Looking for Tips on My First AR Build

[rg115]

Been kicking around the idea of building my first AR-15, and I finally dove into the parts search. I'm finding some decent deals, but honestly, it's a bit overwhelming. Just trying to figure out what's actually worth it and what's not.

I'm thinking of sticking with a basic rifle build, probably going with 5.56 to start. I've heard it's a good choice for beginners, but I'm open to any suggestions if there's something better.

Are there any brands you all would say to avoid? And what about those sneaky hidden costs that pop up? I've read about some rookie mistakes, but it's hard to know what to watch for without actually going through it.

Part of me wonders if I should just buy a pre-built one instead. I know it saves time, but I'm really interested in understanding how it all works.

Any advice or stories about learning the hard way would be super helpful. Thanks in advance!

 

[DAVE B]

If you already have an AR-15 in 5.56, you might consider the .223 WYLDE chambering for your project. It would be compatible with 5.56 NATO and .223 REM ammunition and is supposed to offer better accuracy than 5.56 NATO.

 

[CentralFLMike]

Been kicking around the idea of building my first AR-15, and I finally dove into the parts search. I'm finding some decent deals, but honestly, it's a bit overwhelming. Just trying to figure out what's actually worth it and what's not.

I'm thinking of sticking with a basic rifle build, probably going with 5.56 to start. I've heard it's a good choice for beginners, but I'm open to any suggestions if there's something better.

Are there any brands you all would say to avoid? And what about those sneaky hidden costs that pop up? I've read about some rookie mistakes, but it's hard to know what to watch for without actually going through it.

Part of me wonders if I should just buy a pre-built one instead. I know it saves time, but I'm really interested in understanding how it all works.

Any advice or stories about learning the hard way would be super helpful. Thanks in advance!

5.56 is a good choice because of the availability of parts and ammo. Also you can use the cheaper .223 Rem in a 5.56 chamber.

As far as brands, check reviews. It seems everyone hates or loves a brand for one reason or another regardless of validity. Lots of reviews give a better cross-section to make your choice. You are looking for Milspec dimensions.

Watch a lot of videos on gun friendly platforms. Brownell's has a good video series on their website and School of the American Rifle (SOTAR) on youtube is your friend.

If you want hands-on experience building an AR but don't want to experiement on your brand new uppers/lowers, take an armorer course and pound on their guns.

Good luck!