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[Blacklab]

First off want to point out I really don't know a thing about AR's. Somebody told me yesterday I should at least get a couple AR lowers while they are easy to get. So my question to you AR guru's is what brand(s) should I look for and what should I pay for them? I could see myself putting together one in a .223 and one in a 6.5 Grendel when I get to it. Thanks in advance for your help.

6.5 Grendel 223 Wylde     

[6.8mmARHunter]

A foundry would only be necessary for a casting, not the forging.  You can use a high temp oven for forging.  Don't need to melt, just stress relief.

From Wikipedia:

Forging is a manufacturing process involving the shaping of metal using localized compressive forces.

[JimmyHoffa]

A foundry would only be necessary for a casting, not the forging.  You can use a high temp oven for forging.  Don't need to melt, just stress relief.

From Wikipedia:

Forging is a manufacturing process involving the shaping of metal using localized compressive forces.

Yeah, the foundry will cast your specified alloy and can work it if desired.  Or the next customer can do the working--hot or cold.  I'd imagine that a AR mfg could hammer/press and then relieve in shop.   

[stevemiller]

you are correct to a point.The forgings that you are talking about though are generally solid peices the ar lowers are far from solid.these aluminum forgings though are usually cast first then forged then finish machined.Maybe they do the ar parts diff. but I dont see it.