Hunting Washington Forum

Equipment & Gear => Guns and Ammo => Topic started by: lokidog on January 02, 2015, 03:09:08 PM

Title: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on January 02, 2015, 03:09:08 PM: OK, getting the lower figured out and I can't stop.... Just a side note, I will not be putting thousands of rounds through this gun. I will likely be shooting whatever is the cheapest ammo, 55 and 62 grain.

I've found these components, any feedback on brands or other?

Barrel - Radical Firearms 16" mid-length melonite or 16" M4 profile phosphate, both are 1:7 $102
BCG - PTAC 5.56 Full Auto Nickel Boron BCG $90
Upper - Anderson assembled incl. charging handle and gas tube $103

or Stripped Upper Receiver & BCG Kit (Bushmaster) $119

Thx
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: actionshooter on January 02, 2015, 05:45:38 PM: Quote from: lokidog on January 02, 2015, 03:09:08 PM
OK, getting the lower figured out and I can't stop.... Just a side note, I will not be putting thousands of rounds through this gun. I will likely be shooting whatever is the cheapest ammo, 55 and 62 grain.

I've found these components, any feedback on brands or other?

Barrel - Radical Firearms 16" mid-length melonite or 16" M4 profile phosphate, both are 1:7 $102
BCG - PTAC 5.56 Full Auto Nickel Boron BCG $90
Upper - Anderson assembled incl. charging handle and gas tube $103

or Stripped Upper Receiver & BCG Kit (Bushmaster) $119

Thx

That's a good deal on the BCG with nickel boron, as far as Anderson components, they are cheap but well made. I have put a few of their lowers together and they are all in spec. Keep in mind these were $45 lowers! The parent company produces aerospace parts if I remember correctly.
Never heard of Radical Arms, but man that is cheap.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Jolten on January 02, 2015, 05:55:31 PM: Looks like they're all pretty solid parts. I couldn't see many negative reviews really.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on January 02, 2015, 06:23:35 PM: Thanks, how about the barrels? I don't know what melonite is, guess I should do an internet search. :chuckle:

Looks like melonite might be the better one?
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: pianoman9701 on January 02, 2015, 06:43:24 PM: The barrel a friend of mine is getting for his build is Black hole Weaponry out of St. Helen's OR. It's a bit pricier and it'll have a muzzle break on it, too.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Jolten on January 02, 2015, 08:59:00 PM: Melinite is supposed to be more accurate but less durable. Also harder to re-throat/rechamber if I understand correctly.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on January 02, 2015, 10:00:14 PM: Quote from: Jolten on January 02, 2015, 08:59:00 PM
Melinite is supposed to be more accurate but less durable. Also harder to re-throat/rechamber if I understand correctly.

Thanks, I don't think I'll shoot enough to wear out the chamber though. ;)
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Jolten on January 03, 2015, 06:21:02 PM: Welcome.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: jay.sharkbait on January 03, 2015, 06:37:23 PM: Quote from: Jolten on January 02, 2015, 08:59:00 PM
Melinite is supposed to be more accurate but less durable. Also harder to re-throat/rechamber if I understand correctly.

I've never heard of anyone setting an AR barrel back. You would have to remove the barrel extension and re-thread and then the gasport and gasblock shoulder would need a modified gastube.

Melonite/nitride is a relatively cheap process when done in quantity and at the end of the day is just hype.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: CAMPMEAT on January 03, 2015, 06:41:49 PM: Shoot 'em like you stole 'em.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on January 04, 2015, 09:01:17 AM: OK, so I think these are my two barrel alternatives. Are there any issues to be aware of with the carbine vs. mid-length gas system?

https://www.primaryarms.com/Radical_Firearms_16_Mid_Length_Barrel_1_7_Twist_p/rf1617m.htm (https://www.primaryarms.com/Radical_Firearms_16_Mid_Length_Barrel_1_7_Twist_p/rf1617m.htm) $102

http://www.redbarnarmory.com/RBA-16-M4-1-7-p/rba16m417.htm (http://www.redbarnarmory.com/RBA-16-M4-1-7-p/rba16m417.htm) $85

Also, I've seen mixed reviews of the PTAC BCG, though the negative reviews seem to be older ones, any thoughts?

Thanks y'all.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: CAMPMEAT on January 04, 2015, 09:47:51 AM: lokidog,

www.model1sales.com (http://www.model1sales.com)
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Biggerhammer on January 04, 2015, 02:24:21 PM: Mod 1 , has just about doubled their prices over the last 3 years.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on January 04, 2015, 02:27:38 PM: Thanks guys, how about carbine vs mid-length gas system on a 16" barrel? ;)
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: CAMPMEAT on January 04, 2015, 07:57:54 PM: Quote from: Biggerhammer on January 04, 2015, 02:24:21 PM
Mod 1 , has just about doubled their prices over the last 3 years.

