So you want to build an AR...
Before we begin discussing specifics about building an AR, there are a few really important points that we want to make. We don’t want you to commit to building an AR and then run into an issue that we could have helped you to anticipate. Please review the 5 points below before proceeding to the Build Considerations.
FFL REQUIRED
This is not unique to DIY builds; the same principle applies to the purchase of complete guns.
As with a complete firearm, you must transfer the lower receiver (the “firearm” of an AR) through an FFL. If you hold an active FFL, you can receive the lower receiver directly from a distributor, manufacturer, or another FFL. If not an active FFL, you have to find an FFL to work with. For a list of FFLs, check out FFLGunDealers.com.
INTENT TO SELL
Assuming that you are an unlicensed firearms manufacturer (i.e. you do not hold an active Type 07 FFL), you are not permitted to sell the firearm to another person unless you have used it for personal use. There is quite a bit of discretion as to what constitutes personal use, so lets make this very clear: if you do not hold a Type 07 FFL, DO NOT MANUFACTURE A FIREARM WITH THE INTENT TO SELL IT.
TOOLS REQUIRED
There is a bare minimum list of tools and materials required to build your AR properly. The required tools will run you at least $350, so be sure to factor this into the budget for your build.
Don’t worry. We will cover this in more detail in the Build Considerations section.
COMPONENTS REQUIRED
You must have all required components to build a functioning AR. You won’t have much fun if you skip silly things like the buffer spring, or gas tube. Just because its not sexy doesn’t mean you don’t need it.
Our Build Kits contain everything that you need. But you should understand the components required before you begin…
We have covered components extensively in several articles in the Design Considerations section. If you haven’t read through the Design section, please take the time to do so.
NFA COMPLIANCE
The modularity of the AR platform and the healthy market for aftermarket components make customizing an AR a very personal journey. But you must be very aware of federal restrictions of certain combinations of components that render a firearm an NFA Title II weapon. Failure to abide by federal laws will land you in a lot of hot water. And these combinations of components and accessories are not obviously nefarious, and they don’t even need to be assembled to get you in trouble.
We covered this topic in the NFA and Prison article in the Design Considerations section. If you haven’t read through the Design section, please take the time to do so.
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