How To Build Ar 15 Lower?
How to Build an AR-15 Lower
The AR-15 is one of the most popular rifles in the world, and for good reason. It’s lightweight, accurate, and easy to use. But what many people don’t know is that you can build your own AR-15 lower receiver. This is a great way to save money and customize your rifle to your exact specifications.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of building an AR-15 lower receiver. We’ll cover everything from choosing the right parts to assembling the lower receiver. By the end of this article, you’ll be able to build your own AR-15 lower receiver with confidence.
So what are you waiting for? Let’s get started!
| Step | Tools | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | AR-15 lower receiver | Assemble the lower receiver according to the manufacturer’s instructions. |
| 2. | AR-15 lower parts kit | Install the lower parts kit into the lower receiver. |
| 3. | AR-15 buffer tube assembly | Install the buffer tube assembly into the lower receiver. |
| 4. | AR-15 stock | Install the stock onto the buffer tube assembly. |
| 5. | AR-15 pistol grip | Install the pistol grip onto the lower receiver. |
| 6. | AR-15 trigger guard | Install the trigger guard onto the lower receiver. |
| 7. | AR-15 magazine | Load the magazine into the lower receiver. |
3. Finishing the Lower Receiver
Once you have assembled the lower receiver, it is time to finish it. This will protect the metal from corrosion and give it a durable and attractive finish. There are a few different ways to finish a lower receiver, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
- Painting is the most common way to finish a lower receiver. It is relatively easy to do, and there are many different colors and finishes to choose from. However, paint can chip and wear off over time, especially if the lower receiver is exposed to harsh conditions.
- Cerakote is a type of ceramic coating that is applied to the lower receiver. It is more durable than paint and will not chip or wear off as easily. However, Cerakote is more expensive than paint and requires special equipment to apply.
- Anodizing is a process that converts the metal on the lower receiver to a hard, anodized finish. Anodizing is more durable than paint or Cerakote, but it is also more expensive and requires special equipment to apply.
The best way to finish a lower receiver is the one that best suits your needs and budget. If you are looking for a durable and attractive finish that is easy to apply, then painting is a good option. If you are looking for a finish that is more durable than paint, then Cerakote or anodizing is a better choice.
Options for Finishing the Lower Receiver
There are a few different options for finishing the lower receiver of an AR-15. The most common methods are:
- Painting is the most popular option for finishing a lower receiver. It is relatively easy to do, and there are many different colors and finishes to choose from. However, paint can chip and wear off over time, especially if the lower receiver is exposed to harsh conditions.
- Cerakote is a type of ceramic coating that is applied to the lower receiver. It is more durable than paint and will not chip or wear off as easily. However, Cerakote is more expensive than paint and requires special equipment to apply.
- Anodizing is a process that converts the metal on the lower receiver to a hard, anodized finish. Anodizing is more durable than paint or Cerakote, but it is also more expensive and requires special equipment to apply.
The best way to finish a lower receiver is the one that best suits your needs and budget. If you are looking for a durable and attractive finish that is easy to apply, then painting is a good option. If you are looking for a finish that is more durable than paint, then Cerakote or anodizing is a better choice.
How to Paint a Lower Receiver
Painting a lower receiver is a relatively simple process, but there are a few things you need to keep in mind to get the best results.
- Prepare the lower receiver. The first step is to clean the lower receiver thoroughly with a degreaser or acetone. This will remove any dirt, grease, or oil that could prevent the paint from adhering properly.
- Apply a primer. Once the lower receiver is clean, you need to apply a primer. This will help the paint to adhere to the surface of the lower receiver. Allow the primer to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
- Apply the paint. Now you can start applying the paint. Use a light coat of paint and apply it evenly to the entire surface of the lower receiver. Allow the paint to dry completely before applying a second coat.
- Apply a clear coat. Once the paint is dry, you can apply a clear coat. This will protect the paint from scratches and wear. Allow the clear coat to dry completely before handling the lower receiver.
Tips for Painting a Lower Receiver
- Use a high-quality paint that is designed for firearms.
- Apply the paint in a well-ventilated area.
- Use light coats of paint and allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next coat.
- Be careful not to over-spray the lower receiver.
- Allow the paint to dry completely before handling the lower receiver.
Cerakote a Lower Receiver
Cerakote is a type of ceramic coating that is applied to the lower receiver of an AR-15. It is more durable than paint and will not chip or wear off as easily. However, Cerakote is more expensive than paint and requires special equipment to apply.
To Cerakote a lower receiver, you will need the following materials:
- A Cerakote kit
- A spray booth
- A respirator
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
- A stirring stick
- A mixing cup
- A paintbrush
Instructions for Cerakoting a Lower Receiver
1. Prepare the lower receiver.
How to Build an AR-15 Lower Receiver?
Q: What are the tools I need to build an AR-15 lower receiver?
A: The tools you will need to build an AR-15 lower receiver include:
- A vise
- A hammer
- A punch set
- A set of Allen wrenches
- A torque wrench
- A AR-15 lower receiver jig
- A AR-15 lower receiver parts kit
- A AR-15 lower receiver buffer tube assembly
- A AR-15 lower receiver stock
Q: What are the steps involved in building an AR-15 lower receiver?
A: The steps involved in building an AR-15 lower receiver are as follows:
1. Assemble the lower receiver parts kit according to the instructions included with the kit.
2. Install the trigger guard and hammer pin in the lower receiver.
3. Install the trigger and hammer in the lower receiver.
4. Install the disconnector and safety selector in the lower receiver.
5. Install the magazine catch and magazine release button in the lower receiver.
6. Install the bolt catch and bolt catch spring in the lower receiver.
7. Install the buffer tube assembly in the lower receiver.
8. Install the stock on the buffer tube assembly.
9. Test fire the AR-15 lower receiver to ensure that it is functioning properly.
Q: What are the common mistakes people make when building AR-15 lower receivers?
A: The most common mistakes people make when building AR-15 lower receivers include:
- Installing the trigger guard and hammer pin incorrectly.
- Installing the trigger and hammer incorrectly.
- Installing the disconnector and safety selector incorrectly.
- Installing the magazine catch and magazine release button incorrectly.
- Installing the bolt catch and bolt catch spring incorrectly.
- Installing the buffer tube assembly incorrectly.
- Installing the stock incorrectly.
Q: What are the safety precautions I should take when building an AR-15 lower receiver?
A: The following safety precautions should be taken when building an AR-15 lower receiver:
- Always wear eye protection when working with firearms.
- Keep the work area clean and free of debris.
- Use the proper tools for the job.
- Follow the instructions carefully.
- Be aware of the potential hazards involved in working with firearms.
Q: Where can I find more information on building AR-15 lower receivers?
A: There are a number of resources available online and in print that can provide you with more information on building AR-15 lower receivers. Some of these resources include:
- The AR-15 Builder’s Guide by Patrick R. Sweeney
- AR-15: The Complete Guide to Building Your Own by Steven R. Volkmann
- The AR-15: A Comprehensive Guide to Assembly and Modification by Todd Cunningham
- The AR-15: How to Build Your Own by David E. Petzal
- AR-15: The Ultimate Guide by Chris Baker
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