View Full Version : Stripped Lowers
I'm thinking about getting a few stripped lowers- Who has the best deal, best product, and least wait time? Does LMT sell a totally stripped lower?
thanks guys,
Dave
Try John Noveske at Noveske Rifleworks. John has extremely high QC standards.
Another option is POFs new billet milled lowers.
S/F
LMT does not sell stripped lowers. However you can find stripped Lauer lowers (made by LMT) from a few sources and by all accounts they are VERY nice lowers.
I really like Denny's lowers.
D1g1talV3n0m@adelphia.net
01-05-07, 12:30
I like the RRA lowers and that is what I use. Magpul's new lower looks promising.
If you need some lowers talk to Tom Mooney of Mooney's firearms. GREAT service and I believe he has a few in stock also.
I'm thinking about getting a few stripped lowers- Who has the best deal, best product, and least wait time? Does LMT sell a totally stripped lower?
thanks guys,
Dave
There are numerous companies that make a high quality lower. CMT makes lowers for many companies, and simply stamps the company logo into them.
Mega is one of my favorite, but they are often hard to find. Mega primarily does aerospace contract work, and keeps the same standards in their receivers that they produce, and I try to use them in my own personal builds.
Lauer lowers are nice, and have been high quality in my experiences.
Stag has a solid lower that is usually one of the lowest price models.
POF makes a great billet lower, but its not cheap. SunDevil makes a nice billet lower also, and while they are cheaper than POF, they are stil running more than most regular lowers.
Stickman is right, the Mega lowers are outstanding and I wish I had 10 more of them. If you can find one jump on it!
So what would make a Mega better than say an LMT? What are the differences to look out for as far as "mil-spec" type lowers go. Which part of the lowers are more likely to be out of spec or sub-standard?
I've built 4 of the LCWs and been very happy with them.
K.L. Davis
01-05-07, 22:53
Like Stickman said, lowers are made by different companies for different companies -- a licensed manufacturer (07) can do a letter of variance with the ATF and basically give a block of their serial numbers to another manufacturer for them to make... those lowers will have the same markings and stuff as if they were made in house. Companies keep track of these through the serial number, some give a certain prefix (say all numbers that start with "A" are made for them by Acme) and some just by number range.
For the most part, all of the well know names are good products, the market usually kills of stuff that is of poor quality all on its own... some lowers have more attention to detail, like Denny's where they are hand culled and particular attention is given to the finish (forging marks and that sort of stuff), while it may be largely cosmetic, the actual hands on attention pays off in QC.
Some shops like Mega seem to turn out very precise products... but again, they can end up with another name on them. I dont think anyone on this board sells cast lowers, and most forgings come from one of very few places to start with. The two well known billet lowers out there are POF and Sundevil (I do not know who is making the lower for Magpul) and both of them are very nice pieces of work.
Truth is... most folks go by the name or logo. If one company has a name or logo that appeals to a person, that is the lower they swear by -- but any forged or billet machined lower from a reputable dealer will most likely out last many, many upper receivers.
Things I look for are the mag well... how it is cut in, some are tight, some are loose and some are crooked -- hammer and trigger pin holes have been known to end up less that straight, in some you can see the hammer "twisted" to one side as it sets in the gun -- receiver extension boss, how does it line up and how straight is the tube when installed... finally just how well a known good upper mates up with the receiver.
If you buy from a dealer that has a good name, they got that good name by working for it... I know of one dealer on here who (even though it set him back on orders) has returned large orders of receivers because he did the inspections and was not happy with what he got. Sooooo, pick a name you like (safe bet that about an even number of people will tell you that your choice is great, as will tell you it is bad), put your trust in someone that has earned it and I am sure you will be quite happy.
We at SLR15 Rifles have just recently started to offer lower receivers. The first shipment just arrived back from the anodizers and are in stock, in fact I just got done checking in 250 of them.
I bought a DSA stripped lower at a gunshow a few months ago just because it was a good price. I can't remember who makes the lowers for DSA, but I thought it was LMT. I'm sure someone on here can verify.
I haven't built it up into anything yet, but Grant has an upper that's calling my name.:eek:
Coleman Tyler is instock on MEGA lowers, I ordered 1 last Sat.
We at SLR15 Rifles have just recently started to offer lower receivers. The first shipment just arrived back from the anodizers and are in stock, in fact I just got done checking in 250 of them.
That's great news!
I've have a Superior Arms lower and I love it and thought of getting a couple more to squirrel away. I'd love to pick one or two up with the SLR logo!
I like the GTS lowers from Denny by CMT/Stag
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v224/comp1911/Guns/Dsc01007.jpg
GLOCKCRAZZ
01-31-07, 16:16
I have a Rock River and a POF both are nice but the POF is a notch above. And looks like I will have a buy a MagPul now.
In my opinion, Bushmaster's lowers are Colt wannabees i.e. nice machine work without the PC cancer. Mega machine has very nice stuff.
