Gunsmithing

In our continuing coverage of the ins-and-outs of AR-15 construction, we’re going to break it down. The rifle, that is–and the tool box. Ever seen a list of all of the parts of an AR-15? It is long. So put together a checklist, and make sure you have all the tools. If you are going to build an AR-15, you will need to be at least somewhat organized.

So why would we or you want to do something like this? Well, contrary to what a lot of people think stainless does not mean rustless. Stainless steel will, can, and does rust. Now it is not as prone to corrosion as regular steel, but it will happen. Coating a stainless gun might be the equivalent of putting on two condoms, but sometimes its better to be have a little extra protection. See what WMD can do.

As we continue our series on how to build an AR-15, we ask a complex qeustion. Direct impingement or piston operation. Should the gun stick to the time-tested formula for basic gas operation, or do you want a cleaner running machine? We’re looking at the differences in this week’s installment.

Looking to build an AR-15? What caliber will you choose? .223 is just the start. Before you get into the build, you need to know exactly what you want your rifle to do. You can always stick with the traditional 5.56, but is that the right choice? Here’s a list of the most popular calibers and what they deliver.

The writer’s at GunsAmerica are coming to gether to share their expertise. Over the next few weeks we’ll be featuring expert opinions on the ins-and-out of building an AR from the ground up. If you’ve got that itch to do it yourself, or have ever thought you might build an AR-15, this series is for you. Here’s the intro…

We’ve covered do-it-yourself lowers, but are here today with a new installment. This 80% lower is cut from an aluminum billet. And you can finish it off with a few simple tools. No milling machine needed. The jigs and instructions from 80% Arms make finishing their lower surprisingly easy. Check out or review of the process.

We’re starting a new project here: The Great GunAmerica Ammo Adventure. Each week, we’ll take an in depth look at a specific cartridge. Not a brand, but a specific brand, model, caliber and loading. First up? New 300 Blackout from Sig.

Ploymer80 makes 80% lower kits. Now they’re making them in .308, too. How easy is it to put one of these together? We’ll find out. By the time you read these words, they should be getting ready to ship. Who wouldn’t want to cut their own AR-10 style lower?

The AR-15 is hardly a heavyweight rifle. Still, the speed of the .223 allows it to punch above its weight. Still, if you carry one all day, day in and day out, you may complain about the rifle’s weight. And now Battle Arms Development has designed a new rifle that weighs in under 4 pounds. We got to see them at SHOT Show. Read more….