Can One AR-15 Shoot 3 Calibers for Under $1,000?

Published on August 1, 2025
Duration: 14:32

This video demonstrates how to build an AR-15 capable of firing three different calibers (5.56, 9mm, and .22LR, or 5.56, 350 Legend, and .22LR) for under $1,000. The build utilizes a base AR-15, a 9mm conversion, and a .22LR conversion kit, highlighting cost-effective part selection and assembly.

Quick Summary

You can build an AR-15 capable of shooting three calibers for under $1,000 by using conversion kits like the CMMG .22 kit for .22LR, a 9mm BCG and magazine adapter, and a dedicated barrel for calibers like 350 Legend. This approach leverages cost-effective parts and strategic component selection to achieve multi-caliber functionality.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: Can one AR-15 shoot 3 calibers under $1000?
  2. 00:35Base Platform: Radical Firearms AR-15
  3. 01:09AT3 Spear Upper Handguard Combo
  4. 01:329mm Barrel and Blowback Operation
  5. 02:12Dead Air Key Micro Flash Hider
  6. 02:30CMMG .22 Conversion Kit Explained
  7. 03:10350 Legend Magazines
  8. 03:299mm Bolt Carrier Group (BCG)
  9. 03:49Anderson Upper Receiver & UTG Pro Handguard
  10. 04:52CMMG 350 Legend Barrel
  11. 05:15A2 Muzzle Device Installation
  12. 05:30Third Caliber Strategy: .22LR Conversion
  13. 05:54Wet Tech Adjustable Gas Block
  14. 06:19Charging Handle & 9mm BCG Installation
  15. 06:339mm Adapter for Magwell
  16. 07:05BCG and Charging Handle for 5.56/350 Legend
  17. 07:35Range Testing: Caliber Swap Challenge
  18. 09:13Range Testing: Group Size Accuracy Test
  19. 10:24Range Testing: Shootability Evaluation
  20. 12:44Budget Tally and Winner Announcement
  21. 13:40Conclusion: Multi-Caliber AR-15 Feasibility

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I build an AR-15 that shoots multiple calibers for under $1,000?

You can build a multi-caliber AR-15 under $1,000 by starting with a base platform like a Radical Firearms AR-15 and adding conversion kits. Key components include a CMMG .22 conversion kit for .22LR, a 9mm BCG and magazine adapter for 9mm, and a dedicated barrel for calibers like 350 Legend. Strategic part selection and waiting for deals are crucial.

What are the essential parts for a 9mm AR-15 conversion?

To convert an AR-15 to 9mm, you'll need a dedicated 9mm bolt carrier group (BCG) and a 9mm magazine adapter that fits into the standard AR-15 magwell. A 9mm barrel is also required, and for blowback operation, a heavier BCG is necessary. Glock magazines are commonly used with the adapter.

Is it possible to shoot .22LR from an AR-15 without changing the barrel?

Yes, it is possible to shoot .22LR from an AR-15 without changing the barrel by using a CMMG .22 conversion kit. This kit replaces the standard bolt carrier group and allows you to use .22LR magazines, making it a simple and cost-effective way to add another caliber.

What are the advantages of using a 16-inch barrel for a 9mm AR-15 build?

Using a 16-inch barrel for a 9mm AR-15 build offers several advantages. It keeps the firearm legal under federal law, avoiding the need for an SBR tax stamp. It also simplifies the build process and ensures the firearm remains a rifle configuration.

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