To build or not to build?

[Flash Point]

I would say go for the build if for any other reason than the finished product would be of your own making. It's a great experience. There's nothing mythical or secret about assembling an AR. Yes there are some important things you need to know; but if you can follow a technical manual and are an engineer (as you say) you should have no trouble. This firearm has been around for over thirty years. There are tons of parts out there; you just have to keep looking!

[Saginaw79]

Build, its cheaper!

A friend built an A1 Clone with a very overpriced lower and still came in well under $600

[Caeser25]

build it, I think a monkey that understood how it works could build one.

[Mr.Goodtimes]

build it and build it raw! manbearpig and evil black helicopters are super serial. build it so you have a chance.

joking aside though, these things are pretty simple. Im not ready to be installing barrels etc. but if you buy a complete upper, everything else is cake.

[Joe Mamma]

I say buy the lower now and wait for the panic buying/prices/parts availability to get better before you get the other stuff. With the magazines that you already have, you can afford to wait.

I'd actually suggest getting 2 lowers. In the big scheme of things, they are not that expensive.

While you're waiting, you might want to get a used beater AR or shoot a friend's gun as much as possible. It will help you to appreciate good components and let you know what features you want. That way you can build yours "right" the first time.

Joe Mamma

[Armati]

Do it.

You should have no problems. I would recommend getting a copy of the actual Army TM - TM 9-1005-319-23&P. Pay attention to TQ values.

One thing I like to do is to buy parts a little at a time. If I see something I like or a good price I just buy it. It also easier convince my wife that I need $100-200 part than to tell here I 'need' another $1300 rifle.

[scared_shotless]

Thanks for all the replies & support everyone.

I finished the first lower last evening. Piece of cake.

I actually picked up another stripped lower on Monday. S&W MP15 for $100.00 from a guy @ work who needed the Christmas Cash.

I think I will just wait it out for a while unless I come across some decent deals on the rest.

I am going to grab another 10 magazines & start loading up on ammo in the meantime.

Thanks again everyone for all the input.

[VLODPG]

I'd grab the lower if the price is reasonable. Parts will be available soon.

You'll end up with more than one AR eventually anyway.

Amen!

Get a complete gun now to satisfy your craving & as you start to get a feel for it, you will want to make changes. Thats where your own build wil come into play.

Welcome another victim of BRD!

[nfranco]

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