View Full Version : Build An AR for under $1000
I want to see how everyone would build an AR plus optics ( if you choose to have them).
I'll post mine home build up for an example and feel free to criticize my setup as well. All the prices are the prices I actually paid.
S&W MP 15 lower- $175
PSA CHF 16" Middy with BCG+CH-$289
Bushnell AR Optic1-4+Burrs QD PEPR-$129
ACE Skeleton Stock+Buffer Assembly-$90
Matech BUIS-$40
DPMS LPK-$60
That's puts me around $750, the rest will go towards a magpul two point sling and Pmags+ammo.
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Here it is minus the Optics
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/12/16/ae5f1d1f631956b682ae228ca63934f1.jpg
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the automator
12-16-14, 10:07
BCM 16" Lightweight upper (includes BCG and comp) (http://www.bravocompanyusa.com/BCM-16-Mid-Length-LIGHT-WEIGHT-Upper-Receiver-p/bcm-urg-mid-16lw.htm) - $439
DD fixed rear sight (http://www.bravocompanyusa.com/Daniel-Defense-A1-5-Fixed-Rear-Sight-p/dd-11002.htm) - $73
Gunfighter Mod 4 charging handle (http://www.bravocompanyusa.com/BCM-GUNFIGHTER-Charging-Handle-GFH-Mod-4-p/bcm-gfh-mod-4-556.htm) - $45
Magpul MOE handguard (http://www.bravocompanyusa.com/Magpul-MOE-MID-Length-Handguard-BLACK-p/mag418%20blk.htm) - $27
BCM complete lower with M4 stock (http://www.rainierarms.com/bcm-lower-group-w-m4-stock) - $395
PMag (http://www.rainierarms.com/magpul-30-round-pmag-gen-m2-moe-6216) - $12
Total is $991 for everything you'd need to start shooting after very minor assembly.
KalashniKEV
12-16-14, 10:26
...feel free to criticize my setup as well.
Does your PSA gas block "do the twist?"
The DPMS FCG likely consists of standard parts from common manufacturers, so while the "DPMS" rings bells, it wouldn't concern me as much as the PSA upper.
I'd wring that build out hard before I trust it for anything.
For a less than $100 more, you could have built a much better rifle:
(Ignore the "Spike's" lower, it was relevant to the example this was prepared for)
http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r220/Kalashnikev/Rifles/MOE_zps094bb968.png (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Kalashnikev/media/Rifles/MOE_zps094bb968.png.html)
Does your PSA gas block "do the twist?"
The DPMS FCG likely consists of standard parts from common manufacturers, so while the "DPMS" rings bells, it wouldn't concern me as much as the PSA upper.
I'd wring that build out hard before I trust it for anything.
For a less than $100 more, you could have built a much better rifle:
(Ignore the "Spike's" lower, it was relevant to the example this was prepared for)
http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r220/Kalashnikev/Rifles/MOE_zps094bb968.png (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Kalashnikev/media/Rifles/MOE_zps094bb968.png.html)
I'm unfamiliar with the "twist " you speak of. I went with PSA because I couldn't pass up the deal during Black Friday for 289 with BCG and charging handle. And with the CHF barrel made by FN.
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I'll add that my guns primary purpose with be short to midrange varmint hunting.
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zombiescometh
12-16-14, 10:52
BCM blem 16midlength bcg&comp $399
BCM ambi ch $70
Magpul handguard $27
Aero blem lower $58
DD lpk $100
BCM H2 buffer kit $75
Magpul moe stock $30
Used DD rear fixed sight $50
Magpul rail light mount $30
Surefire G2X $50
BFG VCAS $55
So just over $1000 after taxes and shipping.
BCM Standard 16" upper with BCG - $459
BCM GF CH Mod 4 - $45
LaRue fixed rear sight - $100
BCM RE with H buffer and GF stock - $122
Aero stripped lower - $60
PSA MOE LPK - $50
$836 total. You have room in your budget for 15 mags.
ennbeegunny15
12-16-14, 12:34
Hard for me to do it under 1k with optic. Without I can, but with an optic it'll cost a little more than 1k. I don't skimp on the optic. That being said, I have been able to build them at a great price.
the automator
12-16-14, 12:36
Hard for me to do it under 1k with optic. Without I can, but with an optic it'll cost a little more than 1k. I don't skimp on the optic. That being said, I have been able to build them at a great price.
