I've seen 0% lowers advertised as a simple square block of aluminum, and also as a forging very similar to an 80%. That forging style is the type I'm looking for.
View Quote
It would actually be easier to start with a chunk of billet if you do not have fixtures for the forging.
If this is just about saving $20 or $30, forget it. The receiver extension housing tap alone costs more than an 80% lower. And if you don't have a good vertical mill with a full complement of tooling, forget it. While you can finish an 80% with hand held power tools, a 0% requires basically full machine shop capabilities.
I
do have a small machine shop, and I
have built lowers from scratch (and whole guns), but if you do not have substantial equipment and experience, you'll end up with what many companies advertise their 0% forgings as: a paper weight.
Not trying to discourage you from trying if you have the capability, just want to make sure you understand what you're getting into. It ain't something you can do with a drill press, router and Dremel. Not even close.