Looking to build no frills, highly reliable *shtf* type AR.

**Cowboys1** · 11-21-20, 21:28

If I buy the Colt lower the only things I'll change are simple things. Trigger guard, Grip, norgon (arms unlimited knock off) ambi mag release, bad-ass pro ambi safety, bcm qd endplate then re-stake it. I'll stick with the mil-spec Colt trigger since this is going to be a "go-to" type rifle. The Colt's come with the 4 position extension correct? I like the 2nd and 3rd slots of a 6 position.

**RUTGERS95** · 11-21-20, 21:40

Originally Posted by Cowboys1

If I buy the Colt lower the only things I'll change are simple things. Trigger guard, Grip, norgon (arms unlimited knock off) ambi mag release, bad-ass pro ambi safety, bcm qd endplate then re-stake it. I'll stick with the mil-spec Colt trigger since this is going to be a "go-to" type rifle. The Colt's come with the 4 position extension correct? I like the 2nd and 3rd slots of a 6 position.

just build out your aero receiver set if you changing out that much. build it how you want, it's ridiculously easy, so easy in fact that my 11 and 13yr old son built their first ARs during Covid. That was under my direction of course

**ViperTwoSix** · 11-22-20, 10:27

Add my vote for build out the lower you have, since you’d be changing so much on it anyway. Triggers aren’t that hard to install, so you can still put in a great trigger of your choice.

Save the $400 you would have spent on the lower and put it towards your Upper.

**Cowboys1** · 11-22-20, 12:42

I'm going to keep the Aero lower and build another with that. I want to have at least 2 AR's in case the Dem's win the senate which means we lose our semi-auto rifles. Not the ones we have but buying new ones.

**Cowboys1** · 11-22-20, 12:45

You know I could always just take my stripped lower and all the parts to a gun smith and have them build it. That way it would be done correctly and still be the way I want. Then I could buy another stripped lower and use that one to learn to do it myself.

**Dr. Bullseye** · 11-22-20, 13:40

I know, I am crazy BUT the OP wants reliability in his SHTF rifle (this is a little off topic). I installed M*Carbo Extra Strenght mag springs in all my mags (USGI and Polymer). I have not had a malfunction in over a year. M*Carbo says their springs will clear up 70% of feed problems. It is an easy, cheap upgrade for at least those initial , favorite mags you never want to fail.

https://www.mcarbo.com/ar-15-extra-p...ag-spring.aspx

**maximus83** · 11-22-20, 13:50

If you're a novice at AR building and this is a serious use rifle--I'd suggest taking the solid advice you were given and get a complete rifle from one of the quality rifle makers that were listed. If you are serious about depending for your life on this rifle, don't cut corners, buy a complete rifle or at least a complete upper and a complete lower. If you want a specific suggestion, here's an in-stock rifle from a solid builder with a great reputation, this is what I'd get today if just starting: Sionics Patrol Rifle. Tip: If you get that rifle, the "upgrade to 2-stage trigger" option is well worth it, I have that trigger in another rifle.

**maximus83** · 11-22-20, 13:54

Originally Posted by themonk

Actually because of the ambi requirements I would differ from others in the thread and say just buy an LMT and call it a day.

Yes. Or a Geissele Super Duty (but more spendy). Or a Sionics, and just contact them after you've made your online order to upgrade selector and mag release to ambi, they'll do it.

**Wake27** · 11-22-20, 13:56

Originally Posted by Dr. Bullseye

I know, I am crazy BUT the OP wants reliability in his SHTF rifle (this is a little off topic). I installed M*Carbo Extra Strenght mag springs in all my mags (USGI and Polymer). I have not had a malfunction in over a year. M*Carbo says their springs will clear up 70% of feed problems. It is an easy, cheap upgrade for at least those initial , favorite mags you never want to fail.

https://www.mcarbo.com/ar-15-extra-p...ag-spring.aspx

Sounds like a gimmick from a company that’s never been mentioned here. I’ve had Gen M3 pmags ever since they came out and never had a malfunction either, plus they’re actually designed by a reputable company.

OP, Colt lower for $400 isn’t bad in today’s climate and likely won’t get any better. Honestly I’d probably buy it and use as is until you’ve collected the parts for your Aero lower. The stuff you’re planning on swapping is like 75% of what’s on there... and aftermarket triggers are far from a liability as long as you don’t buy junk.

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**RUTGERS95** · 11-22-20, 17:22

Originally Posted by Wake27

Sounds like a gimmick from a company that’s never been mentioned here. I’ve had Gen M3 pmags ever since they came out and never had a malfunction either, plus they’re actually designed by a reputable company.

OP, Colt lower for $400 isn’t bad in today’s climate and likely won’t get any better. Honestly I’d probably buy it and use as is until you’ve collected the parts for your Aero lower. The stuff you’re planning on swapping is like 75% of what’s on there... and aftermarket triggers are far from a liability as long as you don’t buy junk.

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have to agree on ALL counts here, well stated