Try this place,
http://www.spikestactical.com/
I bought a lower from them at a gun show not long ago, says "Infidel" on it. Machine work looks great, impressive.
Lou
blackhawk2000
02-02-07, 20:33
My Bushamster lower looks like crap, compared to the Stag lower I just bought.
My newest build features a Sabre Defence stripped lower which is of excellent quality.
My newest build features a Sabre Defence stripped lower which is of excellent quality.
Where did you get it/how much?
My Bushamster lower looks like crap, compared to the Stag lower I just bought.
I agree...BM makes a decent lower but they need to take some additonal time and clean up the leftover flashing.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v435/mooneys/DSCN2051.jpg
I am thinking of going with Superior Arms for my next build.
+1 for Denny's/GTS lower. You get Stag/CMT quality, plus all the extra attention to the small details like mag wells and forging marks means that more people get their hands on the lower. This leads me to believe that they have greater QC than most. The best part is it's a bargain.:D
The only real difference between the major brands is that some fit better with certain upper recievers. I have a superior arms, which is a nice lower, but doesn't fit as tight to my CMT upper as my RRA lower fits to it. The RRA has no play at all. I heard that RRA lowers are made by CMT, so I'm assuming that a STAG lower would fit tight too, but I cant say for sure.
For my next build I will probably just buy an RRA lower to mate with a CMT upper.
Bulldog1967
02-10-07, 15:17
I've only built on 1 lower so fat=r, but it was an Laurer/LMT which was EXCELLENT finish.
I got two Mega lowers from rainierarms.com, back when I think they cost $90.
I was amazed by the quality of the machining. The only AR-15 experience I had to that point was from the Army. Totally different level of quality.
Plus the atomic logo is really cool.
+1 on Mega and rainierarms.com
is this info accurate? saw it from here..
http://www.calguns.net/calgunforum/archive/index.php/t-50947.html
what does this mean..." The ribbed A2 strength on the reciever extension lug is thinner on the LMT, while the CMT is almost the full width."...?
still debating on LMT vs Noveske as i understand CMT makes noveskes upper/lower.
thx.
xenophobe
03-04-2007, 09:05 AM
Receiver FAQ Version 0.1 (please note this is still rough, and is not nearly finished)
I live in a ban state, so no luck getting Bushmaster, Armalite, DPMS or Colt into the mix. My apologies.
I see a lot of threads asking about Quality and Suggestions for which brand of receiver any particular person would buy, so I thought I might write this info I've posted in a number of places to have it's own thread.
There are currently FOUR manufacturers that produce the majority of lower receivers for the AR market. MMS, CMT, LMT and LAR receive orders from many licensed manufacturers who obtain an ATF variance to have them cut and logo receivers on their behalf. JVP and Superior Arms cut for a couple of different companies as well, but currently I will only focus on the four main manufacturers differences.
Mega, Stag (CMT), LAR and Barrett (LMT):
http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/7830/381.jpg
Not all inclusive, and a few brands have had more than one manufacturer cut their receivers. Many companies receive CMT and LMT cuts in the white and finish them themselves. I have not seen a LAR or MMS cut that was finished by a third party company.
LMT = LMT, Lauer(old), DS Arms, PWA, Eagle, Knights Armament, Barrett, Bushmaster (?)
CMT = Stag, RRA, High Standard, Noveske, Century (current), Global Tactical, CLE, S&W, MGI, Wilson Tactical, (some?) Colt, Ratworx
LAR = Grizzly, Bushmaster (L Prefix), Ameetech, (?)DPMS, CMMG, Double Star, Fulton
JVP = Double Star, LRB
MMS = Mega, GSE, Dalphon, POF (forged), Alexander Arms,
Olympic = Olypmic, SGW, Tromix, Palmetto, Dalphon, Frankford, (old) Century
Sun Devil = Sun Devil forged billet receivers
Superior = Superior Arms, Lauer (current)
Grenadier Precision
Characteristics of the manufacturers (please note, the most typical characteristics are listed, and each manufacturer may have substantial sample variation between lots):
LMT usually leaves forge flash underneath the trigger well, and roughly cuts them between the receiver extension and pistol grip, while leaving a vertical mold flash line on the front lip of the mag well, as well as having other "fingerprint" marks... no bevel cut for the charging handle on the rear lug for the receiver extension, as well as particular mill marks in between the pivot pin tangs. They also have a 'fingerprint' cut in the receiver on the shelf, and below it where the FCG goes. Notice the diagonal mill mark on one of the pivot pin supports. Also unique is the radius in the grip tang pocket, which is not as smooth a transition as the other manufacturers.
http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/531/lmt1.jpghttp://img148.imageshack.us/img148/842/lmt2.jpg
xenophobe
03-04-2007, 09:09 AM
CMT has a rounded bevel on the front of the mag well lip, generally removes the forge flash underneath the trigger well, usually offers a smooth and rounded surface between the receiver extension and pistol grip and has a unique mill mark that would be hidden by the attachment of a pistol grip. There is also a clamp mark of some sort that occurs on the top of the pivot pin lugs that LMT and LAR do not have (see 1st photo at beginning of thread).
