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Posted: 10/2/2015 4:22:48 PM EDT
I am looking to build another AR-15 to replace the one I stupidly sold about 4 years ago. I want to build the best possible AR-15 rifle I can in reason.
I am looking to start with the lower and want to pick the best parts to ensure that I am building the most durable and reliable AR. I am probably going to pick up a basic lower receiver from a local shop. I think that I will be using a DD LPK unless there are better options out there. What type of buffer tube, buffer, LPK, trigger, ect would you guys recommend for a build based on reliability? Also, I am torn between going with a 16" middy build like I use to have or going with a 14.5" middy build. Any real difference between the two that might make one more desirable over the other? Appreciate any input. |
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Buy a complete LMT and drop in your favorite plastic and Geissele trigger.
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I've used a bunch of lkps cmmg is my favorite mostly because of the color coded package. Dd is great also I have one in my Aero Precision build.
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Anything that makes LMT better? I believe that I remember that the LMT LPK were one of the best about 5 years ago. I will look into buying one then. Thanks! View Quote View All Quotes View All Quotes Quoted:
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Buy a complete LMT and drop in your favorite plastic and Geissele trigger. Anything that makes LMT better? I believe that I remember that the LMT LPK were one of the best about 5 years ago. I will look into buying one then. Thanks! Their receiver extensions are hands-down the best and I like their bolt catches. Everything on 'em is good quality, nothing goofy, and the price is not bad. The only con is that their complete lowers come with a carbine buffer. |
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Lmt or Colt lpk minus trigger group, add geissele trigger of your choice.
The only lmt lpk's i have found are take offs. Colt lpk's are more readily available online like brownells. |
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I love my 14.5 middies. I also have a 16" mid and I don't care what the naysayers say, I can tell a substantial difference in the balance and handling. I'm sick of hearing people say that 1.5" doesn't make a difference, because to me it's obvious. I haven't had any reliability/cycling/accuracy issues, it shoots just as good as my 16", but handles much better. The one, and only, downside is the pinned muzzle attachment. I have one with a PWS KAC 556, and another with an extended Smith Vortex. Of the two, I would recommend the Vortex, but only because the PWS has substantial concussion, and I'm sick of people I'm shooting with complaining about it. The PWS does work great though, and is a pleasure for me because I'm behind the gun, not next to it.
Just do some research, read some unbiased reviews, and pick the MA that will work for your application last. Have everything else decided upon, then pin that bastard and blast to your hearts content. As far as the LPK is concerned, DD, Colt, LMT, Spikes, CMMG, should all work great. FWIW, the Spikes trigger group is one of the smoothest "mil-spec" triggers I've used, and they also use SS coil pins, and usually throw in an extra detent or two just in case one gets launched. I now build all my lowers with Spikes kits, but in the interest of full disclosure, I'm biased. My wife works for Spike. |
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Thanks for the information everyone! Truly appreciated!
I think that I will go ahead and get a complete LMT lower. It seems like a cheaper and easier way to go and it already has the stock that I was looking at getting. I plan on getting a LMT enhanced BCG as well so I can order both at the same time. I loved my 16" middy but I am leaning towards the 14.5 since it will be new and I love the look of them. Does everyone still recommend BCM for uppers? Is there a better choice out there now? |
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LMT lower is a good choice. And yes BCM is normally my 1st choice for uppers however KAC has been calling my name lately Noveske Gen 2 lower battle arms ambi safety DD, LMT or colt LPK SSA-E trigger LMT buffertube some sort of QD endplate LMT sopmod |
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My .02
Lower - Aero Gen2 - nice quality at a good price Trigger- Geissele SSA - just a good reliable do-all trigger Lower parts kit - Spike's w/o the fire control parts, save a few $ Buffer tube - VLTOR A5 - 6 or 7 position depending on stock choice Upper- I like 16" middy's. I like having the ability to swap flash hiders / brakes, rail, gas blocks, etc. I have several and really like my BCW ELW with KMR rail |
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Does everyone still recommend BCM for uppers? Is there a better choice out there now? View Quote Of the ARs I own, my (complete) BCM A4 clone would be the last to go. For a 00XXX ser.#, it's just as tight as the day it was shipped from Hartland, WI... Edit: It has a Geissele SSA-E trigger too. |
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I've been very pleased with BCM uppers and lowers (with trigger upgraded to Geissele SSA or SSA-E). I also like the 14.5" offerings better than the 16" because they feel better balanced, a little lighter, and easier to maneuver in small spaces.
