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Posted: 1/23/2015 9:46:43 AM EDT
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I own 3 complete AR-15 platform rifles (plus a 15-22), and have previously assembled 2 lowers in the process. I am going to take the next step- in this case a jump, to a complete build and go the NFA route with my first SBR. I am still a novice with the platform, so I am looking for any advice, imput, etc, if I am going the wrong way with this project. I want a lightweight, SBR that is reasonably priced. I do not need top of the line as I am far from a tier 1 operator and do not put enough rounds downrange to justify going all out on this. But at the same time, I don't want to cut corners if there is not a major difference between prices. I am going the trust route while it is still an option, as I have a non-gun friendly sherrif and police chief. Getting the process started ASAP with approval and the required lower engraved is first priority. Parts that are easily upgraded later become second priority to the parts needed now to get this project underway, and parts that are permanent or semi-permanent.
Lower Receiver: To start, I already have a complete Palmetto State Armory lower with a Magpul CTR stock in FDE with a Magpul MOE pistol grip in FDE. I have function tested this with a couple hundred rounds on seperate uppers, it has not had any issues whatsoever, trigger is decent enough. I know not everyone is a PSA fan, but I do not see why I wouldn't use this complete spare lower I have that is ready to go. I will find it hard to justifty a billet Mega lower or other "premium" lowers for the type of shooting I do. The looks of the rollmark do not matter to me. If I am an idiot for thinking this, let me know-seriously. But having to buy a new expensive lower will set the project back a few months I might not be able to spare if the ATF comes down with new rules regarding NFA items and Trusts requiring a sherrif sign-off. Steer me in the right direction. continued due to newbie charecter limit... |
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Barrel: I want to keep this a lightweight build. I am not going to be shooting full auto, steel, or have any immediate plans for a hardcore course where I will be rapid firing all day. I am torn between the Bravo Company 11.5 lightweight (non-CHF) .625 gas block, the Bravo Co 11.5 CHF (3 oz heavier), and .750 gas block, and the Danield Defense 12.5 lightweight (CHF) .625 gas block, I only shoot brass and don't forsee any real high volume shooting in my future. I am leaning towards the first option, the BCM 11.5 lightweight. I prefer the 11.5 over the 12.5 if I had to choose one. Due to previous rust issues (10-22, 870, Smith and Wesson M&P15OR) I want to have the barrel cerakoted in Burnt Bronze. I saw this look on one gun and fell in love with the mix of FDE and burnt bronze. The gun is often stored at the cabin without climate control. Due to previous rust issues on multiple other firearms stored there, and the barrel under the handguard not being an easy spot to clean frequently, it is an option I want to explore.
Adjustable gas block: With an SBR being a little more finicky, I am going to go the route of the adjustable gas block (unless you guys steer me different). If I go the .625 route, I have seen only a few options. Syrac low profile adjustable gas block seems to get decent enough reviews. If I do go for the .750 barrel, there are more options for this at a cheaper price. If this is something not really needed, please set me straight as it is one place to save about $50 bucks. Upper receiver: Aero Precision makes an upper in FDE, blem version runs about $75. Tack on the forward assist for $17 from BCM Ejection Port Cover: found a FDE cover from NDZ Performance, it is polymer, which has me a little concerned. Only $12, but didn't find much else out there in FDE actually. If this is crap, and I should just go standard or have them cerokote a standard |
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Gas Tube: BCM carbine - $13 with pin
Flash Suppressor/Comp: I am leaning towards the BCM Mod1 or Mod0. I could go the standard A2 route and save some money, but want to go with something nicer in this case. Any other recommendations that might be cheaper than this? Rail: Sticking with FDE and lightweight, and want flexibility. I like the Midwest Industries new M-lok FF in 9 inch. It is pretty darn light, and I like my current Midwest Industries SS12. Reasonably priced as well. Magpul now makes Mlok rail covers as well, which was a hangup for me with the M-lok system. Rail has sling QD for an MS4 sling in multiple positions. Option to easily attach AFG and flashlight. For the price I think it is right for now. This is an easily upgraded component at a later date as well, and have another rifle I can use this on if I decide to go another route later. For those parts alone I am looking at over $700. Adding a different lower raises the price significantly, so would a diiferent upper (if you tell me Aero is junk) Add the cost of a trust, tax stamp, engraving, and cerakote, I am about maxed out before divorce becomes realistic! Other parts needed or used from other guns will be Magpul BUIS in FDE, MS4 sling in coyote, and AFG2 in FDE. Optic will be an Eotech EXPS2-0 coming off an existing gun, replacing on other gun with Primary Arms advanced micro dot. Also looking for an plate sling adapter in FDE for the MS4 sling, I have found a Troy (eh), but that will be added well down the road. Swing away, let me know the good/bad. |
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You got a lot of info right there.
If the engraving is a priority for you.. I did see this today. If you buy a $45 lower they will engrave it for free. Not bad. It gets you what you want quick and done the first time. Im sure shops will engrave you assembled lower too. Post in your hometown forum looking for one. Link Having an extra lower is actually a good thing. |
| I thought Aero was g2g, wanted some confirmation. LGS also said I didn't need an adjustable gas block, so that is also good news. I am pretty set on the BCM 11.5 lightweight barrel I think. As much as I would rather have a CHF barrel for longevity, I think the BCM suits my needs just fine. |
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For engraving look no further than LEO ARMORY! Trust me when I say he does excellent work, is great to work with, takes passion and pride in what he does and made my last custom engraving project a very personal experience. He will do custom work, you just provide him the image.
The owner Jeff is just a joy to work with. I CANNOT give a higher recommendation than the one I am giving you right now. Leo Armory |
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