(Part 3) Best products from r/ar15

I actually have a review on amazon that explains this
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/review/B01E4SQG4W/R3TJ2Z7YD7689R?ref_=glimp_1rv_cl




-------------------------------
OVERVIEW
-------------------------------
I have purchased both the Holosun HS503c and the Holosun HS503GU Both are awesome red dot sights aka RDS' that are very similar but have a

few differences.

These differences being:

1. POWER
   503C: Can be powered by either the solar cell or a CR2032 battery
   503GU: Can only be powered by a CR2032 battery
   
   
2. DIGITAL BUTTONS
   503C: Because the 503C has a solar panel on the top of its body, the digital buttons on the right side of the body
   503GU: The digital buttons on the 503GU are on top of the red dot body
   
   
3. BATTERY
   503C: Has a battery "tray/drawer" that pulls out and is secured by two micro-sized Philips screws (which can be lost easily)
   503GU: Has a battery in a round, screw-on turret (which I prefer)
   
   
4. TURRETS
   503C: Does not have raised shrouds that surround the windage and elevation turrets
   503GU: The U in the "GU" signifies that raised shrouds surround the windage and elevation turrets on two sides (front & back)
   
   -------------------------------
   BUILD QUALITY & MOUNTING
   -------------------------------
   While this is a budget friendly optic, its build quality is exceptional for the price point. While the build quality of an Aimpoint or
   Trijicon may be superior than the Holosun optics, the Holosun optics are no slouch in this category.
   
   I have the 503C and the 503GU installed on different SBRs. They have been tossed into my range bag, then into the trunk of my car numerous
   
   times to and from indoor and outdoor ranges in temperatures ranging from 30f to 100f. Not once during my 6 months of ownership has my
   original 50/200 zero strayed or been lost on either of the RDS'.
   
   Both include a low mount (for shotguns and AKs) and 1/3 Co-witness mount. The mounts are not top of the line, but they work nicely. I have
   
   replaced my mounts on both the 503C and the 503GU with LaRue QD mounts.
   
   -------------------------------
   POWER & BATTERY LIFE
   -------------------------------
   503C: The 503C does not have the AUTO ON/OFF feature that the 503GU has. The 503C has two power modes, first being AUTO MODE and the
   second being MANUAL MODE.
   
   AUTO MODE: (Solar & Battery power)
   a) Sight is always in auto mode unless specifically switched to manual mode.
   b) While in auto mode, the brightness of the reticle is automatically adjusted to match ambient lighting. The brighter it is, the higher
   the dot intensity.
   c) If lighting is low enough, the sight will automatically switch to the battery. While running on battery, you can adjust the reticle
   brightness using the "+"and "-" buttons to switch between levels 3, 4, or 5.
   MANUAL MODE: (Battery power only)
   a) Press down the "+"button for 3 seconds to enter into Manual Mode.
   b) Brightness adjustment: There are 12 settings for reticle brightness level under manual mode. The default brightness is at 7 when the
   device is switched to this mode. The brightness can be adjusted as required by pressing the "+"or "-" to increase or decrease the
   brightness level, one press for one change in brightness level.
   c) Switching back to auto mode: Simultaneously press the "+"and "-"buttons to switch to auto mode. The device will also switch
   automatically from manual mode to auto mode if there.
   
   503GU: While the 503GU only has one power mode, which is battery powered, it offers an AUTO ON/OFF function that is not on the 503C model.
   
   The automatic on and off is based on motion. It will turn itself on when motion is sense and it will turn itself off after 10 minutes of
   no motion, or you can manually turn it off by simultaneously pressing the "+"and "-"buttons.
   
   BATTERY: Both optics are rated for 20k hours at mid-brightness and 50k hours for single 2 MOA red dot at mid-brightness.
   
   -------------------------------
   ZEROING & STAYING TRUE
   -------------------------------
   Adjustments are in 1/2 MOA.
   
   I've zeroed several optics and RDS' in the past and was easily able to zero both Holosun optics in 5-7 rounds. The Elevation and Windage
   adjustments are crisp and I can feel each individual click which is great. Each click for both windage and elevation is 1/2 MOA
   adjustments.
   
   After firing several hundred rounds through both my SBRs with the 503C and the 503GU, storing my SBRs, traveling with my SBRs, then
   heading back to the range and so forth, both the Holosun optics stayed true to its zero and I have not had to adjust it from my original
   zero of 50/200.
   
   -------------------------------
   WINDOW, RETICLE, & BIRGHTNESS
   -------------------------------
   The lens objective on both the 503C and the 503GU is 20mm. The glass is clear with little to no blue/green tint and handles sun glare
   extremely well during my bright outdoor shooting adventures. The reticle brightness even goes plenty bright to shoot outdoors in the
   bright sun. I seriously have no complaints on how it handles the sun. Both (to my eyes) seem to be a true 1x for magnification.
   
   Both the 503C and the 503GU have the same reticle options:
   
   Option A: 65 MOA Circle with 2 MOA dot
   Option B: 2 MOA dot only
   
   Per Holosun both the 503C and the 503GU are parallax-free with unlimited eye relief.
   