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I'm 0-3 on BCM lowers. I don't recommend anything but their uppers and BCGs anymore.
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I like stag LPKs, BCM receiver extensions, std A2 grips and just std triggers but would love to try the LaRue or Gieselee triggers.
I prefer carbine uppers but I do own a midlength and yes 14.5" is mo better. |
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Thanks for the information everyone! Truly appreciated! I think that I will go ahead and get a complete LMT lower. It seems like a cheaper and easier way to go and it already has the stock that I was looking at getting. I plan on getting a LMT enhanced BCG as well so I can order both at the same time. I loved my 16" middy but I am leaning towards the 14.5 since it will be new and I love the look of them. Does everyone still recommend BCM for uppers? Is there a better choice out there now? View Quote I love my BCM 16" middy |
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I'm 0-3 on BCM lowers. I don't recommend anything but their uppers and BCGs anymore. What was the problem? I'm guessing the Pmag issue with BCM lowers being out of spec. This is pretty well known across the forums! |
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Thanks everyone!
So LMT complete lower, LMT enhanced BCG, BCM 14.5" Middy upper with DD rails, Spikes Buffer, and a Giessels (or however its spelled) trigger. What else am I missing to finish this reliability build? What kind of sights do you guys recommend? I had Troy flip-up sights before and a Colt carry handle. But this time I want to get a ACOG or Eotech, so flip-up sights will be needed. I am cross-eyed dominate so shooting with irons is a bitch. |
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I'm guessing the Pmag issue with BCM lowers being out of spec. This is pretty well known across the forums! View Quote View All Quotes View All Quotes Quoted:
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I'm 0-3 on BCM lowers. I don't recommend anything but their uppers and BCGs anymore. What was the problem? I'm guessing the Pmag issue with BCM lowers being out of spec. This is pretty well known across the forums! Lower #1 had a non-functional FCG. Would not reset. Lower #2 had the Gen 3 Pmag issue along with the mag catch slot cut too low and it would not reliably run with any Pmag. Lower #3 had the FCG pin hols drilled with a dull bit that made nasty holes. |
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Thanks everyone! So LMT complete lower, LMT enhanced BCG, BCM 14.5" Middy upper with DD rails, Spikes Buffer, and a Giessels (or however its spelled) trigger. What else am I missing to finish this reliability build? What kind of sights do you guys recommend? I had Troy flip-up sights before and a Colt carry handle. But this time I want to get a ACOG or Eotech, so flip-up sights will be needed. I am cross-eyed dominate so shooting with irons is a bitch. View Quote Skip the Spikes BS buffer and use a standard H buffer. |
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Thanks everyone! So LMT complete lower, LMT enhanced BCG, BCM 14.5" Middy upper with DD rails, Spikes Buffer, and a Giessels (or however its spelled) trigger. What else am I missing to finish this reliability build? What kind of sights do you guys recommend? I had Troy flip-up sights before and a Colt carry handle. But this time I want to get a ACOG or Eotech, so flip-up sights will be needed. I am cross-eyed dominate so shooting with irons is a bitch. View Quote That's the problem w/BRD, you're never done. Like "Hotel California", once you check-in, you can never check-out... |
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Thanks again everyone!
Now quick question, if I get the 14.5 with a pinned flash hider. How do I make sure I get the right flash hider that is compatible with a suppressor? Since that will be the first accessory that i get. |
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Thanks again everyone! Now quick question, if I get the 14.5 with a pinned flash hider. How do I make sure I get the right flash hider that is compatible with a suppressor? Since that will be the first accessory that i get. View Quote I think it is best to find a suppressor or two that you like and see what muzzle devices work for them. I have been wanting a SiCo for some time now but may get a gemtech as I have some compatible mounts that I really like. |
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Thanks again everyone! Now quick question, if I get the 14.5 with a pinned flash hider. How do I make sure I get the right flash hider that is compatible with a suppressor? Since that will be the first accessory that i get. View Quote You must research and decide on the suppressor first, then get a FH that is compatible. |
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Since you are not sure what muzzle device you want start with a 16”.
