Link to the Aero deal for those looking. I have tons of builds with Aero lowers and they've been great.
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Link to the Aero deal for those looking. I have tons of builds with Aero lowers and they've been great.
No such a thing. Specs call for lowers to be Forged from 7075 T6 AL. Casting and Forging are two different things.
OP, The answer to your question, "Is there really a difference?" YES there is a difference. Check out the stickies above and use the search function.
A wise man once said, " We know that not all ARs are the same and only a fool believes that parts are parts."
Last edited by Berserkr556; 12-11-15 at 16:38.
There is a lot of differences, some have little horsies stamped on the side, some only have half a horse, some have a few letters, some have crossed cannon . . .
The thing is, if there is something wrong, you probably won't see it with the just the eye. You'll need gauge pins and calipers, and other precision measuring tools, or you will build it up and something won't fit right.
Weight savings in a lower makes for a high cost unit as well... At least one that is durable. Lost O' Machine time to make it happen.
Ryan
Founder and co-owner/operator at 2A-Armament
I'd say for a standard, USGI style lower you're paying for QC for the $75-$100 or so lowers. Anything below that you're rolling the dice to some extent. Above that you're paying for features like ambi bolt release, machined billet, "added lightness" etc. Sometimes the feature is cosmetic like that hideous lower I've seen with a skull for the magwell. On the other end of the spectrum is something like 2A Arms' Balios Lite (work of art, that one) that takes a ton of machine time to shave weight, increase the magwell etc. Depends on what you want and need. Some people buy a Honda Civic, some people get a Jeep to go off road, some get a Porsche to go fast around the track etc. I think the sweet spot for bang-for-your-buck is probably and Aero or BCM based on reputation for QC. I have no experience with Spike's. I'd say most people should start with a few lowers in the Honda civic category and then go for the upgraded stuff.
Last edited by mkmckinley; 12-11-15 at 23:13.
I think if you are looking to build your first AR, or you are wanting to build on a budget, I would look at the Aero Precision lowers. They offer what is probably the best bang for your buck for a decent quality lower. Others I would consider are Spikes and Palmetto State Armory.
If your talking complete lowers I would look at BCM, S&W, and maybe Daniel Defense (when you can find one) if you want to spend a little more and have a more recognizable brand on the side.
If you want a premium lower I would recommend a Noveske if you want stripped or a Knights Armament if you are looking for a complete ambidextrous lower receiver.
Biggest difference that I can tell between the higher end lowers and the "upper-tier" cheap lower receivers is just the collectability of the name and the resale value. I've seen many Noveskes, KAC, some older Colts, etc gain value over time whereas PSA, Spikes, AP, etc tend to devalue. There are obviously some form/function differences but even a cheaper lower will yield you a nice build if done right.
Avoid the super-cheap and the "off brands". There is a reason they are cheap. You do get what you pay for when it comes to firearms.
Does anyone have any experience with JD Machine? I looked at one at an LGS today, and it appeared well made. Does anyone have experience comparing them to Aero?
I was going to go with Aero until I saw that JD has a sale going that puts the lower at about $50; which is a pretty good deal if the lower is good.
http://www.jdmachinetech.com/shop-jd...lower-receiver
Sorry you'll have to copy paste; my phone isn't letting me put in a link for some reason.
I like that there's no roll mark, but aesthetics aren't the most important.
JD Machine has been around for a while. They put out quality products. And they'll put whatever rollmark you want. You supply the drawing or pick from their offerings, USMC, Army, Navy,etc..
Navy Vet 83-91
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