First Time AR-15 Build Questions

[rg115]

Been thinking about building my first AR-15 and finally started diving into part options. It feels like there are a ton of deals out there if you dig around a bit, but honestly, I’m a bit lost on what to get. I plan to go with the standard 5.56 for now, but I’m open to any suggestions if you all think another caliber might be a better choice.

As for parts, are there any brands you’ve had bad experiences with? I want to avoid those sketchy options. And what about hidden costs? I keep worrying I’ll miss some little thing and end up spending way more than I planned. Should I just bite the bullet and buy a pre-built one instead?

Really would appreciate hearing any advice or even stories about mistakes you’ve made along the way. I know there’s a lot to learn and I’m eager to not screw this up too badly.

 

[Spikedriver]

I've shot a Superior Arms AR. They're made in Eastern Iowa and my LGS used to be a dealer for them before it closed. They aren't the highest quality option but they're not bad either. The one I have experience with was reliable and accurate.

I think, instead of building, I'd just get a S&W M&P15. They're decent guns and not terribly expensive. As far as poor quality, Anderson and Olympic are known to be less than stellar...

 

[Ghostwolf308]

For my builds I went with Aero Precision uppers and lowers, White Oak Armament 223 wylde 18" spr barrels and a seekins and tool craft bcgs.

I chose to build mine to get familiar with every part. I also really enjoy the hands on.

 

[Moraa]

When I built my first AR-15, I went with a 5.56. Spent hours researching parts and almost bought a cheap BCG, glad I didn't. I took my time assembling it, checked everything twice, and running it at the range felt super rewarding. I learned the hard way that a solid lower and proper tools make all the difference

 

[Ghostwolf308]

When I built my first AR-15, I went with a 5.56. Spent hours researching parts and almost bought a cheap BCG, glad I didn't. I took my time assembling it, checked everything twice, and running it at the range felt super rewarding. I learned the hard way that a solid lower and proper tools make all the difference

I have to agree. First time at the range was very rewarding. The ability to say I built that myself cant be beat.

 

[JahWrld452]

If this is your first time with ARs and you're not exactly a pro with tools, it's totally okay to just buy a complete setup. Think of it as a great starting point. You can always tackle building your second one once you've got a better grasp on things. Plus, the experience of building it yourself really opens your eyes to how everything works.

 

[John4st]

If this is your first ar just get a complete gun from PSA. You can get a lower and pick from their uppers or a packaged single gun. Then take things apart as you learn what's what. Think of it as ordering all the parts just put together. Then you can switch out parts you think you want different when you start to figure things out.

This way you can start shooting day one. Realize you're not really building anything, just putting parts together.

Feeding issues are a pain for first time builders and with a bunch of parts thrown together it's all the worse.