That way you can swap around until you settle on what you want. You can always have the barrel cut down when you want to make it permanent. Personally I would paper the lower before choosing pinning. If 1-1/2 inches makes that much difference to you then you will get the itch to go shorter anyway. |
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Thanks everyone! So LMT complete lower, LMT enhanced BCG, BCM 14.5" Middy upper with DD rails, Spikes Buffer, and a Giessels (or however its spelled) trigger. What else am I missing to finish this reliability build? What kind of sights do you guys recommend? I had Troy flip-up sights before and a Colt carry handle. But this time I want to get a ACOG or Eotech, so flip-up sights will be needed. I am cross-eyed dominate so shooting with irons is a bitch. View Quote Get a carbine 14.5 if you're using BCM, NOT a midlength. Their 14.5 middies are less than reliable with weaker loads that a carbine 14.5 or middy 16 would otherwise eat up. My BCM 14.5 middy was not reliable with light brass and all steel cased ammo. Also, skip the LMT enhanced BCG and get their standard full auto BCG with an enhanced bolt. An LMT enhanced BCG combined with a BCM 14.5 middy is a recipe for a bolt action AR. I would also pass on a DD rail assuming it's a quad rail. They are heavy, bulky, and outdated. Check out the offerings from Geissele, ALG, and Centurion Arms--I bet you'll find something you like. If you're between an ACOG and EOTech, get the ACOG. Much more durable and batteries won't be an issue. If shooting with irons is tough and you get an ACOG, then just skip the BUIS all together and spend that money on a light, sling, mags, or ammo. |
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Get a carbine 14.5 if you're using BCM, NOT a midlength. Their 14.5 middies are less than reliable with weaker loads that a carbine 14.5 or middy 16 would otherwise eat up. My BCM 14.5 middy was not reliable with light brass and all steel cased ammo. Also, skip the LMT enhanced BCG and get their standard full auto BCG with an enhanced bolt. An LMT enhanced BCG combined with a BCM 14.5 middy is a recipe for a bolt action AR. I would also pass on a DD rail assuming it's a quad rail. They are heavy, bulky, and outdated. Check out the offerings from Geissele, ALG, and Centurion Arms--I bet you'll find something you like. If you're between an ACOG and EOTech, get the ACOG. Much more durable and batteries won't be an issue. If shooting with irons is tough and you get an ACOG, then just skip the BUIS all together and spend that money on a light, sling, mags, or ammo. View Quote View All Quotes View All Quotes Quoted:
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Thanks everyone! So LMT complete lower, LMT enhanced BCG, BCM 14.5" Middy upper with DD rails, Spikes Buffer, and a Giessels (or however its spelled) trigger. What else am I missing to finish this reliability build? What kind of sights do you guys recommend? I had Troy flip-up sights before and a Colt carry handle. But this time I want to get a ACOG or Eotech, so flip-up sights will be needed. I am cross-eyed dominate so shooting with irons is a bitch. Get a carbine 14.5 if you're using BCM, NOT a midlength. Their 14.5 middies are less than reliable with weaker loads that a carbine 14.5 or middy 16 would otherwise eat up. My BCM 14.5 middy was not reliable with light brass and all steel cased ammo. Also, skip the LMT enhanced BCG and get their standard full auto BCG with an enhanced bolt. An LMT enhanced BCG combined with a BCM 14.5 middy is a recipe for a bolt action AR. I would also pass on a DD rail assuming it's a quad rail. They are heavy, bulky, and outdated. Check out the offerings from Geissele, ALG, and Centurion Arms--I bet you'll find something you like. If you're between an ACOG and EOTech, get the ACOG. Much more durable and batteries won't be an issue. If shooting with irons is tough and you get an ACOG, then just skip the BUIS all together and spend that money on a light, sling, mags, or ammo. Thanks brother! I always thought that the mid-length gas system made it more reliable, especially with a shorter barrel since there is more power in it. Thats not the case? I might just have to go with the 16" middy then, it is make it more reliable. Or would a 14.5" carbine be more reliable than a 16" Middy? |
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Thanks brother! I always thought that the mid-length gas system made it more reliable, especially with a shorter barrel since there is more power in it. Thats not the case? I might just have to go with the 16" middy then, it is make it more reliable. Or would a 14.5" carbine be more reliable than a 16" Middy? View Quote No, not at all--quite the opposite actually. A 14.5 middy has a pretty short dwell time, and the fact that BCM uses smaller gas ports doesn't help. Full power 5.56 will be quite the soft shooters, but weaker stuff probably won't work consistently, if at all. Either a carbine 14.5 or middy 16 would be better--it's just up to your preference on length at that point. |
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Dont meant to beat a dead horse here, but before I place my order I want to make sure im picking right.