   -------------------------------
   SPECIFICATIONS
   -------------------------------
   503C SPECS:
   Reticle: Option A: 65 MOA Circle with 2 MOA dot - Option B: 2 MOA dot only
   Light source: LED
   Parallax: Parallax free
   Eye Relief: Unlimited
   Coating: Multi-layer coating for all lens.
   Magnification: 1X
   Battery: CR2032
   Battery Life: 20,000 hours for circle dot at mid brightness setting 50,000 hours for single dot at mid brightness setting
   Brightness Setting: 9 DL & 2 NV compatible
   Housing Material: Aluminum
   Housing Finish: PEO/MAO housing finish
   Housing Color: Black
   Storage Temperature: -40C to 70C
   Working Temperature: -10C to 50C
   Waterproof: 1m
   Dimension: 133X54X72mm
   Weight: 120g
   
   503GU SPECS:
   Reticle: Option A: 65 MOA Circle with 2 MOA dot - Option B: 2 MOA dot only
   Light source: LED
   Parallax: Parallax free
   Eye Relief: Unlimited
   Coating: Multi-layer coating for all lens.
   Magnification: 1X
   Battery: CR2032
   Battery Life: 20,000 hours for circle dot at mid brightness setting 50,000 hours for single dot at mid brightness setting
   Brightness Setting: 10DL & 2NV Compatible
   Housing Material: Aluminum
   Housing Finish: MAO Finish
   Housing Color: Black or Flat Dark Earth
   Storage Temperature: -40C to 70C
   Working Temperature: -10C to 50C
   Waterproof: 1m
   Dimension: 66x64x37mm with high mount
   Weight: 138g
   

For 1-1.5k you're better off building it and saving a lot of that.

NOTE: everything under here is my opinion, but I used to build these at a very well known shop and have gather some experience over the years.

Basically Google a simple forged upper and lower receiver. Or go to a local shop they may have lowers so you don't have to go through the ffl crap of mailing it.

Once you have the upper and lower look at the kind of barrel you want. I would suggest personally that you spend most of your money on a barrel and optic. So look into some companies that make a good barrel like white oak and compass lake engineering. The reason not to buy one from a company that makes other stuff is that they get really cheap barrel blanks, then flute it, add a nice finish and a muzzle break and sell it for $300 or a little less. After all that crap you realize they started with a $100 barrel blank and you paid all that extra for nothing. So get a heavy contour 1:8 or 1:7 Criterion chrome lined, or steel if you'd like. This is where your accuracy is and its best not to cheap out here. Especially if you want a DMR style rifle. No less than 18" I would suggest, 20" is also really nice for that extra FPS. Rifle length gas system. And get a low profile gas block with it and have it threaded if you want to put a muzzle break on it.

Muzzle device choice is wide. I like the M4-72 severe duty compensator. I've got one now and it's SICK. That or a J-Comp. I wouldn't entertain any other muzzle devices. I suggest the J-comp because it's cheap and really does work. The M4-72 isn't cheap but is the best one on the market hands down.

After the barrel look at a nice optic, a good budget one is vortex strike eagle 1-6x or an SWFA 1-4x. Both $400 or less. I like the SWFA personally because it uses mil dot reticle and turrets. If you can find a mil dot and turret from vortex then that's even better, their warranty from what I hear is amazeballz.

Next you should look at furniture, this is purely subjective to your whims. But note if you get a collapsible stock you need a carbine buffer tube and carbine buffer spring and make sure it says mil-spec for the buffer tube. I like DD stock and pistol grip, it feels quite nice, but there's a million options and they all fit. Magpul makes nice stuff and some of it is reasonably priced as well.

Next you'll need a handguard. This you don't need to spend a ton of money on, just one that looks nice. Geissele makes a nice hand-guard they are light and strong but it's on the slightly higher price end. They all work, and they all function just fine so get what you think you'll like. Don't go crazy with the quad rails (they look cool but) because they're rough on hands, heavy as hell, and expensive if you want to fill all the unused space with the grips that smooth it out you'll get sick of it quick. M-lok and keymod are the two big attachment systems. I like mlok as it seems to have more variety in parts and is smoother. Key mod works just fine as well.
They all have barrel nuts that come with them usually. Don't get the cheapest handguard because you might get a cheap barrel nut. Most you will find are free floating so you don't have to worry about that.

The last two pieces are parts kits. I just get the regular phosphate "parkerizer" coating bolt carriers and what not. You don't have to spend tons of fancy bolt carriers and shit.

Part of the lower Parts kit is the trigger, you have a big budget so you can definitely buy a nice trigger, but honestly you don't have to. I've been shooting a long time and I've never felt I missed a shot because of my trigger. The mil-spec trigger works great and if you ever did need to use it for self defense you won't be wishing you had a fancy trigger, you'll just be glad you had a trigger that works. You don't notice triggers when you're getting shot at, you can barely move your fingers well enough to reload so it's really not that important a lot of vets might tell you about how they've thrown a magazine into their friends face cuz it flew out of their hands. That being said if you want a nice trigger I like the Milazzo-Krieger MK-II trigger. It's about $225 but it's really nice. Lots of ppl will suggest the geissele SSAE or whatever it's called. They're about the same price but the milazzo-Krieger is much nicer. I've used it a lot but I can't force myself to pay that much for a trigger. But if I ever do that'd be the one I get.

Last lower parts kit piece you'll want is an extended charging handle. The reason you want an extended charging handle is because when you have an optic on your rifle, it can be hard to grab. Strike industries has a cool looking one that's double sided for $35ish. Quite nice and I'm thinking of picking one up after using my friends. Or get a regular mil spec charging handle with an extended latch for much cheaper.