Yeah, kind of funny every build listed has been without an optic. I just don't think it's possible to get a good rifle for under $700.
brettd1982
12-16-14, 12:43
Ive built one for a great price and it works fantastic, im not worried about optics that much, ive banged my vortex around a lot and it still works but i'm not in a war zone so.
BCM upper on sale and BCM lower from Rainier or G&R would put you well under $1000.00.
railpig314
12-16-14, 13:31
Just a question. You can buy a band new Colt for $799. Why even bother building one? Again, just a question...
zombiescometh
12-16-14, 13:38
Just a question. You can buy a band new Colt for $799. Why even bother building one? Again, just a question...
True still the best deal.
Just a question. You can buy a band new Colt for $799. Why even bother building one? Again, just a question...
If you can find one. Where are you seeing them at that price?
zombiescometh
12-16-14, 13:46
http://palmettostatearmory.com/index.php/colt-ar-15-5-56nato-16-carbine-pencil-barrel.html
Thanks. I had no idea they were selling for so little right now.
zombiescometh
12-16-14, 14:08
Just a question. You can buy a band new Colt for $799. Why even bother building one? Again, just a question...
On the other hand I like my magpul gear . So you spend just a tiny bit more and get what you like.
turnburglar
12-16-14, 14:36
Just a question. You can buy a band new Colt for $799. Why even bother building one? Again, just a question...
While not a bad option at all, some just prefer to spend a tad more and get the parts they want. Rather than buy the colt and instantly pull the hand guards and gas block, just to put a rail on.
railpig314
12-16-14, 14:39
That may be true, but I think a factory build is better then a bubba build. They hold there value too..... Just my opinion....
Just a question. You can buy a band new Colt for $799. Why even bother building one? Again, just a question...
Where is the fun in that?!? I don't read this forum for hours a day to just go to the store and buy something assembled by someone else.
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Eurodriver
12-16-14, 15:50
Not going to do the whole price list, but it was around $850. I almost never buy new accessories anymore, which really helps cut down on cost.
BCM Blem upper, Anderson Arms lower w/ DD LPK. Furniture, Surefire6p with Malkoff Devices head, irons.
http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w521/6234987u02/IMG_20140801_144303_756_zps23133e4c.jpg
teutonicpolymer
12-16-14, 16:44
$50 - Anderson lower with integrated trigger guard
$150 - WOA A2 lower build kit with ALG ACT trigger
$725 - This BCM upper http://www.bravocompanyusa.com/BCM-20-Rifle-Upper-Receiver-KMR-KEYMOD-p/bcm-urg-std-20-kmr15.htm
$110 - Magpul MBUS Pro sight set
Just about $1000
Shouldn't this be building an AR for under & 500? I just did a nice one with the best parts for not that much over a grand
NWcityguy2
12-16-14, 18:17
For under $1000....
A Colt not the way I want it < A BCM upper the way I want it + a lower < A PSA Upper the way I want it + a PSA blem lower + a used Aimpoint PRO.
NWcityguy2
12-16-14, 18:22
I'd wring that build out hard before I trust it for anything.
:rolleyes: I'd say the same thing to all the people recommending BCM uppers as well. Why? Because it is common sense... :rolleyes:
For under a grand this set-up is pretty tough to beat: http://sionicsweaponsystems.com/store/product.php?id_product=103
Just a question. You can buy a band new Colt for $799. Why even bother building one? Again, just a question...
This^^^. Thread over.
One more wrench to throw in. A lot of these builds I see dont include tax, shipping or any ffl fees.
On the other hand I like my magpul gear . So you spend just a tiny bit more and get what you like.
Grabagun.com has the colt with moe gear for $869, so if you like your magpul gear you can keep your magpul gear!
This^^^. Thread over.
One more wrench to throw in. A lot of these builds I see dont include tax, shipping or any ffl fees.
But then you don't get the exact gun you want and the pleasure of putting it together yourself.
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But then you don't get the exact gun you want and the pleasure of putting it together yourself.
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Understandable. But you get a good rifle that will be reliable and hold its value. It's also a rifle that most ppl on this site recommend to new shooters and can be found for under a grand. I built mine for roughly a grand.
PSA complete middy upper $499
Rock river lower $100
Rock river lower parts kit $60
Vltor A5 $100
Geissele SSA $205
Magpul moe stock $35
Magpul buis $45
Ergo grip $15
With shipping That puts me at about $1100
It can definitely be done WITH optic. I would build this. A complete build with Daniel Defense Omega rail, stainless steel barrel, Mapgul STR stock and grip, and Bushnell 1-4 scope in a Burris PEPR mount for $800 including shipping and transfer fee. That would be a great cheap AR setup for under $800 with optic. Done and done.
