Spec my guns: How would you build a dream AR-15

[LilGucci]

In 2023, I intend to build 4 AR-15s, and I would like a little help planning out the parts I'm going to have to buy, as well as the strategy for each gun. Three of the rifles will be in 556, including one that will be a Recce/SPR, and one that will be an SBR, while the fourth will be in 6mm. I've thought about 6.5 Grendel but I think 6mm Arc has everything that I'd want anyways. So two SPR/Recce rifles (one in 556, one in 6mm arc), an SBR, and a regular general-purpose do-it-all rifle.

I'm really new to guns so I don't fully know what I'm doing, so forgive me if these Frankenstein builds look jarring, gaudy, or cringe; I'm learning as I go along. I'm open to suggestions, parts lists, advice, recommendations, and inspiration for how I should approach or strategize a build. I'm just offering what I'm thinking will go into my own builds, feel free to offer your own builds so I can study them and possibly incorporate them into my own planning.

Rifle 1: 556 16" General Purpose / Do-it-all
Uses: Home Defense, Target shooting, Survival/Camping
Total Budget: $2800 (not including optic)
Optic: Acog, Red Dot
Frame/Handguard/Receiver: Radian Builder Kit $1200
Featured Parts: Radian Vertex Trigger $250, Proof 16" Barrel $900, LMT BCG $450, JP Gas System $100, Stock $50

Rifle 2: 556 12.5" Short Barrel Rifle
Uses: Home Defense, CQB Training, Survival/Camping
Total Budget: $2800 (not including optic)
Optic: Aimpoint T2 Red Dot, Eotech Magnifier
Frame/Handguard/Receiver: Radian Builder Kit $1200
Featured Parts: Geissele SD3G Trigger $250, Daniel Defense 12.5" Barrel $400, JP BCG $400, Superlative Gas System $100, Maxim Defense Stock $500

Rifle 3: 556 18" Recce Rifle
Uses: Target Shooting, Survival/Camping
Total Budget: $3400 (not including optic)
Optic: Khales K18i LPVO
Frame/Handguard/Receiver: Noveske Lower + Noveske Complete SPR Upper ($2200)
Featured Parts: Triggertech Trigger $250, RCA BCG $200, Magpul PRS Lite stock $100

Rifle 4: 6mm Arc 20" SPR
Uses: Long Range, Hunting
Total Budget: $3200 (not including optic)
Optic: Vortex or Nightforce Scope
Frame/Handguard/Receiver: Radian Builder Kit $1200
Featured Parts: Timney Talon Trigger $250, 20" Shilen Barrel $600, Sionics BCG $200, Seekins Gas system $100, Magpul PRS stock $250

*Not included in builds are my compensator (which I haven't decided yet), lower parts kits, furniture, buffer tubes, and buffer.

 

[Runnineh]

Your "do it all" and "recce" are pretty much one in the same. 2 inches doesn't buy you that much. That said, send it, the more the better, especially if you can afford it.

 

[LilGucci]

Your "do it all" and "recce" are pretty much one in the same. 2 inches doesn't buy you that much. That said, send it, the more the better, especially if you can afford it.

That's good to know. The Noveske SPR complete upper comes I think in 18-inch only, but that opens up my options to buy other Noveske Uppers for the same price.

I guess the primary differences will be optics then, have one with an Acog and one with an LPVO.

 

[_Windrider_]

The 18” one you could buy a MK12 from PRI for almost half the cost. Even better all you need is one lower for all those rifles, maybe two (one SBR and one non). Just build a bunch of uppers

 

[alamo5000]

I went through something like this years ago when I built my first AR. The approach of thinking about what role a gun will play is a good thing to start with.

My advice is to not do 4 rifles, especially as a new guy. You can get 4 receiver sets, that's fine but you are biting off more than you can chew by doing so many at once.

For example if you are building a SBR for CQB type shooting you will definitely want to learn as much as you can about CQB before you just throw something together that may not make sense.

Everything from how to use a sling (which will dictate where and how the sling is mounted, as well as what kind of sling) is a topic all it's own.

Same thing for lights and how to use them. There are classes out there just on how to use a light. You even have classes for light useage for handguns vs rifles, as well as for using lights inside vs outside.

Those are just a couple of examples. But you will benefit a lot from learning more about the discipline you are looking into before you just hobble something together. It might be made out of 100% pure unicorn horn but it might not make sense even though it has extra special components.

Everything from optics to stock selection all matter.

Long story short, slow down and build one at a time. It will pay off in the end.

 

[Kadams1563]

Ok so this is what I would do.

SBR one lower of choice. Go shorter than 12.5. Go 11.5. Pick which muzzle device you want for what suppressor you’re wanting to use. Vltor or something similar receiver extension, A5H2, Geissele trigger, red dot. 10.75” handguard.

Do all rifle. 13.7 build very similar to SBR. Could do a LPVO. 13” handguard.

SPR 18” now move up to a variable optic 4-12 or 2.5-10.

I use the same triggers, SLR gas blocks, LMT bolts, and Sionics or SOLGW bolts, A5 RE, and A5H2’s. The only differences are barrels for the most part.

 

[davsco]

finally not someone trying to buy an awesome match-grade gun for $499...

for that coin, i'd have JP Rifles build you a couple to your specs. that said, it is fun to spec out each and every part and throw it all together.

 

[Jsp556]

Cut it down to two 5.56 guns.
Buy a shitload of good ammo and spare parts.
Take some classes.
Shoot a lot.
Take another class.

Unless you’re hunting, shooting comps, or shooting further than 77gr TMK’s will take you, the 6Arc isn’t benefiting you. If you want more than 5.56 capability, get a large frame from a reputable mfg. LMT, KAC, JP, DD, Seekins, ADM, Armalite, Larue, etc. all make good to great large frames.

A 20” steel barreled 6Arc will be longer and weigh just as much or more than a 16” 308 or 6.5 Creedmoor. The large frame mags are more reliable than the Arc/Grendel mags.

Just my opinion.

 

[Naaman]

I can't comment on all the different builds you want to do, but for the general purpose and SBR, I would recommend doing at least one of those with a heavier trigger than the Geissele. A polished/upgraded mil spec trigger such as the ALG or Centurion Arms or BCM trigger is a nice start. You may end up preferring the Geissele in the end, but the financial commitment for a heavier trigger to try out isn't outrageous.

In my experience, a lighter trigger may not be appropriate for a self-proclaimed beginner on a self defense weapon. Even more advanced shooters such as Kyle Lamb recommend something a little heavier for self defense/general purpose.

The video talks about single vs. two-stage, but the point he's making is that a 4-pound 2-stage can result in "doubling." The Geissele single stage is lighter than 4 lbs. so it may be even more prone to something like that.