My main priority is reliability. So would a 14.5" carbine be more reliable than a 16" middy? I want this gun to eat anything I stick in it and function 100% even with the shittiest loads, all while lasting thousands of rounds. So whats the best way to go here? |
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Dont meant to beat a dead horse here, but before I place my order I want to make sure im picking right. My main priority is reliability. So would a 14.5" carbine be more reliable than a 16" middy? I want this gun to eat anything I stick in it and function 100% even with the shittiest loads, all while lasting thousands of rounds. So whats the best way to go here? View Quote I would say they would be equally reliable...i would get the middy though. |
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+1 LMT Lower
A 14.5 bcm is on the to buy list, but for only 1 AR it could hinder you. I only mean that if you're unsure about the suppressor then you're also unsure about the muzzle device which just means you're waiting. If you're looking at BCM uppers and waiting to decide you can miss the next batch that comes out (assuming you want one of the KMR/-A's). You can always get a new barrel.upper/barrel chop if you would like later. Of course, patience isn't my middle name, and while stuff is a lot more available then awhile back, everything aint at Amazon Prime speeds. |
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I'd get an ambi lower from LWRC or Knights Armament.
LMT lpk. Geissele trigger of your choice. Furniture of you choice. |
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M16 RR w/ any barrel length you want. Best lower money can buy
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Anybody know where I can buy a LMT complete lower for a decent price? thanks!
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Get a carbine 14.5 if you're using BCM, NOT a midlength.
Their 14.5 middies are less than reliable with weaker loads that a carbine 14.5 or middy 16 would otherwise eat up. My BCM 14.5 middy was not reliable with light brass and all steel cased ammo I have the exact opposite experience with mine. My 14.5" BCM Middy has eaten everything I throw at it including tula. I have about 3500 rds through it. As far as lowers go, I am a big fan of the lwrc lower due to it being 100% ambi. |
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KAC SR-15 lower.
ETA: Better yet, buy a complete rifle and you're done. |
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Lower #1 had a non-functional FCG. Would not reset. Lower #2 had the Gen 3 Pmag issue along with the mag catch slot cut too low and it would not reliably run with any Pmag. Lower #3 had the FCG pin hols drilled with a dull bit that made nasty holes. View Quote View All Quotes View All Quotes Quoted:
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I'm 0-3 on BCM lowers. I don't recommend anything but their uppers and BCGs anymore. What was the problem? I'm guessing the Pmag issue with BCM lowers being out of spec. This is pretty well known across the forums! Lower #1 had a non-functional FCG. Would not reset. Lower #2 had the Gen 3 Pmag issue along with the mag catch slot cut too low and it would not reliably run with any Pmag. Lower #3 had the FCG pin hols drilled with a dull bit that made nasty holes. When did you get your lowers? This is the first I've heard of them having issues with PMAGs and such, mine hasn't had any issues thus far and it's fit and finish is top notch, but your post makes me curious. |
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Anybody know where I can buy a LMT complete lower for a decent price? thanks! View Quote A local FFL Dealer that carries LMT should be able to order one for you. I just ordered an LMT with A2 for $330. Rainier Arms carriers some with the SOPMOD actually in stock right now. Tombstone Tactical looks to carry them, but not in stock. Maybe try to call them and see if they can order one for you to ship. Also, the LMT lowers with the SOPMODS include the premium price for that stock, and while it is a nice stock - many people's favorite, it is expensive. If that isn't the stock you want, get L7C2 with a standard collapsing stock and either keep it on there, or upgrade from the cheaper price point. |
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When did you get your lowers? This is the first I've heard of them having issues with PMAGs and such, mine hasn't had any issues thus far and it's fit and finish is top notch, but your post makes me curious. View Quote One in '11 or '12, one in '14, the last one this summer. There's a long thread on the unmentionable site about it. It's quite common. I just tried a Gen M3 in a Colt, LMT, and ArmaLite lower and they all locked in with a little room to spare. Same mags would not lock in at all two of my three BCM lowers. I sold the first lower before the Gen M3s came out. As long as yours works, you're good. |
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