PSA mid length upper with DD Omega Rail: $329 . http://palmettostatearmory.com/index.php/catalog/product/view/id/18783/s/psa-16-mid-length-5-56-nato-1-7-daniel-defense-omega-x-upper-no-bcg-or-charging-handle/
Complete PSA lower with Magpul STR and grip: $189. http://palmettostatearmory.com/index.php/psa-ar-15-complete-lower-magpul-str-edition-black-no-magazine.html
1-4 optic in mount: $129 after rebate: http://palmettostatearmory.com/index.php/bushnell-ar-optics-1-4x24mm-bdc-riflescope-and-burris-pepr-mount-2.html
PSA premium BCG: $99. http://palmettostatearmory.com/index.php/catalog/product/view/id/2321/category/332/
Charging handle: $15. https://www.primaryarms.com/DS_Arms_AR15_ZM4_Alloy_Charging_Handle_Assembly_Co_p/zm48517-a.htm
zombiescometh
12-16-14, 21:22
Grabagun.com has the colt with moe gear for $869, so if you like your magpul gear you can keep your magpul gear!
I built my lower with bcm upper with magpul gear for a little cheaper plus i wanted a midlength.
It can definitely be done WITH optic. I would build this. A complete build with Daniel Defense Omega rail, stainless steel barrel, Mapgul STR stock and grip, and Bushnell 1-4 scope in a Burris PEPR mount for $800 including shipping and transfer fee. That would be a great cheap AR setup for under $800 with optic. Done and done.
PSA mid length upper with DD Omega Rail: $329 . http://palmettostatearmory.com/index.php/catalog/product/view/id/18783/s/psa-16-mid-length-5-56-nato-1-7-daniel-defense-omega-x-upper-no-bcg-or-charging-handle/
Complete PSA lower with Magpul STR and grip: $189. http://palmettostatearmory.com/index.php/psa-ar-15-complete-lower-magpul-str-edition-black-no-magazine.html
1-4 optic in mount: $129 after rebate: http://palmettostatearmory.com/index.php/bushnell-ar-optics-1-4x24mm-bdc-riflescope-and-burris-pepr-mount-2.html
PSA premium BCG: $99. http://palmettostatearmory.com/index.php/catalog/product/view/id/2321/category/332/
Charging handle: $15. https://www.primaryarms.com/DS_Arms_AR15_ZM4_Alloy_Charging_Handle_Assembly_Co_p/zm48517-a.htm
This gun is pretty similar to the one I built. Same upper (minus rail), BCG, charging handle and optic.
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zombiescometh
12-16-14, 21:33
It can definitely be done WITH optic. I would build this. A complete build with Daniel Defense Omega rail, stainless steel barrel, Mapgul STR stock and grip, and Bushnell 1-4 scope in a Burris PEPR mount for $800 including shipping and transfer fee. That would be a great cheap AR setup for under $800 with optic. Done and done.
PSA mid length upper with DD Omega Rail: $329 . http://palmettostatearmory.com/index.php/catalog/product/view/id/18783/s/psa-16-mid-length-5-56-nato-1-7-daniel-defense-omega-x-upper-no-bcg-or-charging-handle/
Complete PSA lower with Magpul STR and grip: $189. http://palmettostatearmory.com/index.php/psa-ar-15-complete-lower-magpul-str-edition-black-no-magazine.html
1-4 optic in mount: $129 after rebate: http://palmettostatearmory.com/index.php/bushnell-ar-optics-1-4x24mm-bdc-riflescope-and-burris-pepr-mount-2.html
PSA premium BCG: $99. http://palmettostatearmory.com/index.php/catalog/product/view/id/2321/category/332/
Charging handle: $15. https://www.primaryarms.com/DS_Arms_AR15_ZM4_Alloy_Charging_Handle_Assembly_Co_p/zm48517-a.htm
Yes its possible but why? Except when you need to follow a budget.
Yes its possible but why?
Because that's my budget, and my primary use for the rifle makes a optic needed.
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buckkiller35
12-16-14, 21:48
Just a question. You can buy a band new Colt for $799. Why even bother building one? Again, just a question...