http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/3253/cmt1.jpghttp://img148.imageshack.us/img148/6706/cmt3.jpg
LAR sometimes leaves forge flash underneath the trigger well, and does have a smooth flat milling mark on the round transition on the web between the receiver extension and grip. By the back of the grip tang, there is a milling mark that goes across the width of the receiver. The front of the receiver has a deep cut between the pivot pin retainers, and the front of the mag well is not always flat. The front radius to the mag well bevel is round, but the front edge sometimes shows forge flash.
http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/8288/lar1.jpghttp://img148.imageshack.us/img148/7054/lar2.jpg
xenophobe
03-04-2007, 09:11 AM
MMS usually the cleanest cut, with the exception of some CMT receivers. All of the MMS receivers for Mega, POF, Gunsmoke, Dalphon and Stinger I've seen have the typical black teflon coating. Some of the receivers look absolutely perfect, others have mag wells that are cut from both sides and don't quite match up in the center. Some of them also have what look like file marks running in one direction on part of all of the receiver, and can be somewhat subdued or very noticable. I won't describe machining fingerprints, because all Mega manufactured receivers are pretty obviously made by MMS.
http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/4250/mms1.jpghttp://img148.imageshack.us/img148/9693/mms2.jpg
The forgings that CMT and LMT use are also from different manufacturers. The ribbed A2 strength on the reciever extension lug is thinner on the LMT, while the CMT is almost the full width. Mega appears to use the same forgings as LMT. All of the manufacturers seem to have some variation of mag well bevels, and those aren't primarily useful in identification.
From left to right, Mega, Stag/CMT, LAR, LMT and Barrett,
http://img177.imageshack.us/img177/2847/73704265co7.jpg
xenophobe
03-04-2007, 09:12 AM
Other comparisons
All of the following photos will show from left to right; Mega, Stag, LAR, Barrett and/or LMT:
Notice the lack of a charging handle bevel on the Barrett/LMT
http://img177.imageshack.us/img177/4400/30755159bs4.jpg
Notice the difference between the LMT and the larger mag well bevel of the Barrett (far right):
http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/3703/382.jpg
Trigger well forge flash clearly visible on the Barrett and LMT:
http://img177.imageshack.us/img177/8997/57432685hm8.jpg
http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/842/384.jpg
xenophobe
03-04-2007, 09:16 AM
http://img177.imageshack.us/img177/5179/14018510eb5.jpg
Links to the manufacturers:
LMT = Lewis Machine and Tool
www.lewismachine.net (http://www.lewismachine.net)
CMT= Continental Machine and Tool
www.continentalmachinetool.com (http://www.continentalmachinetool.com)
www.stagarms.com (http://www.stagarms.com) (an individual corporation that was started by CMT)
LAR = some combination of the original owner's last initials
www.larmanufacturing.com (http://www.larmanufacturing.com)
www.largrizzly.com (http://www.largrizzly.com)
MMS=Mega Machine Shop
www.megamachineshop.com (http://www.megamachineshop.com) (new)
JVP=JV Precision
jvprecision.net (http://jvprecision.net)
Superior Arms
www.superiorarms.com (http://www.superiorarms.com)
Okay, I'm done for now... whew... More info and pics later.
If there are any corrections, or requests for pics/comparisons of angles I have not yet posted, please PM me.
rifleshooter
07-07-08, 19:33
is this info accurate? saw it from here..
http://www.calguns.net/calgunforum/archive/index.php/t-50947.html
what does this mean..." The ribbed A2 strength on the reciever extension lug is thinner on the LMT, while the CMT is almost the full width."...?
still debating on LMT vs Noveske as i understand CMT makes noveskes upper/lower.
thx.
xenophobe
03-04-2007, 09:05 AM
Receiver FAQ Version 0.1 (please note this is still rough, and is not nearly finished)
I live in a ban state, so no luck getting Bushmaster, Armalite, DPMS or Colt into the mix. My apologies.
I see a lot of threads asking about Quality and Suggestions for which brand of receiver any particular person would buy, so I thought I might write this info I've posted in a number of places to have it's own thread.
There are currently FOUR manufacturers that produce the majority of lower receivers for the AR market. MMS, CMT, LMT and LAR receive orders from many licensed manufacturers who obtain an ATF variance to have them cut and logo receivers on their behalf. JVP and Superior Arms cut for a couple of different companies as well, but currently I will only focus on the four main manufacturers differences.
Mega, Stag (CMT), LAR and Barrett (LMT):
http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/7830/381.jpg
Not all inclusive, and a few brands have had more than one manufacturer cut their receivers. Many companies receive CMT and LMT cuts in the white and finish them themselves. I have not seen a LAR or MMS cut that was finished by a third party company.
