uppers; buy or build?

[Poisontail 0]

Buy a nice finished Wilson combat upper for 1250

[Kimber45 3]

Hey recon raccoon. This is an awesome site I got alot of parts and support from these guys now I have a kicking bangstick. I did a complete build from nothing but parts both lower and upper. The nice thing is you can go cheap or expensive the choice is yours. But you will get what YOU really want. First of all what will be your main use for this rifle? Plinker/HD are you going to shoot long distance or more CQB stuff.optics or irons.ect ect.......the most important thing is to have some type of plan....and ask questions......the barrel and BCG are the heart of your build so spend the money their. I went with a Spikes BCG and barrel...the things a tack driver......if you want I can help you I have all the tools that you would need to do a build.....and Iam a certified Colt armorer....just throwing that out there.....and by building your own you become more involved with how the weapon system works....good luck brother....

[Kimber45 3]

Hey recon raccoon. This is an awesome site I got alot of parts and support from these guys now I have a kicking bangstick. I did a complete build from nothing but parts both lower and upper. The nice thing is you can go cheap or expensive the choice is yours. But you will get what YOU really want. First of all what will be your main use for this rifle? Plinker/HD are you going to shoot long distance or more CQB stuff.optics or irons.ect ect.......the most important thing is to have some type of plan....and ask questions......the barrel and BCG are the heart of your build so spend the money their. I went with a Spikes BCG and barrel...the things a tack driver......if you want I can help you I have all the tools that you would need to do a build.....and Iam a certified Colt armorer....just throwing that out there.....and by building your own you become more involved with how the weapon system works....good luck brother....

[Recon Racoon 49]

So many replies...

 

I just ordered the LPK, a roll pin punch set, and torque wrench last night. Next check is going to be the armorers wrench, upper, and a couple other parts. 

 

So the Rainier Arms barrels look nice. And I do want a quality barrel, just nothing thats over 300 dollars. Same with the BCG, I'd like to get a Nickel-Boron coated one, but I may end up with the phosphate coated version. Which isn't a big thing, its just preference. 

 

The upper, I'm definintely going to wait until you get those engraved uppers put up PX. Thats a great deal. 

 

As far as the parts list, those were just ideas. I'm open to any suggestions, or changes you make to the list. This is my first build, so I don't know what would work, and what won't. 

 

Thanks again guys.

[vladtepes 1,060]

i suggest you buy a premade upper and modify it to your liking...  people shoot tight groups with off the shelf spikes, bcm, etc. premade uppers...

[azmaveth 1]

Heres my parts list.

 

upper:

http://www.midwayusa.com/product/898248/ao-precision-upper-receiver-stripped-ar-15-m4-flat-top-matte

 

BCG:

http://www.brownells.com/rifle-parts/bolt-parts/bolt-carrier-parts/bolt-carriers/ar15-16-bolt-carrier-groups-prod54072.aspx

 

or

http://www.brownells.com/rifle-parts/bolt-parts/bolt-carrier-parts/bolt-carriers/m16-bolt-carrier-group-prod56507.aspx

 

Charging Handle:

http://www.brownells.com/rifle-parts/bolt-parts/bolt-charging-handles/ar-15-m16-ar-style-308-bcm-gunfighter-charging-handle-prod32076.aspx

 

Forward Assist:

http://www.midwayusa.com/product/787744/dpms-forward-assist-assembly-round-ar-15-lr-308-matte

 

Barrel:

http://www.midwayusa.com/product/834998/ar-stoner-barrel-ar-15-556x45mm-nato-m4-contour-1-in-9-twist-16-chrome-moly-phosphate

 

Barrel Nut:

http://www.brownells.com/rifle-parts/barrel-parts/rifle-barrel-hardware/barrel-nuts/barrel-nut-prod4765.aspx

 

Gas block

http://www.midwayusa.com/product/462151/yankee-hill-machine-gas-block-low-profile-clamp-on-ar-15-lr-308-standard-barrel-0750-inside-diameter-steel-matte

 

Gas tube:

http://www.midwayusa.com/product/1070336395/wilson-combat-gas-tube-ar-15

 

Delta Ring, spring, snap ring

 

Handguard:

http://www.midwayusa.com/product/570077/utg-pro-2-piece-handguard-quad-rail-ar-15-carbine-length-matte-with-black-rail-guards

or

http://www.midwayusa.com/product/2704123552/mako-tri-rail-handguard-ar-15-carbine-length-polymer

 

So, what do you guys think? Am I missing anything, should I get something else instead of what I have listed?