I have built several BCM's but I bought a Colt 6720 for $835 after shipping and FFL fee. You can't beat that price.
dramabeats
12-16-14, 21:49
It can definitely be done WITH optic. I would build this. A complete build with Daniel Defense Omega rail, stainless steel barrel, Mapgul STR stock and grip, and Bushnell 1-4 scope in a Burris PEPR mount for $800 including shipping and transfer fee. That would be a great cheap AR setup for under $800 with optic. Done and done.
PSA mid length upper with DD Omega Rail: $329 . http://palmettostatearmory.com/index.php/catalog/product/view/id/18783/s/psa-16-mid-length-5-56-nato-1-7-daniel-defense-omega-x-upper-no-bcg-or-charging-handle/
Complete PSA lower with Magpul STR and grip: $189. http://palmettostatearmory.com/index.php/psa-ar-15-complete-lower-magpul-str-edition-black-no-magazine.html
1-4 optic in mount: $129 after rebate: http://palmettostatearmory.com/index.php/bushnell-ar-optics-1-4x24mm-bdc-riflescope-and-burris-pepr-mount-2.html
PSA premium BCG: $99. http://palmettostatearmory.com/index.php/catalog/product/view/id/2321/category/332/
Charging handle: $15. https://www.primaryarms.com/DS_Arms_AR15_ZM4_Alloy_Charging_Handle_Assembly_Co_p/zm48517-a.htm
Does that upper have M4 feed ramps?
TacticalMark
12-16-14, 22:00
BCM 16" Mid lightweight upper with BCG and comp $439
MOE Handguard $27
BCM Mod4 CH $40
Aero Lower $89
CMMG LPK $55
MOE Grip $10
BCM Hardware Kit with H Buffer $69
Troy BUIS $55
(Extra BCM M4 Stock) Free
Total $784 Everything was bought new, with some sales.
Does that upper have M4 feed ramps?
I've never handled that upper but I believe all PSA uppers have M4 feed ramps
KalashniKEV
12-17-14, 11:46
:rolleyes: I'd say the same thing to all the people recommending BCM uppers as well. Why? Because it is common sense... :rolleyes:
True, but the amount of PSA junk in this thread is concerning.
The build sheet I posted was pretty solid, and I even used a standard $100 plug for lower/shipping/transfer.
I can't possibly calculate a decent rifle that would cost any lower... and oh yeah, it's only $10 cheaper than a 6920 and $40 more than a 6720.
I also don't understand the interest in owning "the absolute cheapest AR" you can buy-or-assemble...
I'm sure you just rolled your eyes again, didn't you?
S&W M&P SPORT for $550 + whatever optic you want.
What do I win??
C4
S&W M&P SPORT for $550 + whatever optic you want.
What do I win??
C4
Someone will reply "but it isn't how I want it" or "it's the satisfaction of building it yourself or "it's not BCM".
How about "because I want to get into AR's and am on a budget"
the amount of PSA junk in this thread is concerning
I also don't understand the interest in owning "the absolute cheapest AR" you can buy-or-assemble...
I agree that it's worth it to spend more on quality guns and builds, however some people have tight budgets and it's nice to know the prices of ARs have dropped to the point that you "can" actually build a decent gun with optics that will work well for under $1,000.
And as for the comment of PSA junk, how many PSA guns have you actually used that were junk? I have a Daniel defense rifle and a BCM, and also a couple PSA builds. I have now put close to 8,000 rounds through my PSA guns and I haven't had a single malfunction of any kind. So far they have been just as reliable and accurate as my BCM and DD. I know multiple other guys running them hard with no issues whatsoever. So, I would never say my PSA guns are on the same level as DD or BCM, but for a budget build, they seem to be good quality and reliable if someone can't afford more.
Someone will reply "but it isn't how I want it" or "it's the satisfaction of building it yourself or "it's not BCM".
How about "because I want to get into AR's and am on a budget"
My whole purpose for this thread was too see what others would do in my place with my budget. I wanted to see a build with optic for under a grand. And I wanted to see what people thought of my first "home" build. For my purposes of plinking maybe 2-300rounds a year and short range varmint hunting. It's not worth it to me to spend a months salary on said firearm. (Paramedics don't make much in ohio )
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True, but the amount of PSA junk in this thread is concerning.
The build sheet I posted was pretty solid, and I even used a standard $100 plug for lower/shipping/transfer.
I can't possibly calculate a decent rifle that would cost any lower... and oh yeah, it's only $10 cheaper than a 6920 and $40 more than a 6720.