 

[LilGucci]

The 18” one you could buy a MK12 from PRI for almost half the cost. Even better all you need is one lower for all those rifles, maybe two (one SBR and one non). Just build a bunch of uppers

I see them for sale for around $1600 which is around the same price as the Noveske I'm planning to get. I'll watch more Youtube videos to get a general idea of the MK12, it looks very interesting, I could still buy it as an extra upper to keep around.

I live in a state (Oregon) where I do not trust that long-term I will get to purchase more AR-15 parts. The general aim of those who want to restrict my 2A rights is to make it as hard as possible to be a gun owner in the state, even if the measures they pass do not improve overall public safety. I even see a day when those of their ilk will make gun parts illegal, or make it difficult to get them from online platforms. Like California, they will make every attempt to make being a firearm owner as much of a hassle as possible, so while I have the means to purchase and build these firearms, I will do so even if it means I have one-too-many AR-15's that are over-redundant in the purposes they serve. Plus, I already have the 4 lowers (plus a PSA complete lower I bought as backup).

But definitely, uppers are something I am looking to add to my inventory, especially fully-built uppers such as a BCM, possibly a Larue, and a Geissele Super Duty. Now, I might have to add the MK12. I'll definitely be looking into reviews of them.

 

[LilGucci]

Ok so this is what I would do.

SBR one lower of choice. Go shorter than 12.5. Go 11.5. Pick which muzzle device you want for what suppressor you’re wanting to use. Vltor or something similar receiver extension, A5H2, Geissele trigger, red dot. 10.75” handguard.

Do all rifle. 13.7 build very similar to SBR. Could do a LPVO. 13” handguard.

SPR 18” now move up to a variable optic 4-12 or 2.5-10.

I use the same triggers, SLR gas blocks, LMT bolts, and Sionics or SOLGW bolts, A5 RE, and A5H2’s. The only differences are barrels for the most part.

This is very interesting. Any reason for doing all rifles (except for SPR) at such a short barrel length? Especially in 556? What has your experience been with SBR's? Is it that they're easier to carry around and maneuver around with?

I like that you like LMT and Sionic bolts. I have yet to try out SOLGW bolts though, I will look up some reviews. I appreciate the variable optic advice!

 

[nn8734]

I see them for sale for around $1600 which is around the same price as the Noveske I'm planning to get. I'll watch more Youtube videos to get a general idea of the MK12, it looks very interesting, I could still buy it as an extra upper to keep around.

I live in a state (Oregon) where I do not trust that long-term I will get to purchase more AR-15 parts. The general aim of those who want to restrict my 2A rights is to make it as hard as possible to be a gun owner in the state, even if the measures they pass do not improve overall public safety. I even see a day when those of their ilk will make gun parts illegal, or make it difficult to get them from online platforms. Like California, they will make every attempt to make being a firearm owner as much of a hassle as possible, so while I have the means to purchase and build these firearms, I will do so even if it means I have one-too-many AR-15's that are over-redundant in the purposes they serve. Plus, I already have the 4 lowers (plus a PSA complete lower I bought as backup).

But definitely, uppers are something I am looking to add to my inventory, especially fully-built uppers such as a BCM, possibly a Larue, and a Geissele Super Duty. Now, I might have to add the MK12. I'll definitely be looking into reviews of them.

With the money you’re talking about spending, Id buy an SR15 with a bbl length of your choice (id personally do an 11.5” for all purpose use) and build a mk12 or similar type spr. Spend the rest on optics/mounts and spare parts like barrels, bolts, springs, gas keys, triggers, misc shit).

Eta: if a kac is not readily available id buy an lmt.

 

[FCS]

….The video talks about single vs. two-stage, but the point he's making is that a 4-pound 2-stage can result in "doubling." The Geissele single stage is lighter than 4 lbs. so it may be even more prone to something like that.

LaRue MBT (2 stage trigger) is dang hard to beat for the $.
Shot a LOT of rounds in many calibers, large and small frame, never have had a double.

I’ve also got HS NM Geissele triggers that are set lighter than the LaRue MBT, have yet to get a double.

Bang for buck, I’d run LT MBT 2 stage triggers.

 

[LilGucci]

Cut it down to two 5.56 guns.
Buy a shitload of good ammo and spare parts.
Take some classes.
Shoot a lot.
Take another class.

Unless you’re hunting, shooting comps, or shooting further than 77gr TMK’s will take you, the 6Arc isn’t benefiting you. If you want more than 5.56 capability, get a large frame from a reputable mfg. LMT, KAC, JP, DD, Seekins, ADM, Armalite, Larue, etc. all make good to great large frames.

A 20” steel barreled 6Arc will be longer and weigh just as much or more than a 16” 308 or 6.5 Creedmoor. The large frame mags are more reliable than the Arc/Grendel mags.

Just my opinion.

I am definitely building out three large-frame rifles in 2024. I have two Aero Precision lowers and an LMT lower so I'm building a Frankenstien 308 build, a 6.5 Creedmoor JP complete upper build, and build out my LMT MWS. The goal for next year is to build out 4 AR-15's, 3 Gucci Glock's, 2 22LR builds, and then focus on my 3 Bolt Action guns and 3 AR-10's in 2024.

I am pursuing the 6mm Arc route after canceling my original 300 blackout plans, I really wanted to make the 300 blackout subsonic suppressed dream become a reality but it looks like the ammo is prohbitively expensive to enjoy on a routine basis. I'll be using the 6mm Arc mostly for long-distance shooting and hunting alongside my AR-10's. Should I keep it in 556 instead of 6mm Arc and keep the hunting and long-distance shooting to my AR-10's?

That's good to know though about 6 Arc / Grendel mags. I haven't been able to find any good reviews on any of them. I heard Geissele was entering the foray but their mag is proprietary. I'm just hoping Magpul gets involved because I think they'll get it right.

I will definitely be buying a ton of ammo and taking classes on the weekends. I want to join a long-range shooting school in the summer, and a couple of CQB courses too.

 

[USK308]

In 2023, I intend to build 4 AR-15s, and I would like a little help planning out the parts I'm going to have to buy, as well as the strategy for each gun. Three of the rifles will be in 556, including one that will be a Recce/SPR, and one that will be an SBR, while the fourth will be in 6mm. I've thought about 6.5 Grendel but I think 6mm Arc has everything that I'd want anyways. So two SPR/Recce rifles (one in 556, one in 6mm arc), an SBR, and a regular general-purpose do-it-all rifle.

I'm really new to guns so I don't fully know what I'm doing, so forgive me if these Frankenstein builds look jarring, gaudy, or cringe; I'm learning as I go along. I'm open to suggestions, parts lists, advice, recommendations, and inspiration for how I should approach or strategize a build. I'm just offering what I'm thinking will go into my own builds, feel free to offer your own builds so I can study them and possibly incorporate them into my own planning.