I guess that's why my 204 complete bull barrel upper was spendy. I just found them last year........
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Blacktail Sniper on January 04, 2015, 08:40:36 PM: Tagging along...
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Biggerhammer on January 04, 2015, 10:35:49 PM: Quote from: lokidog on January 04, 2015, 02:27:38 PM
Thanks guys, how about carbine vs mid-length gas system on a 16" barrel? ;)

I have rifle length 16" carbine barrels. I would take the mid length over a carbine length everytime with a 16" barrel. Every carbine length 16" is "Over gassed" pretty much. a mid length is great and either with a adjustable gas block is perfect.

Take a look at the BTE, set crew, micro adjustable gas block. Great gas block for a great price.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on January 04, 2015, 10:57:07 PM: Thx
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on January 05, 2015, 02:42:47 PM: OK, thinking of putting a little more into the barrel. Which one of these two?

http://www.gmriflebarrel.com/gm-m8-16-m4-for-mid-length-gas-system-5-56-nato/ (http://www.gmriflebarrel.com/gm-m8-16-m4-for-mid-length-gas-system-5-56-nato/)

http://www.surplusammo.com/blackhole-weaponry-ar-15-16-mid-length-stainless-steel-5-56-1-8-poly-barrel/ (http://www.surplusammo.com/blackhole-weaponry-ar-15-16-mid-length-stainless-steel-5-56-1-8-poly-barrel/)
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: mountainman on January 05, 2015, 02:48:01 PM: Black Hole. 11 of their barrels on my guns, many, many more on customers builds..no complaints.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: jasnt on January 05, 2015, 03:29:20 PM: "Just a side note, I will not be putting thousands of rounds through this gun."

famous last words :tup: tagging along
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Hornseeker on January 05, 2015, 03:36:04 PM: $85 barrel!! frick... someone tell me why not to buy it before I do... Is the carbine length gas block going to be a problem?? I am looking to build 2 ARs for my daughters and frankly... they will not be shooting them enough or "well enough" for "real" accurracy to be an issue...

Am I being silly... will $50 more get me a lot better barrel?
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on January 05, 2015, 04:49:26 PM: I know, right? $85 seems great. The only problem is that I cannot find any reviews on these barrels besides from the website itself.

I think I am tending towards Brownell's Upper/BCG (Bushmaster), 16" mid length Green Mountain Barrel ($158), charging handle, gas tube, and block for a grand total of $326. Add my $75 lower with donated parts and buttstock (thanks Capn Silver), a $15 magazine, and a $45 FF Forearm from Amazon for a grand total of $470. :tup:

If I do another build, my son will probably get this one and I can get an 18" barrel for my ew one.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Hornseeker on January 06, 2015, 07:54:06 AM: If you do another build.... :chuckle: :chuckle: :chuckle:

I am thinking the $85 barrel would work fine for my daughters guns... hmmm....

Forearm for $50? which one?
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: pianoman9701 on January 06, 2015, 08:05:48 AM: The barrel and trigger are the two components (other than quality ammo) which have the greatest impact on accuracy. IMHO, you get what you pay for. Almost everything else can be bird parts - cheap, cheap, cheap. My :twocents:
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on January 06, 2015, 09:10:37 AM: Quote from: Hornseeker on January 06, 2015, 07:54:06 AM
If you do another build.... :chuckle: :chuckle: :chuckle:

I am thinking the $85 barrel would work fine for my daughters guns... hmmm....

Forearm for $50? which one?

Search Amazon, Trinity Force free float forearm. No reviews, but beats spending $150 IMO.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on January 06, 2015, 09:31:24 AM: Quote from: Biggerhammer on January 04, 2015, 10:35:49 PM
Quote from: lokidog on January 04, 2015, 02:27:38 PM
Thanks guys, how about carbine vs mid-length gas system on a 16" barrel? ;)

I have rifle length 16" carbine barrels. I would take the mid length over a carbine length everytime with a 16" barrel. Every carbine length 16" is "Over gassed" pretty much. a mid length is great and either with a adjustable gas block is perfect.

Take a look at the BTE, set crew, micro adjustable gas block. Great gas block for a great price.

