Need opinion/suggestion on a budget AR10 build

[ichigo]

Happy New Year everyone,

I'm currently contemplating in building a budget AR10 for non-competition shooting. I would like to be able to shoot it in a standing and with a bipod and achieve a 1-2 inches MOA groupings. Currently, I have some parts that I came up (not complete) after doing some research and would need your opinion/suggestion on the barrel and BCG, which I have only little to no experience on the subject. Please check my currently parts list for my budget build

Thanks

 

[RidiculousMetacarpus]

So for accuracy on ARs, what matters is the barrel, that it's free floated, YOU, ammo, and the trigger. The rest doesn't matter that much (so long as it's all torqued right and at the minimum spec obviously). Some argue that the bling bolts (i.e. from JP) make a difference. Ive yet to see an empirical test, only mere theory.

I say as long as it's a new bolt that meets minimum specs (which it ought to be anyways if they're in business), you're just as fine as the rest. The carrier by itself makes no difference in mechanical accuracy.

Literally any Faxon will be near 1MOA with factory match ammo, from their pencil budget barrels to their "match" line (experience, plus skimming over the years on ar forums). I have heard mixed thoughts on BA, but i would expect <2 minutes with match ammo if you do your part.

Dont overthink the BCG.

 

[AustinTheDieselTech]

BA gaurantees 1MOA with match ammo with their premium barrels. If you dont get that result, send the barrel back to them and if there is fault in the barrel, they will send you a new one.

 

[BCP]

If you can spend say 1500 bucks then get the larue kit rifle with a medium or light 16" barrel or find a used PWS mk214 or 216.

 

[ichigo]

Thank you for responding to my inquiry regarding my project which make a lot more easier which to route to take on the barrel. I was reading the build tread in the room and most of the builds are way....y out of my league. Some of the build that I saw, just by the price of there barrel alone is already 3/4 of my budget but the toy(s) that they have are nice . My current plan is to piecemeal the parts and hoping to finish it within 6-12 months, if budget approves.

Faxon or BA - barrel
Toolcraft - BCG.

 

[DaleGribble82]

Piecemeal them and remember buy once cry once. The most expensive shit isn’t always the best, just do your research and ask questions. A lot of great knowledge here on the forum and plenty of members that are happy to help you along the way. As stated above the barrel and trigger are of the upmost importance when building an AR platform rifle.

 

[DaleGribble82]

If you can spend say 1500 bucks then get the larue kit rifle with a medium or light 16" barrel or find a used PWS mk214 or 216.

Could also get a MK12 PRI upper for around that price range.

 

[DaleGribble82]

Could also get a MK12 PRI upper for around that price range.

As you were, we are talking AR-10s disregard my last post. I’ve got a MK12 build boggling my brain lately.

 

[femadog]

Why not just get a Palmetto State Armory rifle, or one of their uppers and a DIY lower? Or one of their lowers if you want to mix and match. Mine shot right around a minute right out of the box with factory ammo. Under $700 and you don't need to buy all the tools to build it properly or worry about stuff working together. I was going to build one and finally figured I couldn't do it any cheaper for that level of gun. I also have my Seekins I use for competition but the PSA is no slouch.

Just a thought.

 

[ichigo]

Yup, that is one of the options in the table if I can't get parts and build price within $800 price range. I'm planning to buy the parts when they are on sale or find a good deal. I saw a post from somebody that they get the PSA gen 2 (complete upper and lower separate) at an affordable price. Which leads me to envisage that will be able to own one when budget permits without causing to much trouble to CiC. At the same time, since I'm new to the AR platform, this will give me the opportunity to learn the nooks and crannies of the platform and might be useful for me in the future if some issue arises.

 

[femadog]

Just another thought, are you fixed on a 308? You can buy/build a 6.5 CM for the same money and have a better shooting rifle that is capable of 1,000 yards. Ammo cost is similar if you shop around. Or buy an additional upper and use the same lower. 2 guns in one (unfortunately 2 scopes too.....if you go that route.

 

[waccamawscout]

Been hearing the PSA rifles are getting descent accuracy

 

[Ghogs Nightmare]

I did the low end PSA an upgraded to a freefloat and ditched the block, it does moa with my handloads and ssa "match." A friend bought their higher grade and it does decent as well, i think it would suit your needs just fun

let us know how ya make out

 

[DaleGribble82]

Just gotta make sure we keep OP on the right track, I think he’s fairly new to the game and probably is not a hand loader at this time. So accurate, functionality with factory ammunition is probably optimal for OP. Correct me if my assumption is incorrect ichigo.