I also don't understand the interest in owning "the absolute cheapest AR" you can buy-or-assemble...
I'm sure you just rolled your eyes again, didn't you?
Why not? For the average Joe Plinker/Varmint Slayer it's just fine; I had an AMC Gremlin, canary yellow, a real POS...but it was a 4-banger with nothing electronic and I loved finding the cheapest parts avaialble to keep it running. It was a hobby, and not my main mode of tranportation. Sometimes a hobby is just a hobby....
I love Grant's idea: S&W M&P Sport.
Why not? For the average Joe Plinker/Varmint Slayer it's just fine; I had an AMC Gremlin, canary yellow, a real POS...but it was a 4-banger with nothing electronic and I loved finding the cheapest parts avaialble to keep it running. It was a hobby, and not my main mode of tranportation. Sometimes a hobby is just a hobby....
I love Grant's idea: S&W M&P Sport.
I agree completely. Now if I was using this gun in life and death situations it may be a different story.
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brickboy240
12-17-14, 16:09
I agree...M&P Sport or the Colt 6720 for 799. I lean towards the 6720...just in case you DO decide to get more serious with the AR platform...you will not have to sell the thing.
Building?
Hell...if I can get what I want ready to use for 799 and it is that kind of quality...I am not building a thing - my time is too valuable.
turnburglar
12-17-14, 16:21
For 2-300 rounds a year, the new ruger or S&w would be ideal. My suggestion for optics would be the primary arms 1-6 and an aero mount. Still in your price range with room for pmags too spare.
Some guys on this forum can't even fathom the idea of not being able to afford an Sr15 or working daily in the helman province. Don't listen to them.
Spikes lower 75$
DPMs LPK 70$
miad grip 10$
reciever extension and asap 60$
stock FREE
PTAC upper 300$
Total= 515$
just a beater I threw together because I had a spare lower and my sister wants to shoot with me (she's 17)
I know quality is questionable at best, but I'll cry over when I'm shooting my BCM/LMT Gat ;)
For 2-300 rounds a year, the new ruger or S&w would be ideal. My suggestion for optics would be the primary arms 1-6 and an aero mount. Still in your price range with room for pmags too spare.
Some guys on this forum can't even fathom the idea of not being able to afford an Sr15 or working daily in the helman province. Don't listen to them.
It is a mindset issue. Most on this forum are going to attend training with their AR's and run them hard. They are also going to grab their AR for any defensive situations. So when you are possibly betting your life on something, do you want only the cheapest parts or something better?? To each there own, but just something to consider.
C4
For under $1000....
A Colt not the way I want it < A BCM upper the way I want it + a lower < A PSA Upper the way I want it + a PSA blem lower + a used Aimpoint PRO.
I'd rather not have an optic than be stuck with a PSA over a BCM.
My whole purpose for this thread was too see what others would do in my place with my budget. I wanted to see a build with optic for under a grand. And I wanted to see what people thought of my first "home" build. For my purposes of plinking maybe 2-300rounds a year and short range varmint hunting. It's not worth it to me to spend a months salary on said firearm. (Paramedics don't make much in ohio )
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When buying a gun one must ALWAYS consider resale value. I know we don't like to talk about the fact that we sometimes have to sell a gun. So the ugly truth is that no one is going to pay you much for your "custom build." This is why it is always better to buy a well known name brand like Colt (especially if you can find one for below $900). They hold their value and in times of panic can be sold for $3k-$4k.
I understand what you are doing, but I would have gone a different route looking at the big picture and then built a second gun at a later date off of scavenged parts on the EE and such.
C4
When buying a gun one must ALWAYS consider resale value. I know we don't like to talk about the fact that we sometimes have to sell a gun. So the ugly truth is that no one is going to pay you much for your "custom build." This is why it is always better to buy a well known name brand like Colt (especially if you can find one for below $900). They hold their value and in times of panic can be sold for $3k-$4k.
I understand what you are doing, but I would have gone a different route looking at the big picture and then built a second gun at a later date off of scavenged parts on the EE and such.
C4
I'm sorry but everyone is getting way off topic here? I find tinkering with things fun, and assembling the gun has been a enjoyment. Everything one yelling that I should just buy a colt is being ignorant, due to the fact that it does pertain to my original post. I know I'm new here, but if everyone is gonna be that way I might not be welcomed here.
