I Built My Own AR15 from Scratch | First Shots

Published on December 29, 2024
Duration: 34:50

This video details the process of building a 12.5-inch AR-15 from scratch, covering the selection and installation of various components. The builder emphasizes the importance of choosing quality parts for reliability and performance, demonstrating the assembly of the lower and upper receivers, barrel, handguard, and other essential elements. The build culminates in initial range testing, highlighting areas for potential adjustment like the gas block.

Quick Summary

This 12.5-inch AR-15 build from scratch features a Griffin Armament lower, Aero Precision upper, Ballistic Advantage barrel, and Midwest Industries handguard. The approximate cost was $1,200, with initial range tests revealing a need for an adjustable gas block due to gas blowback.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Build Overview
  2. 01:25Lower Receiver: Griffin Armament
  3. 03:34Upper Receiver: Aero Precision
  4. 04:00Barrel: Ballistic Advantage 12.5" 5.56
  5. 04:47Muzzle Device: SilencerCo ASR
  6. 05:32Handguard: Midwest Industries
  7. 06:26Emissary Handbrake & Slate Black Panels
  8. 07:10Gas Tube & Gas Block
  9. 07:38Trigger: Geissele SSA-X
  10. 08:07Buffer System: JP Enterprises SCS
  11. 08:41Bolt Carrier Group: BCM
  12. 09:16Charging Handle: Breek Arms Sledgehammer
  13. 10:00Safety Selector: Radian Ambi
  14. 10:17Lower Parts Kit & Buffer Components
  15. 11:38Grip: Die Freak Kung Fu Grip
  16. 12:29Brace: SB Tactical SBA4
  17. 12:53Sights: Magpul MBUS
  18. 13:26Assembly Begins
  19. 14:27Lower & Upper Receiver Assembly Update
  20. 16:27Barrel & Handguard Installation
  21. 16:55Build Complete: First Look
  22. 19:32Trigger Test & Dry Fire
  23. 20:43Range Day: First Shots
  24. 23:06Range Day: Iron Sights Shooting
  25. 24:04Gas Blowback Observation
  26. 26:10Gas Issues & Adjustable Gas Block Need
  27. 28:07Recoil & Shooting Impressions
  28. 30:08Post-Range Thoughts & Next Steps
  29. 31:49Optic Selection Process
  30. 33:12Red Dot Choice: Holosun SCS
  31. 34:06Final Build Look & Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key components used in building this 12.5-inch AR-15?

The build features a Griffin Armament lower, Aero Precision upper, Ballistic Advantage 12.5" barrel, Midwest Industries handguard, Geissele SSA-X trigger, JP Enterprises silent captured spring, BCM BCG, and a Breek Arms charging handle. Other components include a SilencerCo ASR muzzle brake and SB Tactical SBA4 brace.

What was the approximate cost of this custom AR-15 build?

The total cost for this 12.5-inch AR-15 build, excluding optics, was approximately $1,200. Many parts were purchased during sales, contributing to the overall value.

What issues were encountered during the initial range testing of the AR-15 build?

The primary issue observed was excessive gas blowback, suggesting the need for an adjustable gas block. The builder also noted that iron sights required minor adjustment for optimal aiming.

What advice is given for assembling an AR-15 lower receiver?

A pivot pin tool is highly recommended for easier installation of the pivot and takedown pins, especially when managing the springs and detents. This tool simplifies a potentially difficult step in the assembly process.

Which handguard was chosen for the 12.5-inch AR-15 build and why?

A Midwest Industries M-LOK handguard was selected. The builder found it to be lightweight and comfortable to grip, comparing it favorably to a similar handguard on another rifle.

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