First Time Building an AR-15—Need Your Insights

[rg115]

Been toying with the idea of building my first AR-15 for a while now. Finally dove in and started checking out parts. There are some decent deals out there if you know where to look, but honestly, I'm still a bit lost on what's a solid buy and what's just hype.

I'm aiming for a basic rifle build, probably sticking with 5.56 for now. I've heard that's a good starting point, but open to thoughts on that. Anyone think I should consider a different caliber for a first-time build?

Also, I'd love to hear if there are any brands you'd steer clear of. I know there's a lot of opinions out there. And what about hidden costs? Anything I should be watching out for that maybe isn't obvious?

Part of me thinks about just grabbing a factory-built rifle instead, but I really want to try building it myself. I know there might be some rookie mistakes lurking around, so any advice would be awesome—especially those lessons learned the hard way. Thanks!

 

[mgderf]

Palmetto State Armory has a LOT of solid deals.
You can buy a complete rifle, or stripped upper/lower plus parts kits...and build everything from scratch.

If you're not familiar with the AR15 platform, building one is about the best way I know to get acquainted.
For your first, caliber doesn't matter as much, but the gun was designed around the 5.56/.223 round.
I would suggest that you build a stripped lower to your liking, but buy a complete upper.
You can always build another gun, or just another upper.
Gas block alignment is critical, and easily botched.

I've built a dozen or more at this point and the one tip I tell other 1st time builders is something I wish someone had told me.
Find a large clear plastic bag, like a "bed-in-bag" bag.
Turn this bag upside down on a large table and work under the bag.
Not if, but WHEN a spring or detent pin tries to go into low orbit, it will be captured inside the bag, and you won't need to delay your build while you wait for replacement parts.

Ask me how I know...

 

[MikeD77]

Palmetto just had a $199 pistol length 300 blk upper, and I had previously picked up a $99 complete lower, that made for a nice little shortie for about $300. If you don't get it already, subscribe to the Ammoland daily news sheet, there are bargains galore for the do-it-yourselfers. Good luck with your choice!