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Posted: 6/28/2017 11:35:57 AM EDT
Hello All, I just wanted to post about the build I am working on at the moment. I am cheap so I am making my own lightweight receiver set.
Both are works in progress and I need to mill more off each. If something sticks out as completely dumb or dangerous, please let me know. I also have an AIM lightweight bcg, and a Larue PredatAR barrel. (won the barrel, or I probably would have gone with a Faxon Pencil bbl.) The stock I am not sure about yet. anyways, here are the pics. 
Thanks for looking! |
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Posted: 6/28/2017 12:12:15 PM EDT
[#1]
Are you going to re-anodize the receiver?
Looking forward to see the weight when done. |
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Posted: 6/28/2017 12:19:00 PM EDT
[#2]
Not sure yet. It will at least get durakote
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Posted: 6/28/2017 5:54:18 PM EDT
[#3]
You can shave more weight by milling down the shell deflector so it looks like an early slick side upper. The lower can have the reinforcing rib above the mag release button on the right side mag well shaved too. Make it a short rib front to back. The spring channel is not that deep for the detent. Couldn't tell from the pics but did you remove any material fron the front of the mag well?
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Posted: 6/28/2017 7:01:37 PM EDT
[#4]
that is interesting! would have never had the idea of shaving the rails down.
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Posted: 6/28/2017 7:15:33 PM EDT
[#5]
Very jealous of your ability to mill. Hoping to have one next year.
Nice work! Did you weigh the receiver set after milling? |
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Posted: 6/29/2017 9:41:00 AM EDT
[#6]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
You can shave more weight by milling down the shell deflector so it looks like an early slick side upper. The lower can have the reinforcing rib above the mag release button on the right side mag well shaved too. Make it a short rib front to back. The spring channel is not that deep for the detent. Couldn't tell from the pics but did you remove any material fron the front of the mag well? As for the front of the magwell, I wanted to mill some slots in it like the sides. The problem I have is that my vice is too big and I don't have the clearance with upper and a bit. I have a smaller vice I will probably set up once I am done with everything else. Funny you should mention the ribs above the mag release. I got the bulk of the work done on the lower, and milled most of that off. 
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Posted: 6/29/2017 9:44:59 AM EDT
[#7]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Very jealous of your ability to mill. Hoping to have one next year. Nice work! Did you weigh the receiver set after milling? 7.72oz (looks like 1.72 in the pic. that would be awesome!!!) 
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Posted: 6/29/2017 10:09:00 AM EDT
[#8]
I would second that part on the shell deflector. Being milling out the inside of the shell deflector, so it's kind of hollow. The shell deflector doesn't really need that much support, as it's not getting beat on. You might even think about making it smaller.
Other than that, I don't see much that you can do to make it any lighter. Maybe making more lightening cuts near the fcg area, but that would seem hard to do and make it look good. maybe some cuts near the front of the mag well |
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Posted: 6/29/2017 10:25:54 AM EDT
[#9]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
I would second that part on the shell deflector. Being milling out the inside of the shell deflector, so it's kind of hollow. The shell deflector doesn't really need that much support, as it's not getting beat on. You might even think about making it smaller. Other than that, I don't see much that you can do to make it any lighter. Maybe making more lightening cuts near the fcg area, but that would seem hard to do and make it look good. maybe some cuts near the front of the mag well should have pics tomorrow. |
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Posted: 6/29/2017 12:10:08 PM EDT
[#10]
Amazing that the LW billet receivers weigh so much less that forged from the onset.
I took a pic of my BAD lower next to a Spikes forged I had in the safe for comparison. The billet has a larger FCG pocket toward the rear and then the pocket continues over the grip area. Then there is the hole for the receiver tightening set screw also. 
Seems like this could be done to drop quite a bit of weight from the lower |
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Posted: 6/29/2017 4:03:58 PM EDT
[#11]
interesting, might see if I can hog out some more of the material.
best pic I have at the moment. 
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Posted: 6/29/2017 6:31:49 PM EDT
[#12]
OP...that is some seriously nice work.
It sure is refreshing to see someone actually building stuff in the build it yourself forum....as opposed to most asking for help on creating a shopping list, or where to buy the cheapest parts. Can't wait to see the completed build. . |
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Posted: 7/15/2017 6:31:56 AM EDT
[#13]
Any updates?
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Posted: 7/15/2017 7:15:59 AM EDT
[#14]
Interesting project. I still don't know why ARs are built to be lightweight. 99.9% won't carry an AR all day under CBQ/SHTF scenarios. I just question how good the structural integrity of a lightweight is.
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Posted: 7/15/2017 11:56:47 AM EDT
[#15]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Any updates? |
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Posted: 7/15/2017 11:59:29 AM EDT
[#16]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Interesting project. I still don't know why ARs are built to be lightweight. 99.9% won't carry an AR all day under CBQ/SHTF scenarios. I just question how good the structural integrity of a lightweight is. Next one i would like to be a side charging 9mm pistol. |
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Posted: 7/18/2017 5:41:51 PM EDT
[#17]
You could have milled lengthwise down the middle of the rail. DS Arms makes one like that. Probably remove a lot more material that way. I've looked at ARs and thought there's a lot of places you could mill out and it's still function. The original design was probably built to survive being run over by a truck. I've never done it just because I'm not real that into the lightweight thing.