That's about all for the rifle itself.

Magazines are an easy choice, PMAG. Or surplus STANAG or "g.i. Mags" they're the basic aluminum magazine I've got like 15 of them over the years by tactically acquiring them from the army.

BUIS or Back-Up Iron Sights aren't really necessary. But many recommend the MAGPUL MBUS Pros. They are metal and can definitely take some abuse. I doubt you're going to war so it's basically wasted money.

Yo may also need sling mount attachments to go on your handguard. Most buttstocks come with a swivel push button mount already. Magpul Industries Sling Attachment Fits M-LOK https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ORY7TO0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_R9lZxbP1NC3E8
Something like that would work for an M-Lok.

if you're new and you just want an easy kit:



field manual with pictures if you're really new to AR's something like this is super valuable to have.

Otis Cleaning Kit includes everything you need to clean it.



solvent You probably don't need a solvent on a new rifle but its damn handy to have around. this stuff is for ultra deep cleaning.



Lube Everyone has their favorite Lube, mine is ballistol, you can dump it on pretty much everything, and it makes it work together smoothly



scrapper for when your bolt carrier group gets all fuckered.



EDIT: almost forgot, you're def going to want one of these puppies too, a chamber brush


Cleaning tools usually come down to personal preference, cost, and how effective you can use them to keep your gun rust free and preforming well. I have had a great experience with all the tools i linked, and have used them to keep my AR 15 clean and functioning for a few thousand rounds. I think the largest benefit to this set up is that all these tools will easily fit inside of any range bag.



Have a good one and keep shooting!

> Don't want to build one

I get this, because I had exactly the same position a month ago. But I just finished a build last night.

Here's what happened:

• I live in Ca, they are going to ban AR-15's in CA soon, so I got a couple stripped lowers for ~100$ each at the local gun shop, so no FFL mail order issues.
  
  
• On the advice of a friend, I went on gunbroker.com, just to peruse AR-15 parts to get a sense of what is required to build one. Ran into this, and impulse bought it (399$).
  
  
• Got fired up and picked up lower parts kit, buffer tube, CA bullet button, magpul back sight, and magpul stock(~150$) from LGS with the intention of getting a gunsmith to do the build for me.
  
  
• Putted around youtube and looked at build process. I have negative amounts of mechanical aptitude, but felt confident I could do it.
  
  
• Had a couple beers, took all the parts and my ipad with a youtube lower AR build tutorial to my garage, and had a fully built and functional Colt M4 A3 civ in less than 30 min. Good feels. Tools needed: 1/8 hex driver, armorer's wrench, 440 channel locks. I had the channel locks and hex driver, just bought the armor's wrench for $15.
  
  Total cost for my Colt M4 A3'ish AR: 100 + 400 + 150 + 15 = $665.
  
  So I get that you may not feel up for a build, but let me tell you: If I can do it, anybody can do it. With the parts I ordered, it was less than 30 min build time and at no point did I ever feel out of my (not very deep) depth. Plus, it felt great to say, "I made dis." Even the not-so-into-my-gun-hobby wife was impressed.
  
  Also, as other's have said, you can still just buy a complete upper and lower, and still get more bang for the buck. But by picking up a stripped lower, it gives you massive flexibility of the final form of your AR and a massive cost advantage of being able to peruse the best deals on the internet without any need for FFL transfers. If you take your time and look for sells, you could easily save $100-200 from what I paid, or just get even better hardware.

At first, I didn't think I would get more than two rifles, so I opted for the Plano foam-padded case. I bought two so I could lock up both rifles (from the kiddos, not thieves), and not take up a ton of room in my house. They're very good cases, and I would recommend them for traveling (either road trips or flying). If you get one of these, don't trust the built in locks, and buy some decent (long bolt) padlocks. Negative: They're not great for taking to the range. They're bulky, and awkward if you need to set them out of the way while you're shooting.

Of course, I bought a third rifle on an impulse, and it came with something like this for free. I actually ended up using this more than the hard cases for range trips since it's much more compact/maneuverable, and just carries the essentials (a few magazines and a good-sized pouch for tactical Skittles). For a one-rifle person, this is probably the best value, and more practical for most people's needs.

That said, few of us actually stay one-rifle gun owners for long. I just punted and bought a $100 metal gun cabinet from Walmart to control access. The nice Plano cases are now just used for traveling rather than storage.

My favorite, though, is a double carbine bag. Even if you only have one rifle (now), it's a great bag with plenty of extra storage. It will fit two sets of eye and ear protection and a lot of pre-loaded magazines along with two rifles. I didn't think I'd ever use the backpack straps until a few weeks ago when we decided to find a place to shoot in the National Forest that required a little hiking off the road. The bag really saved the day, and made the whole experience a lot more comfortable while packing about 40 pounds of rifles + ammo.

Just my $0.02.

I found your charging handle for almost $10 cheaper. You could cut the cost of the charging handle significantly by getting a one-handed one. I used the exact same lower build kit for my first AR. The lower build kit does not come with any tools. You're going to need some tools, such as a Castle Nut Wrench and a punch set

This is kind of optional, but you're going to need a spacer if you want to use iron sights (or else the iron sights will be blocked by the red dot sight. The spacer also helps a great deal is making it more comfortable, so your head isn't awkwardly tilted, obviously this will depend on your eye height.