LMT = LMT, Lauer(old), DS Arms, PWA, Eagle, Knights Armament, Barrett, Bushmaster (?)
CMT = Stag, RRA, High Standard, Noveske, Century (current), Global Tactical, CLE, S&W, MGI, Wilson Tactical, (some?) Colt, Ratworx
LAR = Grizzly, Bushmaster (L Prefix), Ameetech, (?)DPMS, CMMG, Double Star, Fulton
JVP = Double Star, LRB
MMS = Mega, GSE, Dalphon, POF (forged), Alexander Arms,
Olympic = Olypmic, SGW, Tromix, Palmetto, Dalphon, Frankford, (old) Century
Sun Devil = Sun Devil forged billet receivers
Superior = Superior Arms, Lauer (current)
Grenadier Precision
Characteristics of the manufacturers (please note, the most typical characteristics are listed, and each manufacturer may have substantial sample variation between lots):
LMT usually leaves forge flash underneath the trigger well, and roughly cuts them between the receiver extension and pistol grip, while leaving a vertical mold flash line on the front lip of the mag well, as well as having other "fingerprint" marks... no bevel cut for the charging handle on the rear lug for the receiver extension, as well as particular mill marks in between the pivot pin tangs. They also have a 'fingerprint' cut in the receiver on the shelf, and below it where the FCG goes. Notice the diagonal mill mark on one of the pivot pin supports. Also unique is the radius in the grip tang pocket, which is not as smooth a transition as the other manufacturers.
http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/531/lmt1.jpghttp://img148.imageshack.us/img148/842/lmt2.jpg
xenophobe
03-04-2007, 09:09 AM
CMT has a rounded bevel on the front of the mag well lip, generally removes the forge flash underneath the trigger well, usually offers a smooth and rounded surface between the receiver extension and pistol grip and has a unique mill mark that would be hidden by the attachment of a pistol grip. There is also a clamp mark of some sort that occurs on the top of the pivot pin lugs that LMT and LAR do not have (see 1st photo at beginning of thread).
http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/3253/cmt1.jpghttp://img148.imageshack.us/img148/6706/cmt3.jpg
LAR sometimes leaves forge flash underneath the trigger well, and does have a smooth flat milling mark on the round transition on the web between the receiver extension and grip. By the back of the grip tang, there is a milling mark that goes across the width of the receiver. The front of the receiver has a deep cut between the pivot pin retainers, and the front of the mag well is not always flat. The front radius to the mag well bevel is round, but the front edge sometimes shows forge flash.
http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/8288/lar1.jpghttp://img148.imageshack.us/img148/7054/lar2.jpg
xenophobe
03-04-2007, 09:11 AM
MMS usually the cleanest cut, with the exception of some CMT receivers. All of the MMS receivers for Mega, POF, Gunsmoke, Dalphon and Stinger I've seen have the typical black teflon coating. Some of the receivers look absolutely perfect, others have mag wells that are cut from both sides and don't quite match up in the center. Some of them also have what look like file marks running in one direction on part of all of the receiver, and can be somewhat subdued or very noticable. I won't describe machining fingerprints, because all Mega manufactured receivers are pretty obviously made by MMS.
http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/4250/mms1.jpghttp://img148.imageshack.us/img148/9693/mms2.jpg
The forgings that CMT and LMT use are also from different manufacturers. The ribbed A2 strength on the reciever extension lug is thinner on the LMT, while the CMT is almost the full width. Mega appears to use the same forgings as LMT. All of the manufacturers seem to have some variation of mag well bevels, and those aren't primarily useful in identification.
From left to right, Mega, Stag/CMT, LAR, LMT and Barrett,
http://img177.imageshack.us/img177/2847/73704265co7.jpg
xenophobe
03-04-2007, 09:12 AM
Other comparisons
All of the following photos will show from left to right; Mega, Stag, LAR, Barrett and/or LMT:
Notice the lack of a charging handle bevel on the Barrett/LMT
http://img177.imageshack.us/img177/4400/30755159bs4.jpg
Notice the difference between the LMT and the larger mag well bevel of the Barrett (far right):
http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/3703/382.jpg
Trigger well forge flash clearly visible on the Barrett and LMT:
http://img177.imageshack.us/img177/8997/57432685hm8.jpg
http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/842/384.jpg
xenophobe
03-04-2007, 09:16 AM
http://img177.imageshack.us/img177/5179/14018510eb5.jpg
Links to the manufacturers:
LMT = Lewis Machine and Tool
www.lewismachine.net (http://www.lewismachine.net)
CMT= Continental Machine and Tool
www.continentalmachinetool.com (http://www.continentalmachinetool.com)
www.stagarms.com (http://www.stagarms.com) (an individual corporation that was started by CMT)
LAR = some combination of the original owner's last initials
www.larmanufacturing.com (http://www.larmanufacturing.com)
www.largrizzly.com (http://www.largrizzly.com)
MMS=Mega Machine Shop
www.megamachineshop.com (http://www.megamachineshop.com) (new)
JVP=JV Precision
jvprecision.net (http://jvprecision.net)
Superior Arms
www.superiorarms.com (http://www.superiorarms.com)
Okay, I'm done for now... whew... More info and pics later.