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Posted: 7/18/2017 5:50:46 PM EDT
[#18]
Tag.
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Posted: 7/19/2017 5:54:14 AM EDT
[#19]
Nottooslow
What was the total weight reduction on the lower and upper, separately? Any plans for front of mag well? And deflector block? I plan to steal your ideas. Thanks Nitro |
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Posted: 7/19/2017 9:52:24 AM EDT
[#20]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
You could have milled lengthwise down the middle of the rail. DS Arms makes one like that. Probably remove a lot more material that way. I've looked at ARs and thought there's a lot of places you could mill out and it's still function. The original design was probably built to survive being run over by a truck. I've never done it just because I'm not real that into the lightweight thing. |
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Posted: 7/19/2017 9:55:04 AM EDT
[#21]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Nottooslow What was the total weight reduction on the lower and upper, separately? Any plans for front of mag well? And deflector block? I plan to steal your ideas. Thanks Nitro Front of the mag well will get a few slots milled out if I can get it mounted in my smaller vice. If not, I will probably leave it alone. Brass deflector will get some treatment. Not sure yet if I want drill a hole through it, or something else. |
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Posted: 7/19/2017 4:02:57 PM EDT
[#22]
Thanks
Please post progress pictures. Nitro |
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Posted: 7/21/2017 10:08:53 AM EDT
[#23]
haven't had much time to work on it lately.
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Posted: 8/23/2017 5:02:26 PM EDT
[#24]
bump to keep out of archives.
haven't had much time, and its been too hot to be in the garage. I did work on the brass deflector a little. I am going to get it built and see how much it weighs, if it is too heavy I will go back and remove more material. Also cats are assholes. 
this is on the bottom of the brass deflector 
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Posted: 8/24/2017 6:49:11 PM EDT
[#25]
Nice! Really like your milling work.
If you want to drop a quick ounce + go to the new Hogue 15° poly grip. |
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Posted: 10/19/2017 10:18:55 AM EDT
[#26]
Bump to keep out of archives.
I ordered a lightweight stock and handrail. I should have everything I need to get it assembled. I am going with a standard LPK but will eventually upgrade to all V7 parts. Still need sights. Wanted Leitner-Wise (SP) buis, but have heard that he is a shit bag. Should I just go with Magpul BUIS? went with the Guntec stock and hand guard. Hand guard is a mod-lite skeletonized. 
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Posted: 10/19/2017 7:40:27 PM EDT
[#27]
Looking good, won’t be long now. Have you got a final weight yet?
The Bobro Lowriders are the lightest flip up irons as far as I know. They are a bit pricey. |
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Posted: 10/21/2017 9:06:10 PM EDT
[#28]
Looks awesome! I really like the F/A mod
If you get a chance, what is the weight of the guntec buffer tube and stock plate alone? |
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Posted: 10/22/2017 9:25:43 AM EDT
[#29]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Looking good, won’t be long now. Have you got a final weight yet? The Bobro Lowriders are the lightest flip up irons as far as I know. They are a bit pricey. Should know close to final weight today. |
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Posted: 10/22/2017 9:26:58 AM EDT
[#30]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Looks awesome! I really like the F/A mod
If you get a chance, what is the weight of the guntec buffer tube and stock plate alone?  Attached File |
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Posted: 10/22/2017 5:54:05 PM EDT
[#31]
Thank you for weighing those. How do you like the LOP? Pretty good price point considering a lightweight buffer tube and stock would cost considerably more.
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Posted: 10/22/2017 5:55:47 PM EDT
[#32]
Oh man, this thread is dangerous for me to see. I've been known to terrorize engine parts with the Dremel...
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Posted: 10/22/2017 6:15:13 PM EDT
[#33]
I think there is room for more machining
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Posted: 10/23/2017 9:22:24 AM EDT
[#34]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
I think there is room for more machining
http://i249.photobucket.com/albums/gg212/mirion/DGW%20skelotonized_zpsaatoudrl.jpg I think I am going to have to ditch the PredatAR barrel for a Faxon. Or send the PredatAR to Adco. Not sure which yet. Also, I plan on replacing much of the LPK with lighter parts from V&7. 78.73 Oz so far. 
Also, I removed the weight and milled some material off the buffer. Will this be ok? I am kind of scared to try this. I am going to start with the adjustable gas key not letting any gas through and slowly open up the port until it cycles. then play with it from there. 