 

What is the purpose of this upper?

Is this your first AR?

I understand you want to learn, but you might be better served by buying an upper first and then trying for a build on your second go around.

What do you think you will learn by the experience?

 

And I'd skip most of that stuff on your list if you're looking for a quality build.

Outside of the WMD BCG (which really isn't necessary), the BCM charging handle, and the Colt barrel nut, the rest of it is not that good.

[T Bill 649]

How about this. Change the BCG to chrome, change the gas block to lo pro, the charging handle (your choice),  the handguard (pick a rail), and the muzzle break and your ready to go.

 

http://www.jsesurplus.com/Custom16M41x95.56CarbineGBUpperNitrideBarrel.aspx

[azmaveth 1]

Something like this would be good.

 

http://www.bravocompanyusa.com/BCM-Standard-14-5-LIGHT-WEIGHT-Upper-Receiver-p/bcm-urg-car-14lw.htm

[5th4x4 0]

Something like this would be good.

 

http://www.bravocompanyusa.com/BCM-Standard-14-5-LIGHT-WEIGHT-Upper-Receiver-p/bcm-urg-car-14lw.htm

 

Or if you wanted the 16" version

https://www.bravocompanyusa.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=BCM-URG-M4-16

[azmaveth 1]

Or if you wanted the 16" version

https://www.bravocompanyusa.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=BCM-URG-M4-16

 

Gotta pin a comp, so that's why I went with 14.5 version.

They have the option to pin/weld their Comp on that one.

[5th4x4 0]

Gotta pin a comp, so that's why I went with 14.5 version.

They have the option to pin/weld their Comp on that one.

 

I had the gun-shop swap-out the suppressor for a muzzle brake (plus they shaved off the bayo lug as well) on that 16" upper for me.

OP had listed a 16, so I added the link to the 16. But yeah, he'd need to get it made legal, so you're right about that.

Either way he'd get a quality upper though.

[azmaveth 1]

I had the gun-shop swap-out the suppressor for a muzzle brake (plus they shaved off the bayo lug as well) on that 16" upper for me.

OP had listed a 16, so I added the link to the 16. But yeah, he'd need to get it made legal, so you're right about that.

Either way he'd get a quality upper though.

Good point, I forgot about the bayo lug. I prefer one stop shopping too.

[5th4x4 0]

Good point, I forgot about the bayo lug. I prefer one stop shopping too.

Btw, do you have that short carbine? I almost went that route. (although I was originally planning on a 20"!!!).

The 16" is a good compromise though, but if I ever lose my marbles and build another, I'm seriously considering the 14 (well, at least as serious as someone who lost their marbles can be about something like that)

[Recon Racoon 49]

After much discussion between Vlad and I, he convinced me to go premade. So I think I'm going to with a BCM upper, just need to pick the length. 

[Barms 98]

Loving this thread. Especially guys putting links up for complete upper sets besides the obvious like BCM and Spikes. Etc.

 

And the discussion about top quality and then "next to top"

 

Phosphate? No clue. Love this thread. Keep 'em coming.

[Barms 98]

If I'm looking at a complete upper and it doesn't specifically say it has forward assist or dust cover then I assume it doesn't right ? Or does a description of "M4" automatically imply that

 

All else equal how much does forward assist and dust cover add to a complete upper? 50 bucks? 75?

[5th4x4 0]

If I'm looking at a complete upper and it doesn't specifically say it has forward assist or dust cover then I assume it doesn't right ? Or does a description of "M4" automatically imply that

 

All else equal how much does forward assist and dust cover add to a complete upper? 50 bucks? 75?

If it's a complete upper, those will be a part of it.

Complete is pretty complete. Except for the BCG. That is not always included, although you can often add it as part of an optional package when you place the order for the upper. I know that a couple of the manufactures that I looked at offered that option, and BCM definitely did (I selected the BCG option when I purchased their complete upper).

[5th4x4 0]

Btw... when I first arrived at NJGF I found myself learning quite a few new acronyms. Many I already knew from my Marine Corps/M16 days, but many I did not. Of course now I see that I am spewing acronyms without regard to those who are starting where I started from when I had first arrived here.

