AR15 Lower receiver assembly guide

[Hunng]

damm good job bro

 

[wildmantaz]

This should be a sticky either here or on the gunsmithing forum.
Very good job, should be very helpful for some of the new builders, some people do better with pics
than with just written instructions.

 

[1EDsson]

Very nice! I have all the parts and pieces, I think, for my second build. I see a lot of info in there that I wish I had the first time, Thank you!

 

[BangBang]

Awesome write-up! I don't install LPKs on a regular basis, so I always forget which way the hammer spring goes on. I usually google for a pic when I'm doing a build. Now I've got this guide to go by with plenty of pics!

Thanks!

 

[500mag]

Great job. I might add you cannot overstate the importance of a professional quality vice to hold the lower receiver rock solid while installing parts. I use an old Pmag clamped into the vice - it holds more solid than a vice block. Also, the Magpul Castle Nut Wrench makes that job a lot easier, but expensive ($80). The cheap ones can easily mar the nut or buffer tube.

 

[Wallace's]

Great job. I might add you cannot overstate the importance of a professional quality vice to hold the lower receiver rock solid while installing parts. I use an old Pmag clamped into the vice - it holds more solid than a vice block. Also, the Magpul Castle Nut Wrench makes that job a lot easier, but expensive ($80). The cheap ones can easily mar the nut or buffer tube.

Using old mags for a receiver block only works well when a mag catch/button is in the lower. The PSA block is actually very sturdy.

ETA: I forgot to mention that the shoulder on a proper vice block will also protect the receiver when placing it in the vice. You would need to use caution using a magazine as you could possibly scratch or gouge your lower on the bench vice if the mag slips in the vice jaws.

Yes, a solid work surface and vice are always recommended.

As to the Magpul tool, it's over priced. The Tapco wrench I use is solid and I modified to to accept 1/4 drive so I can use my inch lb torque wrench without a 1/4 to 3/8 or 1/4 to 1/2 adapter. It's also compact so I can easily take it with me to the range.

 

[nitrousfedlx]

Great job bro!

 

[Radar363]

Good post, and hopefully anyone interested in building more than one lower will see how having the proper tools makes building easier.

 

[guns4samfie]

Nice work! Glad I'm not the only one who uses lots of blue tape to protect the anodizing.

 

[Allsmiles]

Nice write up. One thing new builders need is an extra oops kit with extra springs and detents. Nothing like lauching a spring and detent to never be found again.