And I quote this post because I'm not into selling firearms. All my guns will be handed down to my (future) children and grand children.
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I'm sorry but everyone is getting way off topic here? I find tinkering with things fun, and assembling the gun has been a enjoyment. Everything one yelling that I should just buy a colt is being ignorant, due to the fact that it does pertain to my original post. I know I'm new here, but if everyone is gonna be that way I might not be welcomed here.
And I quote this post because I'm not into selling firearms. All my guns will be handed down to my (future) children and grand children.
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I think we all like to tinker with AR's. Based off the fact that this is your FIRST AR and money is tight, there were MUCH BETTER options for you. On top of this, some of the parts are questionable at best and probably not assembled properly.
Live and learn.....
C4
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My whole purpose for this thread was too see what others would do in my place with my budget. I wanted to see a build with optic for under a grand. And I wanted to see what people thought of my first "home" build. For my purposes of plinking maybe 2-300rounds a year and short range varmint hunting. It's not worth it to me to spend a months salary on said firearm. (Paramedics don't make much in ohio )
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I would think we all have a budget when building a new rifle. Most ppl on this site depend on their rifles to get them home safe at the end of the day so quality would be first before anything so their budgets are higher. Someone plinking on the weekends or new to the platform will spend just enough to get them started.
I think there has been a lot of good info shared in this thread already.
After all the ups and downs in the AR market over the years, I find it is an amusing exercise to try to build the cheapest possible AR "on paper." But when it came to actually buying one, I went with a Colt 6920 and an Aimpoint Pro. :)
A Colt 6920 for $799 is a great buy. But if I got one, it would cost me an additional $200 plus what it cost me to whack the barrel down enough to be rid of the M4 notch and have it re-threaded.
I built all three of my current 5.56 ARs
http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n289/SgtSongDog/Liberty/ThreeWolves_zps775e77b7.jpg
The 16 inch carbine is a PSA and amazingly, it runs fine, even when run hard. Total cost for the PSA, including H1 Micro, FFL fees and shipping is right around a grand- I was fortunate and got the PSA kit, PSQA lower and the H1 at good sale prices (PSA delivered the H1 to my door for $425, for example). I think the shorty cost a little bit more. The precision AR was the very definition of cost over-run even before the optic was borrowed from another rifle. All three have proven I can trust my life to them. Anything less isn't worth it to me. Whether or not someone should buy or build, is a personal choice. As for myself, after building my own, I very little interest in a factory built rifle.
Still, I keep thinking about the Colt 6920 and cutting it down to an SBR
We had an upper from them in my class last weekend in San Antonio. Unmarked no specs BCG, the barrel wasn't dimpled and the gas block fit was loose. You could see carbon before and aft of the gas block journal.
30468
True, but the amount of PSA junk in this thread is concerning.
The build sheet I posted was pretty solid, and I even used a standard $100 plug for lower/shipping/transfer.
I can't possibly calculate a decent rifle that would cost any lower... and oh yeah, it's only $10 cheaper than a 6920 and $40 more than a 6720.
I also don't understand the interest in owning "the absolute cheapest AR" you can buy-or-assemble...
I'm sure you just rolled your eyes again, didn't you?
polydeuces
12-17-14, 21:19
Yep. What Grant says.
Building an GOOD AR for less than 1K has never been that hard, ever.
As most of us are starting to realize, the brutal ugly(?) truth is that we're in a new situation right now: prices of quality factory builds currently are just crazy cheap. Sales and special deals galore. (Who'd have thunked...cheap gas, cheap GOOD AR's....now if only hookers and blow...:eek:)
So the need to build your own is now more than ever an issue of getting it just how you want.
Absolutely no longer is it to save money - plain and simple.
I think a lot has to do with the fact that we're reaching a saturation point in the demand while the supply continues to grow. (I mean shit, a Colt 6920 for $800....you should buy one just for bragging!)
Considering all this, the amount of time spent on searching shipping/transfer fee's etc is just not worth it, unless indeed you're able to source package deals for cheap.
Buy a Colt. Run it hard and see what it needs to make it yours. Sell what you don't need and use that $$ to get what you do.THAT will give you plenty to tinker and you will have something way more valuable than cheaply scavenged parts.
Don't get me wrong - I'm the standard-bearer of 'cheap, on sale. EE and used QUALITY parts'. But the end of the day I still want a rig I can hang my hide on and these days that would be most likely a complete set more or less - with me doing the tweaks on the back end.
