It's about time consumers understand what costs are in the firearm business and that federal licensed firearm dealers' premises are where one must go to in order to legally purchase/exercise their 'right to own firearms'. No dealers, no future for gun ownership.
Marlin 336C .30-30, walnut, 20" barrel
* 2021: Marlin acquired by Ruger * ruger-marlin-lever-action-rifles
There have been price increases since Jan 1, 2023.
Some items have not had corrections to reflect current pricing.
Reference pictures
Prices subject to change
* * * WEBSITE PRICING AND FORMAT WILL BE CHANGING * * *
Henry .22, feeds short, long, & long rifle .22, 18" barrel (ret $386)
Savage MKII 16" fluted heavy barrel .22, muzzle threaded 1/2x28" (ret $279)
Ruger 10/22 blued .22, synthetic stock (ret $369)
Ruger 10/22 stainless .22, matte silver receiver (ret $409)
There have been price increases since Jan 1, 2023.
Some items have not had corrections to reflect current pricing.
S&W M&P15-22 .22
M-Lok system forend, folding Magpul sights (ret $489)
S&W M&P15-22 .22 Muddy Girl Camo
M-Lok system forend, folding Magpul sights (ret $552)
S&W M&P15-22 .22 Kryptek Camo
M-Lok system forend, folding Magpul sights (ret $552)
These are not in stock; pictures and past pricing for reference
Arsenal AKs in most variations have been out of production since 2018
Arsenal AKs built on stamped receivers, fixed stock
Arsenal 7.62x39 caliber AK, built on Russian Saiga receivers, fixed stock, ~ $1,000.
These come with Bulgarian short 5 round mag; original waffle pattern 30 round mag shown is optional.
Arsenal 5.45x39 caliber, Russian Saiga receiver, fixed stock, ~ $1,000.
The 5.45x39 models come with short 10 round mag. Bulgarian 30 round mag shown is optional.
Arsenal 5.45x39 Saiga with sidefolding stock and Bulgarian 30rd mag. ~ $1,100.
Compact for storage/transport with the solid sidefolding stock.
Left side view of Arsenal 5.45x39 Saiga with a Bulgarian 45rd magazine.
Solid sidefolding stocks are worth every dollar of their cost. Solid cheekweld when opened.
Arsenal type 'SA M-7' with milled receiver, fixed stock *limited production*
Milled receiver 7.62x39 Arsenal SA M-7, highest level of milled type AK that they offer, $1,550 and up.
Arsenal type 'F' with stamped receiver, solid side-folding stock
Arsenal (Bulgarian pattern) SLR-107F in 7.62x39, solid side-folding stock, around $1,100.
Possibly the finest fit and finish and the best side folder in a American made stamped receiver AK!
Arsenal SLR-107F with stock folded. Their side-folding stock is unmatched in strength and solidity.
These are not in stock; pictures and past pricing for reference
Arsenal AKs in most variations have been out of production since 2018
Reference pictures
Prices subject to change
Days of maintaining AK inventory like this is long gone...
Too many people trying to find 'better deals online' has made it useless to stock inventory. Far better for the individual to find one at whatever price they thought is good and have me receive it at a reasonable FFL fee.
Comparison between Arsenal and Romanian AK rifles
One of the best deals in the industry; built on Russian receivers and with solid American parts by Arsenal
'great track record excellent fit and finish' among many AKs being offered in the US. link: Arsenal AKs
Points to note when comparing Arsenal to Romanian AKs: Arsenal fire control parts vs Tapco G2,
excellent polymer furniture with lower handguard heatshield+upper handguard tensioner vs plywood,
rust-resistant finish on exterior steel vs plain bluing of steel, one-piece machined brake vs slant brake.
As it always has been in the world of AKs, a rifle's characteristics rightfully determine the rifle's price.
Why I don't recommend Romanian AKs: Increasing QC issues with Century GP/WASR-10/63 AKs
Arsenal's rust-resistant coating, clean machining, polymer furniture vs Romanian blued rough finish, wood.
Romanian basic handguards vs Arsenal's tensioned (-->) upper handguard and heatshield lower handguard.
Romanian slant brake, 45 deg gas block vs Arsenal's one-piece machined muzzle brake, 90 deg gas block.
Romanian vs Arsenal view inside receiver, Romanian rough machined bolt carrier vs Arsenal's bolt carrier.
Reference pictures
Prices subject to change
These are not in stock; pictures and past pricing for reference
Most AKs that were foreign production are now predominantly made in US
For reference: images and base prices of some AK variants from 2011-2016
This is how they were arriving back in 2011. Now they are commonly equipped with just 1 or 2 mags.
