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AR15 Lowers - Suggestions?

Valyndiir

Valyndiir

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Full Member
Minuteman
Feb 23, 2010
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Houston, Texas
#1
I am building my first AR15 and need suggestions on receivers and parts kits. I am used to a RRA two-stage trigger so I want something that will meet or beat it, preferably beat it if that is possible. RRAs trigger is the only AR trigger I have a lot of experience with but it breaks predictably with zero play. The upper is a complete POF, so I am leaning towards a POF lower receiver so that the finish will match, however an AR builder here on the hide suggested JD machine lowers because of the price($99 is the lowest so far) and that billet lowers offer no advantage. JD Machine also has some very good feedback and only a few negatives from what I have seen.

Anyways, I'd like everyone's opinion on their favorite parts and what you see as pros and cons. Post photos of your builds if you have them!
 
#2
Re: AR15 Lowers - Suggestions?

I've just finished a mid-length M-4 style using a Delton lower and upper. Very pleased with its fit, finish and function. I used a DPMS lower parts kit and everything went together like it was meant to. I did "touch up" the engagement surfaces on a trigger jig before dropping it in.
 
#5
Re: AR15 Lowers - Suggestions?

you really can't go wrong with rra, if that's what works for you then stick with it! also dpms is good stuff to , i don't have much experience with anything else so i couldn't say good or bad!
 
#6
Re: AR15 Lowers - Suggestions?

I wouldn't get wrapped around the axle about a name brand. Last year or so there was an thread that listed the 3 or 4 actual manufacturer of lowers and all the roll stamps that they sold too. Pretty enlightening for the guys tooting one badge or the other.

If you have the upper go to your local source for stripped lowers and ask if you can test fit before purchase.

Hint: Have cash in hand because if you find one that runs and don't buy it it will be the last time he'll let you.

Cheers,

Doc
 
#8
Re: AR15 Lowers - Suggestions?

Just go with a POF lower. Watch it though, mine is really tight. I have to sand my pmags to get to fit. It runs awesome and has not had any problems, unlike my brother's M&P ar15 and dpms ar-10. I went with geissele sd-3g trigger. It was worth the extra money. It has a very short reset. People think it is full auto.
 
#9
#11
Re: AR15 Lowers - Suggestions?

Any lower will serve your purpose. I built mine on a POF lower, I got 2 other buddies that built theirs on a Spikes and a Delton. None of us had fitment issues. I do have to say the ambi bolt release on the POF is nice for a lefty like me. You might want to contact: desertfox on here. He had tons of GEN1 - GEN3 POF lowers for sale at one point. He may have a few lying around.
 
#16
Re: AR15 Lowers - Suggestions?

If looking for a billet lower, I have used both Tactical Innovations and Stiller Precision. Both are machined very well and have worked with all brands of mags that I have tried with no hang ups. Only issue I have found was with the Tactical Innovations. If you intend to use an exteneded bolt catch release, you might have to get a little machine work done as the bolt catch release will hit the machined boss around the mag release arm. Other than that one issue, it is a nice lower.
 
#17
Re: AR15 Lowers - Suggestions?

Valindiir, There's a store out here in Las Vegas called Lock-N-Load that produces their own uppers and lowers which are pretty much exact replicas of POF and Mega Arms billet lowers. From what I know, they have the exact specs from POF so everything is a mirror image. They're only $145 and they're very solid. They also have the nickel boron color like Killshot has in his picture which I love. Just from researching the internet I had read some people had fitting issues with certain types of uppers to their lower POF's and vice versa. Also on the trigger, I have a Chip McCormick flat trigger which is amazing. No matter where your finger is on the trigger, theres an even weight of pull.

http://www.cmctriggers.com/
 
#18
Re: AR15 Lowers - Suggestions?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: HAVOC615</div><div class="ubbcode-body">http://www.surplusammo.com/products/Aero-Precision-AR15-Lower-Complete-with-Magpul-MOE-Stock.html </div></div>

^^^ This, or just their stripped lower/upper and the parts of your choosing. You can't beat'em for the price. Absolutely the best machining on a forged lower/upper that I've come across. There are many good options available but its rare that one of the best (<span style="font-style: italic">IMHO</span>) is one of the least expensive.

FWIW: I tend to stay away from billet. Nothing wrong with billet sets but the metal has to be heavier (thicker) to have the same strength as a quality forging and I see no real advantages to justify the additional $$.
 
#19
Re: AR15 Lowers - Suggestions?

Good grief gentlemen, thanks for all of the input!

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: trisurvivor</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Just go with a POF lower. Watch it though, mine is really tight. I have to sand my pmags to get to fit. It runs awesome and has not had any problems, unlike my brother's M&P ar15 and dpms ar-10. I went with geissele sd-3g trigger. It was worth the extra money. It has a very short reset. People think it is full auto. </div></div>

So quick it is like full auto? Sounds seriously cool..
 