Rifle 1: 556 16" General Purpose / Do-it-all
Uses: Home Defense, Target shooting, Survival/Camping
Total Budget: $2800 (not including optic)
Optic: Acog, Red Dot
Frame/Handguard/Receiver: Radian Builder Kit $1200
Featured Parts: Radian Vertex Trigger $250, Proof 16" Barrel $900, LMT BCG $450, JP Gas System $100, Stock $50

Rifle 2: 556 12.5" Short Barrel Rifle
Uses: Home Defense, CQB Training, Survival/Camping
Total Budget: $2800 (not including optic)
Optic: Aimpoint T2 Red Dot, Eotech Magnifier
Frame/Handguard/Receiver: Radian Builder Kit $1200
Featured Parts: Geissele SD3G Trigger $250, Daniel Defense 12.5" Barrel $400, JP BCG $400, Superlative Gas System $100, Maxim Defense Stock $500

Rifle 3: 556 18" Recce Rifle
Uses: Target Shooting, Survival/Camping
Total Budget: $3400 (not including optic)
Optic: Khales K18i LPVO
Frame/Handguard/Receiver: Noveske Lower + Noveske Complete SPR Upper ($2200)
Featured Parts: Triggertech Trigger $250, RCA BCG $200, Magpul PRS Lite stock $100

Rifle 4: 6mm Arc 20" SPR
Uses: Long Range, Hunting
Total Budget: $3200 (not including optic)
Optic: Vortex or Nightforce Scope
Frame/Handguard/Receiver: Radian Builder Kit $1200
Featured Parts: Timney Talon Trigger $250, 20" Shilen Barrel $600, Sionics BCG $200, Seekins Gas system $100, Magpul PRS stock $250

*Not included in builds are my compensator (which I haven't decided yet), lower parts kits, furniture, buffer tubes, and buffer.

Have you considered building your ‘set’ by have one, possibly two lowers the meet your needs, then build uppers/barrel that will work with the lower?

Unless you plan to use all 4 at nearly the same time, having interchangeable uppers might save some $$ and allow for ease of building!!

Just a thought!!

 

[LilGucci]

With the money you’re talking about spending, Id buy an SR15 with a bbl length of your choice (id personally do an 11.5” for all purpose use) and build a mk12 or similar type spr. Spend the rest on optics/mounts and spare parts like barrels, bolts, springs, gas keys, triggers, misc shit).

Eta: if a kac is not readily available id buy an lmt.

One of my AR-10 builds will be an LMT MWS. I'm kind of new to all of this, what is the MK12 and why is it so respected? I'll definitely have to do some research into it now because you're the second person to bring that up in this thread. Is having one SR-15 from KAC better than having 4 rifles featuring many name-brand parts? I'm definitely going to watch some SR-15 videos tonight.

 

[LilGucci]

I can't comment on all the different builds you want to do, but for the general purpose and SBR, I would recommend doing at least one of those with a heavier trigger than the Geissele. A polished/upgraded mil spec trigger such as the ALG or Centurion Arms or BCM trigger is a nice start. You may end up preferring the Geissele in the end, but the financial commitment for a heavier trigger to try out isn't outrageous.

In my experience, a lighter trigger may not be appropriate for a self-proclaimed beginner on a self defense weapon. Even more advanced shooters such as Kyle Lamb recommend something a little heavier for self defense/general purpose.

The video talks about single vs. two-stage, but the point he's making is that a 4-pound 2-stage can result in "doubling." The Geissele single stage is lighter than 4 lbs. so it may be even more prone to something like that.

This is great insight, the heavier trigger for a self-defense type purpose. The only reason for my Geissele SD3G choice was because I saw Lucas Botkin of TREX Arms running around with an SBR and he was using that trigger, but now that I think of it, I do remember him specifically saying that the Geissele might not be good in untrained hands because you'll shoot off more rounds then you intend to because of the light trigger pull.

I will definitely be watching this video tonight, thank you for the recommendation!

 

[LilGucci]

LaRue MBT (2 stage trigger) is dang hard to beat for the $.
Shot a LOT of rounds in many calibers, large and small frame, never have had a double.

I’ve also got HS NM Geissele triggers that are set lighter than the LaRue MBT, have yet to get a double.

Bang for buck, I’d run LT MBT 2 stage triggers.

I've heard a ton of praise for the MBT, it was even on sale during black Friday. I've got to take a look at it now.

 

[nn8734]

One of my AR-10 builds will be an LMT MWS. I'm kind of new to all of this, what is the MK12 and why is it so respected? I'll definitely have to do some research into it now because you're the second person to bring that up in this thread. Is having one SR-15 from KAC better than having 4 rifles featuring many name-brand parts? I'm definitely going to watch some SR-15 videos tonight.

The answers to some of those questions are dependent on the person but buying an MWS is a great decision regardless of who you are…IMO one of the two best COTS large frames, the other being the SR25 (in this case “best” means best combination of performance, reliability and value retention over time).

Id rather have one SR15 and sufficient spare parts than a thousand frankenstein rifles. The mk12 family was in service with our forces (SOCOM/USMC, etc) in the 2000s to the mid teens or so before it was phased out for HK derivatives.

 

[LilGucci]

finally not someone trying to buy an awesome match-grade gun for $499...

for that coin, i'd have JP Rifles build you a couple to your specs. that said, it is fun to spec out each and every part and throw it all together.

One of my large-frame builds will have a JP upper. I've built it in their configurator a couple of hundred times haha, I think have down what I want now.

 

[LilGucci]

The answers to some of those questions are dependent on the person but buying an MWS is a great decision regardless of who you are…IMO one of the two best COTS large frames, the other being the SR25 (in this case “best” means best combination of performance, reliability and value retention over time).

Id rather have one SR15 and sufficient spare parts than a thousand frankenstein rifles. The mk12 family was in service with our forces (SOCOM/USMC, etc) in the 2000s to the mid teens or so before it was phased out for HK derivatives.

When I was planning all of this out back in 2020, my original plan was to just buy the SR-25 complete upper and use it with my LMT lower. Since my LMT will be my last gun to build (after I build out my other two AR-10's, and 3 Bolt Action's), if I can afford it, then I will try to make that a reality, otherwise it'll just be an MWS.

I now understand why you guys respect the MK12 so much, it definitely deserves the respect it gets.

 

[Nbleak21]

I’d do the following:
1. 11.5” FBI HRT inspired sbr/pistol
2. 14.5” M4A1/REECE inspired p/w rifle
3. 18” MK12 inspired rifle
4. 8” 300 BLK pistol.

All 4 using same suppressor mounting FH/compensator (IE to run a KeyMo can such as DA Sandman K/S/L)

I know you wrote 300 BLK off, but the ammo $ justification doesn’t make sense with the coin your willing to drop on each rifle build. Far more advantage in having a sub gun compared to having 556 and 6arc.