Also found this for others with this question: http://www.ar15.com/archive/topic.html?b=3&f=118&t=512091 (http://www.ar15.com/archive/topic.html?b=3&f=118&t=512091)
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: jay.sharkbait on January 06, 2015, 10:06:32 AM: Quote from: lokidog on January 06, 2015, 09:10:37 AM
Quote from: Hornseeker on January 06, 2015, 07:54:06 AM
If you do another build.... :chuckle: :chuckle: :chuckle:

I am thinking the $85 barrel would work fine for my daughters guns... hmmm....

Forearm for $50? which one?

Search Amazon, Trinity Force free float forearm. No reviews, but beats spending $150 IMO.

Just an FYI most of the Trinity Force stuff is cheap counterfeit Chinese junk.

Lots of stuff being copied in China and brought into the counrty as airsoft parts etc.

Give me a call and i'll see what I can scrounge up for your build....
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on January 09, 2015, 05:52:49 PM: Grrrr, I procrastinated too long on the Brownells upper + bcg on sale for $119, now it's $149. >:(
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on January 11, 2015, 09:47:41 PM: Well, had a nice breakfast with Capn Silver this morning and he turned over his extra Stag Arms lower parts and buttstock, thank you very much once again. :tup: Then I met up at two locations with other members, thanks guys for working with my SeaTac to Decatur travel schedule.

After dinner, I laid out all of the parts and took a photo. Can you tell me what's missing?
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on January 11, 2015, 09:57:30 PM: Anyways, I figured I'd do what I could and order the missing part later. Fortunately, it fell out of the grip after about the tenth time it was picked up and moved around. :tup:

So, went online to see how to do this. My son decided he wanted to help so I had him look at the pictures and install the trigger and hammer springs for me.

The bolt release roll pin installed much easier than I was expecting from the videos but the trigger guard pin was a nightmare to get in place. BTW, I have no punches so other tools were used. ;) And, no scratches to show for it. :tup:

The only other tough part was trying to keep the dang front retaining pin in place while trying to install the receiver bolt, but finally got it in.

With all of the suggestions to get new triggers for increasing accuracy, I was not expecting much for smoothness when I tested it out. I love it, tight, no creep, and a crisp light break. I don't know the exact weight. I think this trigger will be great, but we'll see at the range, some day.

My only complaint to Stag would be that it would be nice of them to put a little better finish on the outside of the magazine release arm, it seems the bluing could be a bit more polished.

The last photo my son wanted to compare one of his nerf guns. He can disassemble and reassemble his much faster than I can. :chuckle:
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Hornseeker on January 12, 2015, 07:38:51 AM: nice Loki!!

I finished mine Saturday Night!!
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on January 12, 2015, 11:19:37 AM: What's the best grease to use on the parts that need it? ANd if anyone sees a great deal on an upper and/or bcg please let me know.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Jolten on January 12, 2015, 05:11:11 PM: What caliber are you going?
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: jay.sharkbait on January 12, 2015, 06:10:40 PM: Quote from: lokidog on January 12, 2015, 11:19:37 AM
What's the best grease to use on the parts that need it? ANd if anyone sees a great deal on an upper and/or bcg please let me know.

I can't take it anymore........:) I might have a billet 7075 rec'r laying around.

As for lube I try to avoid grease on the Ar's

I use break free, rem oil and Triflow as I'm cheap and not into hype and hysterics. M pro 7 seems to be popular if you feel the need to be cool :chuckle:
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on January 12, 2015, 07:33:01 PM: OK on the grease, one site was talking about greasing the safety and the recoil tube spring.

If I keep this going, maybe people will start throwing parts at me..... :chuckle: I have a Green Mountain barrel ordered. I've found a complete upper receiver from SAA for $69 + tax if I can pick it up. They want too much for shipping since I also have to pay tax.

We could talk about that receiver, though the billets might be out of my price range.

Thx
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: carpsniperg2 on January 12, 2015, 07:49:22 PM: Sas upper is fine. I just did a build a few weeks ago for myself with one.

That is cheap! If its indeed complete.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on January 12, 2015, 07:57:34 PM: Quote from: carpsniperg2 on January 12, 2015, 07:49:22 PM
Sas upper is fine. I just did a build a few weeks ago for myself with one.

That is cheap! If its indeed complete.

No BCG, of course, it also is lacking a charging handle. I'm thinking of this for a bcg, AR15 NiB-X Hybrid Bolt Carrier Group Blem $ 89.95 incl. shipping.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: carpsniperg2 on January 12, 2015, 08:17:29 PM: Yeah just forward assist and dust port cover.

I am sold on Nickel Boron BCG. I am using them in almost all of my builds for me and clients.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on January 12, 2015, 08:28:31 PM: Quote from: carpsniperg2 on January 12, 2015, 08:17:29 PM
Yeah just forward assist and dust port cover.