No sling, oiler, mag pouch, or bayonet - and of course at a higher price for 2016 - with or without stuff.
2014-2015: Average selling price for Romanian and similar 'cheap' AKs have risen to $600+.
Will that ever come back down? It may even go higher as importers capitalize on public fear, politics.
Romanian type AK-47 laminated wood furniture.
approx $600 ~ $650
AK with select wood, better metal finish. Of course, higher price and not as common as above.
Underfolder, polymer handguards.
approx $700 ~ $750
Underfolder, laminated wood handguards.
approx $700 ~ $750
Underfolding stock AK shown with stock folded.
Sidefolder, polymer stocks. German type with wire stock sidefolder. Often similar pricing as underfolders.
Sidefolder, laminated wood stocks.
. . . with sidefolding stock folded . . .
Left-side converted bolt handle: AK modification that should never be done
Legion USA 'professionally converted' [what they said in 2012] left-side bolt handle AK, left side view.
This configuration 'converted by experts' is NOT a good idea. Because stock folds to the right (covering
cut-off bolt handle ejection side), even replacing current bolt carrier with an original the-way-it-should-be
handle will not allow stock to fold as the stock then would interfere with handle running bolt to the rear!!
Right side view - yes, an important protrusion is missing here on the bolt...
Non-existent bolt handle. Open view thru action because
top cover was cut for left side bolt handle: not a concern.
Non-standard ability to run bolt w/ safety on is a concern. |
 |
Oh my, perfect example of a really bad idea: what's that
just under the bolt handle? a typical side rail scope mount.
So ~ .. if someone mounted a field-expedient AK scope
on side rail mount of this rifle, uh... then can't load gun...
Above: typical side rail scope mounted on another AK. |
This Legion had VEPR/FPK type 1-300m leaf.
Usual AK sight markings 1-800m or 1-1000m. |
AKs don't have left-side bolt handles. Nor do variants such as RPKs, Saigas, Dragunovs, Valmets, Galils.
Imagine how problematic it would be if someone became used to a left-side converted bolt handle AK
and had to grab another one in an emergency. AKs should have the bolt handle kept on the right side,
and should not be able to run bolt to rear unless safety was off. Keep it original, then no problems.
Correcting the atrocious left-handed AK (will cost some $$$)
If one replaced the ridiculous left-hand converted bolt carrier to a correct, standard bolt carrier,
then the ACE stock when folded would be in the way of correct bolt carrier's charging handle!
If lowering ACE stock's hinged plate position, folded butt would then just clear the charging handle.
It would still be very difficult to run the bolt to the rear to load or clear the chamber. One solution:
Remove ACE stock and special stock support entirely, install new stock support and Vltor AK stock tube.
Rivet holes plugged after proprietary ACE stock support removed, cutout top cover replaced with
Texas Weapons railed top cover, switch to US Palm AK grip, Magpul MOE buttstock on Vltor tube.
Compared to senseless Legion left-handed charging handle configuration, this now makes better sense,
[but, at a price] with some additions for consideration. Nightshroud flash hider by Manticore Arms.
Optimizing AK rifles
Reference pictures
Prices subject to change
These are not in stock; pictures and past pricing for reference
Most AKs that were foreign production are now predominantly made in US
If you really are compelled to add items to the AK, consider items that make the best sense.
Worthwhile AK enhancements include items that makes genuine improvements for the AK platform.
Ultimak's railed gas tube is low enough to allow cowitness with Aimpoint, Holosun red dot optics.
There are often cheaper railed upper handguards found out there; many don't provide cowitness -
making them worthless even at lower prices - wasting your time and money to set up and sight-in.
Whether one uses a Romanian or Arsenal or any other AK, an Aimpoint mounted on Ultimak gas tube
cowitnesses iron sights, greatly enhances the speed of usage for the rifle. For those with reduced eyesight
this combination makes all the difference in decisive hits on target.- link: Adv Rifle Gunfighting Course -
Want a quality light mounted to your AK? Better yet, you've already got an Ultimak railed AK gas tube?
