AR15build - Do people only machine the lowers and sub the rest?

[PurpLev]

Thanks for all the responses so far. to reiterate and maybe clear up the air - this discussion was in reference to building an AR for one's own personal use - not for mass producing, or for building them for your neighbors (in which case I am 100% in agreement that lowers should be serialized and FFL/etc licensing should be practiced).

 

[AzizaVFR]

Once you successfully machine one, do four more for the same cost as one Over-The-Counter variety.

 

[Old Iron]

I know you can get a discount for 100 don't know about 4 I guess you could ask.

Paul

 

[mackey]

1. of you people that build ARs, do you machine any of the other components? or is it just the lower that gets to be machined (80%, 0%) ?
2. if so, what is the benefit of machining your own lower (considering cost of all other parts, the savings on machining your own lower seems insignificant to a certain degree)?
3. If you machine more than just the lower - what other components do you machine? is there a good reference to check for following through?

Thanks,
Sharon

1. i've seen builds for almost the entire AR for a match rifle but it'd be fairly cost prohibitive if you're build is for a standard AR. when you factor in the smithing involved, it's not too bad

2. there's zero monetary savings as with everything mass produced vs. limited run but personal accomplishment/satisfaction is priceless. i've seen some interesting rollmarks you'd otherwise never see.

 

[Old Iron]

I finished mine last week. and if you really want to work at it check this out. http://www.theflatspot.net/

Picture of the one I just finished.

Paul

 

[PurpLev]

Thanks guys.


That's a nice one Paul. reminds me of my years in the service (except we didn't have a flat top).

 

[Old Iron]

Re: Rebuild - Do people only machine the lowers and sub the rest?

Thanks guys.


That's a nice one Paul. reminds me of my years in the service (except we didn't have a flat top).

They started us on M14 then in Nam got the M16, How ever I was the biggest guy in my squad so I got the 60 Cal. Now you talk about doing some damage those would walk and talk.

Had a chance to get one in 68 wish I would have now.

Paul

 

[PurpLev]

Re: Rebuild - Do people only machine the lowers and sub the rest?

They started us on M14 then in Nam got the M16, How ever I was the biggest guy in my squad so I got the 60 Cal. Now you talk about doing some damage those would walk and talk.

Had a chance to get one in 68 wish I would have now.

Paul

those are nice... heavy as hell. I was training with those, but luckily was personally assigned to lighter gear, at least until I joined the 82mm/120mm mortar support squad...