With the increasing popularity of the AR-15 platform, it is no wonder that several firearm enthusiasts are beginning to look into do-it-yourself options for owning an AR-15.
With each passing day, more and more firearm enthusiasts look to building their own AR-15 from the ground up, and this is why we have decided to help gun lovers achieve this dream with little to no stress.
One major and common goal of going into the AR-15 build is to get the cheapest deal possible. If this is also your goal, you are at the right place, come along, and let’s dive into it!
AR-15 Build: Three Essential Factors to Mull Over
The thought of having to build your own AR-15 may be daunting at first glance, however, once you have the right information and knowledge, you will have a good head start.
This aspect of this post will discuss in detail the important things to mull over before you start your AR-15 build journey. These three factors include calculating the total tool cost, the build part cost, and also the duration it will take to complete the cheap AR build.
Calculating Tool Costs
The process of building an AR-15 from scratch may seem interesting and thrilling, but it can also be daunting if you do not have the necessary information and tools to get the job done. Now keep in mind that our aim here is not just to build an AR-15 but to build a cheap AR-15, so it is important that we review the costs of the tools that will be needed in the budget AR 15 build process.
The following are tools that are essential to make the building process smooth and stress-free:
- Screwdrivers – a screwdriver is needed to fasten screws during the process of building an AR. A screwdriver set, on average, costs between $10 and $30.
- Hammer – the use of a hammer when building an AR is in conjunction with punches although it can be used for other tasks too. The cost of purchasing a hammer should be between $10 and $30.
- Armorer wrench -is used to either install or remove barrel nuts and muzzle devices. Armorer wrench is an important tool when it comes to AR builds, and the cost ranges from $40 – $100
- Torque wrench – we do not want an issue of under-torquing or over-torquing when building your AR-15, and this is where the torque wrench comes in. It costs between $50 and $150
- Punch set -this is used in conjunction with the hammer to drive out some pins and other components of the firearm. Its price ranges between $20-$50
- Vise block – is used to support the upper and lower receivers, which are very important parts of the AR. The price of a vise block ranges between $20 and $50
Although the initial cost of purchasing these tools may not seem to conform with the ‘cheap’ AR build, note that it is important to consider the benefit that they will bring in the long term.
Calculating Build Part Costs
Another thing to consider the moment you decide to carry out cheap AR builds is the cost of the build parts.
The cost of parts depends solely on the reputation of the brand manufacturing it and the materials that were used during the manufacturing.
To find good, reliable, but affordable parts, you need to take your time to do quality research, make use of sales and discount opportunities, and compare the prices from different brands.
Another thing you may want to consider to achieve the low-budget build is getting used parts. These are considerably sold at cheaper rates; however, take note to not compromise on quality.
Total Duration for AR-15 Assembly
The time it will take to assemble an AR-15 varies, and it depends on one’s level of experience with rifles. On average, the time to completely build an AR from scratch may range from a few hours to a few days.
Here are some tips that can help you speed up the duration of assembling an AR-15:
- Take time to get familiar with the guide and instructions before you get started
- Get all the necessary tools ready and ensure they are organized
- Take intermittent breaks to avoid being fatigued
- Take your time and do not rush the process; prioritize accuracy over speed.
Key AR-15 Components You Need
One thing that building your own AR-15 offers you is the opportunity to customize your rifle according to your wants and preferences. With the several components that can be gotten in the market, you have all you need to make your own unique AR-15 rifle. However, choosing from the numerous options available may be quite difficult. We give an overview of the components you will need to successfully build your AR.
This is the basics for building your rifle. This component houses vital parts of the AR-15 rifle, such as the magazine well and trigger groups. There are two types of lower receivers; stripped and complete.
The stripped lower receiver offers more customization options, but some other parts are needed to assemble it, while the complete lower receiver comes fully assembled.
The price for stripped lower receivers ranges between $50 and $150, while the complete counterpart costs $150 -$400.
This component is vital for the rifle’s functionality and accuracy. The upper receiver houses the bolt carrier group and barrel assembly. The upper receiver also has the stripped and complete types.
The stripped upper receivers need more components before they can be assembled and the price ranges from $150 to $150, while the complete upper receiver comes with complete parts, and the price ranges from $200 -$700.
- Bolt carrier group -is the component of the rifle that is responsible for chambering around and cycling the action smoothly. The BCG is sold within the range of $100 and $200.
- Barrel – this comes in different lengths and materials and it determines the accuracy and performance of the rifle. Barrels come in different types which include; Chrome-lined, stainless steel, or lightweight. AR 15 Barrels cost ranges between $100 – $300.
- Handguard – this is the part of the AR rifle that provides grip and a place to mount other accessories like optics and light.
- Trigger – the price ranges from $50 to $300. There are several options available which include single-stage, two-stage, and adjustable triggers. These types all have different impacts on accuracy and shooting experience.
- Stock – this component determines the length of pull and it also contributes to the stability of the rifle while shooting.
Is There a Way to Make AR-15 Build Cheaper?
One of the many questions that cross people’s minds when they come across the option of building an AR-15 from scratch is, ‘Is it cheaper to build an AR-15?’
Yes! There are several options that make building an AR15 cheaper than purchasing a new one. One of these is the cheap AR build kits. This kit allows you to build an affordable AR from scratch without having to compromise on the quality.
Another way to minimize the cost you spend to achieve cheap AR builds is to make good use of sales and discount offers. You can also consider getting previously used parts as they sell for lower prices.
Is Opting for a Low-Cost AR-15 Build Worthwhile?
We have heard several stories of people who have been able to achieve budget AR-15 builds. This opens us to the world of possibilities of building cheap AR 15. However, take note not to compromise on quality and effectiveness in your bid to build a cheap AR-15.
Now that you know that you can build a reliable and efficient AR that is also budget-friendly, go on to build your AR15!