Build a large frame as suggested above instead of 6arc.

 

[LilGucci]

I’d do the following:
1. 11.5” FBI HRT inspired sbr/pistol
2. 14.5” M4A1/REECE inspired p/w rifle
3. 18” MK12 inspired rifle
4. 8” 300 BLK pistol.

All 4 using same suppressor mounting FH/compensator (IE to run a KeyMo can such as DA Sandman K/S/L)

I know you wrote 300 BLK off, but the ammo $ justification doesn’t make sense with the coin your willing to drop on each rifle build. Far more advantage in having a sub gun compared to having 556 and 6arc.

Build a large frame as suggested above instead of 6arc.

That's a good point. I'll have to think about it. 6mm Arc or 300 Blackout... My mind says 6mm Arc but my heart says 300 blackout subsonic suppressed.

 

[LilGucci]

I went through something like this years ago when I built my first AR. The approach of thinking about what role a gun will play is a good thing to start with.

My advice is to not do 4 rifles, especially as a new guy. You can get 4 receiver sets, that's fine but you are biting off more than you can chew by doing so many at once.

For example if you are building a SBR for CQB type shooting you will definitely want to learn as much as you can about CQB before you just throw something together that may not make sense.

Everything from how to use a sling (which will dictate where and how the sling is mounted, as well as what kind of sling) is a topic all it's own.

Same thing for lights and how to use them. There are classes out there just on how to use a light. You even have classes for light useage for handguns vs rifles, as well as for using lights inside vs outside.

Those are just a couple of examples. But you will benefit a lot from learning more about the discipline you are looking into before you just hobble something together. It might be made out of 100% pure unicorn horn but it might not make sense even though it has extra special components.

Everything from optics to stock selection all matter.

Long story short, slow down and build one at a time. It will pay off in the end.

This is probably the best advice I've gotten so far. Maybe I will just build them out one at a time and get comfortable with the gun using it for its intended purpose first and make sure the entire build is thought-through first. I really want to get this right. I think I'll build out two guns first, my general purpose gun and my first recce/SPR. I'll save the SBR and the 6mm or 300-blackout build for 2024 until I've really thought both of those builds out first. I'm really new to all of this so I thank you for this advice.

 

[Kadams1563]

The reason I say shorter barrels for the GPR and the SBR is anything a 16” can can do a 13.7 can do. Stay short as possible for ease of carry and weight.

 

[alamo5000]

This is probably the best advice I've gotten so far. Maybe I will just build them out one at a time and get comfortable with the gun using it for its intended purpose first and make sure the entire build is thought-through first. I really want to get this right. I think I'll build out two guns first, my general purpose gun and my first recce/SPR. I'll save the SBR and the 6mm or 300-blackout build for 2024 until I've really thought both of those builds out first. I'm really new to all of this so I thank you for this advice.

I will add a couple of things...I am 110% behind your idea to build a 6 ARC. There are a ton of reasons why it's superior. I would not go with a large frame AR yet, if ever. I went back and forth about building a large frame AR for a really long time, and then when the 6 ARC came out, I eventually built out a really nice rifle around that. I am now glad that I went that route vs a large frame AR. For one you get 95% parts compatibility with other guns. Literally the only things not cross compatible is the bolt face, barrel and mags. Literally every other part can be swapped or cannibalized if needed in the advent of some situation that would call for that. Plus the ballistics of it are excellent, especially for what it is. It's an amazing cartridge. Another plus is you can make a small frame AR run very very reliably. That cannot always be said for a large frame AR. With a large frame AR the amount of choices and sheer availability make a lot of things a somewhat specialized item. For me, even though I only have one 6 ARC gun, I bought 3-4 bolts, just in case. I always want the ability to maintain my rifles. In a really bad situation I can gather the parts to make at least one of them run. I don't think it will get to that, but I like to plan and I really don't like proprietary parts.

Another thing I saw you post is about which one to do first. I personally would SBR however many lowers you think you might want ASAP. Even if you don't build them out immediately that would be the very very first thing I did. Get some nice lowers that you KNOW you will really like and SBR them. Yes, put your initial efforts into 'what barrel lengths' but in the end this is not critical because you can have more than one upper. None the less you will have to designate a barrel length on the paperwork. So worse case scenario you build a 10.5" upper or whatever but later on you decide you like 12.5" better. You can swap the upper without any problem (legally I mean) but most people think that you should hang on the original upper 'just in case'.

My reasoning for making that initial move is solely because you live in Oregon. No offense but the entire left coast is going to hell quickly in regards to gun rights. All the other stuff you could do/get later on. Even if you simply SBR the lowers and then build out something else initially then so be it. I would also consider getting suppressors like yesterday as well. Buy suppressors before you have the guns? Hell yes. And as far as SBRs go, I would SBR no less than two lowers. All it takes is one accident, one bad round and you can put a gun out of commission. In a worse case scenario you can swap uppers. That's a better option than going without.

Basically getting the critical things first are in my view the priority. IE get several lowers (and uppers). Even if they sit in your closet for a year or three, so be it. Personally I like matched sets. I am just OCD like that. Also the same thing is true with suppressors. Getting a suppressor or two is a rabbit hole to go down, but in the end it's not that bad. My strategy was to have no less than two suppressors for each caliber set. IE two 5.56, two .30 cal, two rimfire etc. One bad round can put one out of order so plan accordingly.

The details about exactly how to kit out a rifle will come. It will take a while but talk to people about stuff. Ask questions and watch videos showing how people clear rooms and do CQB. In a month or two of focusing you will have a grasp on the subject, at least enough to get started. That said if you ain't evolving you ain't learning. Odds are you will change some stuff up later on in the future so don't be scared to make a move. Just so long as you don't royally eff things up you will be fine.

 

[Nbleak21]

This is probably the best advice I've gotten so far. Maybe I will just build them out one at a time and get comfortable with the gun using it for its intended purpose first and make sure the entire build is thought-through first. I really want to get this right. I think I'll build out two guns first, my general purpose gun and my first recce/SPR. I'll save the SBR and the 6mm or 300-blackout build for 2024 until I've really thought both of those builds out first. I'm really new to all of this so I thank you for this advice.

Just make sure you still get your lowers ASAP w/ those OR rules coming into play!

Having built more than I have fingers and toes, everything from poverty ponies to billet builds, I’d recommend:

Ambi: LWRC (unfortunately only sold fully assembled) or close second - LMT.

Standard Forged: any of the well-reputed ones: Centurion, SOLGW, ZEV, etc.

 

[alamo5000]

Another thing I saw you post is about which one to do first. I personally would SBR however many lowers you think you might want ASAP. Even if you don't build them out immediately that would be the very very first thing I did. Get some nice lowers that you KNOW you will really like and SBR them.