If there are any corrections, or requests for pics/comparisons of angles I have not yet posted, please PM me.
Well it sure does give one a few things to look at.:) Sure nothing wrong with looking at details.
Now if the DEVIL is really in the details I guess one should plot out each detail of every lower then make their mind up as to what details or one major detail really make one lower stronger "better" then the others.
Maybe others can chime in on the make of lowers they have seen or read of having failures in their forgings.
Anyway I don't think I will lay awake tonight worring about the forging on my LM&T AR.:)
new to ARs, so the more i read, the more questions i have. getting bogged down in the details.
was just wondering if there is any big difference between CMT and LMT products other than the level of finish. is one more durable than the other...? same specs, different roll marks? i read that noveske has his uppers/lowers made to his specs...but how different is that from LMT?
i understand noveske spends more time on the fit/finish of their uppers/lowers and LMT just makes them work.
looking at a N4 basic recce 16" or a LMT standard 16". thinking of a middy, LMT middy only comes in MRP.
Kurt Reifert
07-08-08, 06:43
...... and LMT just makes them work.
Well, I got nothin' else to say.
rifleshooter
07-08-08, 08:30
new to ARs, so the more i read, the more questions i have. getting bogged down in the details.
was just wondering if there is any big difference between CMT and LMT products other than the level of finish. is one more durable than the other...? same specs, different roll marks? i read that noveske has his uppers/lowers made to his specs...but how different is that from LMT?
i understand noveske spends more time on the fit/finish of their uppers/lowers and LMT just makes them work.
looking at a N4 basic recce 16" or a LMT standard 16". thinking of a middy, LMT middy only comes in MRP.
I don't think the "LM&T post statment (just makes them work) has any real truth in it. My LM&T has really great fit and finish and shoots great groups for this shooter with no problems.
Now if someone knows something I don't about the quality of LM&T being not as good as other AR builders please post your facts.:rolleyes:
watchluvr4ever
07-08-08, 08:36
Now if someone knows something I don't about the quality of LM&T being not as good as other AR builders please post your facts.:rolleyes:
Those "Facts" just don't exist!
I don't think the "LM&T post statment (just makes them work) has any real truth in it. My LM&T has really great fit and finish and shoots great groups for this shooter with no problems.
Now if someone knows something I don't about the quality of LM&T being not as good as other AR builders please post your facts.:rolleyes:
having never owned an LMT or Noveske, i'm not claiming to know. just asking from what i've been reading and from what the "calguns" post above was discussing. the pics in the calguns post show differences in various manufacturers.
like i said, i'm new to ARs, just trying to sort through all the info available and gain some knowledge from those who know much more than i.
looking to do another budget build or two and looking at lowers- there are so many choices now- seem some at low prices- any one have opinions on:
aero precision
delaware machine
any other opinions?
recently used a lauer custom bought for $75 -should have bought a few
IMO, don't skimp on parts - the race to the pricing bottom isn't always a good thing. Buy a normal quality forged lower for $100-$150 and skimp somewhere else, like fast food.
looking to do another budget build or two and looking at lowers- there are so many choices now- seem some at low prices- any one have opinions on:
aero precision
delaware machine
any other opinions?
recently used a lauer custom bought for $75 -should have bought a few
Tactical Innovations.
Have T15s. 2 of them, one going SBR. At 109 it is a bargain!!
I'd not press my luck on anything else anymore for a 20-40 savings.
Anymore, I'd just pick up a BCM or DD from GandR
If i was buying one tom. or in very near future I would want a BCM lower. I have only seen limited amt. in pics but they all have seemed to have OUTSTANDING finishes....plus its bcm backing it.
Based on my sample of one, the blemed Noveske lower is the best quality bang for the buck. Tolerances are closer vs a couple name brand lowers (plus one upper) I just received - resulting in an outstanding upper/lower fit for the Noveske. Probably not significant for the average build, but very desirable *to me* for an SPR.
noveske or the spikes lower i just got is great and wasnt that expensive
Based on my sample of one, the blemed Noveske lower is the best quality bang for the buck. Tolerances are closer vs a couple name brand lowers (plus one upper) I just received - resulting in an outstanding upper/lower fit for the Noveske. Probably not significant for the average build, but very desirable *to me* for an SPR.
Any links to Noveske blemished lowers for sale?
Any links to Noveske blemished lowers for sale?
