I've never built an AR, in fact... I don't even own one
But I saw one of these (or similar) on base and really REALLY dug the small size and light weight.

And I really do mean just like this, the same fixed carry handle and sights, no forward assist, no shell defector, fenced mag button, etc... super light weight and simple. About the only thing I would change, maybe a short barrel with permanent flash hider to make it compact but nanny "legal" (no SBR). If I could find one ready made that was rock solid and super reliable, I would rather just buy it, but no luck so far. After searching around I saw a company called Troy made a clone of the GUU-5/P but they only made a small number.

A1 stuff can be a pain to find. You are probably going to have to build it because finding a complete upper A1 that is exactly what you might not happen. Nodak upper receivers are really good and can be found if you hunt around

It took me several months to find all the parts

Doable. Prices are high currently and components availability is spotty, but far from unobtainable.


EQUIPMENT EXCHANGE is a great place to watch.

RETRO FORUM is a great source of information.


Look at the Brownells Retro line and also the Colt COLT XM177E2 RETRO CARBINE , very similar offerings.

You can go another route if you don't have the time/patience to source the parts.

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Not cheap, but it's about as exact as you can get.

https://www.rayssportinggoods.com/rifles/semi-automatic-rifles/colt-ar15-retro-carbine-223-20-shot-black-matte-polymer-3452661

Sounds like you want a 14.5" FSB barrel with a pinned MD to 16"

Easy.

Handguard

easy.

Even the stock is easy if you don't mind knock-offs.

https://retrorifles.com/car-15-buttstock-fiberlite/


That entire build would be cake, except for the upper.

If a forward assist and brass deflector isn't a deal breaker, here you go
https://www.raniersec.com/product/luth-ar-ar-15-a1-upper-receiver-assembled/

Easy build.

ETA. This shows to be in stock but has you'd have to source the rear sight.

https://www.acmemachine.com/xml-feed-a-all/slick-side-a1-stripped-upper-receiver/

Topic Moved

When you start building, Brownells has a video collection for free on the internet.  The break it down by sections.

I would be interested in that if:
a) It didn't have that goofy looking moderator thingy
b) It wasn't $2,500

I don't mind spending for quality, but thats nuts as far as I can tell, I would be in at around $1,000-1,500ish
Also, correct me if i'm wrong, but aren't those 3rd party made but with the Colt logo?

I wouldn't mind a "knock-off" in the slightest, just so long it is quality.