Bottom line..what Grant says.
PS....you want to tinker? Get yourself a set of AR308 receivers.
Then you'll have plenty to tinker.......enough so that it will make you really appreciate a good factory rifle.
dramabeats
12-17-14, 21:38
Against my recommendations a buddy got his PSA stainless upper in today, do these feed ramps look correct?
Same upper referenced in the thread earlier, product page does not list M4 feed ramps
30469
NWcityguy2
12-18-14, 00:58
True, but the amount of PSA junk in this thread is concerning.
Indeed, what are your personal experiences with PSA?
NWcityguy2
12-18-14, 01:01
do these feed ramps look correct?
Those are M4 feed ramps and they look fine.
NWcityguy2
12-18-14, 01:19
I agree completely. Now if I was using this gun in life and death situations it may be a different story.
Shoot your rifle 8 to 10 times. You've literally just simulated a very serious shooting. Self defense shootings are stressful on people, not guns. For civilians, high round counts have and always will come from training. If your not sure what type of rifle you have, you need to keep shooting it until you find out.
Well guys I got my "junk" build out shooting today for the first time. Took about ten rounds to get the Matech irons sighted. With a decent 25 yard iron group for me.
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/12/18/522020f950709c8a6b8915a33613c9aa.jpg
After this I ran some mags through with out any failures. Was able to knock some bowling pins over at 100 yards with about 50% hit to miss ratio. The gun feels good but it's also my first time shooting an AR. I ended up shooting around 90 rounds of American eagle 55gr fmj without any failures. I guess time will tell and I'll do some more accuracy test when my optic comes in next week.
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NWcityguy2
12-18-14, 11:12
Your PSA "junk" is fine and so is mine. If people want to pat themselves on the back for owning a BCM/DD/Colt, let them.
The AR market is incredible right now.
On another forum, one person built a perfectly fine AR for something like $400. I'm pretty certain that doesn't include any optic, but it shows how supply is well ahead of demand right now.
NWcityguy2
12-18-14, 13:33
On another forum, one person built a perfectly fine AR for something like $400. I'm pretty certain that doesn't include any optic, but it shows how supply is well ahead of demand right now.
And maybe that gun will be fine for range use, but he wouldn't want to take that rifle with him to carbine courses, much less a war zone. If he's happy with it, it's only because he isn't running it hard. That's fine for casual shooters like you and me, but there are serious shooters here who could destroy that rifle in less than a year.
:rolleyes: Nah just kidding. I'm sure lots of people were promised awesomeness when they invested in their "tier 1" rifles, but once the newness wears off it's just a bullet thrower. Like all guns really. It takes a skilled shooter to truly make it shine, which is hard to argue about online.
And maybe that gun will be fine for range use, but he wouldn't want to take that rifle with him to carbine courses, much less a war zone. If he's happy with it, it's only because he isn't running it hard. That's fine for casual shooters like you and me, but there are serious shooters here who could destroy that rifle in less than a year.
:rolleyes: Nah just kidding. I'm sure lots of people were promised awesomeness when they invested in their "tier 1" rifles, but once the newness wears off it's just a bullet thrower. Like all guns really. It takes a skilled shooter to truly make it shine, which is hard to argue about online.
Just so we are following what you are saying, all AR's are pretty much equal (once they are shot and the "newness" wears off)??
C4
polydeuces
12-18-14, 13:50
Looks like all reasonable arguments have been made, OP is sufficiently informed.
Can't imagine anyone really being that interested in re-hashing that turd of "all AR's are created equal - you just pay for the name"..... blablabla.
We have TOS for that.
OK so your Bushy/RRA/DPMS/.....(fill in) is absolutely as good as any LMT/BCM/Novske/SR15/LaRue/Colt/ '.....'? Happy trails, each their own .
I think we already went through this. Maybe close this before it gets ugly?
How about this. If you want to troll do it elsewhere. Debating the merits of a quality gun that works as opposed to those that mostly do is silly. This past weekend there was a guy in my class whose weapon stopped working in less than 500 rounds. Fortunately it happened at the range and not in his living room or on the ranch.
If this concept is not ringing true, this is probably a bad place to be.
And maybe that gun will be fine for range use, but he wouldn't want to take that rifle with him to carbine courses, much less a war zone. If he's happy with it, it's only because he isn't running it hard. That's fine for casual shooters like you and me, but there are serious shooters here who could destroy that rifle in less than a year.
