
Ar 15 Built: A Comprehensive Guide for Aspiring Gun Enthusiasts
Building your own AR-15 rifle can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Not only does it give you a sense of accomplishment, but it also allows you to customize your firearm to your specific needs and preferences. In this article, we will delve into the various aspects of building an AR-15, from selecting the right components to assembling and testing your finished product.
Choosing the Right Parts
When it comes to building an AR-15, the first step is to choose the right parts. Here are some key components you’ll need:
Component | Description |
---|---|
Receiver | The receiver is the frame of the rifle and houses the trigger group, bolt carrier group, and magazine. It comes in two types: mil-spec and commercial. |
Bolt Carrier Group (BCG) | The BCG is responsible for cycling the action of the rifle. It includes the bolt, firing pin, and gas key. |
Barrel | The barrel determines the rifle’s caliber and length. Common barrel lengths are 16″, 18″, and 20″ for .223/5.56 rounds. |
Handguard | The handguard protects the barrel and allows for mounting accessories like optics, lights, and lasers. |
Stock | The stock provides a comfortable and secure grip for the shooter. There are many types of stocks available, including collapsible, fixed, and telescoping. |
Trigger | The trigger is the mechanism that releases the BCG and fires the rifle. There are many trigger options available, ranging from mil-spec triggers to high-end competition triggers. |
Magazine | The magazine holds the ammunition and feeds it into the chamber. There are various magazine options available, including standard, high-capacity, and specialized magazines. |
When selecting these components, consider your intended use for the rifle. For example, if you plan to use it for hunting, you may want a heavier barrel and a more comfortable stock. If you plan to use it for competition, you may want a lighter barrel and a high-end trigger.
Assembling the AR-15
Once you have all the necessary components, it’s time to assemble the rifle. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
- Install the barrel into the receiver. Make sure it is properly aligned and secured.
- Install the bolt carrier group into the receiver. Ensure that the gas key is properly seated and secured.
- Install the handguard onto the barrel. Most handguards have a quick-detach system that allows for easy removal and installation.
- Install the stock onto the receiver. Most stocks have a QD (quick-detach) system that allows for easy removal and installation.
- Install the trigger group into the receiver. Make sure the trigger is properly seated and secured.
- Install the magazine into the magazine well. Ensure that it is properly seated and secured.
- Install the bolt into the bolt carrier group. Make sure the bolt is properly seated and secured.
- Install the bolt carrier group into the receiver. Ensure that the bolt is properly seated and secured.
- Install the charging handle onto the bolt carrier group. Make sure it is properly seated and secured.
After assembling the rifle, it’s important to test it to ensure that it is functioning properly. Load a magazine with ammunition and cycle the action to check for any malfunctions. If everything is working correctly, you can now enjoy your custom-built AR-15 rifle.
Customizing Your AR-15
One of the great things about building your own AR-15 is the ability to customize it to your liking. Here are some popular customization options:
- Optics: Mounting a scope, red dot, or holographic sight