A word to the wise though... get something very nice. Be choosy, but also stay away from stuff like 'Trump is my President' or skulls engraved into the lower. Basically put, once you SBR a lower it's yours for life. So think about it the same way you would about getting a tattoo or something.

You definitely don't want to be that guy with a Bon Jovi or Vanilla Ice tattoo that he got back in high school.

 

[Naaman]

LaRue MBT (2 stage trigger) is dang hard to beat for the $.
Shot a LOT of rounds in many calibers, large and small frame, never have had a double.

I’ve also got HS NM Geissele triggers that are set lighter than the LaRue MBT, have yet to get a double.

Bang for buck, I’d run LT MBT 2 stage triggers.

I've seen it happen on the range with the SSA when applying the BRM fundamentals (particularly, coming back to trigger reset to set up the next shot, that's when it tends to happen: the follow up shot comes out "early" despite the shooter's intentions to perhaps refine the sight picture or shoot through the movement, also with unorthodox shooting positions).

 

[FCS]

Rifle 4: 6mm Arc 20" SPR
Uses: Long Range, Hunting
Total Budget: $3200 (not including optic)
Optic: Vortex or Nightforce Scope
Frame/Handguard/Receiver: Radian Builder Kit $1200
Featured Parts: Timney Talon Trigger $250, 20" Shilen Barrel $600, Sionics BCG $200, Seekins Gas system $100, Magpul PRS stock $250

*Not included in builds are my compensator (which I haven't decided yet), lower parts kits, furniture, buffer tubes, and buffer.

LWRC six8 upper/lower and Pmag six8 mags would be looking at for the 6mm ARC build.
Grendel / SPC mags for "standard" receivers seem to be a bit less reliable than Pmags designed for the larger body diameter.

 

[LilGucci]

I will add a couple of things...I am 110% behind your idea to build a 6 ARC. There are a ton of reasons why it's superior. I would not go with a large frame AR yet, if ever. I went back and forth about building a large frame AR for a really long time, and then when the 6 ARC came out, I eventually built out a really nice rifle around that. I am now glad that I went that route vs a large frame AR. For one you get 95% parts compatibility with other guns. Literally the only things not cross compatible is the bolt face, barrel and mags. Literally every other part can be swapped or cannibalized if needed in the advent of some situation that would call for that. Plus the ballistics of it are excellent, especially for what it is. It's an amazing cartridge. Another plus is you can make a small frame AR run very very reliably. That cannot always be said for a large frame AR. With a large frame AR the amount of choices and sheer availability make a lot of things a somewhat specialized item. For me, even though I only have one 6 ARC gun, I bought 3-4 bolts, just in case. I always want the ability to maintain my rifles. In a really bad situation I can gather the parts to make at least one of them run. I don't think it will get to that, but I like to plan and I really don't like proprietary parts.

Another thing I saw you post is about which one to do first. I personally would SBR however many lowers you think you might want ASAP. Even if you don't build them out immediately that would be the very very first thing I did. Get some nice lowers that you KNOW you will really like and SBR them. Yes, put your initial efforts into 'what barrel lengths' but in the end this is not critical because you can have more than one upper. None the less you will have to designate a barrel length on the paperwork. So worse case scenario you build a 10.5" upper or whatever but later on you decide you like 12.5" better. You can swap the upper without any problem (legally I mean) but most people think that you should hang on the original upper 'just in case'.

My reasoning for making that initial move is solely because you live in Oregon. No offense but the entire left coast is going to hell quickly in regards to gun rights. All the other stuff you could do/get later on. Even if you simply SBR the lowers and then build out something else initially then so be it. I would also consider getting suppressors like yesterday as well. Buy suppressors before you have the guns? Hell yes. And as far as SBRs go, I would SBR no less than two lowers. All it takes is one accident, one bad round and you can put a gun out of commission. In a worse case scenario you can swap uppers. That's a better option than going without.

Basically getting the critical things first are in my view the priority. IE get several lowers (and uppers). Even if they sit in your closet for a year or three, so be it. Personally I like matched sets. I am just OCD like that. Also the same thing is true with suppressors. Getting a suppressor or two is a rabbit hole to go down, but in the end it's not that bad. My strategy was to have no less than two suppressors for each caliber set. IE two 5.56, two .30 cal, two rimfire etc. One bad round can put one out of order so plan accordingly.

The details about exactly how to kit out a rifle will come. It will take a while but talk to people about stuff. Ask questions and watch videos showing how people clear rooms and do CQB. In a month or two of focusing you will have a grasp on the subject, at least enough to get started. That said if you ain't evolving you ain't learning. Odds are you will change some stuff up later on in the future so don't be scared to make a move. Just so long as you don't royally eff things up you will be fine.

This is a ton of really good insight. I think I will SBR two lowers out of my total 5. I have three Radian lowers, a Noveske lower, and a Palmetto State lower. It's too late to buy any more lowers here in Oregon with everything taking effect on the 8th, I now wish I had 3 more Aero Precision lowers just to throw in my closet as standby and because they were really cheap. I now regret not having bought more. If there's ever a court injunction on the Oregon Law, I'll buy 4 more just to have in my closet. The focus and immediacy of my builds are correct as you stated because I live here in Oregon and I want to focus on the parts that might be difficult to get down the line.

I was planning getting 2 30 cal suppressors, 2 556 suppressors, a 9mm suppressor and a rimfire suppressor. These are now at the top of my list of items to get first before I even begin building my AR-15s. I was going to save this part of my build process for 2024 but you've elevated the urgency of moving on this aspect of my build.

As for 6mm Arc, I think I might go through with it as well as 300 Blackout by focusing on just building out competent uppers for both. I really like 6mm Arc for its barrel life compared to 308 and 6.5 Creedmoor. A 6mm Arc build can act more as a trainer gun for me to really learn the art of long-distance shooting while building out my AR-10's. Is there really any case to SBR an AR-10? I like the overall length of 16-inches for a 308 and it seems like a heavier platform plus heavier ammo to really do anything with it other than long-distance shooting and hunting.

 

[TimK]

I’d consider a LPVO, maybe with a red dot as a backup on 1 and 2. Even just 4x on a scope will improve your ability to PID a target before shooting. Might not need the magnification to hit, but you sure might to confirm it’s a valid target.

I’ve been sorting through the same thing as you for years now, and the “set” of rifles has morphed over that time. I like the advice you’ve gotten about starting with one and seeing how it goes. I’d start with the SBR. I built one with a 12” Bartlein, and it’s stunningly capable. It wears a Vortex 1-10, and it’s solid out 600-700 on a 12” plate. With a red dot back up, it’s plenty fast at across the room distances. I’d add a LAW folder to it. They then get very compact. JP now makes an SCS specifically designed to work with the LAW folder. Get the SBR right and you can likely dispense with #1.