 

[padom]

See my 308 AR10 Budget Build review thread. This gun was very accurate and reliable. You can save some money with the Toolcraft BCG which I love and a different handguard.

http://www.snipershide.com/shooting/threads/budget-308-ar10-sub-3-4moa-build-thread.6546011/

 

[DaleGribble82]

See my 308 AR10 Budget Build review thread. This gun was very accurate and reliable. You can save some money with the Toolcraft BCG which I love and a different handguard.

http://www.snipershide.com/shooting/threads/budget-308-ar10-sub-3-4moa-build-thread.6546011/

Awesome post padom glad you pasted this link.

 

[ichigo]

DaleGribble82,

Your assumption is 100% correct. Very new, just recently joined the Lego for the big boys club.

Femadog,

After reading a few post about 6.5 CM, it's very enticing and kindda hard to pass on. If not only due to the price, availability of the ammo, and have to knowledge/experience in loading, I would switch to 6.5 CM. The CM offer more cabality with regards to BC and bullet flight characteristics. For now, I think it's much safer for me to stay with 308 then probably along the way will swap the barrel to a 6.5 CM.


Padom,

Thanks for sharing your build, it will useful to serve as my guide for my build or might just copy it if budget permits.

 

[Landon4]

I’m running a 24” ballistic advantage in 6.5 creedmoor it’s their fluted version and I’ve had good results with it, I’ve gone out to 1000 and 1200 yds consistently

 

[ichigo]

Femadog/Landon4,

Where do you guys buy your 6.5CM ammo? The cheapest that I can find is 67 cents / round (125 grain).

 

[The DFC]

IMO-since the barrel life on a 6.5 creed is less than a .308-I pretty much only shoot primo 6.5 ammo in it. For my 308-I have an LMT MWS with an 1:11,25 barrel that shoots everything from old ball ammo up to the good stuff well. I guess what I'm trying to say is the 6.5cm is not a cheap ammo caliber and the 308 can be. Just another thing to consider among the many other things.

Besides-the 308 is the Lord's caliber

 

[Landon4]

All I’ve ever shot out of mine is hornady eld match 140 and 147 grain it’s quite a bit more than .67 a round, I can get a box for around $26, it’s not cheap but I really like the 6.5 creedmoor and it’s still cheaper than a lot of other calibers some people are shooting, I’m in the process of building a bolt gun in the same caliber

 

[femadog]

Same as Landon4 but I only bought enough to get cases for handloading. The Hornady works for what I do (tempted to get Lapua cases but I have my 6.5x47 rifle for serious stuff) I hardly ever shoot factory except to get brass and break in a barrel. Target Sport USA has deals on case lots.

If you're staying under 600 yards 308 is fine but don't expect accuracy with inexpensive ammo. It's possible but not common. If you go 308 , you can get deals on 175 Federal GM on sale from PSA. I also saw some Sig OTM ammo at a good price.

 

[Landon4]

Same as Landon4 but I only bought enough to get cases for handloading. The Hornady works for what I do (tempted to get Lapua cases but I have my 6.5x47 rifle for serious stuff) I hardly ever shoot factory except to get brass and break in a barrel. Target Sport USA has deals on case lots.

If you're staying under 600 yards 308 is fine but don't expect accuracy with inexpensive ammo. It's possible but not common. If you go 308 , you can get deals on 175 Federal GM on sale from PSA. I also saw some Sig OTM ammo at a good price.

I agree with you on all this and I too plan to reload the 6.5 as I’ve been collecting all my brass

 

[Howland]

If you decide on the PA10, getting an upper with a free float rail and adjustable gas block are almost a requirement, especially if you plan on heavier bullets. Mine shoots 147-155 surplus about 2 MOA but is way overgassed for 178s, even with modest loads using standard (4064 & 4895, not too slow) powders. Besides, 2 MOA just doesn't cut it with me.

 

[ichigo]

update, just pulled the trigger in buying the first piecemeal for my build. I went with Aero parts and will be deciding on which path should be next.


