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Posted: 4/2/2003 4:32:53 AM EDT
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I've been wanting to find something in 5.56, partly because there are millions of rounds out there in case things go to crap. Being on a budget, I was looking at the AK-47 and Mini-14. An AR would have been nice, but I'd have a tough time coughing up a grand for one. Then somebody recommended building an AR-15. What a concept! Until yesterday I didn't know you could! (Told ya I was a newbie!). Essentially, what I have in mind is an easy to handle battle rifle. From things I've read in these postings I figure a 16" barrel will do me fine. Any recommendations on stocks? I'm trying to decide between a standard A2 or a CAR. Any advantages/problems associated with either? Thanx. I'm looking forward to the day when I can contribute, rather than just ask questions. |
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Quoted: Essentially, what I have in mind is an easy to handle battle rifle. From things I've read in these postings I figure a 16" barrel will do me fine. Any recommendations on stocks? I'm trying to decide between a standard A2 or a CAR. Any advantages/problems associated with either? I would go with a 16" barrel with an A2 stock. This stock has a trapdoor for a cleaning kit, which could be useful for a battle rifle. I would also get the A2 top since you won't be worrying about optics. The A2 top has the handle with the integral sight. Chrome lining would be nice, but increase the price. You will be in this for no less than $500 plus the cost of ammo and magazines. The receiver will run you $100 (www.quanticoarms.com) and the least expensive kits that get any recommendations here are from Model 1 sales, at $400. There are other kits that get more recommdendations that will run about $50 more. 30 round USGI magazines can be had for $30 new or $18-$20 used. I've had good luck with the used ones. |
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Building a lower seems pretty easy. (I'll be building a lower for the first time this week, so I'll let ya know.) Building an upper requires some special tools, like a barrel wrench, and possibly guages to check head space. Know anyone with these? You might also need a book or video to help you. Got these too? Keep in mind you might need to invest (i.e. spend money) in some things to build an upper. You say $1000 is too much for a complete rifle. I bought a Bushmaster 20" HBAR A2 complete rifle for $779 plus tax. You might want to crunch some numbers on this, but if you buy a stripped lower receiver, lower parts kit & stock then buy a complete upper, you just might save some money over a complete rifle or even building one of similar quality. Quantico has Eagle Arms forged lowers for $100, but must be transferred via a local FFL. Buying a complete upper via the internet saves you tax dollars, but costs some shipping. Same with the lower parts. You might save tax dollars doing this. BTW, welcome to the board. |
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Amen to Koke's advice. The hard part isn't assembling them -- the kits come complete and all you do is put them into your lower receiver. The barrel is already installed and headspaced. The hard part is to stop assembling them. Read the lower receiver assembly instructions. Nothing there too complicated, but make sure you're comfortable with it. [url=http://www.ar15.com/content/books/TM9-1005-319-23.pdf] US Army manual[/url] Here is the link for Model 1: [url]http://www.model1sales.com/[/url] Their catalog is fun to scroll through. Just avoid anything that says "NFA rules apply" or "pre-ban configuration". As stated you'll get a great rifle or carbine for just a bit more than a decent AK variant. No doubt the cheap AK's go 'bang', but... If you want to upgrade later, say add a 20" flattop upper with scope, all you do is pull 2 pins and slap it in place. Good luck, and welcome to the board. |
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Assembling an AR is a lot of fun. I just did my first one a couple of months ago, and have plans for a second once I stop spending money on mags and ammo. It could be awhile. I went the Quantico Arms & J&T route (flattop upper, stubby stock), separate rear sight and have $650 total into the gun. I really like the gun I ended up with. You can save money doing this, but some will advise against it if you want a true "battle rifle". Keep reading and you can learn a lot here in a short amount of time. Scott |
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