Thinking about completing a project with an AR build kit? You’re in the right place, and we have some of the top questions regarding build kits, answered.
- What comes with an AR build kit?
To be as brief as possible, a complete AR build kit should come with literally everything you need to complete a functioning rifle minus the stripped lower receiver. This includes the upper and all associated parts, as well as the lower parts, including all hardware, pins, and springs. Sometimes build kits don’t come with a magazine, though, so keep that in mind.
- Do I need an FFL for a build kit?
Because AR build kits conventionally do not contain the stripped lower, which is the part that is officially regulated as a firearm, you will not need an FFL transfer to get one.
- What tools will I need?
You can get away with assembling an AR from a build kit with basic tools. In addition to a workbench or receiver vise and a clear workspace, you will also want a torque wrench, armorer’s wrench, punch set, hex wrenches, screwdrivers, and a mallet. There are other specialized tools that can make the job easier but you can get it done with these.
- Does it come with a lower?
No, AR build kits do not come with stripped lower receivers, also simply referred to as lowers, since the lower is considered a firearm and therefore omitted from the kit.
- Are build kits legal?
Assuming the rifle you intend to assemble is legal in your state and locality, then the AR build kit itself should be legal. However, this is not legal counsel and should not be construed as such. If you have any questions at all, consult an experienced firearm lawyer in your area before proceeding.
- Is a build kit or an assembled rifle better?
There are numerous reasons why homebuilders choose to assemble rifles from AR build kits rather than buying assembled rifles. While buying an assembled rifle is faster and more convenient, building from a kit is educational, enjoyable, and will teach you a lot about the rifle. You also have a lot of flexibility with making customizations if you choose to go the kit route.
- Is it hard to assemble from a build kit?
Not particularly. There is more skill involved in machining out an 80% lower if that’s your plan. However, if you have the right tools and know how all the parts fit together, then assembling a rifle from a kit is not a particularly difficult task.
- Why should I build an AR with a kit?
There are numerous good reasons to choose to build an AR rifle with a kit rather than buying an assembled rifle. One is the flexibility with respect to making customizations, and another is that building from a kit will help you skirt shortages. Also, you will learn a lot about how the rifle works if you build with a kit and that knowledge can be leveraged to cleaning, maintenance, repairs and customizations down the line.
- What muzzle device should I include with the kit?
Most AR build kits that contain a threaded barrel will come with a flash hider, but flash hiders are somewhat limited in their utility as all they really do is keep the sight picture clear. Both muzzle brakes and suppressors offer more overall value. Muzzle brakes cut felt recoil and muzzle flip, enabling faster, more accurate follow up shots. Suppressors, despite the fact that they are NFA items and therefore more difficult to get, also cut felt recoil and muzzle flip while substantially reducing the noise of the gun.
- What are the advantages of AR pistol build kits?
AR pistols are lighter, more compact, and more maneuverable than full-sized rifles. This makes them attractive as home defense guns and truck guns, as they are easier to conceal. They’re also more practical in cramped quarters while still potentially offering the firepower of a full-sized rifle. Shop short barrel uppers to get some ideas for your build.
- What are the selling points of a short buffer tube?
Basically, just to shorten the overall length of the build and result in a more compact footprint. This makes short buffer tubes attractive for those that are planning on building an AR pistol.
- What BCG coating is best?
There are many advanced BCG coatings, such as black nitride, titanium nitride, diamond-like carbon, and nickel boron, all of which are extremely hard, wear-resistant, corrosion-resistant, and which also offer a high degree of permanent dry lubricity, requiring less liquid lubrication. All of these are excellent choices.
- Which caliber should I focus on?
That depends on what your goal is. Both .223 and 5.56 are excellent, low-cost, low-recoil cartridges that are suitable for competition, long-range shooting, training, drilling, self-defense and even hunting small and intermediate game. Other cartridges, like .300 BLK and 7.62x39mm, offer better close-range performance that’s traded off for poor performance at greater ranges. Ultimately, it depends on what you want to do with the rifle.
Your Next AR Build Kit Is Here
Hopefully you found these FAQs helpful. Check out our full collection of AR build kits, and if you still have questions, get in touch with us directly at Sales@MCSGearup.com.