPS doesn't do very good with their tracking info . It leaves the departure city, then nothing is updated until you pick it up usually.

UWone77
29 November 2014, 17:48
He who hesitates, loses. The AAC barrels at Brownell's are sold out.

Snagged 2 before they sold out. Originally, I was going to wait till the next day to finish my order, and though, I bet these sell out.


USPS doesn't do very good with their tracking info . It leaves the departure city, then nothing is updated until you pick it up usually.

Isn't that the truth? They always advertise 2 day Priority Mail, but it usually takes 3. What happens if they deliver late? Absolutely nothing.

Dstrbdmedic167
29 November 2014, 18:26
Isn't that the truth? They always advertise 2 day Priority Mail, but it usually takes 3. What happens if they deliver late? Absolutely nothing.

No kidding! I had to overnight my lower to Rainer and it took two days. Guaranteed delivery or your money back... Well went back and forth with them and they said because I didn't take it to them before 3:30 they couldn't guarantee...

RobSWVA
4 December 2014, 10:22
Well, have gotten a bunch of black friday grabs in the mail this week; springs, pins, detents kit, stock/buffer kit, barrel and gas tube, and parts sent by will via the generosity of ya'll sending him more stuff than he needed. Will be able to get my lower completely finished up and my upper mounted w/ my barrel and handguard hopefully (gotta get access to a vise to put that reaction rod to use). Sucks living in an apt, nowhere to work on things when anything other than hand tools is needed. will follow up w/ some updated pics when I'm finished up. Thanks goes out to all of the guys being generous and paying it forward, would be way behind the ball on this without it. Guess it looks like after the holidays before I can finish this build up; between finishing xmas shopping for kids and work closing down for 2-3 wks during the holidays, it's not likely that the remaining parts are gonna be on the shopping list until after the new year :(

Gaspipeshooter
4 December 2014, 10:30
What are you still needing to finish it up?

RobSWVA
4 December 2014, 10:35
ummmm....flash hider/comp, forward assist, charging handle, bolt carrier and cam pin....think thats it. May go ahead and grab a basic cleaning kit so i can get my barrel prepped before I mount it. Luckily those arent that expensive, may go ahead and pick one up this weekend if its under 20 and get a better kit later on.

Gaspipeshooter
4 December 2014, 10:49
What caliber barrel did you end up going with?

RobSWVA
4 December 2014, 10:52
I grabbed a 5.56 since it was a really good price. Will work on a BLK upper over the summer for hunting season next fall, since I wasn't going to get it done in time this year

RobSWVA
12 December 2014, 22:48
Well, I got the lower put together finally. Also temp-assembly on the upper,barrel and handguard, that way I could get a good idea of what the finished product will look like.

https://scontent-a-atl.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfp1/t31.0-8/p480x480/1801190_10204640562149868_1838379968635236128_o.jp g

On a side note, Trinity Force sucks. I ordered a stock/buffer tube kit from AR15GOA (no mention from them of the manufacturer by the way) during the black friday sales; it was going to be a temporary set-up until I had more money to buy a nice quality stock, but expected something at least worth my $. First time I shouldered the damn thing, the locking mech on the stock broke and now it just falls the hell off the gun, hence sitting on the floor in the picture. On top of that, after mounting the buffer tube it still has like 2" of threads visible. Oh, and it wont accept an after market end plate because the alignment tooth groove is too narrow. I know you get what you pay for, but damn, for 40 + shipping I expected a little more than something an airsoft fanboy would laugh at. Learning experience absorbed, and to hell w/ Trinity Force

RobSWVA
12 December 2014, 22:53
So now all that is left to pick up is bolt carrier, flash hider, and charging handle. Ran across a Black Rain Ordnance forward assist on eBay for like $11 and free shipping the other day, so went a head and grabbed that. Due to work shutting down from the 22nd-5th, guess I'll have to postpone tying this up until after the new year :(

Being underfunded sucks, lol

RobSWVA
1 March 2015, 23:12
Been neglecting this thread, so here is my update. All that is left is to pick up a BCG in the near future. Got lucky with Stickman's giveaway and picked up the Battlecomp 1.0, bought a BCM Gunfighter charging handle a couple weeks ago, and just ordered my Mission First Tactical Battlelink minimalist stock Friday and it's supposed to be here by end of week.

This is the most recent pic I currently have

https://scontent-atl.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfp1/t31.0-8/10506592_10205091929753776_5736664293804825276_o.j pg

UWone77
1 March 2015, 23:15
Is the BattleComp on hand tight?

Cause it's upside down.

RobSWVA
1 March 2015, 23:27
lol, yeah at that time it was, I was just mocking it up for a picture. since then I have wrenched it on in the proper 6 o'clock position.

RobSWVA
1 March 2015, 23:35
lucked into a great deal on a cleaning kit through my friend at work who is a CPL in the local reserve unit (760th Engineering Co). They lucked into some free gear when they went on a pickup run due to the gear never being picked up by the Company that placed the order, so for 50 I'm getting a Gerber M4/M16 kit like the one below. Hell of a deal

http://www.gunsamerica.com/userimages/119171/901392024/wm_6573417.jpg