My bad.

I already should know not to shortcut my way through these terms, since I myself struggled at times trying to learn this new language on the fly.

Therefore:

 

BCG means Bolt Carrier Group.

Looks like this...

That was one of those acronyms that I already knew very well (since I must have broken down those things a million times in my life), but not every new builder (or potential new builder) could be expected to have any familiarity with that.

 

No brainer? Maybe for some. But this is for those who don't know.

 

(that's to fullfil a promise that I made to myself that I would try to help others in the way that I wanted to be helped myself)

[RUTGERS95 890]

barrel, trigger, and optics is where you will want to spend your money

[mikeyjones 88]

If I'm looking at a complete upper and it doesn't specifically say it has forward assist or dust cover then I assume it doesn't right ? Or does a description of "M4" automatically imply that

 

All else equal how much does forward assist and dust cover add to a complete upper? 50 bucks? 75?

 

 

I don't think that "M4" automatically implies that it includes a FA and dust cover.  Some uppers are sleek and don't have the option for a FA so adding one later won't be an option if it's not compatible.  That being said, FA really only has 1 useful function and it's not jamming a round into the chamber that won't go on it's own.  The only time you should ever use FA is if you're trying to go into battery stealthily (quietly) and don't want to drop the charging handle with a bang.  If you find a good deal on an upper without a FA, I wouldn't exclude it based solely on that.

[5th4x4 0]

barrel, trigger, and optics is where you will want to spend your money

 

Good point, and now that I have already installed my LPK (lower parts kit) and since it was the 2nd item that I purchased (the first was the lower), I am curious if my choice was adequate - especially since it was a fairly spontaneous purchase based at least partially on a desire to just "get parts".

 

I went with a Spikes Tactical PK.

And based on some recommendations here and on name familiarity, I felt good about that at the time.

That said, is this something deserving of an upgrade, or is this considered at least above average?

 

(although please.... don't suggest that top-shelf trigger that I hear about around here. Because while I certainly don't mind re-building the lower and upgrading the trigger, I really can't afford to have my rifle to be worth more than my truck!) : P

[Barms 98]

I am going to check out all the links above..  but for what I would like which is:   Mid length, 16 inch, no front sight, top rail, handguard ready to accept an EFG.   Predominantly for plinking  (but i'm not looking for the cheapest build, I do like quality stuff).   As of now in my limited research this is the best I've seen that covers the minimum of my needs above without me having to spend money (or time) replacing anything (like FSB).

 

http://palmettostatearmory.com/index.php/ar-15-05/complete-uppers/16/psa-ss12g2-chf-16-5-56mm-1-7-mid-length-a2-profile.html

 

That is $499...there is a $399 version that didn't have BCG or handle.. but it wasn't marked M4, T marks.. etc..

 

that is out of stock now, but was on sale $499 two weeks ago.  Yes I know I have to take care of the hider.  but I don't have to change gas block, and I don't have to swap out handguards.  Yes i know the BCG is probably weak, but I can get going with this to start.

 

If anybody knows a site for a complete, or mix of parts to get at least the above, or better, for $499 I will give you a box of ammo the day I take her out..  :-)

 

I'm not in a rush for this build.. so like I said, I will have the above as my "basis" and then keep my eye out from there.

[mikeyjones 88]

I am going to check out all the links above..  but for what I would like which is:   Mid length, 16 inch, no front sight, top rail, handguard ready to accept an EFG.   Predominantly for plinking  (but i'm not looking for the cheapest build, I do like quality stuff).   As of now in my limited research this is the best I've seen that covers the minimum of my needs above without me having to spend money (or time) replacing anything (like FSB).

 

http://palmettostatearmory.com/index.php/ar-15-05/complete-uppers/16/psa-ss12g2-chf-16-5-56mm-1-7-mid-length-a2-profile.html

 

That is $499...there is a $399 version that didn't have BCG or handle.. but it wasn't marked M4, T marks.. etc..

 

that is out of stock now, but was on sale $499 two weeks ago.  Yes I know I have to take care of the hider.  but I don't have to change gas block, and I don't have to swap out handguards.  Yes i know the BCG is probably weak, but I can get going with this to start.

 

If anybody knows a site for a complete, or mix of parts to get at least the above, or better, for $499 I will give you a box of ammo the day I take her out..  :-)

 

I'm not in a rush for this build.. so like I said, I will have the above as my "basis" and then keep my eye out from there.

 

 

Keep an eye on here: http://www.slickguns.com/today

[vladtepes 1,060]

trigger is where its all at.. imo.. 

 

I run a 14.5 pinned to 16 as my primary go to gun.. nothing wrong with 16...but 14.5 is a hair shorter... still reaches plenty far.. 

[RUTGERS95 890]

Good point, and now that I have already installed my LPK (lower parts kit) and since it was the 2nd item that I purchased (the first was the lower), I am curious if my choice was adequate - especially since it was a fairly spontaneous purchase based at least partially on a desire to just "get parts".

 

I went with a Spikes Tactical PK.

And based on some recommendations here and on name familiarity, I felt good about that at the time.

That said, is this something deserving of an upgrade, or is this considered at least above average?

 

(although please.... don't suggest that top-shelf trigger that I hear about around here. Because while I certainly don't mind re-building the lower and upgrading the trigger, I really can't afford to have my rifle to be worth more than my truck!) : P

spikes is fine but I am one of those that thinks the lpk is one half dozen or the other.  I would definitely upgrade the trigger and there are many options available.  You just need to decide on which type; single or double stage

[MidwestPX 172]

If I'm looking at a complete upper and it doesn't specifically say it has forward assist or dust cover then I assume it doesn't right ? Or does a description of "M4" automatically imply that

 

All else equal how much does forward assist and dust cover add to a complete upper? 50 bucks? 75?

It depends on context.  If the upper has a barrel on it, that means it's ready to shoot and comes with handguards, a BCG, and charging handle.  If it's an unbarreled receiver, "complete" means with forward assist and ejection port cover.  The "M4" in the description should refer to if the upper has the scalloped cuts to accomodate a barrel extension with M4 feedramps, a solution devised by Colt to assist in feeding when in full-auto operation.

[MidwestPX 172]

Good point, and now that I have already installed my LPK (lower parts kit) and since it was the 2nd item that I purchased (the first was the lower), I am curious if my choice was adequate - especially since it was a fairly spontaneous purchase based at least partially on a desire to just "get parts".

 

I went with a Spikes Tactical PK.

And based on some recommendations here and on name familiarity, I felt good about that at the time.

That said, is this something deserving of an upgrade, or is this considered at least above average?

 

(although please.... don't suggest that top-shelf trigger that I hear about around here. Because while I certainly don't mind re-building the lower and upgrading the trigger, I really can't afford to have my rifle to be worth more than my truck!) : P

Pick up one of these then: http://midwestpx.com/product_info.php?cPath=70&products_id=648

 

The ACT trigger is a great upgrade from the milspec trigger. It's cleaner (no creep) and has a sharper break.  Also sports an electroless nickel plating.  If you need one with an LPK, the better buy is this: http://midwestpx.com/product_info.php?cPath=100&products_id=659

[Recon Racoon 49]

So, looking around at uppers last night, I came across two I like. 

 

Bravo Company C8 SFW upper

https://www.rainierarms.com/?page=shop/detail&product_id=3450

 

or

 

Stag Arms M4 Post ban

https://www.rainierarms.com/?page=shop/detail&product_id=593

 

Opinions?

[azmaveth 1]

So, looking around at uppers last night, I came across two I like. 

 

Bravo Company C8 SFW upper

https://www.rainierarms.com/?page=shop/detail&product_id=3450

 

or

 

Stag Arms M4 Post ban

https://www.rainierarms.com/?page=shop/detail&product_id=593

 

Opinions?

Of all the BCM uppers, why that one?

Has a wonky sleeve up front which will serve no purpose for you.

Other than making it front heavy. And it won't be removable after you pin and weld a muzzle brake at the end.

 

I'd rather have the BCM over the Stag though. Just not that particular upper.

Rainier has a whole bunch of different BCM uppers available.

I'd go with a 14.5 lightweight. Pin a BCM Comp Mod 1 on the end, and you're good to go.

Not sure if Rainier will cut off that bayo lug, but you could ask.

 

I ordered a DDM4V5 from them a couple years ago. They are good to go.