#20
Re: AR15 Lowers - Suggestions?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: KillShot</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Have you considered purchasing one of the Snipers Hide sets in the group buy? They're forged and you can have custom engraving on it such as your Hide moniker. For the price of $230 for the complete set (upper & lower), you can't beat it and you'll be supporting a Hide vendor.

http://www.snipershide.com/forum/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=3041833&page=1 </div></div>

I hadn't considered it, however since I don't have a use for the upper I would end up building an addition rifle. You know how spare parts have a way of crying about not being part of something. Best not to let my mind wander off on bunnytrails while I am still a student. If I could purchase the lower alone that would make it an option.
 
#21
Re: AR15 Lowers - Suggestions?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Ultraman550</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Valindiir, There's a store out here in Las Vegas called Lock-N-Load that produces their own uppers and lowers which are pretty much exact replicas of POF and Mega Arms billet lowers. From what I know, they have the exact specs from POF so everything is a mirror image. They're only $145 and they're very solid. They also have the nickel boron color like Killshot has in his picture which I love. Just from researching the internet I had read some people had fitting issues with certain types of uppers to their lower POF's and vice versa. Also on the trigger, I have a Chip McCormick flat trigger which is amazing. No matter where your finger is on the trigger, theres an even weight of pull.

http://www.cmctriggers.com/ </div></div>

Another seriously cool trigger. I assume it breaks clean, what is the reset like?
 
#22
Re: AR15 Lowers - Suggestions?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: plong</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: HAVOC615</div><div class="ubbcode-body">http://www.surplusammo.com/products/Aero-Precision-AR15-Lower-Complete-with-Magpul-MOE-Stock.html </div></div>

^^^ This, or just their stripped lower/upper and the parts of your choosing. You can't beat'em for the price. Absolutely the best machining on a forged lower/upper that I've come across. There are many good options available but its rare that one of the best (<span style="font-style: italic">IMHO</span>) is one of the least expensive.

FWIW: I tend to stay away from billet. Nothing wrong with billet sets but the metal has to be heavier (thicker) to have the same strength as a quality forging and I see no real advantages to justify the additional $$. </div></div>

Good to know. That is actually a pretty good deal... although I already have a butt stock... I would have to hide it somewhere I cannot see it for fear of building more stuff!

Anyone have any idea what the weight difference between a billet and forged lower would be? I'm curious because if it is not significant I would much rather the finishes be matching.
 
#24
Re: AR15 Lowers - Suggestions?

The geissele sd-3g trigger is a flat trigger also. It is a fast 2 stage. I have had no problems with my trigger/pof lower. Geissele has a YouTube video on installing it. Took less than 2 minutes to install.
 
#25
Re: AR15 Lowers - Suggestions?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Valyndiir</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Ultraman550</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Valindiir, There's a store out here in Las Vegas called Lock-N-Load that produces their own uppers and lowers which are pretty much exact replicas of POF and Mega Arms billet lowers. From what I know, they have the exact specs from POF so everything is a mirror image. They're only $145 and they're very solid. They also have the nickel boron color like Killshot has in his picture which I love. Just from researching the internet I had read some people had fitting issues with certain types of uppers to their lower POF's and vice versa. Also on the trigger, I have a Chip McCormick flat trigger which is amazing. No matter where your finger is on the trigger, theres an even weight of pull.

http://www.cmctriggers.com/ </div></div>

Another seriously cool trigger. I assume it breaks clean, what is the reset like? </div></div>
something like a mm of travel, it's pretty ridiculous. That's not the real number but it certainly feels like it. I really love it.
 
#26
Re: AR15 Lowers - Suggestions?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Ultraman550</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Valyndiir</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Ultraman550</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Valindiir, There's a store out here in Las Vegas called Lock-N-Load that produces their own uppers and lowers which are pretty much exact replicas of POF and Mega Arms billet lowers. From what I know, they have the exact specs from POF so everything is a mirror image. They're only $145 and they're very solid. They also have the nickel boron color like Killshot has in his picture which I love. Just from researching the internet I had read some people had fitting issues with certain types of uppers to their lower POF's and vice versa. Also on the trigger, I have a Chip McCormick flat trigger which is amazing. No matter where your finger is on the trigger, theres an even weight of pull.

http://www.cmctriggers.com/ </div></div>

Another seriously cool trigger. I assume it breaks clean, what is the reset like? </div></div>
something like a mm of travel, it's pretty ridiculous. That's not the real number but it certainly feels like it. I really love it. </div></div>

Do you know of a video of this trigger being used? I found plenty of geiselle vids on youtube. I am curious what the real difference is, but from reading I gather they are extremely close. Flat triggers appear to be the way to go hands down.

Now to choose a lower kit, should I just pick a cheap kit and swap the trigger or should I get something like a RRA two-stage with the grip I want and sell the two-stage trigger? I can't imagine all kits are created equal. If I went with a POF lower is there a specific kit I would need?
 
#27
Re: AR15 Lowers - Suggestions?

I looked as well but I could't find anything at all. It's really an amazing trigger though. There is absolutely no take-up and over-travel. The only thing you'll need is the mag release and bolt catch which if you're taking it to a gun smith he might just have the necessary pieces so you don't have to buy an entire lower parts kit. On, I also added in a pair on KNS anti roll pins. You can get a RRA, Bushmaster, CMMG or DPMS lower parts kit but I think the first two mentioned are better than the latter. That's just my opinion though, others here may think differently. From what I remember when I had mine installed on my Spikes Tactical lower the only other things I needed were the mag and bolt release which my gun smith just threw in for free. You can also buy a POF lower parts kit if you want everything to marry up perfectly.