Rainier Arms has them for $150, not sure if they're in stock.
http://www.rainierarms.com/?page=shop/detail&product_id=1462
The Seekins billet lower is quite nice looking.
http://www.rainierarms.com/?page=shop/detail&product_id=1511
http://www.rainierarms.com/img/shop/product/38ffe1d24d9255d9d31dca4f85744027.jpg
The Seekins billet lower is quite nice looking.
http://www.rainierarms.com/?page=shop/detail&product_id=1511
http://www.rainierarms.com/img/shop/product/38ffe1d24d9255d9d31dca4f85744027.jpg
I would have to agree...I have recently been looking at them and although they have some extreme lines to them, I really like them.
eta....for anyone who has not tried a lower with the upper receiver tension screw, they are a real nice addition!
I could be wrong, but I do not believe stripped BCM lowers are for sale.
I have built a Noveske blem lower, and it looks as good, if not better than my Noveske factory complete rifle.
I also have a Spikes lower for a future build, and it looks fine.
I think any name lower from a major company will be just fine. Worry more about the quality of the LPK, the BCG, and the barrel you put on it.
Seems like Daniel Defense's biggest advantage is the flared magwell.
Blackheart International's forged lowers have among the best anodizing I've seen.
They offer both forged ($140) and billet. www.bhigear.com
http://i217.photobucket.com/albums/cc295/B055H0GG/bhi15lowerweb.jpg
m1a_scoutguy
05-19-10, 10:57
I put together 5 different guns using the LRB Lowers. All went together with 0 problems,,I have used LPK from CMMG,Rock River & Daniels Defense,,all worked fine ! Get together with some buddies and buy a bunch of them,,,LOL !!!
http://www.lrbarms.com/m15sareceivers.html
I stick with the usual suspects and suggest doing so, LMT-Colt....
But if budget makes it not an option. I went into Buds in Lexington KY, the online dealer, and handled some of their Double Star's complete lowers. $200. the trigger was actually pretty good and the baked on finish (it looked and seemed of the baked on variety??) looked great. They had stripped ones as well, I did not look at the price.
You may want to check them out.
Based on price, the billet lowers are clearly the best.
ContractSoldier
05-20-10, 12:07
Friend of mine, just built a budget AR with this lower from this seller and is very happy with it.
http://www.aimsurplus.com/product.aspx?item=F1SASL&groupid=53
Either the Aero Precision stripped lower or their house brand lower (made by Aero Precision,) from Surplus Ammo & Arms makes a great lower for $79.99, and prices go down if you buy more than one.
https://surplusammo.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=33&products_id=329
ContractSoldier
05-21-10, 00:01
Either the Aero Precision stripped lower or their house brand lower (made by Aero Precision,) from Surplus Ammo & Arms makes a great lower for $79.99, and prices go down if you buy more than one.
https://surplusammo.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=33&products_id=329
Correct me if I'm wrong, both those are made by CMT
I really like the stripped S&W M&P15 lower receivers. Very clean machining & finishing on them. Nice magwell as well.
Lucky Strike
05-21-10, 07:19
Correct me if I'm wrong, both those are made by CMT
I don't know who makes them but I swapped out a RRA lower with an Aero one on my main rifle (the RRA is now mated to a .22lr upper) and the Aero has noticeably better machining and finish on it then the RRA. So if CMT does make it (which I don't know) then they're using a higher level of specs then the RRA stuff they make.
Correct me if I'm wrong, both those are made by CMT
I don't know where they get their raw forgings from, but as far as I have been able to research, they do their own final machining and roll-marking. BTW - They make the lower you referenced in your previous post, that your friend was happy with.
ContractSoldier
05-21-10, 11:00
Good to know, i should have picked one up myself, but I'm to busy finishing my build and buying Magpul P Mags and ammo.
I have used several of these now and the quality is outstanding.
http://www.brownells.com/.aspx/sid=56222/pid=31719/sku/Stripped_AR_15_Lower_Receiver
I put together 5 different guns using the LRB Lowers. All went together with 0 problems,,I have used LPK from CMMG,Rock River & Daniels Defense,,all worked fine ! Get together with some buddies and buy a bunch of them,,,LOL !!!
http://www.lrbarms.com/m15sareceivers.html
I REALLY like LRBs roll mark as well. In addition they are a bargain to be sure. If ya can swing 10 of them they are under $60 a pop, not bad.
IPSC_GUY
SIERRA II ALPHA
m1a_scoutguy
05-21-10, 23:09
I REALLY like LRBs roll mark as well. In addition they are a bargain to be sure. If ya can swing 10 of them they are under $60 a pop, not bad.
IPSC_GUY
SIERRA II ALPHA
That is one of the"Coolest" things about AR's,,,there are soooooooooo,,many choices,,it can drive ya crazy !!!! :eek: In a good kind of way !!!! You can pay more,,,but bottom line, why would you,,,:D The LRB is a Great Lower especially for the price ! Are there better Lowers,,probably,,are there worse ones,,Hmmmm,probably,,I just know that the ones I have are pretty darn nice,,and the Roll Stamp of the Crossed Cannons is pretty cool also. It all boils down to,get what ya want,,,plenty to choose from,,enjoy shopping around !!! :) :)
I REALLY like LRBs roll mark as well. In addition they are a bargain to be sure. If ya can swing 10 of them they are under $60 a pop, not bad.