Don't get discouraged if this seems confusing, if all else fails, watch an ar15 building tutorial and everything will be much clearer. Here's another tutorial. Good luck.

Well so far I like the two I've bought. The Sightmark Ultra Shot Sight QD Digital Switch (SM14000) https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004TDIDW6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1. Now I'll start out by saying I've never used an Eotech or Aimpoint and probably never will as I can never see dropping more on a red dot/holgraphic sight than I nearly spent on my rifle. If you can afford it and can justify it and want it go for it. But if your looking for a budget red dot, look at the Sightmark. I know I'm going to get a lot of hate for not picking Primary Arms, Holosun or similar, but they weren't what I was looking for.The two I've got, one's on an AR15 and ones on a AR-9. They were both bought for use in 2 and 3 gun competitions on an outdoor range in bright sunny Florida. I had tried several sights before, Truglo, Trs-25 and found them all to be too dim even on the brightest setting during the day time and the dots to be too small for rapid target acquisition especially in bright sunshine. The Sightmark even on a lower brightness setting was easily usable in the bright Florida sun. Using the 50 MOA circle around the 3MOA dot makes it easy to pick up and engage those close targets rapidly and still accurately on those out to 100-150 yards. I like it and so far even on the AR9 which has a lot more felt recoil it has held up with no problem. I may even buy a third one for another rifle. Hell I'm still not up to spending what even one Eotech would cost me.

Sightmark Ultra Shot Reflex Sight QD Digital Switch

Bottom line is I don't expect to go to war tomorrow, Don't want to spend what a monthly car payment would be on a sight and don't expect to be dropping my rifle from 10 feet onto hard concrete. It has worked without problems for me so far, it's cheap enough I could but four for the price of one Eotech and it does what I need it to do.

If you want a good budget fixed magnification optic, I really like Primary Arms stuff - their prism scopes run around $250-300 and are tough as nails with clever BDC/ranging reticles and pretty good glass.

For budget red dots I like PA, Holosun and Vortex.

If you're just looking for a decent cheap RDS that'll get you shooting and hold zero, the Bushnell TRS-25 can be had for $50 or so and will serve just fine. Add a UTG riser (absolute cowitness / lower 1/3 cowitness) for under $10 and you're in business.

I've been perfectly satisfied with my Condor speedy two-point sling. It's nothing fancy, but it's only $25ish on Amazon and seems to be pretty good quality. Plus, I really like the quick-adjustment tab.

I used something like this for the hammer - plastic end worked great. You can get something like this if you prefer metal.

These are the punches I used, they're great. Definitely recommend something like these.

Lasers are only used with night vision, and messing with your cat. If you’re ballin on a budget, here are some good options for you.

Red dots:

HOLOSUN HS403C Solar Power Micro Red Dot Sight, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00U2KMVCI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_ZpaHDbRH0V0EF

Sig Sauer SOR52001 Romeo5 1x20mm Compact 2 Moa Red Dot Sight, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01C95I8N4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_fqaHDbM4M8RCH

Vortex Optics Crossfire Red Dot Sight - 2 MOA Dot https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079BY7QMC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_FqaHDb9P9FBNE


If you want a magnified scope like an Acog, Primary Arms makes the best for the price.

Primary Arms Silver Series Compact 3x32 Gen II Prism Scope - ACSS 5.56-CQB-M2 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01BOTJGIM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_9raHDbFWVPQ8A

If you want something for longer ranges, LPVOs are awesome.

Vortex Optics Strike Eagle 1-6x24 Second Focal Plane Riflescope - BDC Reticle (MOA) with Sport Cantilever 30mm Mount - 2-Inch Offset https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01K37MU52/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_AtaHDbMAP1GB1

Primary Arms Silver Series 1-6x24 SFP Rifle Scope (Gen III) Illuminated ACSS 5.56 \ 5.45 \ .308 Reticle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XD6G7K1/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_9taHDbC142280
You’ll ya e to get a scope mount for this one, so here that link. Aero Precision Ultralight 30MM Scope Mount, SPR https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JVTD4EK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_SuaHDbJ2D4GYB

This is the best roll pin starter I've used. If the pin is lined up with the hole, it will press in pretty easily. Then just use any pin punch to set the pin flush or just below the surface. I used to struggle holding a hammer in one hand and the punch and the part with the other. Now it's pliers in one hand, and the part in the other.

I wouldn't say MBUS are very durable. They break pretty easy and just yesterday I noticed a pin on a pair of mine walking out without even taking them shooting in a long time. IMO any quality red dot will be less likely to break than MBUS sights which makes them not make much sense as back up sights. There are better cheaper more durable options on Amazon if you are fine buying something made in china

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gN3w3BWVZM8


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xKxxKayDr9Y

https://www.amazon.com/UTG-Profile-Flip-up-Aiming-Aperture/dp/B0182UM8ZO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1487276755&sr=8-1&keywords=utg+sights

https://www.amazon.com/UTG-Model-Profile-Flip-up-Handguard/dp/B0182VADPU/ref=pd_bxgy_200_img_2?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B0182VADPU&pd_rd_r=A51EXZ2Y942CAZCVPYTV&pd_rd_w=XOdOz&pd_rd_wg=Y8Gs8&psc=1&refRID=A51EXZ2Y942CAZCVPYTV

Vortex SPARC AR

Or

Primary Arms Advanced Micro Dot

Or

HOLOSUN HS403B

All are good, but for the prices the Primary Arms or Holosun are a better bet due to the 50k hours battery life.