Aero Precision upper/lower set
Aero Precision hand guard
Aero Precision LPK
Aero Precision charge handle

--> next is
Aero Precision BCG
Aero Precision M5 .308 RIFLE BUFFER KIT (no stock)

or

BA .308 AR DPMS Style 20" Bull Barrel

 

[DaleGribble82]

update, just pulled the trigger in buying the first piecemeal for my build. I went with Aero parts and will be deciding on which path should be next.


Aero Precision upper/lower set
Aero Precision hand guard
Aero Precision LPK
Aero Precision charge handle

--> next is
Aero Precision BCG
Aero Precision M5 .308 RIFLE BUFFER KIT (no stock)

or

BA .308 AR DPMS Style 20" Bull Barrel

Good selection on the Aero builders kit. I just built an SPR with a builder set from them and it’s been great. Let’s talk internals and barrel? What’s the budget, and how accurate do you want to be with this thing. Also selecting a trigger is important and not a place to scrimp. Highly recommend Geissele, but there are other amazing options on the market to choose from.

 

[whatsupdoc]

Anyone using the rubber city armory 308/6.5 bolt carrier?

 

[DaleGribble82]

Anyone using the rubber city armory 308/6.5 bolt carrier?

Someone on the forum was discussing the use of their Rubber City Armory BCG in a gas gun yesterday. If you search Rubber City Armory you may be able to find it. I just can’t remember the exact thread it was.

 

[padom]

Rubber City BCG's are top notch. I have many

 

[ichigo]

Right now, I'll probably stick with the LPK that I got then probably upgrade the FCG in the future. Was researching for a mid-prize barrel that will be able get a 1 moa group @ 500+ yards. I'm torn between a HBAR or Bull barrel. What is a decent rifle stock below $80.

 

[DaleGribble82]

Right now, I'll probably stick with the LPK that I got then probably upgrade the FCG in the future. Was researching for a mid-prize barrel that will be able get a 1 moa group @ 500+ yards. I'm torn between a HBAR or Bull barrel. What is a decent rifle stock below $80.

Well what particular company are you looking at to decide between barrels?

 

[ichigo]

The barrels that I found are both from Ballistic Advantage - DPMS 20".

 

[DaleGribble82]

The barrels that I found are both from Ballistic Advantage - DPMS 20".

Not a bad choice at all. Especially with your budget in mind.

 

[AZgeek]

I recently built an AR10 with quality components, exception being the barrel. Went with a BA 18" .308 Heavy Profile Rifle Length Fluted AR 308 Barrel, Premium Series but have been underwhelmed in the accuracy department. Shoots under 2 MOA with ball, mixed results with hand loads but consistent 1 MOA groups has been a challenge.

 

[DaleGribble82]

I recently built an AR10 with quality components, exception being the barrel. Went with a BA 18" .308 Heavy Profile Rifle Length Fluted AR 308 Barrel, Premium Series but have been underwhelmed in the accuracy department. Shoots under 2 MOA with ball, mixed results with hand loads but consistent 1 MOA groups has been a challenge.

Good to know.

 

[AZgeek]

In all fairness to BA, it looks great, functions great with the exception of some very sharp feed ramps. Need to spend more time with it to see how much of this is if its me contributing to the results. Got about 700 rounds through it so it should be broken in at this point.

 

[Potss]

Get a Criterion barrel, they are exceptional value and much more likely to provide sub-moa than BA.

 

[ichigo]

Almost done with all the part for the build but I need help on the Armorer wrench/tool to buy. Will the AR-15 armorer tool will work on the Aero upper (M5E1) that have a barrel nut pics below or I need to buy a armorer tool for 308.

I'll probably go with BA 20" heavy profile instead of a bull barrel to shave about 1/2 pound in weight. Any opinion if a BA 18" fluted heavy barrel will be better, it's about $70 more but it's 1 pound lighter compared to the 20" HBAR.

 

[hstambaugh]

As someone who literally just finished one today I can tell you one important thing. Don't think about cost as much as putting the rifle you want together. The price difference won't be huge. A 308 can be built for less than a 6.5 but if you aren't already set up for 7.62 the 6.5 is worth considering. I used a BA barrel and Toolcraft bolt. If you go that route get a nitrided bolt rather than NIB. Other than that get ready to learn some stuff. The payoff will be worth it.

 

[ichigo]

Thanks for the advance, I bought the Aero black nitride BCG since the nickel boron is a few $ more expensive. For now, building a 308/7.62 but down the road when I get some funds and learn how to re-load, i'll probably buy 6.5 CM barrel.