I am sold on Nickel Boron BCG. I am using them in almost all of my builds for me and clients.

That's what I've been reading, I figured this was as good of place as any to look at the blems.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Pnwrider on January 12, 2015, 08:53:46 PM: If you still need a stripped upper, PSA has stripped blemished uppers on sale for $39. Just don't expect to get it quickly.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Biggerhammer on January 12, 2015, 09:08:46 PM: NIB bolt carrier groups are the only way to fly. :tup:
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Cap.Silver on January 12, 2015, 09:18:12 PM: Good job guys ,its coming together :tup:(Loki and Zoltan) .... glad I could help out .
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on January 12, 2015, 09:19:35 PM: Quote from: Pnwrider on January 12, 2015, 08:53:46 PM
If you still need a stripped upper, PSA has stripped blemished uppers on sale for $39. Just don't expect to get it quickly.

Thanks. I have found a couple stripped blems for $39. Just found an Anderson Upper (not blem)plus parts for $71 incl. shipping and no tax. :tup:

Quote from: Cap.Silver on January 12, 2015, 09:18:12 PM
Good job guys ,its coming together :tup:(Loki and Zoltan) .... glad I could help out .

You are awesome! :tup:
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on January 12, 2015, 10:41:51 PM: www.arpartsfinder.com (http://www.arpartsfinder.com)

Seems like a good place to look for those building.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Hornseeker on January 14, 2015, 06:37:42 AM: Dude... just saw the add, Bushmasters at Brownells for 49.99.... get on it!!
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on January 14, 2015, 09:16:08 AM: Just ordered an Anderson, no blem, for 39.95, parts kits, for 20.98, plus 10 shipping from fatboytactical.net.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Hornseeker on January 14, 2015, 09:58:12 AM: Sounds good... If I didn't already have 10 stripped uppers, I'd be buying some of these Bushmasters...
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on January 20, 2015, 11:52:05 PM: Well, I got my gas block and upper last week and realized I probably needed to get some vise blocks, ordered them, then ordered a starter pin punch set, then a gas tube. Still need a bcg, charging handle, magazine(s), barrel nut, handguard, sights.....

Oh yeah, got my barrel today as well.

Gack, this just nickel, dime, and dollars a person. :chuckle:
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on January 31, 2015, 12:09:51 AM: I finally bit the bullet and bought a bunch of stuff tonight, including a wrench. Now I am just missing a BCG.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on February 01, 2015, 09:00:35 PM: Another BCG question, what's with putting a phosphated bolt in a NiB carrier? Wouldn't the hardness/wear difference between these finishes cause more wear on the bolt? Do I really need any more than a chrome lined carrier? Honestly, I can't afford to run hundreds, let alone thousands, of rounds through this thing.

I'm looking at a few:

Black Nitride Bolt Carrier Group - $105 w/sh at http://aresarmor.com/store/Item/blk_nitride_bolt_carrier_group (http://aresarmor.com/store/Item/blk_nitride_bolt_carrier_group)

SAA - M16 / M4 Nickel Boron M16 Style Bolt Carrier Group - $95 + tax at http://www.surplusammo.com/saa-m16-m4-nickel-boron-m16-style-bolt-carrier-group-223-5-56/ (http://www.surplusammo.com/saa-m16-m4-nickel-boron-m16-style-bolt-carrier-group-223-5-56/)

FBT M16 Nitrided Bolt Carrier Group - $105 w/sh at http://fatboytactical.net/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=28689 (http://fatboytactical.net/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=28689)

and still this one,
AR15 NiB-X Hybrid Bolt Carrier Group Blem - $89 at http://primeweaponry.com/collections/frontpage/products/nib-x-hybrid-blem (http://primeweaponry.com/collections/frontpage/products/nib-x-hybrid-blem)

Thanks for everyone's input.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Biggerhammer on February 02, 2015, 03:27:47 AM: http://www.aimsurplus.com/product.aspx?item=XAIMBCGNIBBDG&name=AIM+AR%2fM16+.223%2f5.56+NiB+9310+MPI+BDG+Bolt+Carrier+Group&search=Bolt+carrier (http://www.aimsurplus.com/product.aspx?item=XAIMBCGNIBBDG&name=AIM+AR%2fM16+.223%2f5.56+NiB+9310+MPI+BDG+Bolt+Carrier+Group&search=Bolt+carrier)
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on February 02, 2015, 09:46:59 AM: I have seen a lot of complaints about the AIM NiB BCG staining really badly. Do all of the NiB BCGs stain?
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Biggerhammer on February 02, 2015, 10:11:44 AM: Everyone I have owned will if you don't clean them regularly.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on February 05, 2015, 10:06:54 PM: Thanks Bigger.

After a few emails exchanged with PrimeWeaponry, I have decided to try on eof their BCGs. I went with their NiB ICE carrier/nitride bolt hybrid on sale right now for $114. I think this is my last piece and should be able to get this all together soon.

Anyone in the North Sound have Go, No-Go gauges?
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: jay.sharkbait on February 07, 2015, 09:00:31 AM: Quote from: lokidog on February 05, 2015, 10:06:54 PM
Thanks Bigger.

After a few emails exchanged with PrimeWeaponry, I have decided to try on eof their BCGs. I went with their NiB ICE carrier/nitride bolt hybrid on sale right now for $114. I think this is my last piece and should be able to get this all together soon.

Anyone in the North Sound have Go, No-Go gauges?

I have a three gauge set I can mail you.

Odds are you will need a field gauge as many rifles close on a no-go. Closing on a no-go isn't bad and I have found the rifles to be more reliable with no noticeable decrease in accuracy.

Just make sure it doesn't close on a field.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on February 07, 2015, 11:16:37 PM: Got it all put together tonight. :tup:

Quote from: jay.sharkbait on February 07, 2015, 09:00:31 AM

I have a three gauge set I can mail you.

Odds are you will need a field gauge as many rifles close on a no-go. Closing on a no-go isn't bad and I have found the rifles to be more reliable with no noticeable decrease in accuracy.

Just make sure it doesn't close on a field.

That would be awesome. My BCG should be here this week.

Thanks,

Ed Fisher
24 Decatur Is
Anacortes, WA 98221
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Biggerhammer on February 08, 2015, 10:43:23 AM: And a cool guy 8) Gen 2 foliage mag to boot! :tup:
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on February 08, 2015, 11:21:59 AM: Quote from: Biggerhammer on February 08, 2015, 10:43:23 AM
And a cool guy 8) Gen 2 foliage mag to boot! :tup:

It was a buck cheaper than the black.... 8) :chuckle:
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Jolten on February 08, 2015, 11:47:57 AM: Nice looking set up.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on February 08, 2015, 11:57:25 AM: Thanks, I'm looking forward to slapping a scope on it and running some of those rounds you sent through it after I get my BCG and borrow jayshark's gauges.

BTW, I forgot to grease my barrel nut threads, is this a big deal? I don't think this barrel will ever leave this upper if that makes a difference on the answer.

I got a good deal on this BCG http://primeweaponry.com/collections/ar15-m16-bolt-carrier-group/products/dlc-bolt-carrier-group (http://primeweaponry.com/collections/ar15-m16-bolt-carrier-group/products/dlc-bolt-carrier-group) and look forward to reviewing it.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: wildweeds on February 08, 2015, 12:20:09 PM: What torque did you end up with? Greased threads will allow for more spin of the nut before the click of the torque wrench because of the lubrication.At work we have dry torque specs and lubed torque specs,I can't remember the exact figure but I'm pretty sure dry torque is about 20 ft lbs more than lubed.
Quote from: lokidog on February 08, 2015, 11:57:25 AM
Thanks, I'm looking forward to slapping a scope on it and running some of those rounds you sent through it after I get my BCG and borrow jayshark's gauges.

BTW, I forgot to grease my barrel nut threads, is this a big deal? I don't think this barrel will ever leave this upper if that makes a difference on the answer.

I got a good deal on this BCG http://primeweaponry.com/collections/ar15-m16-bolt-carrier-group/products/dlc-bolt-carrier-group (http://primeweaponry.com/collections/ar15-m16-bolt-carrier-group/products/dlc-bolt-carrier-group) and look forward to reviewing it.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: 6.8mmARHunter on February 08, 2015, 01:23:30 PM: Quote from: lokidog on February 07, 2015, 11:16:37 PM
Got it all put together tonight. :tup:

Quote from: jay.sharkbait on February 07, 2015, 09:00:31 AM

I have a three gauge set I can mail you.

Odds are you will need a field gauge as many rifles close on a no-go. Closing on a no-go isn't bad and I have found the rifles to be more reliable with no noticeable decrease in accuracy.

Just make sure it doesn't close on a field.

That would be awesome. My BCG should be here this week.

Thanks,

Ed Fisher
24 Decatur Is
Anacortes, WA 98221

Nice looking rifle. Your son looks happy to be helping dad. Way to go getting him involved.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Jolten on February 08, 2015, 03:18:39 PM: I don't think its a big deal. I don't remember if I greased mine. Hope one of those rounds work for you. If not it'll give you a starting point.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on February 08, 2015, 09:25:33 PM: Quote from: wildweeds on February 08, 2015, 12:20:09 PM
What torque did you end up with? Greased threads will allow for more spin of the nut before the click of the torque wrench because of the lubrication.At work we have dry torque specs and lubed torque specs,I can't remember the exact figure but I'm pretty sure dry torque is about 20 ft lbs more than lubed

I had it on 30 which stopped it with a tooth right in the middle of the gas tube hole. 35, 40, 45 wouldn't move it in line so I just oommphed it a bit more to get it to line up at 45.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on February 09, 2015, 08:42:18 PM: Got my BCG today, shipped Friday from MN, man that was quick. Just with the charging handle shipper was as fast, maybe tomorrow since it was in Fed Way today.

Anyways, a couple more pics. First is my son putting together the barrel nut and delta ring, good thing I bought a split ring pliers from Harbor Frieght a couple weeks ago, wasn't even thinking about this.

Second pic is the BCG, looks really nice though I'm wondering if the gas key is staked enough?

I'm getting excited to shoot this thing. :tup:
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: jay.sharkbait on February 09, 2015, 08:47:10 PM: Staking is fine...
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Jolten on February 09, 2015, 08:51:11 PM: Can't wait to see the first shots after break in of course.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on February 09, 2015, 08:55:50 PM: Quote from: jay.sharkbait on February 09, 2015, 08:47:10 PM
Staking is fine...

Thanks Matt. :tup:

I emailed the company to see what their response would be. They have been great as far as communications go.

Quote from: Jolten on February 09, 2015, 08:51:11 PM
Can't wait to see the first shots after break in of course.

Me too!
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Jolten on February 09, 2015, 09:11:53 PM: I think the Jr gunsmith earned a few rounds himself. After dad cycles a few of course. Got to make sure its safe after all.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on February 09, 2015, 09:15:46 PM: Yeah, he's excited to shoot it and with the adjustable stock, it actually fits him. :tup:
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Hornseeker on February 10, 2015, 08:53:48 AM: Sweet!
I got my first one done a month ago and have only test fired to make sure it worked! Worked Great.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Jolten on February 10, 2015, 09:07:08 AM: Always good to see a kid get excited. Can't wait until my kids are old enough.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Cap.Silver on February 10, 2015, 09:10:28 AM: Looking good Ed .....
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on February 10, 2015, 06:43:02 PM: Well. I thought I had a 4x scope laying around... I guess I stuck it on one of my 22s. :( I have a handgun scope so thought about sticking that on it, but none of my rings fit it. Since I am putting the scope on my .44, I decided to use the red dot from that. It has no magnification and a fairly large dot, but better than no sights.

Jolten gave me some 55 and 62 grain ammo to try. Shooting off of a tripod, my first group (3 shots) of 55 gr bullets was about .75". The first three of the 62 gr were .56" with two touching.

The second round were about the same spread, though I felt myself pull one of the 55s to the left (lower set of three), the other two were touching. And two of the 62 gr rounds were touching as well.

I'm pretty happy with the results, three out of four groups with two holes touching, especially given my not so great optics. I look forward to putting a decent scope on it.

Thanks everyone for the feedback and help with this build.

BTW, my son wasn't quite ready to try shooting it yet. Oh, and this was from 25 yards. :rolleyes: The large hole next to each group was a pencil poked through for size comparison.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: weathergirl on February 10, 2015, 06:56:33 PM: Now that it's done, can I have my husband back?

:chuckle:
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: dontgetcrabs on February 10, 2015, 06:59:25 PM: Quote from: weathergirl on February 10, 2015, 06:56:33 PM
Now that it's done, can I have my husband back?

:chuckle:

And a pretty new necklace. :chuckle:

Good looking build guys. :tup:
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: jay.sharkbait on February 10, 2015, 07:29:49 PM: Quote from: weathergirl on February 10, 2015, 06:56:33 PM
Now that it's done, can I have my husband back?

:chuckle:

That one was prectice :chuckle:
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Jolten on February 10, 2015, 07:37:30 PM: Actually isn't it your turn to build one?
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: pd on February 10, 2015, 07:45:03 PM: Quote from: weathergirl on February 10, 2015, 06:56:33 PM
Now that it's done, can I have my husband back?

:chuckle:

I was wondering about her.

Now that LokiDog is a confirmed expert AR builder, you could take this one for your own, or give it to the son. Either way, I have the feeling that LD is ready for the challenge of another one.

NOBODY can build just one, you know. 8)
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on February 10, 2015, 07:57:41 PM: I'm not talking.... ;)
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Cap.Silver on February 10, 2015, 08:02:04 PM: Quote from: weathergirl on February 10, 2015, 06:56:33 PM
Now that it's done, can I have my husband back?