Then buy a lightweight magnifier with QD mount so you can either leave it on our take it off depending on your current setup or shooting preference.

That's all pretty much in the $300 range for both the dot and the magnifier.

This might be excessive, but I wanted to be thorough so you can see what all is out there. I am having trouble thinking of anything that the following tools can't do, in terms of AR building and maintenance. This is basically my setup at home, though some.of the brands and whatnot are different.

I am operating under the assumption that you already have some basic hand tools in addition to the torque wrench.

The only things you absolutely need are roll pin punches and an armorer's wrench and some basic hand tools like Allen wrenches, screwdrivers, needlenose pliers and so on. The rest just expedite the process and help solve weird issues that may come up.


Wheeler Engineering Roll Pin Starter Punch Set https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01B3NWBVI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_QJZDAb1ZFBQ80

Wheeler Roll Pin Punch Set https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EE6GHVW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_4JZDAbV5YGA8M

Wheeler Hammer and Punch Set In Plastic Case https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004SY07HU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_FNZDAb1Y74EF0

Geissele Automatics 10-169 AR15/M4 Reaction Rod https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01EY6WFAI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_hOZDAbD3JHBAE

Aeroshell 33ms / MIL-G-21164D / MIL-SPEC Barrel Nut Thread Grease + 1/2oz can https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01BJ3HE0K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_4OZDAbQGRYJJ2

TEKTON Long Arm Ball End Hex Key Wrench Set, Inch/Metric, 26-Piece | 25282 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00I5THF4W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_PPZDAbQ05H680

TEKTON Long Arm Star Key Wrench Set, T10-T50, 9-Piece | 25291 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00I5THF9M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_cQZDAbRX59VNW

IRWIN Tools Multi-Purpose Bench Vise, 5-Inch (4935505) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009TOCZEC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_1QZDAbT8R47J0

Yost UP-360 Universal 6 Inch Prism Style Jaw Cover https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01EVQH42U/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_aRZDAbRHAV73E

Real Avid Gun Tool Pro - for Modern Sporting Rifles https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IMHX5KA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_bUZDAbEB87JFB

Wheeler Firearms Accurizing Torque Wrench https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0012AXR4S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_xWZDAb1SRYD6D

Wheeler Professional Gunsmithing Screwdriver Set (43-Piece) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HTN4EWG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_HXZDAbQX5BEWF

TacWater USA AR15/M4/M16 Tools Multi-Purpose Tool Set (W) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079H5WWZ3/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_GYZDAbRGY3CNH

Takedown Pivot PIN Tool set 223 556 6.8 SPC 300 AAC https://www.amazon.com/dp/B017OUSJFQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_V.ZDAbSHZPEG5

Magpul Bev Block https://www.midwayusa.com/product/1015877615/magpul-bev-block-ar-15-action-block

Buy the UTG Pro flip ups.

Front

Rear

Springfield uses them on their Saint rifles. I got myself a rear sight to play around with and keep as a backup part, and I'm pretty happy with it. Nice thing about it is that you can flip it down w/ the aperture in either the regular or close setting which is something my Troy flip ups can't do.

I gambled on cheaper no-name brand pieces and definitely didn't get my money's worth out of them. The Ozark, Dagger, and Chaos sights all appear to be the same and likely all come from the same factory in China. They look like decent options, but I'd take the UTG over them if only for the looks. UTG definitely has shit products out there, but I think the new flip up sights can hang out with their other PRO stuff like handguards as not shit-tier.

Looks like a Plano 36".

Good case. Foam is okay--turns out better if you use a hot wire cutter and Plastidip afterwards.

Has basic integral locks, but slots for two external ones. I put two of these, keyed alike.

Overall a good case.

"Best rifle sling" on amazon, it's like $20.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JK1XW4G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_6SdDyb1TZZ9D2

Primary Arms Silver Series Compact 3x32 Gen II Prism Scope - ACSS-5.56-CQB-M2 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01BOTJGIM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_u.RJDb7WPV97D

This is the cheapest magnified "combat" optic I would recommend

Primary Arms Silver Series 1-6x24 SFP Rifle Scope (Gen III) Illuminated ACSS 5.56 \ 5.45 \ .308 Reticle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XD6G7K1/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_saSJDbXTVKNBS

This is a good "all around" optic

Holosun 2MOA Micro Red Dot System HS407C https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NWWGNDR/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_lbSJDbX4DC48X

Good micro red dot

These are all just above your price range. If you're adamant about staying below $200 vortex, holosun, and Sig all make standard/compact sized red dots for under that.

STI Mil-Spec Webbing 2 Point Duty Sling with Fast-Loop Adjuster

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JK1XW4G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_JZzmDb8HHGC5P

This sling is on all my rifles, it is super comfortable and durable.

Troy Industries is a great one to go to


Here are some HK Style AR front sights, IMO, good for Co-Witness


Matech BUIS


Daniel Defense


Bravo Company

Just a few quick recommendations ;D

The Bushnell TRS-25 is a good choice if you're on a budget. At only $52, it holds up great. I currently have one on my Ruger.