I’d add a .22 upper to your list. I’ve tried everything and have landed on CMMG being head and shoulders above the rest. Gives you the ability to get thousands of training reps without killing expensive barrels and chewing up expensive ammo. I shoot mine a LOT. We work from 3 yards out to 100 ish with them. Gets you most everything except recoil management. As an added bonus, you can shoot steel as close as you like.

 

[LilGucci]

Just make sure you still get your lowers ASAP w/ those OR rules coming into play!

Having built more than I have fingers and toes, everything from poverty ponies to billet builds, I’d recommend:

Ambi: LWRC (unfortunately only sold fully assembled) or close second - LMT.

Standard Forged: any of the well-reputed ones: Centurion, SOLGW, ZEV, etc.

I'm locked in to the Lower selection I've already made. I wish I had bought more lowers, I'll have to pray for a court injunction or something to delay the law so that I can pick up a few more lowers. Probably Aero Precision and BCM lowers, maybe SOLGW as well.

I have not looked into Centurion or ZEV but I will definitely have a look at them now. My LMT will be a large-frame MWS build.

 

[LilGucci]

I’d consider a LPVO, maybe with a red dot as a backup on 1 and 2. Even just 4x on a scope will improve your ability to PID a target before shooting. Might not need the magnification to hit, but you sure might to confirm it’s a valid target.

I’ve been sorting through the same thing as you for years now, and the “set” of rifles has morphed over that time. I like the advice you’ve gotten about starting with one and seeing how it goes. I’d start with the SBR. I built one with a 12” Bartlein, and it’s stunningly capable. It wears a Vortex 1-10, and it’s solid out 600-700 on a 12” plate. With a red dot back up, it’s plenty fast at across the room distances. I’d add a LAW folder to it. They then get very compact. JP now makes an SCS specifically designed to work with the LAW folder. Get the SBR right and you can likely dispense with #1.

I’d add a .22 upper to your list. I’ve tried everything and have landed on CMMG being head and shoulders above the rest. Gives you the ability to get thousands of training reps without killing expensive barrels and chewing up expensive ammo. I shoot mine a LOT. We work from 3 yards out to 100 ish with them. Gets you most everything except recoil management. As an added bonus, you can shoot steel as close as you like.

I'll have to think about it. I really wanted the ACOG just to have one lol, but a LPVO with a backup red dot might make more sense. The SBR might have to come first. The law folder is something I have to consider now, it was something I wanted before seeing Lucas Botkin of TRex Arms running and gunning with one and then storing it in a backpack with the collapsing stock, I might have to take a look at it again.

Unfortunately I cannot get magazines for a 22 upper, I did not think I would build one of those so the only magazines available to me now are 10-round capacity magazines. Which might still be okay but I really want to not have to reload 22lr after every 10 rounds. Sucks to live in this state and the direction its heading in. I do have two 10/22 LR frames to build out, with 25-round BX-25 magazines, but that is not on an AR-platform.

 

[LilGucci]

LWRC six8 upper/lower and Pmag six8 mags would be looking at for the 6mm ARC build.
Grendel / SPC mags for "standard" receivers seem to be a bit less reliable than Pmags designed for the larger body diameter.

Unfortunately I only have 556 and 300 Blackout mags that are over the 10-limit capacity, future six8 mags that I purchase will have to come in a 10-round capacity limit for me to be able to purchase them here in Oregon.

 

[alamo5000]

This is a ton of really good insight. I think I will SBR two lowers out of my total 5. I have three Radian lowers, a Noveske lower, and a Palmetto State lower. It's too late to buy any more lowers here in Oregon with everything taking effect on the 8th, I now wish I had 3 more Aero Precision lowers just to throw in my closet as standby and because they were really cheap. I now regret not having bought more. If there's ever a court injunction on the Oregon Law, I'll buy 4 more just to have in my closet. The focus and immediacy of my builds are correct as you stated because I live here in Oregon and I want to focus on the parts that might be difficult to get down the line.

I think you should be good for lowers. You can go overboard on that stuff. Regardless you can pick up a lower somewhere else later on regardless of what the nazis are doing. Five lowers is plenty for now. No need to go off the deep end just yet.

I was planning getting 2 30 cal suppressors, 2 556 suppressors, a 9mm suppressor and a rimfire suppressor. These are now at the top of my list of items to get first before I even begin building my AR-15s. I was going to save this part of my build process for 2024 but you've elevated the urgency of moving on this aspect of my build.

Get two of everything. Including rimfire. Fortunately I had a few really knowledgeable people steering me so I avoided some missteps along the way. There are tons of options out there, and even more opinions on the subject but I personally like what I have, as do a whole lot of other people. To me the mounting system is ultimately the key factor. For example if you have only one rifle that accepts a specific brand of suppressor it might be a good idea to plan for continuity and cross compatibility. It might not ever need to happen, but it's a good food for thought.

As for 6mm Arc, I think I might go through with it as well as 300 Blackout by focusing on just building out competent uppers for both. I really like 6mm Arc for its barrel life compared to 308 and 6.5 Creedmoor. A 6mm Arc build can act more as a trainer gun for me to really learn the art of long-distance shooting while building out my AR-10's. Is there really any case to SBR an AR-10? I like the overall length of 16-inches for a 308 and it seems like a heavier platform plus heavier ammo to really do anything with it other than long-distance shooting and hunting.

I have two SBRs. A 10.5" 5.56 and a 9" 300BLK. I wouldn't trade either of them in if I could. It's just my opinion but the 6mm ARC is an excellent stand alone system. It's easily a 1,000 yard gun. Definitely do not look at it in terms of being a 'trainer' because it's not.

At this point for me, if I am going into bigger cartridges I will do those in bolt guns, not semi auto. The cost to shoot goes up with the caliber, especially if you are wanting some long range stuff. It's just my opinion but having a 308 and a 6.5 CM is just some dead weight. Go with the 6.5 and be done with it. If you really have money to burn get both, but to me it's not a requirement at all. Basically between those two pick one.

Not to mention the farther you want to shoot the nicer the ammo needs to be. Definitely something to consider.

In the middle of all this building of guns you still have to consider the cost to shoot everything. I am a reloader so the more variable components you need, keeping stocked up becomes a problem. If you buy ammo, what would you rather have...1000 rounds for one gun, or 100 rounds for ten guns?

Anyway my notion of skipping the large frame AR all together is something I am seemingly liking more and more. You can SBR one, but to me it's not worth doing. I am sure lots of people have them and they are fun, but just a bigger caliber in a large frame AR means you will probably buy yourself lots of problems. Again, they are not known to be the most reliable platform and again there is more than one 'pattern' so getting parts during a drought or whatever sometimes isn't an option. T-Rex Arms on YouTube recently did a 5,000 round test with a 308 AR-10...in the end it wasn't even able to complete the test.

