The build started four months ago with a cheap Anderson lower from the local gun show. I couldn't resist a $40 lower.



The original goal was to build a suppressed 300blk SBR. In preparation, I started to buy ammo. Subsonic Gemtech and Sig Sauer ammo shown here.



After loads of research, I decided to stick with 5.56 for now. Deciding factors were cost, and NFA items.



The key to budget builds is basically time and patience. You just have to wait for the deals. My buddy was able to hook me up with his used Rainier Arms non-FA upper, and he threw in a Battle Comp 1.0 for free. Sometimes you just have to be friends with good people.





What I was really waiting for is the July 4th sales. I ended up scoring a 10.3" Ballistic Advantage Hanson Barrel, Lo-Pro Gas Block, and Melonite Gas Tube, and a PSA 5.56 Premium BCG. The charging handle is a cheap gun show mystery brand.



Next up, make it "unique"!



At first, I was hesitant to spray paint it. Then I dug in deep to find my inner fuck it attitude lol. If you're thinking about doing it, just doo it. Also, don't use an indoor use paint lol. I'm already getting a battle worn look from just handling it, but I don't mind the beat-up look.



The color is "Brushed Nickel", and it tends to color shift in different lighting, white to silver to a champagne.





This is my second build, and my first AR-pistol. So this is still a learning build for me. I have some more items coming soon, and I'll update the thread as I progress.

Er, not sure why the photos aren't showing up. I'm pretty sure I linked them correctly. Anyway here's the build list so far:

• Anderson Manufacturing Lowe $39
• Rainier Arms non-FA Upper $57.98
• 10.3" Ballistic Advantage Hanson Barrel, Lo-Pro Gas Block, and Melonite Gas Tube $168.75
• PSA 5.56 Premium BCG $79.99
• PSA Upper Build Kit $22.99
• Battle Comp 1.0 $Donated
• Spray Paint $7.41

Looks good.  I dig those no FA uppers, I've got them on all of my ARs.

Your photos only show up for Team members until three of us vote that they're not dick pics, then everyone can see them.  Once you hit 50 posts you'll be able to post pics regularly.

It's looking good so far. Can't wait to see where this build goes.

Subscribed.

Got it, thanks!



To be honest, the build is pretty basic, but I figured sharing the build journey could inspire others. Thanks!

looking good im in

After reading your post

I just had to sign up and recommend the use of High Heat engine paint
bake it on, it acts a lot like powder coating without the thick coating problems.
Probably doesn't come in  "Brushed Nickel" though.

The last Anderson lower I picked was $65 out the door.
$40 would be sweet, I'll have to check to see if the prices have come down locally.

Nice job so far, looking forward to seeing the finished results.

Just splurged a little on the #ballinonabudget build... Still got it on sale though. This makes me just as cool as Colion Noir now, right?

http://i.imgur.com/iVMJoYjl.jpg

I picked up this Fortis Rev from eBay. It's pretty much brand new.

http://i.imgur.com/Ujubiuml.jpg

My tools are on a budget too.

http://i.imgur.com/IVzreSul.jpg

See that tiny c-clip thingie? Pro tip, use a magnet underneath to catch it when you don't get it on the first try. I'd also advise not to build on a carpet surface lol. If you build, you know what I mean.

http://i.imgur.com/vQwIQjsl.jpg

Finished building most of it today. Waiting on a Thordsen Customs setup shipping from Rainier Arms.

http://i.imgur.com/AckfczZl.jpg

You going to paint your FF rail?

This build looks awesome and I can't wait to see the final product! Getting me excited for my build.

What length handguard is this?

Loving the color of that brushed nickel, you going to do the whole gun that color or just what you've already done?

I'm keeping it weird, and two-tone for now. The color is great, but it really doesn't last. I don't recommend indoor paint if you want to keep a non-chipped look.




It's a 9" Fortis Rev.

Sounds good, two toning always looks nice. I really like ARs in Black and Burnt Bronze and I'm getting the same feeling i get from that color combination with this Black and Brushed Nickel.