Bushnell TRS-25 - Amazon

Dagger Defense is re-branded Chinese stuff. Might work well might not.

https://www.amazon.com/Magpul-Industries-Generation-Backup-Sights/dp/B01L0DOBXC

Magpul sights These can be found cheaper and keep in mind Black Friday is coming up soon.

https://www.amazon.com/Bushnell-Trophy-TRS-25-Riflescope-tilted/dp/B00CIY7JAU/ref=pd_lpo_200_bs_t_2?_encoding=UTF8&refRID=EWH2DCMR6125DKX0G9W3

Bushnell Red Dot Not the best but holds zero and is great for the price.

Personally I would try to score a deal on quality sights on Black Friday or Cyber Monday

If you buy from PSA, I'd recommend using a pre-paid credit card, as they've had site security issues in the past.

I think by "80% lower" you may have been thinking of a stripped lower, where all you have is the aluminum lower, with none of the controls installed. A stripped lower is s great place to start! YouTube has a bunch of easy how-to videos. I recommend /u/nsz85 videos, which I used for my first build.

Some other things you'll want to have handy:

Vice Block for Lower

Vice Block for Upper

Roll pin starter kit

Rubber Mallet

Torque Wrench

These are the basics, and once you buy them, you'll never have to buy them again for future builds. There's other tools out there to consider, but get you started.

Best of luck!

EDIT: shit, how could I forget the AR Wrench!

got this kit on PSA on sale a while back, VERY useful. I think all the bits separate would run you ~125 so def a good buy. Also these are good.

Here is a suggestion. I don't own it, but I've heard great things and you can't beat the price.

https://smile.amazon.com/Plano-Weather-Tactical-Case-42-Inch/dp/B00E2217I6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1499881283&sr=8-1&keywords=plano+all+weather+tactical+gun+case+42-inch

I have an Avid MSR tool and a CAT M4.

It's cool to scrape out asinine amounts of carbon from the inside of your carrier, and it's a lot easier to scrape the crud off the piston side of the bolt, but I've never noticed a reliability or performance difference after cleaning.

I'd say it's more for those that are really picky about how clean their rifle is, personally, I think it's just a mostly a novelty.

I don't mind you using my rifle as a template at all, I certainly don't claim to have come up with the concept of it, it's a very popular setup for a reason.

Here is the stripped down image with some labels

My Upper parts list:

BCM Standard 16" Mid Length Upper Receiver Group

BCM Full-auto profile Bolt Carrier Group

BCM Gunfighter Charging handle Mod 4

Magpul MOE Mid-Length hand guard

Magpul MOE MVG grip

Magpul Illumination Kit

ProTec Elite HP190 Firearm light

Matech rear back up iron sight

Bushnell TRS-25 Red dot sight with a medium height riser

My Lower parts list:

Anderson Manufacturing stripped lower

DPMS Lower parts kit

Magpul Polymer trigger guard

BCM Stock mounting kit with the H buffer

IKICKHIPPES S.L.A.P. for using a single point sling

Magpul MOE+ grip

Magpul MOE Mil-spec stock

Magpul B.A.D. Lever

It's a sightmark. They're actually pretty good for the price.

For cleaning purposes, I've had good luck with this tool...

http://amzn.com/B0095JTITG

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00ORY7TO0/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1485311192&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=mlok+qd+sling+mount&dpPl=1&dpID=51XxEGUU5FL&ref=plSrch
It's the only one on Amazon so sure it's what you were looking at, I don't know how the utg one is but the Magpul doesn't stick out far at all and is rck solid... I also trust Magpul a whole lot more than utg.

If you really want to be running a copy, then you'll want to get a 14.5" barrel.

Here's the build I would run to copy the above, feel free to make edits to your liking:

• 14.5in Barrel w/FSB, Handguard cap, delta ring - $215
  
• A2 Flash Hider - $9 see response
  
• Crush Washer - $3
  
• Upper Receiver Assembly - $100
  
• Gas tube - $10
  
• Handguard - $64
  
• Rail covers - sides - $35
  
• Rail covers - bottom - $12
  
• Foregrip - $33
  
• Matech BUIS - $90
  
• BCG - $110
  
• Charging Handle - $14
  
• Lower Receiver - $50+transfer fee
  
• LPK - $30
  
• Trigger - $47
  
• Buttstock & Buffer Assembly - $50
  
• Aimpoint PRO - $432
  
• Sling - $50
  
  Total: $1,354
  
  Costs not included: Pin & Weld for flash hider, shipping, any applicable tax, transfer fee for lower.
  
  Average cost found for FN15: $800-1,300
  
  Not included with FN15: Aimpoint, sling, rail covers, Matech (proper) rear sight, foregrip, proper 14.5" barrel (all found in short search were 16in), shipping, transfer fee, any applicable tax
  
  Price configured closer to FN15: $792 (price excluding aimpoint, sling, rail covers, foregrip).

Looks like the Plano all weather case . I have one and it's really nice.
Edit: fixing the link

I've been looking at this one. It's not quite as tacticool as the $50-70 slings, but you can use whatever attachment options you want (quick disconnects, HK clips, laundry pins), has the ability for fast length adjustment with a large thumb loop, and has quality tube webbing so it doesn't dig into your neck. For the price, it seems tough to beat.

