starting a build

[dannysdaddy]

well im on deployment and my wife gave me the okay to build an AR.  Im going to start ordering parts soon but had a question.  im looking for a complete parts list so i can check things off one by one.  im nnot looking for manufactures just a list of all the parts i will need to buy.  i will be ordering the upper and barrel already attached.  thanks for the help......

[vmkeith]

The first thing you need to do is figure out what caliber AR you're going to build.  I've just started to build one as well for hunting, and I didn't realize the different calibers that were available.  If you are going .308 or .458 SOCOM, that is an AR10 platform.  The AR15 platform is .22LR, .223/5.56mm, 6mm, 6.5 Grendel, 6.8mm SPC, .30 Rem, .450 Bushmaster (These are just the ones that I know of).  While I am still a NOOB concerning ARs, I would recommend the AR 15 platform, just because of the versatility, and you'll have more options later.  One thing to keep in mind, some parts are caliber specific, so make sure of what you are buying.  

I would do more reading since you are still in the planning stages.  AR15.com is a good place to start.  Since I'm assuming you're in Washington, you'll need at least a .24/6mm to meet the state regulations for big game.  From everything that I've read, the 6.8mm SPC is a good choice, and is what I'm building.  

If you are interested, you can go to http://www.68forums.com/forums/index.php.  This forum is completely dedicated to the 6.8mm SPC.  There are a lot of good guys and information there.

As for parts, here you go:

http://www.ar15.com/content/index.html#guides

You can also get a feel for what's out there for parts and accessories by going to Cheaperthandirt.com and MidwayUSA.com.  You can also google AR accessories and get a whole lot of other sites to go to.  Just my    Good luck and happy building.

One other thing...what part of Washington do you live??  I ask because I can recommend a good gun shop to get you started for your build...Surplus Ammo and Arms in Lakewood, Wa.  It's just south of Tacoma and you can pick up a really nice, very good quality lower receiver there.  It's priced right too.  Stripped is $79.99.  Complete with a TAPCO T6 Collaspible stock is $189.99.  Complete without stock is $129.99.  You can check out their website at http://www.surplusammo.com/ also.

[jeffro]

 If you are going .308 or .458 SOCOM, that is an AR10 platform.  The AR15 platform is .22LR, .223/5.56mm, 6mm, 6.5 Grendel, 6.8mm SPC, .30 Rem, .450 Bushmaste

The .458 socom also uses the the AR-15 platform. Standard lower and mags.

[vmkeith]

i was kind of surprised to see your reply on the .458 SOCOM, but you are absolutely right.  Sorry for the incorrect info.

[dannysdaddy]

decided to buy one instead of build.  i found the rifle that i built on paper exactly.  since im deployed my wife went down and ordered me a rock river arms lar15 tactical operator2 with an eotech 553.A65BLK. priced awesome and should be a good rifle.  what do you guys think?

[vmkeith]

An RRA rifle is a good choice, and looks pretty damn good.  The only thing I would be concerned with is it's uses.  As a .223/5.56mm you won't be able to do any big game hunting in Washington.

[carpsniperg2]

they are good solid guns i have run a few rounds threw some and like them but i like the hunting models a little better then the tac ones

[dannysdaddy]

i have plenty of hunting rifles so this is going to be my new toy.  home defense and plinking mostly. i might use it for coyotes as well but i have my savage dedicated to coyotes.

[vmkeith]

Well, since that's the case, have fun with it...and if in the future you decide to switch over to the AR for hunting, all you'll need is a new upper.  Happy shooting