I want to build an AR-15 from the ground up.
I want to get the lower receiver somewhere where the FFL isn't required.
I want the most accurate one I can build...factoring in "value" [meaning least expensive for the results].
I already know I can get stuff cheap and not have a very dependable rifle.
I want to split the difference. I don't need an elite rifle. I don't need it to be the best I can possibly build.
I want a rifle that is dependable and accurate, but built as "cheaply" as I can do it.
Guns is fun! Building one ought to be TONS of fun!
Is there anyone on FreeRepublic that has an opinion about this?
Is there anyone on FreeRepublic that can give me any advice?
[Those last two questions were for my own amusement...:)]
Check out AR15.com
Ain't gonna happen, pal. That's go to jail stuff.
Be careful of your barrel length and twist ratio with the rifling in the barrel.
Since you are looking to go as least expensive as possible, I’d just buy a ‘whole gun’. There are several great manufacturers out there, and if you get one new, you’ll have a warranty. That means if there’s a problem, you’ll have someone to address your issues other than a mirror.
If you have never put together an AR15, spend the extra $200 and buy a complete Rock River (or some other good entry brand). It can be dangerous doing a technical build like that without the training. Especially installing the barrel and gas system. Buying the required tools wil cost you near $200 or so anyway.
If you know what you’re doing, go to www.midwayusa.com or www.brownells.com and get your parts from them.
Enjoy.
Yep as said AR15.com walkthroughs, pictures, options, etc
http://www.ar15.com/content/index.html#guides
BCM 16 midlength upper group from bravocompanyusa.com, and read AR15.com
Lots of good stores sell stripped lowers.
May one of the cops here will let your surrender to him .
“I want to get the lower receiver somewhere where the FFL isn’t required.”
Where is it that you think you’ll be doing your time?
The only way you’re going to get a lower without a FFL requirement is a private party sale of an existing rifle.
Because the AR-15 lower can be built into a pistol or rifle, the BATF requires new, finished lowers to go through an FFL. The only way around this is to obtain a lower receiver forging that requires machining (ie, it requires more than mere installation of pins, springs, screws, etc - it would need to be finished on a mill, the pin holes drilled out and bushed, etc.)
Lowers that are finished (ie, all the machining has been done) but are lacking the lower parts kits can be had for anywhere from about $80 up to about $130, depending on the quality and various features.
After that, you need to be a tad more specific as to your application and budget for me to give you any more pointers. Completing a lower is a pretty well price-constrained thing - if you get a fully machined lower and put in your own parts kit, you’re probably into it for $150 or thereabouts. Once we start talking of the upper, the barrel, furniture, etc - the options explode and prices start varying widely.
You have the right to remain silent.
Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law.
You have the right to an attorney.
If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed for you.
There, at least we have that covered. Now, what was the question?
This may not be the clearest damn gun thread I’ve ever started/read, but it sure is illuminating...
Here I am on one of the most conservative sites I visit, and the range of responses I’ve received range from “Where do intend to spend your prison time?” to “Just go ahead...you’re good”.
What’s the matter with our country, where well-meaning Americans don’t even know which way to go to stay “out of trouble” or to stay within the law?
I just want to have my guns all being “under the radar”...I’m not trying to break any laws.
This is very interesting. This is very instructive. This is very disturbing.
I just wanted some advice on the best way to build one. I heard more about the trouble I could expect to get into.
I guess more than anything, it proves out my sense that I need to find any way possible to keep my stuff as my stuff.
Check your state laws, many states allow face-to-face private transfers instate. If it ships interstate an FFL is a must. Other option is a raw forging or an 80% lower; no numbers, no FFL, no BATF. You and only you must machine to complete to a full receiver and you can never sell or transfer it.
Research your FFL laws... And do yourself a favor and buy a complete AR15. Then later buy a new upper when you get bored.
Putting together a “Frankenstein” AR15 can be a pain if you don’t know what your doing. (and ultimately maybe more expensive) Yes, everything should go together but not always with a firearm with such high tolerances.
Even with a complete AR15, there are still a ton of add-ons and modification you can do... As for customizing and personalizing go... We would joke it’s the Honda Civic of the gun world.
My advice: Seek advice from AR15.com
The lower receiver is the part that you must go through an FFL dealer to get. However, you can legally buy what is called an 80% lower. In this case the lower is finished to about 80% and you are legally able to finish it. There are places that offer drilling fixtures for finishing the receiver for rent.
It is technicaly very simple, and no special tools were required.
I reccomend that you buy a complete upper reciever and not attempt to build that part.
I advise, in the interest of economy, that you forego any plans to buy a floating barrel. They are expensive, and non-floating barrels work almost as well at the outset.
When I took my home-built gun to the firing range, it would double fire at every trigger pull. It turns out I installed a part incorrectly. Thus I advise that after you are done you take it to a gunsmith so as to get an expert opinion. It cost me $80 to correct that defect, and now my AR rocks!