Looks like I could get the Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight Riflescope, 1 x 25mm (tilted front lens) and UTG Hi-Profile Compact Riser Mount, 1" High, 3 Slots for ~$55 prime. Clearly doesn't break the bank. Would my next step up from there throw me in the $200 - $300 range?

Get a Holosun 503GU. Built like, looks like, mounts the same, battery life like, and most importantly weighs like an Aimpoint Micro but has the reticle of the Eotech (and the dot alone too, in one unit.) I got one and I love it. Watch all the reviews and torture tests on Youtube.

Link:
https://www.amazon.com/HoloSun-HS503GU-Circle-Sight-Housing/dp/B01E4SQG4W/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1468428826&sr=8-1&keywords=holosun+503gu

> I used a screw driver for the pins on my first one. A punch set isn't needed

like a phillip head screwdriver? geez wouldn't that just open up the pin when you hammer it in? Seems like a terrible method for doing that. If you don't have punch, something like this would be a much better alternative to get those pins in

As far as time and knowledge goes, it takes a considerably less amount to buy a whole rifle comparing to DIY and that's what the OP is alluding to. It's like getting an oil change, most people can probably do it themselves but a lot of ppl choose not to.

Not a fan of those latches or the lack of waterproofing. I have this and it's fricken SWEET. Just make sure to get some dessicant.





http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00E221A88/ref=mp_s_a_1_7?qid=1458883359&sr=8-7&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=gun+case&dpPl=1&dpID=51Mymihdh9L&ref=plSrch

I have used Allen wrenches and small drill bits that I was willing to sacrifice previously. That being said...

https://www.amazon.com/America-Hollow-Steel-Starter-Punch/dp/B01BL4TW3Y/ref=sr_1_12?ie=UTF8&qid=1469788510&sr=8-12&keywords=roll+pin+punch

https://www.amazon.com/Wheeler-Engineering-Roll-Pin-Punch/dp/B00EE6GHVW/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1469788510&sr=8-5&keywords=roll+pin+punch

Punch sets can be had relatively cheaply. I bought the wheeler, though the hollow type might be better for your application.

TRS-25 for $50. You'll want to buy a riser for it, but if you aren't picky they can easily be found for $20 or less. or get the high-rise version for $88.

https://www.amazon.com/MaTech-Mil-Spec-Back-up-Iron-Sight/dp/B002E6SXN4

MaTechs

They're really good. I can't stand BUIS that don't have elevation adjustment.

Matech is an awesome sight, and it's what a lot of Marines are issued. Amazon doesn't have them in stock now, but I believe they're around 60 bucks or so. http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B002E6SXN4/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?qid=1376021909&sr=8-2&pi=AC_SX110_SY190

I'm planning on picking up a Sightmark Ultra Shot w/digital switch for mine, I've heard a lot of good things about it and you don't need a separate mount.

I wanted a lockable hard case for more protected transport and went with this Plano:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00E221A88/ref=oh_details_o00_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Plano all weather case, it's not a pelican, but it's very cost effective!
Plano All Weather Tactical Gun Case, 36-Inch https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00E221A88/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_Hb.1DbQKDMQV5

Yep Here it is on Amazon and you can see five different people talking about how they used it on their AR and it worked great.

On other things, maybe....NOT on this pin. This pin is the granddaddy of shit pins

I got the Sightmark Ultra Shot Sight QD Digital Switch for ~$55 on sale at Amazon around Christmas as an experiment: How "bad" were these sights that people keep telling me not to buy?

I've put about 500 rounds of 5.56 through my Sig516 with it mounted, and had some serious wobbling issues with it yesterday.

HTML5 video of wobbliness (dat gfycat name tho)

Kneeling at 50 yards, I was only able to get 3 of 20 rounds on a 12" target. I attribute those 3 to blind luck. Not good.

Today I took a look at the Sightmark to see if I could keep it limping along. It turns out that there's a way to tighten the mount up to account for this. Huzzah!

You can see an adjustment nut on the bolt they use to index on your rail in this potato pic. This needs to be tightened. I found that this nut is extremely loose, and was able to adjust it with a small punch, as I don't have a small enough wrench. I had some loctite lying around that I added to the nut, in the hopes that this won't happen again.

Is a sight that stops working after 500 rounds a good sight? Probably not. Can you limp by on one for a while? It looks like it.

I'll update after the next 500 rounds.

Looks like a Colt 6940 with a Matech BUIS

Going away from the norm...at least on Reddit...may I suggest the Matech rear sight. It allows for elevation adjustments which most other rear sights do not. You can find them cheaper on eBay (be wary of knockoffs) or sites like armslist.

I like holosun, depending on what 'budget' means to you...
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01BJ3ZXD0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_uWw8ybP4CMT5V

Since you bought Bushnells I'm guessing you're buying on a budget, but this is a pretty good budget riser for a lower 1/3 co-witness.

https://www.amazon.com/UTG-Med-pro-Compact-Riser-Mount/dp/B003TX2BD4

Or if you want an absolute co-witness...

https://www.amazon.com/UTG-Hi-Profile-Compact-Riser-Mount/dp/B003TWZG4G

I have a couple condor slings: https://www.amazon.com/Condor-Speedy-Point-Sling-Black/dp/B007IWZNDM/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1473950349&sr=8-2&keywords=condor+sling

They are cheap, secure, and much slimmer than a lot of the more expensive padded tactical slings.

