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9/13/2011 7:14:45 AM EDT
Hi everybody,

I need help on my first build. I want to build a 16" (1:7 twist) 5.56 carbine.

I want to start with the Tactical Innovations T15BDX-STBA lower. I really like the way it looks. Is this a good lower?

Then I want to install both the Magpul CTR stock and the Magpul MIAD pistol grip on the lower (tan color).

I need help deciding what lower parts kit to get. No idea here, any suggestions?

I would like to have a gold trigger installed. Has anybody have any experiences with them?

I will be using Magpul MagLevel PMags with PMag Ranger Plate (tan color).

I have no idea which upper to get, any suggestions?

I'm thinking on getting a Magpul rear flip up sight and Eotech 553 (both tan in color). Is the Eotech 553 worth the money?

Thanks in advance!




9/13/2011 7:39:40 AM EDT
[#1]
Quoted:
Hi everybody,

I need help on my first build. I want to build a 16" (1:7 twist) 5.56 carbine.

I want to start with the Tactical Innovations T15BDX-STBA lower. I really like the way it looks. Is this a good lower? Yep, they are fine.

Then I want to install both the Magpul CTR stock and the Magpul MIAD pistol grip on the lower (tan color). Good choice.

I need help deciding what lower parts kit to get. No idea here, any suggestions? Daniel Defense and CMT have been good for me.

I would like to have a gold trigger installed. Has anybody have any experiences with them? I have not heard much about them. If I were going to upgrade my trigger it would probably be a Geissele of some flavor.

I will be using Magpul MagLevel PMags with PMag Ranger Plate (tan color). Great mags. I would save the money and get standard though. I have not found any enhancement from the ranger plates or windowed pmags.

I have no idea which upper to get, any suggestions? BCM, Daniel Defense, Spikes

I'm thinking on getting a Magpul rear flip up sight and Eotech 553 (both tan in color). Is the Eotech 553 worth the money? They are ok. I prefer Aimpoints though after owning both.

Thanks in advance!






9/13/2011 7:44:59 AM EDT
[#2]
For your parts kit, stock and grip I would go with the PSA kit:

PSA Premium Build Kit

For your upper I would recommend a mid-length gas system if your set on the 16" barrel.  BCM, Spikes, Daniel Defense and a few others offer what your after.  My personal suggestion:

BCM 16" Lightweight Middy

Just add some handguards of your choice and a BCG/Charging Handle and you'll be set.

The MBUS are decent sights for the price and I use them on a few different rifles of mine.  No complaints really.

9/13/2011 9:43:05 AM EDT
[#3]
Great info guys. Thanks so much for the replies. I understand the pros of having a mid length (reliability, less fouling, durability, etc)  but I really like the carbine length. Is there really a big difference between the two to trust one better than the other?

I'm going for a light weight, kiss rifle. I will also attach a polymer rail on the MOE handguard with a TLR 1-S.

Another thing that it will have is a sling and that's it! Should I have a 1, 2, or 3 point sling?

Last question: what is the process of buying a lower online? Same as buying a firearm?

9/13/2011 11:05:30 AM EDT
[#4]
The stripped lower is the firearm. Have it shipped to a local FFL.

I put a 2 point sling on my 308 AR and I like it.

I would encourage you to look at the new Spikes Tactical uppers at Aim surplus. I just bought one (haven't got it yet). They are little more ($) but have 14 1/2" Cold hammer forged barrels (made by FN). They are chrome lined as well. These uppers have midlength gas systems. I had to buy a bcg separate. They come with midlength Moe handguard.

I also just purchased a lpk from PSA (on sale for $54.00). I got the Gen 2 comes with a Moe grip and trigger guard.

Good luck with your build!
9/13/2011 11:19:07 AM EDT
[#5]
Go with a 2 point sling. They are the most practical.
9/13/2011 12:56:12 PM EDT
[#6]
Quoted:
Great info guys. Thanks so much for the replies. I understand the pros of having a mid length (reliability, less fouling, durability, etc)  but I really like the carbine length. Is there really a big difference between the two to trust one better than the other?
I'm going for a light weight, kiss rifle. I will also attach a polymer rail on the MOE handguard with a TLR 1-S.

Another thing that it will have is a sling and that's it! Should I have a 1, 2, or 3 point sling?

Last question: what is the process of buying a lower online? Same as buying a firearm?



There was a post on here not too long ago about the difference in dwell times...Really though I prefer the Middy for the longer handguards, softer shooting (To me at least) and the longer sight radius when going with a standard configuration.

If you go with a reputable company though I'm sure either will be reliable...

The sling is completely a personal preference.  I started out with a single point but wanted better control of the rifle so now every rifle I have has a Larue Tactiacl 2 point sling w/ QD points on each end.
9/13/2011 3:22:31 PM EDT
[#7]
I prefer a  2 point sling there just more comfortable  . vtac is popular.

PSA DD CMMG Spikes lower parts kits all are good

Uppers I like a middy I had a few carbines they were fine I just like getting my grip a little further out. they are slightly softer shooting. buffers can take care of this in acarbine.  I like a 14.5 barrel  most states will require it to have a pinned flash hider to make it a legal 16" but the balance is so nice and is more compact and accuracy is still there.

magpul stuff is all great buy one ove everything they have.

Pmags ar great as well. I use 20 rounders most of the time at the range. added ranger plates for looks and to keep seperate from buddies pmags.
9/13/2011 5:12:24 PM EDT
[#8]
What is the "UPPER RECEIVER TENSIONING SCREW" and how is that used?
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