IPSC_GUY
SIERRA II ALPHA
+1, just wish I could afford a LRB M14...
most of them are all the same, just pick one you like.
ParkisMaximus
05-22-10, 10:37
so is there really a difference on who builds the stripped lower if you are just going to assemble the innards yourself?
what matters to me is the upper, barrel, and the bolt carrier assembly.
thats just my opinion.
and spikes tactical has some nice lowers. built and stripped.
I have used 3 Spikes lowers with complete satisfaction. 89 bucks at Brownells is a good price IMO.
'
I have used several of these now and the quality is outstanding.
http://www.brownells.com/.aspx/sid=56222/pid=31719/sku/Stripped_AR_15_Lower_Receiver
I had ten of the DSA blemished lowers. All are great and went together well.
I used a Stag parts kit. The only issue is the mag release button from stag will not fit the lower without some fitting.
DPMS mag release buttons are a perfect fit.
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a2/madecov/ARMS/DSC01810.jpg
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a2/madecov/ARMS/DSC01817.jpg
Final product (until I change things around again)
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a2/madecov/ARMS/DSC01839.jpg
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a2/madecov/ARMS/DSC01838.jpg
lethal dose
05-22-10, 21:48
If you're not using p mags, I really like territorial gunsmiths lowers... more or less just for the finish. For me, I really like my Daniel defense... at $120 it's got great features (flared magwell).
ParkisMaximus
05-23-10, 12:07
madecov, what are you using on your bottom rail?
madecov, what are you using on your bottom rail?
It's a Samson quad rail. Newest model designed to work with Stag model 8 piston gun
Magic_Salad0892
05-23-10, 16:35
DD, or BCM lowers work well.
ParkisMaximus
05-26-10, 20:18
It's a Samson quad rail. Newest model designed to work with Stag model 8 piston gun
i might have to take a look at that. im getting tired of the gangster grips and grip pods. i miss my 203, it always treated me right, and the targets, lets just say they didnt like it that much.
ParkisMaximus
05-26-10, 20:28
madecov, i went on samson.com and coulndt find anything. from the pic it doesnt look like a rail but maybe something like a gagnster grip but more of a hand rest.
madecov, i went on samson.com and coulndt find anything. from the pic it doesnt look like a rail but maybe something like a gagnster grip but more of a hand rest.
Are you talking about this?
http://jsgunparts.com/store/images/AFG3.jpg
That is a Magpul angled fore grip (AFG).
The Magpul angled foregrip is nice. It really allows a natural hand angle
Magic_Salad0892
05-27-10, 03:48
I loved my AFG.
Sold it. Now I run KAC handstops. (For goddamn $80 each.)
$35 for AFG > $80 for KAC Handstop
Functionality wise. The KAC works enough for me to make the change.
http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/ViewItem.aspx?Item=171100890
great lowers, and you can find them for sooper cheep right now. this is just the first cheep one i found, but i've seen them for as low as $75 on some sites.
i've built on a number of these.. always perfect.
Quiet-Matt
05-27-10, 08:27
Surplusammo.com has AeroPrecision lowers 1 for $80 or 2 for $75 each.
AimSurplus.com has Spikes gen 1 lowers for $70
Surplusammo.com has AeroPrecision lowers 1 for $80 or 2 for $75 each.
AimSurplus.com has Spikes gen 1 lowers for $70
Gee, where have I heard that before? Could it be, post #17.
ForTehNguyen
05-27-10, 14:17
AIM has spike lowers for $70 or 2 for $65/each.
http://www.aimsurplus.com/product.aspx?item=F1STSLGEN1
Quiet-Matt
05-27-10, 16:19
Gee, where have I heard that before? Could it be, post #17.
:rolleyes:good greif, SIR: I'll be sure to check all of your posts from now on: SIR! :D
ParkisMaximus
05-27-10, 18:45
Are you talking about this?
http://jsgunparts.com/store/images/AFG3.jpg
That is a Magpul angled fore grip (AFG).
yes that is what i was talking about. thanks.
Ridge_Runner_5
05-27-10, 22:48
Spike's through AIM is without a doubt the best value out there right now...I bought a blemished one earlier this year, and my only gripe is the safety selector seems a bit rough...
http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b100/89Sunbird/Shooting/DSC_0006.jpg
Cincinnatus
07-30-10, 01:30
Bump. Any more comments on this comparison of Lowers? How sound is this information?
Cincinnatus
07-30-10, 01:50
Good thread. Sticky???
