AR-15 Build or Buy?

seamus

seamus

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So I'm not really new to the AR-15 platform by any means, however I am looking to purchase my first ever AR-15. The thing I'm struggling with right now is whether to build one myself or to buy one. I'm leaning towards building right now because I think it would be funner to do and I can build and customize is any way I want, and also to learn more about the AR platform in the process. But at the same time I wouldn't want to end up damaging parts or anything along the way, and there are some really nice rifles I could buy just off the shelf (Currently debating Sig Sauer M400 Enhanced or maybe even Sig 516). I guess you could throw a little bit of the Direct Impingement versus Piston debate into the mix as well, because it would definitely be easier just to buy a piston AR. Anyone have any thoughts or suggestions?
 
I say, buy if you find a make and model that delivers the features you want at a price that's reasonable to you. Or build, if you know what you are doing or willing and financially able to make mistakes along the way.
 
Pick up one of those colt upper+lower receiver/barrel combos they debuted at shot show
 
I chose to build my first AR, yes it's more often than not more expensive than buying a built rifle but you get everything you want in your rifle. I have yet to see a single factory AR that doesn't have at least 2 or 3 things that I don't like.
 
It might be good to own one for a while so you can see what you like or don't like. Then build what you want down the road.
 
You'd most likely get a better bang for your buck by purchasing a complete rifle...either from the EE, which does yield a few good deals now and then, or from one of our site sponsors, who seem to always have one or two on sale for a great price. Building them is awesome, but unless you can find all of the parts required for a complete build at a reasonable price, your home-made recepe may end up costing you more than a complete rifle. Plus, another thing you must factor into the cost of building your first rifle are the tools required for the build. Unless you have access to them at no cost, they will definitely be part of your build expenses...
 
Buy your first. As you tinker with it (and you will 'cause it's like Lego), you'll slowly build up your AR tools and you'll become familiar on how it works etc. On your next AR (and you will mostly likely own more) you'll have the tools to build it. :)

Building an AR will cost you pretty close or more than a brand new, off-the shelf rifle.
 
always build... its unique to you and you learn your gun from the ground up. ARs are like legos and designed for grunts to be able to assemble with minimal training so I wouldn't worry about breaking anything. It'll be more than pride in ownership, It'll be pride in a job well done.
 
If you are looking at SIGs, you have the coin for a really good AR. The standard suggestion would be a Daniel Defense but I'm guessing you want a bit more exotic than that. How about Knights Armament, Noveske or VLTOR? Of course there is nothing wrong with SIGs either! Decide on what you want the rifle for, what barrel length you want and the rest will fall into place. And don't worry about the DI vs. piston debate. Solution to a almost non-existent problem.:d
 
Expendable Nate said:
I bought I new norc for $458
Click to expand...

But seriously speeking...you can buy a Norinco for a great price, call it your first AR and learn as much as you can about it. You can beat it, take it apart, experiment with it all you want...anything to get your hands dirty in the world of ARs, which is great. But how many times do you hear stories from other members telling of how diffucult it was to remove a FSB, or how muzzle threads are not compatable with certain muzzle devices, or upgraded handguards not fitting properly, etc, etc...huge mods to be made to the rifle in order to mod the rifle! Your first rifle...stay away from Norinco! It may have a negative effect on you and actually make you not appreciate the AR platform! :runaway:

Buy a Daniel Defense and call it a day. You won't be disappointed.
 
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