 

[MK20]

@LilGucci

Consolidate that 18 and the 20 into one 5.56 gun especially if you are going to build a large frame gun.

Put that saved money into a good reloading setup. You will thank me.
Look at what the regs are for buying ammo in CA now.

 

[alamo5000]

@LilGucci

Consolidate that 18 and the 20 into one 5.56 gun especially if you are going to build a large frame gun.

Put that saved money into a good reloading setup. You will thank me.
Look at what the regs are for buying ammo in CA now.

It's very easy to get a case of 'the wants', but I agree. Too much overlap in shooting capability is overall not a good thing. That is unless you are the government and money is no object.

Also +1 on the reloading setup.

 

[FCS]

Unfortunately I only have 556 and 300 Blackout mags that are over the 10-limit capacity, future six8 mags that I purchase will have to come in a 10-round capacity limit for me to be able to purchase them here in Oregon.

5 & 10 rd mags are available

6.8 SPC Magazines (SIX8)

 

[_Windrider_]

I think you should be good for lowers. You can go overboard on that stuff. Regardless you can pick up a lower somewhere else later on regardless of what the nazis are doing. Five lowers is plenty for now. No need to go off the deep end just yet.

Get two of everything. Including rimfire. Fortunately I had a few really knowledgeable people steering me so I avoided some missteps along the way. There are tons of options out there, and even more opinions on the subject but I personally like what I have, as do a whole lot of other people. To me the mounting system is ultimately the key factor. For example if you have only one rifle that accepts a specific brand of suppressor it might be a good idea to plan for continuity and cross compatibility. It might not ever need to happen, but it's a good food for thought.

I have two SBRs. A 10.5" 5.56 and a 9" 300BLK. I wouldn't trade either of them in if I could. It's just my opinion but the 6mm ARC is an excellent stand alone system. It's easily a 1,000 yard gun. Definitely do not look at it in terms of being a 'trainer' because it's not.

At this point for me, if I am going into bigger cartridges I will do those in bolt guns, not semi auto. The cost to shoot goes up with the caliber, especially if you are wanting some long range stuff. It's just my opinion but having a 308 and a 6.5 CM is just some dead weight. Go with the 6.5 and be done with it. If you really have money to burn get both, but to me it's not a requirement at all. Basically between those two pick one.

Not to mention the farther you want to shoot the nicer the ammo needs to be. Definitely something to consider.

In the middle of all this building of guns you still have to consider the cost to shoot everything. I am a reloader so the more variable components you need, keeping stocked up becomes a problem. If you buy ammo, what would you rather have...1000 rounds for one gun, or 100 rounds for ten guns?

Anyway my notion of skipping the large frame AR all together is something I am seemingly liking more and more. You can SBR one, but to me it's not worth doing. I am sure lots of people have them and they are fun, but just a bigger caliber in a large frame AR means you will probably buy yourself lots of problems. Again, they are not known to be the most reliable platform and again there is more than one 'pattern' so getting parts during a drought or whatever sometimes isn't an option. T-Rex Arms on YouTube recently did a 5,000 round test with a 308 AR-10...in the end it wasn't even able to complete the test.

Your thoughts on the large frame AR are kind of naive. Quality matters in that world just like in bolt guns. While aero makes a good product I wouldn’t call it quality. I’ve built dozens of AR10’s over the years using mega, Zev, JP and have never had any issues. I’d bet any one of those would pass the almighty Botkin test, not that it means anything. Precision guns and battle rifles are two different worlds.

 

[CorgiNinja]

6arc seems promising but lack of good mags has me holding back on the caliber.

In my experience the choice of barrel drives the rest of the build. Many will argue, but for me, precision and RECCE are two separate things. Precision means more than LPVO, RECCE is more flexible and in the “do-all” category, ymmv.

Everything on my builds is there to maximize the potential of the barrel. Decide what barrel you want for each build, then ensure the rest support the job you want out of the barrel.

 

[yej0001]

Well, a "do-it-all" AR is supposed to replace all others.

 

[Jdfd556]

In 2023, I intend to build 4 AR-15s, and I would like a little help planning out the parts I'm going to have to buy, as well as the strategy for each gun. Three of the rifles will be in 556, including one that will be a Recce/SPR, and one that will be an SBR, while the fourth will be in 6mm. I've thought about 6.5 Grendel but I think 6mm Arc has everything that I'd want anyways. So two SPR/Recce rifles (one in 556, one in 6mm arc), an SBR, and a regular general-purpose do-it-all rifle.

I'm really new to guns so I don't fully know what I'm doing, so forgive me if these Frankenstein builds look jarring, gaudy, or cringe; I'm learning as I go along. I'm open to suggestions, parts lists, advice, recommendations, and inspiration for how I should approach or strategize a build. I'm just offering what I'm thinking will go into my own builds, feel free to offer your own builds so I can study them and possibly incorporate them into my own planning.

Rifle 1: 556 16" General Purpose / Do-it-all
Uses: Home Defense, Target shooting, Survival/Camping
Total Budget: $2800 (not including optic)
Optic: Acog, Red Dot
Frame/Handguard/Receiver: Radian Builder Kit $1200
Featured Parts: Radian Vertex Trigger $250, Proof 16" Barrel $900, LMT BCG $450, JP Gas System $100, Stock $50

Rifle 2: 556 12.5" Short Barrel Rifle
Uses: Home Defense, CQB Training, Survival/Camping
Total Budget: $2800 (not including optic)
Optic: Aimpoint T2 Red Dot, Eotech Magnifier
Frame/Handguard/Receiver: Radian Builder Kit $1200
Featured Parts: Geissele SD3G Trigger $250, Daniel Defense 12.5" Barrel $400, JP BCG $400, Superlative Gas System $100, Maxim Defense Stock $500

Rifle 3: 556 18" Recce Rifle
Uses: Target Shooting, Survival/Camping
Total Budget: $3400 (not including optic)
Optic: Khales K18i LPVO
Frame/Handguard/Receiver: Noveske Lower + Noveske Complete SPR Upper ($2200)
Featured Parts: Triggertech Trigger $250, RCA BCG $200, Magpul PRS Lite stock $100

Rifle 4: 6mm Arc 20" SPR
Uses: Long Range, Hunting
Total Budget: $3200 (not including optic)
Optic: Vortex or Nightforce Scope
Frame/Handguard/Receiver: Radian Builder Kit $1200
Featured Parts: Timney Talon Trigger $250, 20" Shilen Barrel $600, Sionics BCG $200, Seekins Gas system $100, Magpul PRS stock $250

*Not included in builds are my compensator (which I haven't decided yet), lower parts kits, furniture, buffer tubes, and buffer.

So it looks like you have put a lot of thought into this which is awesome! I have all sorts of different barrel lengths and AR-15 setups and if I had to start all over again with what I have learned, this is what I would do.