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Posted: 10/23/2017 11:27:48 AM EDT
[#35]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
something is going to have to go. I am at 4.921 lbs and haven't put the adjustable gas key, or sights on it yet. I think I am going to have to ditch the PredatAR barrel for a Faxon. Or send the PredatAR to Adco. Not sure which yet. Also, I plan on replacing much of the LPK with lighter parts from V&7. 78.73 Oz so far. Quote HistoryQuoted:
something is going to have to go. I am at 4.921 lbs and haven't put the adjustable gas key, or sights on it yet. I think I am going to have to ditch the PredatAR barrel for a Faxon. Or send the PredatAR to Adco. Not sure which yet. Also, I plan on replacing much of the LPK with lighter parts from V&7. 78.73 Oz so far. How about your muzzle device? Weight versus function considered? (I'm sure you did) You'll get about a 60% reduction in weight using all VSeven lower parts versus a mil-spec LPK. Not a whole lot for the amount of money, but VSeven parts are really top quality. Also, I removed the weight and milled some material off the buffer. Will this be ok? I am kind of scared to try this. I am going to start with the adjustable gas key not letting any gas through and slowly open up the port until it cycles. then play with it from there. |
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Posted: 10/23/2017 11:33:18 AM EDT
[#36]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
I think you're right that you'll get a pretty big reduction with the barrel swap, although I was hoping you could achieve your goal with Larue's superb barrel. I hear Faxon's pencil barrel or Gunner barrel make a good shooter, but I would find it difficult to swap out that PredatAR. How about your muzzle device? Weight versus function considered? (I'm sure you did) You'll get about a 60% reduction in weight using all VSeven lower parts versus a mil-spec LPK. Not a whole lot for the amount of money, but VSeven parts are really top quality. I think that given you will sneak up on the gas adjustment to just allow the rifle to cycle, you'll be ok with the skeletonized buffer. I use Taccom's ultra lightweight buffer system and you have that beat on weight by 0.3 oz. Based on my tuning experience, I think you'll be surprised how sensitive a super lightweight action is to even small gas adjustments. For example, applying a light coat of grease on the buffer spring made a difference on whether the bolt locked back or didn't on the same gas setting and same ammo. Really surprised me. The muzzle device is an Arson Machine A-hole brake. It only weighs .7 ounces and is one of the lightest on the market. Think I stripped it out putting it on there. Pretty sure it wasn't my fault as I barely put any torque on it. I will see what Arson has to say about it. I think I am going to send the barrel to Adco vs buying a faxon lightweight. I would like to use the Larue barrel as well. |
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Posted: 10/24/2017 10:19:46 AM EDT
[#37]
Quote History |
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Posted: 10/26/2017 11:23:46 AM EDT
[#38]
You may want to contact John Thomas at retro arms works for your bbl work and see how he compares to adco. He has done a couple of projects for me machining wise and his work is top notch/museum quality. His reputation in the retro forum is unmatched. His turn around time is sometimes under one business week from when you sent it to when you got it back from him. Just an FYI
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Posted: 10/26/2017 11:31:30 AM EDT
[#39]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
You may want to contact John Thomas at retro arms works for your bbl work and see how he compares to adco. He has done a couple of projects for me machining wise and his work is top notch/museum quality. His reputation in the retro forum is unmatched. His turn around time is sometimes under one business week from when you sent it to when you got it back from him. Just an FYI |
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Posted: 11/15/2017 3:54:47 PM EDT
[#40]
Stunning work my friend. I know the LW build bug well, but not the skill set in machining as you do... Thank you much for sharing!
Happy trigger therapy, Jim |
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Posted: 11/16/2017 8:27:51 AM EDT
[#41]
What kind of gas block are you using? This one from Samson may help shave a little more weight.
 Attached File |
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Posted: 11/16/2017 11:25:33 AM EDT
[#42]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Also, I removed the weight and milled some material off the buffer. Will this be ok? I am kind of scared to try this. I am going to start with the adjustable gas key not letting any gas through and slowly open up the port until it cycles. then play with it from there. https://i.imgur.com/aAZGmTB.jpg https://i.imgur.com/NQfH3ew.jpg 
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Posted: 11/16/2017 4:59:04 PM EDT
[#43]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
What kind of gas block are you using? This one from Samson may help shave a little more weight. https://www.AR15.Com/media/mediaFiles/44835/IMG_2501-363658.JPG |
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Posted: 11/16/2017 4:59:39 PM EDT
[#44]
Quote HistoryThanks!! I also see another spot I can hog out some more material. Thanks again!
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Posted: 11/16/2017 8:09:05 PM EDT
[#45]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Thanks!! I also see another spot I can hog out some more material. Thanks again! Super jelouse of the work you did on the upper and handguard. Makes me want to order up a mini mill. keep us posted. |
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Posted: 11/17/2017 3:18:28 AM EDT
[#46]
Looking back through the pics, is there any reason you didn't follow the left side #2 cutout all the way back, passing below the mag catch? That's the thickest material and the most weight to be saved, and I don't see any structural reason for keeping that space intact and not the other side. I was going to say "symmetry" at first, but then noticed the two sides differ a bit in cutouts, anyway.
I did some work on mine with drill press, Dremel, and bastard files. I'm envious of your milling machine! |
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Posted: 11/23/2017 9:27:29 AM EDT
[#47]
I'm just here to say:
1. Awesome machine work man! I love custom stuff and can't wait to get my own mill... 2. If you wanna build a light AR, you need to use the PWD to help select parts. Link in sig.
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