My new CAR build

[Wallyg8r]

I started with a stripped Mega Upper and Lower. I didn't intend to start out with a stripped Upper, but it just worked out that way. Anyway, I've now added a GI FA bolt group, and an ejection port cover, along with a carry handle that will have to suffice until I decide what I like better for sights.

On the lower, I added a Doublestar LPK, and used the instructions from a manual downloaded from ar15.com. Everything went well, with no loss of any finish anywhere. I made a tool for the magazine catch that can be seen in the upper right of the photo (a block of oak with all of its edges sanded off and a dowel for depressing the magazine release button. I also made a pin installation tool out of a 1/4 inch bolt that worked perfectly. Well, almost perfectly, the first time I pulled my punch out I launched the detent into oblivion (happily, Doublestar includes an extra).

I had one hick-up that still concerns me; the function check for the disconnector failed until I installed the selector. After that it works perfectly, so I don't think I have a problem. Anyone thinking otherwise, don't be shy. I shoot at a State gun range and they will not take kindly to any unplanned thermal events.

The tools I used were mostly transfer punches (one can be seen in the pic, lower right although this one was only used for alignment and not to drive anything) and a small ball peen hammer. I taped all surfaces adjacent to where a tool might slip (although none did). I was very happy to find that the bolt catch roll pin was tapered on both ends, which made starting it a snap.

Overall, I pretty happy with the LPK. The trigger is no creepier than my other AR (a stock service rifle), and breaks crisp and smooth, once the slack gets taken up.

Now if only the rest of the parts will arrive: a 16" M4 profile Wilson 1/9 (no chrome), and a commercial 4 position stock/Receiver extension. What can I say, I'm doing this on a shoestring, because they don't call Michigan "the unemployment State" for nothing. Adds another service rifle to my arsenal without breaking the bank. Not sure how to explain its existance to Mrs. Wallyg8r, even though its partly for her to use next Summer at Camp Perry in their CMP school. I have plenty of time to figure that one out.

Besides, I'll be "needin' it fer squirrels and such".

[N3OKI]

Looks good. Keep up the fun.

[Wallyg8r]

Change of plans concerning the barrel. It came to my attention that the barrel I had on order didn't come with M4 feed ramps, so I cancelled it and ordered one that does from Daniel Defense (via PK firearms). It also has the 1/7 rifling I preferred, and chrome lining, and the price was acceptable. Hey nothin's too good for Mrs. Wallyg8r.

Roy

[Lawdog-1]

Wallyg8r, what brand upper Reciever do you have in your Photo?

[Wallyg8r]

It's a Mega Machines, just like the lower. Why?

Roy

[donnyblaze1]

Change of plans concerning the barrel. It came to my attention that the barrel I had on order didn't come with M4 feed ramps, so I cancelled it and ordered one that does from Daniel Defense (via PK firearms). It also has the 1/7 rifling I preferred, and chrome lining, and the price was acceptable. Hey nothin's too good for Mrs. Wallyg8r.

Roy

Good call on the choice of DD and 1/7. Looks like you are off to a great start!

[Wallyg8r]

Thanks! I just finished installing the barrel, but not too sure about the A2 compensator:

1) Holes up or down? I would guess down to keep the flash out of my vision, but up would counteract muzzle rise. Which is it?

2) what is the torque?

[donnyblaze1]

Holes go up on an A2. Torque specs are anywhere between 15-20 ft lbs. Mine are all torqued to right at 20 ft lbs.

[Wallyg8r]

Muzzle device installed! All I'm waiting for now is a gas tube and pin, and the stock castle nut and plate. Somehow, I managed to forget to order these along with everything else, dang it. The good news: they should be here by the time the range opens back up next week!

[donnyblaze1]

I hear that, I think I've forgotten to order essential parts on just about every AR I've built the first time around....it's always a frustrating wait! Keep us posted, I'm looking forward to seeing your final product!