12.5” GPR
Rifle/Upper: ADM complete rifle or upper or LMT Specwar upper (you’d have to buy receiver, bcg, and barrel separate and put the parts together)
Optic: NF ATACR 1-8 in badger comm 1.7 with top mounted t2

16” SPR
Rifle/Upper: Cobalt receiver set with centurion recon barrel, custom CLE Bartlein, or 16” midweight CHF centurion mid length barrel (depending on rate of fire)
Optic: NF ATACR 4-16 in spuhr 4616 with top mounted t2

Use 75 or 77gr ammo and get to work.

Those 2 rifles will do pretty much everything inside of 650 yards that you may want to do. And then if you feel the need, you could add other setups to fill in capability “gaps” or to optimize each rifle as you see fit. Starting with one or 2 rifles and then training and/or dry firing ad nauseum until the rifle fees like an extension of your body. I’ve done the same thing you’ve done, building a bunch of different rifles at once, and it’s very difficult to get good with any of them because it’s tough to dedicate time to dry fire with 4 different new setups. Just my .02, hope this helps!

 

[alamo5000]

Your thoughts on the large frame AR are kind of naive. Quality matters in that world just like in bolt guns. While aero makes a good product I wouldn’t call it quality. I’ve built dozens of AR10’s over the years using mega, Zev, JP and have never had any issues. I’d bet any one of those would pass the almighty Botkin test, not that it means anything. Precision guns and battle rifles are two different worlds.

I wasn't basing my comments sheerly on quality. There are a lot of excellent AR10 platform rifles out there. For "me" though that type of setup is not as practical as other options.

I get it that lots of people want to blast big bore stuff (and they can afford the ammo cost). Absolutely nothing wrong with that if that's your goal and the budget can handle it.

But for truly having a lot longer range of precision shooting, to me a bolt gun makes more sense. I'm talking about 1k and beyond type stuff.

I'm sure an AR10 can be made to do all sorts of things but just in general I think there are better options depending on the end goal and the budget of the end user.

 

[_Windrider_]

I wasn't basing my comments sheerly on quality. There are a lot of excellent AR10 platform rifles out there. For "me" though that type of setup is not as practical as other options.

I get it that lots of people want to blast big bore stuff (and they can afford the ammo cost). Absolutely nothing wrong with that if that's your goal and the budget can handle it.

But for truly having a lot longer range of precision shooting, to me a bolt gun makes more sense. I'm talking about 1k and beyond type stuff.

I'm sure an AR10 can be made to do all sorts of things but just in general I think there are better options depending on the end goal and the budget of the end user.

1k and beyond def bolt gun. I usually don’t shoot the gassers past 800.

 

[CorgiNinja]

Well, a "do-it-all" AR is supposed to replace all others.

Haha, touche!

 

[Stugots]

Personally I would go with at least a 24" barrel on the 6ARC. Or go with a +2" on a 26...

 

[TxWelder35]

Unfortunately I only have 556 and 300 Blackout mags that are over the 10-limit capacity, future six8 mags that I purchase will have to come in a 10-round capacity limit for me to be able to purchase them here in Oregon.

can you buy mags that were made before the law was enacted?

 

[357Max]

@LilGucci - I'll keep it simple.

Buy this NOW.
It covers do all & Recce. The receiver set is excellent and very hard to come buy stripped. These rifles are way under rated for the $.

Then you can take your time building whatever else.

I would suggest building 2 of your lowers as pistols imeadiatly (photo document them with a brace installed). That way if they pass the new pistol brace law you'll likely have the opportunity to SBR them for zero cost.

Firearms - WTS: New LWRC FDE rifle - 1,975 shipped

For sale is the ar 15 listed below, features the LWRC spiral fluted 16" 5.56 barrel and enhanced BCG as well as full ambi lower and charging handle. New FDE full ambi M6IC-A5 "shovelnose" rifle short piston with 1/2x28 threading - 0 rds fired. Includes what’s pictured plus a 30 rd mag where...

www.snipershide.com

 

[RUTGERS95]

In 2023, I intend to build 4 AR-15s, and I would like a little help planning out the parts I'm going to have to buy, as well as the strategy for each gun. Three of the rifles will be in 556, including one that will be a Recce/SPR, and one that will be an SBR, while the fourth will be in 6mm. I've thought about 6.5 Grendel but I think 6mm Arc has everything that I'd want anyways. So two SPR/Recce rifles (one in 556, one in 6mm arc), an SBR, and a regular general-purpose do-it-all rifle.

I'm really new to guns so I don't fully know what I'm doing, so forgive me if these Frankenstein builds look jarring, gaudy, or cringe; I'm learning as I go along. I'm open to suggestions, parts lists, advice, recommendations, and inspiration for how I should approach or strategize a build. I'm just offering what I'm thinking will go into my own builds, feel free to offer your own builds so I can study them and possibly incorporate them into my own planning.

Rifle 1: 556 16" General Purpose / Do-it-all
Uses: Home Defense, Target shooting, Survival/Camping
Total Budget: $2800 (not including optic)
Optic: Acog, Red Dot
Frame/Handguard/Receiver: Radian Builder Kit $1200
Featured Parts: Radian Vertex Trigger $250, Proof 16" Barrel $900, LMT BCG $450, JP Gas System $100, Stock $50

Rifle 2: 556 12.5" Short Barrel Rifle
Uses: Home Defense, CQB Training, Survival/Camping
Total Budget: $2800 (not including optic)
Optic: Aimpoint T2 Red Dot, Eotech Magnifier
Frame/Handguard/Receiver: Radian Builder Kit $1200
Featured Parts: Geissele SD3G Trigger $250, Daniel Defense 12.5" Barrel $400, JP BCG $400, Superlative Gas System $100, Maxim Defense Stock $500

Rifle 3: 556 18" Recce Rifle
Uses: Target Shooting, Survival/Camping
Total Budget: $3400 (not including optic)
Optic: Khales K18i LPVO
Frame/Handguard/Receiver: Noveske Lower + Noveske Complete SPR Upper ($2200)
Featured Parts: Triggertech Trigger $250, RCA BCG $200, Magpul PRS Lite stock $100

Rifle 4: 6mm Arc 20" SPR
Uses: Long Range, Hunting
Total Budget: $3200 (not including optic)
Optic: Vortex or Nightforce Scope
Frame/Handguard/Receiver: Radian Builder Kit $1200
Featured Parts: Timney Talon Trigger $250, 20" Shilen Barrel $600, Sionics BCG $200, Seekins Gas system $100, Magpul PRS stock $250

*Not included in builds are my compensator (which I haven't decided yet), lower parts kits, furniture, buffer tubes, and buffer.

rifle 1 just go centurion arms cm4 and be done, would also fill recce role you cite lower