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Posted: 5/20/2009 12:06:38 PM EDT
| Probably a dumb question, but is there really any difference between 2 different manufacturer's stripped lowers (assuming they're both reputable companies)? I'm asking because I found a couple different ones in stock at Midway, Yankee Hill and Doublestar, for about the same price and was wondering if one's better than the other in terms of fit, finish, ect. This is my first build, so I haven't had experience with either, and have heard that most lowers from the bigger manufacturers are basically identical. Is this true? |
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There are some minor differences and different features, here's a tacked thread which shows the differences and which company make the lowers for the major manufacturers.
AR Lower Receiver FAQ (56K Beware) MMS, CMT, LAR, LMT Compared - thread link If you're planning to use Magpul PMAGs there are some lowers which this mag won't work, ask around and make sure that it would work if you want to use that mag. |
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All lowers are not created equal. Many of the cheaper lowers you will find are made from lower quality aluminum which is softer and well wear faster over time. Secondly, not all lowers are both hard coated and black anodized. I have seen quite a few lowers that have been cheaply made and then just painted with duracoat. Look at the roll marks, are they deep and clear? Is the finish quality up to par? Are the edges rounded nicely where they should be and the squared edges nice and crisp? Less expensive lowers will not hold up to this standard. Also, what kind of a warranty does the manufacturer or retailer offer? Lifetime? Limited lifetime? Aluminum only or fit and finish?
Since the demand has increased, there have been a lot of machinists who have never been in the gun manufacturing business who have decided to cash in and make a quick profit. They are here today and will most likely be gone tomorrow. Many of the big name producers buy their lowers and other parts from smaller manufacturers who will allow them to put their name/rollmark on the product. So in many cases, you have no idea who is actually making your lower or other part. If you want a lower real bad, some places have some real bad lowers. If you want quality, you can expect to pay a little bit more for it, but it is worth it in the long run. 
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denny's guns makes the sickest lower i've ever seen in person. see the link above i think it's like globaltactical.com or something
here's the link |
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