Ar 15 Kit Everything Except the Lower Receiver: A Comprehensive Guide
Are you looking to build your own AR-15 rifle but unsure where to start? One of the most crucial components of an AR-15 is the lower receiver, but what about everything else? This guide will delve into the various components that make up an AR-15 kit, excluding the lower receiver, to help you create a custom firearm that suits your needs.
Barrel and Upper Receiver
The barrel is the heart of any firearm, and for an AR-15, it’s no different. When choosing a barrel, consider the following factors:
- Material: Chrome-lined barrels offer better durability and corrosion resistance, while stainless steel barrels are known for their longevity and accuracy.
- Length: Barrels come in various lengths, such as 16″, 18″, and 20″. The length you choose will depend on your intended use, with longer barrels typically offering better accuracy and range.
- Profile: The profile of the barrel refers to its thickness. A lightweight profile can reduce the overall weight of the rifle, while a heavy profile can provide more stability.
The upper receiver is the housing for the barrel and is available in various materials, such as aluminum and steel. Aluminum receivers are lighter and more durable, while steel receivers offer better strength and longevity.
Handguard and Gas System
The handguard is the tube that runs along the barrel and provides a place to hold the rifle. When selecting a handguard, consider the following:
- Material: Polymer handguards are lightweight and durable, while aluminum handguards offer better heat dissipation and are more rigid.
- Design: The design of the handguard can affect the rifle’s ergonomics and overall aesthetics. Consider features like M-LOK slots, QD sockets, and Picatinny rails.
The gas system is crucial for the rifle’s operation. It consists of the gas block, gas tube, and gas key. When choosing a gas system, consider the following:
- Gas Block: The gas block is the part that attaches to the barrel and directs the gas into the gas tube. Choose a gas block that is compatible with your barrel length and gas system.
- Gas Tube: The gas tube runs from the gas block to the upper receiver and is responsible for carrying the gas to the bolt carrier group. Ensure the gas tube is the correct length for your rifle.
- Gas Key: The gas key is the part that secures the gas tube to the upper receiver. Choose a gas key that is compatible with your upper receiver and gas tube.
Bolt Carrier Group and Firing Pin
The bolt carrier group is the heart of the rifle’s action. It includes the bolt, carrier, firing pin, and extractor. When choosing a bolt carrier group, consider the following:
- Material: Chrome-lined bolt carrier groups offer better durability and corrosion resistance, while stainless steel bolt carrier groups are known for their longevity and accuracy.
- Weight: The weight of the bolt carrier group can affect the rifle’s cycling speed and felt recoil. Choose a weight that suits your preferences.
The firing pin is a critical component that strikes the primer in the cartridge. Ensure that the firing pin is compatible with your bolt carrier group and is in good condition.
Trigger and Safety
The trigger is one of the most important components of a firearm, as it directly affects the accuracy and control of the rifle. When choosing a trigger, consider the following:
- Weight: The weight of the trigger pull can affect the rifle’s accuracy. Choose a trigger weight that suits your preferences and skill level.
- Feel: The feel of the trigger is crucial for a comfortable and consistent shooting experience. Consider features like a smooth pull and a crisp break.
The safety is another essential component that ensures the rifle is safe to handle. Choose a safety that is easy to operate and provides a clear indication of the rifle’s status.
Magazine and Magazine Well
The magazine is the storage unit for the rifle’s ammunition. When choosing a magazine, consider the following:
- Capacity:
