Building My First AR-15: Looking for Tips

[rg115]

Been thinking about diving into building my first AR-15 for a while. Finally started browsing some parts, and wow, there are a lot of options out there. I feel like I might be drowning in choices. Some deals look good if you know where to look. But honestly, I'm just trying to figure out what's worth it and what’s not.

I want to keep it simple for my first build — probably sticking with 5.56 to make it easy to find ammo. But if anyone has suggestions for a better caliber for a newbie, I'm all ears.

Are there certain brands you guys would steer me clear of? I've heard stories about people getting stuck with cheap parts and regretting it later. I've also read that there are hidden costs, like tools you might need or parts that stick out more than you expect. What rookie mistakes did you make that I should avoid?

Part of me wonders if I should just buy a pre-built one instead. But where’s the fun in that? I want to learn and be part of building it, you know?

Thanks in advance for any tips or stories. Anything would really help.

 

[Mr_Nobody]

Stick with the build, man..it's way more rewarding. My biggest rookie mistake was cheaping out on a lower parts kit, I ended up with a gritty trigger and a headache, so just stick to reputable brands and you can't go wrong

 

[Lord_Stark]

Started my first AR build thinking it would be a weekend hobby, then it became a wallet workout

 

[Lightbuzzer]

I totally agree with @Mr_Nobody ..starting a build can turn into a bigger project than you expect, so prioritizing a quality barrel and BCG is smart before anything else

 

[30calflash]

As of late there's been a lot of sales and specials as far as parts, kits and probably upper halves available. Check on some active AR forums for info and answers to questions like yours.

I'd stick with 5.56 also, keep it simple. Go with a 16" or longer barrel as some others can have issues with functioning. You may find some used or take off parts out there, nothing wrong with that as long as they're decent and fulfills your needs.

I've a couple pieces that I intend to assemble this winter. One barrel is a Colt HBAR takeoff without a threaded muzzle, which is a non issue to me. IIRC I paid $20 for it. Colt made good parts and it should be a good shooter when done, if not very good. That aside if you're looking to build a shorter barreled upper don't buy something you won't use because it was there and cheap I've seen people do that, prolly guilty of it myself.

Research, check the boxes that apply to your needs and go from there.