Almost ready to start the build and need some advice

[project91]

Hey all, I am getting ready to start the build of my AR and have a question about the upper. I am using a Stag lower with a RRA parts kit and a 4 position collapsible stock. Now should I try to find a complete upper or build it myself. This is on a budget so I need to stay on the low side but I also don't want to put junk on it. I heard Model 1 has good barrels but there complete uppers are of lesser quality. I guess I just want the most bang for the buck so any help you guys have would be great. Thanks, Vince

[Big Bird]

Unless you want to invest in a good solid bench vise, action blocks, torque wrench, barrel nut wrench etc (maybe $150 if you don't count the vise) I'd suggest you get a complete upper. Most places a complete upper is not that much more than a pile of parts anyhow and if you have a problem you can send it back for them to diagnose/fix. Its usually not necessary to check the headspace on most kits assuming you have purchased good quality components made to spec. Of course even Colt will shoot out a part that is a lemon from time to time and unless you have a headspace guage you have no way of knowing...so the first time you pull the trigger its always a crap shoot unless you have guaged the chamber. A Field guage is all you need and they run about $20.

The Lower is not hard to assemble at all. You'll need an allen wrench, a couple of pin punches...1/8 and a couple of small roll pin punches, a small brass or ball peen hammer, and a flat tip screwdriver. But like the upper, I've seen Complete Bushmaster lowers for sale around here for $245 and by the time you buy all the parts and the receiver I think you'll find its a wash in terms of cost.

I think Bushmaster has about the best barrels around...most of their barrel assemblies go for around $220...thats handguards, gas tube, Delta ring, barrel nut, gas tube roll pin, front sight base and A2 flash hider. They have real 5.56 chambers and 1-9 twist rifling. You can order 1-7 twist if you want to. But 1-9 will be nearly ideal for anything 55-62 grains.