So, I decided to build my first AR, but I know absolutely nothing about them. I have been reading this site and browsing some vendor sites and have been gathering as much info as I can in a short period of time.

This build will be mostly for killing paper at the range, but you never know, I might try some tactical type courses in the future.

What size barrel do you guys recommend? I am leaning towards a 14.5, would that be the best compromise for accuracy while staying compact? How much more accuracy do you gain by going to a 16" barrel?

So, for this build, I'd like to get the basic rifle (without optics, FF handrail, low pro gas tube, bipod, ect) for around $800-$850.

I have so far came up with the following parts list to get started:

Core 15 Complete Upper - $425 http://www.ar15.com/forums/topic.html?b=3&f=12&t=514214&page=1
Spikes Lower - $80 http://www.aimsurplus.com/product.aspx?item=F1STSL&groupid=214
Any LPK - `$55
Magpul ACS Stock - $130
Magpul MBUS Flip Up Rear Site - $60
MagPul AR-15 MIAD Grip - $40
Bullet Button - $20

Total = $810

I'd later slowly mod it with a FF handrail, low pro gas block, Magpul Flip up front site, virtical grip, optics, ect)

What do you guys think?

Thanks in advance!

buffer tube?

Suggestion for a low price one?

Might as well stay with AIM.  But IMHO with an $800-$850 price range and being your first AR, I would just go with a factory built from Spike's Tactical.  Lifetime warranty, 0 tools needed, a few little extras and very easy to "upgrade" later.

-Ray

ETA: A longer barrel length will give you higher muzzle (bullet) velocity not greater accuracy.  Not a major difference between 14.5" and 16".    

That is an option, but I figure with a custom build I get the exact parts I want and also, part of the fun is building it myself i would think :)

Might need to order buffer retaining pin and spring, those are not always in lpk

for what you are wanting I to suggest going with the spikes tactical rifle.  Build for fun on your second rifle.

This.

If your not a member ........

ask here too.

http://www.calguns.net

Here is your ACS with buffer kit.

Thanks! I'm sure the mod bug will hit me and I will end up modding AR's as much as I mod cars



Thanks man, just joined there as well.



Thanks!

I appreciate the suggestions for the Spikes full rifle, but I think I'm going to stick to a custom build, even if it's not the "best" way to go right now.

Are any of the parts I have chosen a weak link? Something better for in the same price range?

I think the main thing I need help with is an upper choice. What is the best complete 14.5" upper in the $400-$500 range?

For your upper you could go with the DD offer from smartgunner for like $525 but you would still need a BCG and CH.  Damn good price for what you would be getting.

I say go for it man!  Sounds a lot like my plan for my second black rifle.  A lot of guys will say to get a complete rifle and there is some merit to it but if you want to build it yourself I say go for it!

This BCM comes out to $565 w/ BCG and CH.
http://www.bravocompanyusa.com/BCM-Standard-14-5-M4-SOCOM-Upper-Receiver-p/bcm-urg-m4-14socom.htm

Just throw in a set of MOE handguards, a MBUS rear sight and a Daniel Defense LPK when you order the ACS from DSG Arms, then add to lower of your choice and you should be GTG.  Price should come out to around $875 or so.  

You could also go with a CTR or MOE stock and save a few bucks that way.  You could even pick up the MOE kit from DSG which would bring your total to around $800.

Either way you can't go wrong dealing with these two companies.  Also don't forget DSG has a coupon code in their industry forum.

ETA:  Didn't add in the bullet button but still pretty much within your budget.

If you go with a 14.5" barrel the flash hider is probably going to be pinned and welded. That will be a problem if you decide to change out the hand guard to a free float system in the future.

Can you elaborate please?

To change out drop in handguards that utilize the D-ring you typically have to remove the FH and front sight which you can't do with a pinned FH unless you break the weld.  

However there are many railed handguards that are drop in or you could just buy a complete upper that is pinned with the handguards you want already installed.

In case its unclear for a 14.5" barrel you have permanately pin the FH in order for it to be legal lenght without being an SBR.  I'm sure someone will explain this one more in detail if I missed anything.

If you are buying the lower from Spike's you should get the spikes enhanced LPK. why start off with a sucky trigger.
Also I would go with a Troy Rear sight.
And try to find as many good parts in one place as possible, shipping $$ add up quick if you use different vendors, enough for some decent upgrades over time.

dont you have to have a 16" barrel in Cali?