Cincinnatus
07-30-10, 01:53
Folks, here are some links to threads about comparing stripped lowers. Thought it might help someone not have to answer the same questions over and over. :)
https://www.m4carbine.net/showthread.php?t=43019
https://www.m4carbine.net/showthread.php?t=7284
https://www.m4carbine.net/showthread.php?t=3074
https://www.m4carbine.net/showthread.php?t=54195
https://www.m4carbine.net/showthread.php?t=43969&page=2
https://www.m4carbine.net/showthread.php?t=56128
Cascades236
07-30-10, 03:49
surprised Mega hasn't been mentioned yet.
justin_247
07-30-10, 05:04
is this info accurate? saw it from here..
....
still debating on LMT vs Noveske as i understand CMT makes noveskes upper/lower.
Noveske has had its lowers made by numerous companies. Some lowers are made by CMT, but I've heard of others being made by LAR.
There are currently FOUR manufacturers that produce the majority of lower receivers for the AR market. MMS, CMT, LMT and LAR receive orders from many licensed manufacturers who obtain an ATF variance to have them cut and logo receivers on their behalf. JVP and Superior Arms cut for a couple of different companies as well, but currently I will only focus on the four main manufacturers differences.
I don't think this is really true anymore. Colt, POF, S&W, Kaiser, LAR, Knight's, and Daniel Defense, for example, all make their own lowers and make quite a few on contract with other companies.
Lots of trivia in this post.
I just bought an Aero Precision lower from: http://www.dansammo.com/firearms.asp. Looks good to me and a great price also.
crusader377
07-30-10, 09:10
If you want a lower cost yet good quality lower, you might want to try the Spikes Tactical Gen 1 or 1.5 from aimsurplus. I picked my Gen 1 up for $65 and the 1.5 are currently on aim's website for $69. Although they are inexpensive the machine work and finish on mine was very good and I had no problems assembling it.
Some shops like Mega seem to turn out very precise products... but again, they can end up with another name on them.
As has been said, certain companies make lowers for lots of people and just the name is different. Does anyone know which lowers are made by Mega, other than the ones obviously stamped Mega?
Truth is... most folks go by the name or logo. If one company has a name or logo that appeals to a person, that is the lower they swear by --
I've ordered stuff from Rainier Arms in the past (great service by the way) and my orders came with a wicked cool sticker of a mountain with a paw under it. I've seen where Rainier has their own lowers now. While just aesthetics, one simply marked with that logo instead of the name would be super cool imho
Things I look for are the mag well... how it is cut in, some are tight, some are loose and some are crooked
I have very limited AR experience but one of the features I find extremely beneficial is the flared mag well on my DD lower.
I used a Doublestar lower on my first build. The finish is actually really good on it. I have seen others bash Doublestar, but I must have purchased one of the good ones. It assembled easily and I have zero fit issues. I think for my next build I am going to go with a Daniel Defense lower.
I only have experience with BM and RRA. Both have been flawless - fit and finish have been great, with a nod to the RRA. But since BCM has come out with lowers of late, I'll be selling my current lowers and buying a few BCM lowers from Grant.
I've used 2 Aero Precision lowers on builds. I have no complaints. That link for Dans Ammo is an excellent price.
Cagemonkey
07-30-10, 20:38
I've used two Armalite lowers for builds. Had no problems. Fit and finish mated well to LMT and unmarked Noveske uppers. They were cheap, available during the post election hysteria and I liked the roll mark.
Dangerousdan
10-07-10, 20:53
After reading all the remarks about lowers I have not seen anything neg. about the Kaiser or PWA lowers both are very clean forging and I believe will make a clean lower build for my 6.8 Noveske upper.
So, people keep talking about "there are only 4 AR lower mfgr" etc, but are they talking about forgings, or finished receivers? I suspect that the final machining and finishing of the receiver is vastly more important than who forged it, and my bet is the top mfgrs do there own finish work.
After reading all the remarks about lowers I have not seen anything neg. about the Kaiser or PWA lowers both are very clean forging and I believe will make a clean lower build for my 6.8 Noveske upper.
I've used two Kaisers, and have nothing but good to say. I've never heard anything bad about them. One has a DD LPK with LMT selector and bolt catch, the other has a G&R parts kit with the same.
The only thing I would consider now is that you could buy a BCM or LMT complete lower and have a superior parts kit to almost anything you would put together in the same price range. G&R's custom Daniel Defense lowers are also a great value.
A good lower is only as good as the LPK you have in it. I have to question people that buy whatever "supercool billet lower" only to fill it with a garbage DPMS or Model 1 parts.
So, people keep talking about "there are only 4 AR lower mfgr" etc, but are they talking about forgings, or finished receivers? I suspect that the final machining and finishing of the receiver is vastly more important than who forged it, and my bet is the top mfgrs do there own finish work.
Don't forget inspection and quality control. Two companies may get all of their lowers from the same MFG, but one will sell all of them without a second glance while the other may send some back to the MFG for issues after a thorough QC check.
Powered by vBulletin® Version 4.2.5 Copyright © 2024 vBulletin Solutions, Inc. All rights reserved.