AR-15 Lower Reciever
I am looking to build some rifles and would like to know who makes the best stripped lower recievers for the AR-15 platform for the dollar. Thanks for your replys.
0
-
The sole function of the lower is to keep all the other parts in proper alignment. As long as its in spec, the name on the side of it is nearly irrelevant. The key is the receiver being in spec, which was the principal problem with Vulcan/blackthorn/Hesse.
Polymer can save weight if that's of interest. Some makers offer annodizing in many colors if that's of interest. Some have unusual markings(zombie, the selector legends etc) if that's of interest. If none of that appeals to you then they are all pretty much the same.0 -
I built up a 1970's era Colt M16A1, on a Aero Precision, semi auto lower last year. Their a high tech, (check out their web site), aerospace subcontractor from Washington State. A local outfit from PHX was selling their lowers at a unbelievable price, considering the quality.
EDIT #1, Question about these "Multi-Cal" marked lowers? When did this become a legal requirement?
I have seen lowers specifically marked as handguns/pistols, that were built specifically to keep the feds happy when AR pistols are being assembled.
These "Multi-Cal" marked lowers are another mater. What would happen if a 7.62 X 39 or a .300 Whisper barrel would be used on a standard lower that wasn't marked "Multi-Cal". Would this be legal as far as federal and local laws are concerned?0 -
I have a couple DPMS lowers. They are excellent, and are Mil Spec. 0 -
I've used CMMG, Stag, Aero Precision and Essential Arms with good results. I'd have no trouble with, among others, Rock River, Spike's Tactical, DPMS and Double Star off the top of my head.
Believe it or not, you have to watch Colt lower receivers because the takedown pins may or may not be mil-spec. Go figure.
After doing my "standard" assemblies, I started getting into other calibers, so receivers marked "CAL MULTI" have been more in favor.
I have always heard to steer clear of Hesse / Vulcan / Blackthorne so I have.
YMMV.
Edit to answer rufe-snow's question: To the best of my knowledge, there is no legal requirement to use a MULTI receiver if one does not assemble a caliber rifle matching the receiver marking. I'm just satisfying my own anal retentive tendencies.
Plus I've seen "catalogers" auction some very interesting AR15s as 223 / 5.56 with different caliber uppers because they didn't know enough to check.0 -
What about Plum Crazy? They seem good. 0 -
bowbrad,
Any of the true mil-spec lowers will serve for making the average AR15. Simply avoid the 3-4 listed above and on every other thread about AR15's. Buying in multiples can save a little money occasionally. If you intend to have different chambers for these other than 5.56/.223 then you need to get lowers marked as 'Multi-Cal'.
Plum Crazy, New Frontier, CAA all make polymer lowers of good quality and durability. These can be purchased as complete lowers for as low as $98.95/each to $120.00/each.
You can find the DPMS complete 5.56 Sportical kits (minus lower) for around $440.00 to $499.00/each.
Or you could just plain give up the idea of becoming an AR15 gun plumber and buy the Sportical outright for $625.00/each.
http://www.championfirearms.com/DPMS-AR-15-Panther-Sportical-223-5-56-p/rflpwcp.htm
If you still opt for the self-assembled rifle you should spend more time looking at barrels, gas blocks, triggers and bolt carrier groups.
Personally I look at building one really great rifle as opposed to trying to have several of the same thing but assembled with lesser quality parts. Sure I might spend $1,000.00 but I have a finely crafted, accurate rifle which is reliable and consistent. This is predicated on the fact that I can make my own rifles completely. I don't have to pay anyone. You, on the other hand, will have to pay to get a top quality assembled and tuned rifle.
Good Luck with your project!
Best.
The Multi-Cal marking is not a legal requirement but a method employed to avoid potential problems with lowers marked 5.56/223 but having another upper chambered for a different cartridge. When filling out the 4473 you get to put 'Multi-Cal' instead of specifying a cartridge. But the the barrel on the final build must be marked with the cartridge designation.
Best.
CDMead,
Had you bothered to read the rest of the posts you would realize that I supplemented my answer for rufe-snow.
Best.0 -
I've had good results with Fulton Armory, DPMS, and American Spirit. 0 -
I have a couple of STAG lowers that I like very well. 0 -
For the money I like PSA (Palmetto State Armory) and Spikes
This began with a PSA stripped lower, built on a budget
and this Spikes stripped lower with a DTI (DelTon) upper0
Please sign in to leave a comment.
Comments
10 comments