First AR-15 Build Tips Needed

[rg115]

Been thinking about building my first AR-15 for a bit now and actually started looking at parts. I'm realizing there are some pretty good deals, but honestly, I'm still trying to figure out what's worth buying and what's a waste.

For my first build, I'm leaning towards a basic rifle setup. Sticking with 5.56 for now, but I'm open to other calibers if anyone thinks I should try something else as a newbie.

What parts brands do you guys recommend? Are there any I should totally steer clear of? I've heard there can be sneaky costs that pop up along the way too. Any rookie mistakes to watch out for?

I'm kind of torn between building my own and just buying a pre-built one. The idea of building is nice, but I don't want to bite off more than I can chew. I'd appreciate any advice or even just some lessons learned from your own first builds. Thanks!

 

[TX-Dennis]

Lower assembly is much easier than is upper assembly. For a first timer, you might consider a complete upper and a stripped lower and LPK. Watch some instructional videos and decide how comfortable you are with doing that.

 

[Grayling813]

Lower assembly is much easier than is upper assembly. For a first timer, you might consider a complete upper and a stripped lower and LPK. Watch some instructional videos and decide how comfortable you are with doing that.

I agree. After reviewing what it takes to correctly and safely build an upperfrom parts, my first (and only) build I bought a complete upper from Palmetto State Armory in .223 Wylde. Bought a lower locally and bought all the parts to complete it.

 

[LDB]

If I were doing it I'd go with the .223 Wylde for compatibility reasons and maximum ammo availability. Unless you've got a specific need requiring a different caliber all the rest are just more expensive mouths to feed.

 

[Kodiak01]

I would recommend at least one upper in 300 blackout, I have had really good luck with the ones from Bear Creek Armory. They are very reasonably priced and function like they should. Palmetto State Armory is a great source for AR parts and supplies. I've bought several of their lower receiver "blems" and have yet to find a blemish.

 

[GaryS]

Watch videos, work slowly, buy a good basic set of gunsmith tools. Be careful to protect surfaces from scratches and gouges.

Also springs go in FIRST, then detents. Buy extra springs and detents.

I placed the lower in a plastic tub to reduce the chance small parts would disappear.