:chuckle:
I think the AR 10 platform is now in order in 308 or better ,so the answer is no ,you cannot have your husband back . :chuckle: :chuckle: :chuckle:
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: jay.sharkbait on February 10, 2015, 08:12:27 PM: Quote from: Cap.Silver on February 10, 2015, 08:02:04 PM
Quote from: weathergirl on February 10, 2015, 06:56:33 PM
Now that it's done, can I have my husband back?

:chuckle:
I think the AR 10 platform is now in order in 308 or better ,so the answer is no ,you cannot have your husband back . :chuckle: :chuckle: :chuckle:

I think a sensible compromise would be an upper in 6.5 or 6.8 so LD can hunt with the AR. :hello: "Helping"
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Cap.Silver on February 10, 2015, 08:19:48 PM: Quote from: jay.sharkbait on February 10, 2015, 08:12:27 PM
Quote from: Cap.Silver on February 10, 2015, 08:02:04 PM
Quote from: weathergirl on February 10, 2015, 06:56:33 PM
Now that it's done, can I have my husband back?

:chuckle:
I think the AR 10 platform is now in order in 308 or better ,so the answer is no ,you cannot have your husband back . :chuckle: :chuckle: :chuckle:

I think a sensible compromise would be an upper in 6.5 or 6.8 so LD can hunt with the AR. :hello: "Helping"

That would be too easy ... but what if Zoltan wanted to go shooting and his dad had the lower with the 6.5 upper ? What then ? I think Ed need another lower -I'm sorry Ed you have to go to work and make more money :chuckle: :chuckle:
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: jay.sharkbait on February 10, 2015, 08:25:44 PM: Quote from: Cap.Silver on February 10, 2015, 08:19:48 PM
Quote from: jay.sharkbait on February 10, 2015, 08:12:27 PM
Quote from: Cap.Silver on February 10, 2015, 08:02:04 PM
Quote from: weathergirl on February 10, 2015, 06:56:33 PM
Now that it's done, can I have my husband back?

:chuckle:
I think the AR 10 platform is now in order in 308 or better ,so the answer is no ,you cannot have your husband back . :chuckle: :chuckle: :chuckle:

I think a sensible compromise would be an upper in 6.5 or 6.8 so LD can hunt with the AR. :hello: "Helping"

That would be too easy ... but what if Zoltan wanted to go shooting and his dad had the lower with the 6.5 upper ? What then ? I think Ed need another lower -I'm sorry Ed you have to go to work and make more money :chuckle: :chuckle:

Well Capt. Obvious you are correct! Ed does need another lower. The lower is pretty cheap anyway............ :chuckle:
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: wildweeds on February 10, 2015, 08:30:56 PM: Capt obvious thinks Ed should have bought a 3 pack of lowers,one in pink.........
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on February 10, 2015, 08:39:44 PM: :chuckle: :chuckle: :chuckle:

I like red.... http://www.modulusarms.com/ar-15-80-lower-and-upper-matched-set-forged-7075-red/ (http://www.modulusarms.com/ar-15-80-lower-and-upper-matched-set-forged-7075-red/)

:tup:
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Jolten on February 14, 2015, 04:36:01 AM: Well how's it shoot?
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on February 14, 2015, 09:26:00 PM: Seems to shoot well. The 62s gave me the best group at 9/16 of an inch with two holes touching. However, the 55s were only about 3/4 inch groups and one of them had two touching as well. I was shooting from 25 yards off a tripod, not bench rest stable, and used a red dot 1x with about a 4" diameter dot. I was very happy with it but look forward to trying it with some better optics. Thanks again for the ammo.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Jolten on February 15, 2015, 11:39:48 AM: Mine likes the heavier ones more as well. Too bad I didn't have more variety for ya.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Jolten on February 15, 2015, 11:44:55 AM: Maybe try some standard .223 loadings as well. I didn't have any of those on hand.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on February 15, 2015, 02:29:25 PM: First thinkg I need to do is get a scope. I'm thinking a 2-7X would work perfectly for me.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Jolten on February 15, 2015, 03:13:17 PM: Hmm a 3x9 might be a good fit. I've got a red/green dot on mine and am thinking of making the switch.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Jolten on February 15, 2015, 03:29:06 PM: Here's mine
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on March 05, 2015, 07:43:06 PM: My scope mount came in while I was on vacation, however I'm still waiting for my scope... from TX to Portland to TX to OK to KS to Portland to CO - WTHeck?? Good job UPS. :bash:

Anyways, stuck a pistol scope on it so I could shoot today, eye relief sucked but it worked.