So to sum it all up get yourself the CMC Flat trigger, RRA lower parts kit and get the grip you want.

PS: I have a Command Arms grip that I really like as well. You change out the front and rear straps to fit your hand perfectly and it looks pretty bad ass as well.

http://store.commandarms.com/products/UPG16.html
 
#28
Re: AR15 Lowers - Suggestions?

i like spike but ive heard some bad things about them but i haven't ran across them, i think their a super lower and a striped one will set you back about 90 bucks before shipping
 
#30
Re: AR15 Lowers - Suggestions?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: MaximumVelocity</div><div class="ubbcode-body">If you want a decent lower, find one that has an upper receiver tension post. You can adjust the tension on your upper for minimal movement to increase the accuracy a tad bit. </div></div>

I haven't seen anything like that. Do you have an example?
 
#35
Re: AR15 Lowers - Suggestions?

It looks like this.

c94bc3b5bc10ad3bfe8f324355b60374.jpg


Basically, you place an upper receiver on the lower with the pins installed. The set screw is located next to the threads for the grip screw. Run that dude up until your upper receiver is fairly snug with little movement and a slight drag on the takedown pin. But, not so tight it's extremely hard to remove. It just puts tension on the upper so the movement between the parts is minimal.

I have two LSA lowers with a 3rd on the way. His lowers with the tension post make for a solid combination.
 
#36
Re: AR15 Lowers - Suggestions?

He puts the tension post in his .308 lowers as well. I haven't looked too hard, but I've yet to see a tension post in any other .308 lower. It's a great concept and he also builds some very nice rifles.

No prices are listed because he is still working on quotes but these are not builds you will find locally. All custom stuff out of this shop.
 
#38
Re: AR15 Lowers - Suggestions?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: dlxcupid</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Any lower will serve your purpose. I built mine on a POF lower, I got 2 other buddies that built theirs on a Spikes and a Delton. None of us had fitment issues. I do have to say the ambi bolt release on the POF is nice for a lefty like me. You might want to contact: desertfox on here. He had tons of GEN1 - GEN3 POF lowers for sale at one point. He may have a few lying around. </div></div>

desertfox says I have the wrong person.
 
#40
Re: AR15 Lowers - Suggestions?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Valyndiir</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I'm not sure how advantageous the tension screw really is. My RRA 308 has no observable play between the upper and lower. </div></div>

It's very advantageous. You would be surprised how much play there is but you are unaware of. I was just adding my input for your question/inquiry. Everyone is different, especially when it comes to their firearms selections.
 
#41
Re: AR15 Lowers - Suggestions?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: MaximumVelocity</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Valyndiir</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I'm not sure how advantageous the tension screw really is. My RRA 308 has no observable play between the upper and lower. </div></div>

It's very advantageous. You would be surprised how much play there is but you are unaware of. I was just adding my input for your question/inquiry. Everyone is different, especially when it comes to their firearms selections. </div></div>

Absolutely, that is exactly the kind of response I am looking for. Thank you for contributing! I wonder if smiths would install a tensioning screw for you, it couldn't be too difficult to do.
 
#42
Re: AR15 Lowers - Suggestions?

Valyndiir,
I just completed an AR build on a very tight budget. I ended up going with a Palmetto state armory lower. This is a forged/machined lower that worked perfectly for my build. The best part is the unbelievable price, normally $80, but got mine on a x-mas special for $60. The finish and quality is flawless and the build went very smooth. I also ordered my parts kit through them which was also a great deal. Just make sure if you order both from the same company, you put them on separate orders to avoid excise tax.
The only downside to my order from PSA was the wait time, since they are a small company with tons of orders, it can take a while to get your stuff. So if you aren't in a hurry, check them out.
 
#43
Re: AR15 Lowers - Suggestions?

I'm sure a smith could do it with the right tools and knowledge of where it needs to be placed but what about the price? Not sure what a smith would charge to drill and tap that hole. The LSA lowers are comparable in price with some of the better lowers on the market and are machined from 6061 billet. By the time you purchased a lower and had a smith modify it, you might save some money just buying a lower ready to go. Give LSA a call....Andrew is an awesome guy to work with.
 
#44
Re: AR15 Lowers - Suggestions?

If the photos are correct, even though the site says 6061 aluminum, these LSA receivers appear to be machined by Mega Machine Shop and from what I know they only use 7076 T6 aluminum. I will give them a call and clarify that MMS does actually machine some of their receivers in 6061. It isn't really a big deal either way, but I would expect the price to reflect the softer aluminum.
 
#47
Re: AR15 Lowers - Suggestions?

I went the route of a Bushmaster lower receiver, White Oak lower parts kit minus trigger, and an RRA two stage match trigger. At the time, WO had different options and I chose a better grip and trigger guard.

So far I've been very happy with this combo. The better grip was a big plus. The receiver even came with a cool snake engraved on it
smile.gif
 
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