I have been using the CAT M4 too for a long time. It works really well for BCG's.

I flown across the US with firearms. The airlines have never even inspected them. They just checked to see that I had a good locking case. The only thing that seems to vary is that each airline has different rules on ammo.

Declare and check per TSA regs. For just an upper, something like the 36" Plano is reasonable. Add two locks and check. Really no problem.

https://www.amazon.com/Plano-Weather-Tactical-Case-36-Inch/dp/B00E221A88

At the end of the day, what ever causes the least stress and hassle.

Thats all well and good, but I am disagreeing with the statement "Any red/green red dot under 100$ isn't worth the money". There are certainly decent red dots under $100 and if you look around, you can find the TRS-25 for under $100. Exhibit A

Links are below. I love the MLOK rails. Still want to get an angled grip for it but haven't got around to it yet. I picked up the upper in store. It included a BCG and I think it was $500 with 25% off at the time. Sights were around $100 for the set. Lower I bought online, linked the exact one. I think I scuffed it up more than PSA did so I wouldn't worry about the blem. And the scope was $260 on Amazon. Total was around $960.

Upper

Lower

PA Scope

I think you're talking about this https://www.amazon.com/Barrel-Scraping-Tool-Cleaning-Maintenance/dp/B0095JTITG - I haven't tried it yet, but the reviews seem solid.

Ordered it from Amazon and just got it in the mail today.

Plano All Weather Tactical Gun... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00E2217I6?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Here is a link to it on amazon right now new

http://www.amazon.com/MaTech-Mil-Spec-Back-up-Iron-Sight/dp/B002E6SXN4

Fix Janky Sling connection if ya want that is

It's different than a real EOTech.

This is the one I've got http://www.amazon.com/dp/B004TDIDW6

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0095JTITG/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1457371069&sr=8-1&pi=SX200_QL40&keywords=cat+m4+tool&dpPl=1&dpID=31-VtP8VLXL&ref=plSrch

I use this. It does wonders.

Holosun red dot 2 MOA http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01BJ3ZXD0/ref=mp_s_a_1_6?qid=1463938281&sr=8-6&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=holosun+red+dot&dpPl=1&dpID=41d3NM9-eSL&ref=plSrch

> Can be had for around $80

$75 shipped...

Staying under $100, consider this.

This one: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00E2217I6/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Do you know the model of the case? I was thinking about picking up this one
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00E2217I6/ref=ox_sc_act_image_4?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1

It isn't a pelican, it is made by plano: http://www.amazon.com/Plano-Molding-Company-Weather-Tactical/dp/B00E2217I6/ref=sr_1_3?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1421261886&sr=1-3&keywords=plano+gun+case

Plano All Weather

A pair of channel locks?

Get a punch set and a roll pin start set.

Use the right tools for the job.

Ok I get that some people like to spend $ on top quality stuff an Aimpoint Pro is pricy... considering the Sport M&P goes for $750-$800 range the damn sight is half the price!! If you are honestly gonna use the rifle to just go to the range and practice or something other than non warfare activities consider a sight more cost efficient... Don't sleep on something like a Sightmark I have it on my M&P 15 OR and its legit! Yes I'll eventually get an EOtech when I have the funds but something expensive as fuck just to start off with if silly IMO... if you want a picture on how my Sightmak looks on my rifle PM me.

A TRS-25 with a UTG High riser will give you lower 1/3 co-witness.

Plano big case for 308 bolt.

Plano for savage baby bolt and plano for spr.

SBR case with room for two. 10.5 inch ar is pushing it but without flash hider should be fine

Drago 36 inch case spare at this point.

Plano All Weather Tactical Gun Case, 42-Inch

https://www.amazon.com/Plano-Weather-Tactical-Case-42-Inch/dp/B00E2217I6/ref=sr_1_6?s=hunting-fishing&ie=UTF8&qid=1521514414&sr=1-6&keywords=Rifle+case

This one? Did you mean co-witness was low?

Parts list:

Blemished PSA Lower

PSA Midlength Premium MOE Rifle Kit

This is how the rifle came, basically don't feel like I did a whole lot installation wise besides putting the LPK in the lower receiver and then assembled then attached the rifle kit. However, I did swap out some parts namely the MOE buttstock, and the handguards. In favor of:

Spikes MidLength Black Tapered Handguards

Spikes M4 Buttstock

The Magpul handguards that came with it were solid, but the buttstock wasn't. I honestly suspect they gave me a commercial buttstock on a Milspec tube because there was so much wobble. I put this Spikes M4 on the rifle and there's been no problem, a little wobble but definitely not like it was before.


and then of course the sights which are:

MaTech

Assume autocorrect changed Matech to Match?

The MaTech BUIS goes out to 600M. http://www.amazon.com/MaTech-Mil-Spec-Back-up-Iron-Sight/dp/B002E6SXN4

I sold the Magpul rear I had and installed the MaTech BUIS if I ever need to shoot that far. Not even having to remove my Eotech EXPS3. Being able to shoot irons and co-witness without removing Eotech was important to me in buying it. Before anyone asks even with 600m setting the Eotech somehow still puts the dot right on top of the front post when looking through the BUIS. Far smaller dot than what the front sight would cover at 600M. No wonder why the combo is purchased by the Military.

Where are you looking?? My first set was around $80, but even the amazon ones aren’t bad.