Of course the barrel likes the 62gr rounds a LOT better than the 55gr (Independence). Has anyone noticed much difference between the 55 gr manufacturers. Guess I need to start looking for some 62's, it always seems I am behind the curve on ammo purchasing. >:( :(

The two three shot groups (1 1/2" are both vertical spread) were the 55's and the 1/2" group was the 62's. All were shot at 50 yards off a rest but not a great one.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Jolten on March 06, 2015, 04:14:32 AM: I've never noticed a significant difference between manufacturers in the 55gr.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on March 11, 2015, 11:01:17 PM: Uugghh! I just realized I graded over those nine cases from the last target round, I forgot to pick them up and meant to go out later to get them. :(

I have managed to pick up more 62 gr rounds at least, wish they were still 33 cents a round.... I finally got my scope in the mail today (thanks again UPS for your sucky delivery time, only a week + LATE) and mounted it up tonight.

I'll get out tomorrow when the rain quits and shoot it again. The shells will at least hit dirt now and should be easy to find. :rolleyes:
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Blacklab on March 12, 2015, 06:58:41 AM: Looks great :tup: have fun ;)
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on March 16, 2015, 09:51:05 PM: Shot today... and my groups SUCK! One and 1 1/8 inch groups at 50 yards with the new scope and the 62 gr and 1 1/8" and 1 1/8" with the 55 gr. Shot prone and thought I was solid. :( Maybe I need to shoot through a chrony to see if the ammo varies a bunch? It can't be me, right?? :chuckle:
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Cap.Silver on March 16, 2015, 09:53:12 PM: No ,it can't be you :chuckle:
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Jolten on March 17, 2015, 04:32:52 PM: Were those groups with the ammo I sent down?
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on March 17, 2015, 09:10:00 PM: Yes, so far I have only shot those two batches of ammo. I've got some PMC 62's to try also. The weird thing is that the groups got worse when I used a better scope and a more solid rest. :dunno:
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Jolten on March 17, 2015, 09:12:48 PM: Did you change anything besides the scope and rest? Rings? Body position?
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Jolten on March 17, 2015, 09:18:42 PM: Jolten gave me some 55 and 62 grain ammo to try. Shooting off of a tripod, my first group (3 shots) of 55 gr bullets was about .75". The first three of the 62 gr were .56" with two touching.

Going from that to 1 1/8 inch groups. Using the same ammo sounds like a scope or rest issue. Going vertical I'd suspect the rest... Or the elevation adjustments on the scope don't lock in place?
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on March 17, 2015, 10:01:28 PM: This first group was at 25 yards with a red dot no magnification scope off of a tripod kneeling. The second set of groups was shot with the current scope mount but using a 2-7X pistol scope from a sort of bench at 50 yards and the final group was shot with the 3-9X Bushnell AR Optic scope at 50 yards. I need to get a chronograph I guess to verify it is me and not the ammo. That or someone else to try my gun that is a good shot. :rolleyes:
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Cap.Silver on March 17, 2015, 10:36:10 PM: Ed,stop by my house if you gonna go south and i can give some other ammo .... My first guess would be ammo ,second rings ,3rd scope ,4th you ,5th improperly torqued nut ,6th mirage :chuckle:
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Jolten on March 18, 2015, 04:28:39 AM: Well switch back to the red dot and fire a 3 round group. If it shrinks back down then that rules out the ammo.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on March 18, 2015, 07:55:40 AM: The red dot was no better than the pistol scope given that it was shot at half the distance as the pistol scope groups.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Jolten on March 18, 2015, 03:56:22 PM: Oh I was assuming same distance and didn't see the part of 25 vs 50 yards. Sorry.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on March 18, 2015, 09:39:37 PM: Quote from: lokidog on March 18, 2015, 07:55:40 AM
The red dot was no better than the pistol scope given that it was shot at half the distance as the pistol scope groups.

However, both grain weights performed about the same with the red dot.

I bought a different box of 55 gr today but forgot them in my truck truck on the mainland. :(
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Jolten on March 19, 2015, 04:31:10 AM: http://www.6mmbr.com/verticaltips.html (http://www.6mmbr.com/verticaltips.html)

Maybe that'll help?
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: lokidog on March 19, 2015, 09:11:26 PM: Thanks.
Title: Re: AR Build
Post by: Jolten on April 22, 2015, 06:27:09 PM: Lokidog... So you made me curious. I grabbed a few rounds from the stock I gave you. I got .5in group 62gr and a .8in group 55gr. But no vertical stringing. The groups opened up with my red dot and iron sites.

Did you do a barrel break in? Or have any luck correcting the groups?