:rolleyes: Nah just kidding. I'm sure lots of people were promised awesomeness when they invested in their "tier 1" rifles, but once the newness wears off it's just a bullet thrower. Like all guns really. It takes a skilled shooter to truly make it shine, which is hard to argue about online.
PSA is great for cheap ammo. YMMV
This thread has run it's course. Admin please delete if possible
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I want to see how everyone would build an AR plus optics ( if you choose to have them).
I'll post mine home build up for an example and feel free to criticize my setup as well. All the prices are the prices I actually paid.
S&W MP 15 lower- $175
PSA CHF 16" Middy with BCG+CH-$289
Bushnell AR Optic1-4+Burrs QD PEPR-$129
ACE Skeleton Stock+Buffer Assembly-$90
Matech BUIS-$40
DPMS LPK-$60
That's puts me around $750, the rest will go towards a magpul two point sling and Pmags+ammo.
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My main criticism with your setup is this. You were looking to build an AR for under $1000 and you provided specs for a weapon you had planned on and built. However, there were and are many better options for the same money. Those options included both built weapons and also spec built parts weapons. A lot of people, very knowledgeable ones at that recommended more than a few of those options. Others have stated that they wouldn't trust their lives, in various ways, on a weapon with your specs. Others have taken those words and made fun of them. Too bad for them.
So what you have done is put together a weapon that is suspect at most, especially when it comes to being put through hard use, and wasted $750 in doing so when you could have taken that same hard earned money and built a much better weapon. In one of your post you stated why buy a built weapon when you enjoyed the process of putting one together, paraphrasing of course. Well when a built weapon from the likes of Colt or Sionics and others is available and of infinite better quality than what you have at the same price why not make that an option. It's being short sighted not too. Regardless, your specs are suspect especially when you could part a better weapon for the same money of a lot better quality. The information available here on this sight would easily point you in that direction. Patience would also have been key to accomplishing your goal.
I hope your weapon will perform to your expectations and beyond! If you are happy with it then who cares what others think. Maybe with your next build you will take a step up in quality and then realize what you could have had the first time around.
My main criticism with your setup is this. You were looking to build an AR for under $1000 and you provided specs for a weapon you had planned on and built. However, there were and are many better options for the same money. Those options included both built weapons and also spec built parts weapons. A lot of people, very knowledgeable ones at that recommended more than a few of those options. Others have stated that they wouldn't trust their lives, in various ways, on a weapon with your specs. Others have taken those words and made fun of them. Too bad for them.
So what you have done is put together a weapon that is suspect at most, especially when it comes to being put through hard use, and wasted $750 in doing so when you could have taken that same hard earned money and built a much better weapon. In one of your post you stated why buy a built weapon when you enjoyed the process of putting one together, paraphrasing of course. Well when a built weapon from the likes of Colt or Sionics and others is available and of infinite better quality than what you have at the same price why not make that an option. It's being short sighted not too. Regardless, your specs are suspect especially when you could part a better weapon for the same money of a lot better quality. The information available here on this sight would easily point you in that direction. Patience would also have been key to accomplishing your goal.
I hope your weapon will perform to your expectations and beyond! If you are happy with it then who cares what others think. Maybe with your next build you will take a step up in quality and then realize what you could have had the first time around.
I accept the criticism and I'll always keep an open mind. But I do not believe I wasted 750 dollars with this set up? That doesn't even make sense. I has plenty of patience with my build as I bought the part as they became available and matched what I wanted. I'll justify my purchases here.
S&W Lower: purchased during the big scare in 2012, only one my local gun store had at the time.$175
DPMS LPK: only available LPK under 100$ at the time and wanted a functioning lower so of I found an upper I could have a weapon that would fire.$60
Ace Skeleton stock: Wanted a light weight fixed stock and thought this looked nice.$90
Matech BUIS: wanted an all metal BUIS that was proven to work without spending a fortune.$50
PSA CHF middy upper with BCG+CH: had been shopping around for a upper for while and when psa put up their cyber Monday deal I couldn't pass it up for the price. Come to find out the price was a typo but they honored it anyway:$298
Bushnell AR optics 1-4+Burris PEPR QD: I have wanted to try out a 1-4 power scope for a while and the deal was to good to skip out on. If I don't like it I'll be able to make almost all my money back by selling the scope and keeping the mount:$129
Feel free to pick away at my setup and tell me that how I'll be able to create a better setup for that price with optic.
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Closed per the OP's request.
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