Best combination for the money: current model Surefire G2X $70 (any classic 6P model will also work),
^ Top view of Vltor offset light mount on Ultimak railed gas tube. Flash sight picture with Aimpoint H1. ^
Selecting quality, proven items to build up your fighting rifle is vital. Purchase foolishly or on a whim and
results will be undesirable; money is wasted. - Surefire lights with Vltor offset light mounts on AR-15s -
Perhaps the most shocking for those who haven't experienced it yet: utilize a Trijicon ACOG on an AK
and witness amazing results. At a course in Texas, we had been scoring decisive hits on 16" steel squares
out to 500 yards with such a setup. (shown above is a 12" barreled Arsenal SLR 107CR in 5.45x39
fitted with Texas Weapons Systems' scope rail that solidly replaces the original stamped AK top cover.)
November 2013: If the new series Sig 556R in 7.62x39 would only be consistently available, it could be
the better choice already having a flattop for utilizing magnified optics on a AK mag-pattern 7.62x39 rifle.
However, after assembling and testing several modified AKs in both combloc calibers with US and non-US
manufactured ammo, it is clear that spending all the money and time to work on such projects just doesn't
yield results that can be achieved much easier and with far less cost and fanfare with virtually any AR15... Ammunition advancements in .223/5.56, prudent maintenance of one's choice in fighting rifles and honest
progressive training will produce same venerable results without requiring costly equipment diversions.
Arsenal 5.45x39 AK with 3x30 ACOG and Amercian Defense throwlever base mounted on TWS below.
Texas Weapons Systems Gen-2 railed top cover, ~ $150
Installation requires some attention yet is simple. AK rear sight gets replaced by hinge point of top cover.
Rifle disassembly procedure is same as with a standard top cover; but TWS top cover stays connected.
3x30 compact ACOG on American Defense AD-B2 throwlever base. This base lowers ACOG to better
height than standard issue TA-60 mount. TWS top cover hinged up reveals different top cover button/lock.
300 yard sight picture with a 3x30 compact ACOG green horseshoe reticle.
The 5.45x39 caliber Arsenal AK and this combination has similar trajectory to 5.56 caliber.
450 yard sight picture with a 3x30 compact ACOG green horseshoe reticle.
5.45x39 has similar trajectory to 5.56x45 caliber so these compact ACOGs work well for either system.
There is also a Trijicon model TA33-13 compact ACOG calibrated for 7.62x39 caliber.
Rear AK sight gets removed for installation of Texas Weapons Systems' railed top cover mount.
Emergency / close range sighting can be done by utilizing hole in compact ACOG base as a rear sight.
(optional TWS rear peep sight is $40; for quick shots, could use hole integral to ACOG base instead.)
15 yard shots and image thru compact ACOG's tunnel. For a quicker and more efficient sighting session,
shoot at white area of target for a much easier time spotting bullet holes. Black is harder to see bullet hits.
Naysayers often do not admit to comparisons made with AR15s/M16s equipped with Trijicon ACOGs
against a plain open-sighted AK, proclaiming the AK to be inaccurate or inconsistent. It is amazing what
3x or 4x magnification can do for achieving hits on chest-sized targets 200~500 yards. It is also amazing
how anti-AK fools won't admit that any hit scored under emergency manoeuvers is very difficult to make
with either an AK or AR, and only revel at their perfect groups fired in peacetime ideal range conditions...
-Adv Rifle Gunfighting Course running drill- Make equal comparisons, and do so under physical exertion!
Standard issue AK grip less than desirable. US Palm Battle Grip with storage compartment ($29.95)
provides a more secure grasp with directional control over the standard 'too narrow and straight' grip.
Arsenal SLR-107 shown with Texas Weapons railed top cover, Trijicon 3x30 compact ACOG
and their standard Trijicon flattop base, US Palm Battle Grip and US Palm magazine in brown.
An AK optimized using Texas Weapons railed top cover, Leupold VX-I compact 1-4x scope ($240)
mounted in Leupold QRW rings ($70), with Vltor stock tube ($90) and Magpul MOE stock ($40).
With magnification, effective testing can begin on this rig. Separate findings on ammo in Sig 556R report.
^ 1.5x magnification at 200 yard target. Front sight tower visible but should not be considered a distraction.
One's focus should be on the crosshairs anyway. A skilled shooter would not complain about trivial items.
^ 2.5x magnification at same 200 yard target, front sight tower disappearing from view in Leupold scope.
As zoom magnification is increased on a variable power scope, field of view will narrow with higher power.
^ 4 power magnification, front sight tower no longer visible. 1-4x VX-I Leupolds are size and cost-efficient.
November 2013: If the new series Sig 556R in 7.62x39 would only be consistently available, it could be
the better choice already having a flattop for utilizing magnified optics on a AK mag-pattern 7.62x39 rifle.
However, after assembling and testing several modified AKs in both combloc calibers with US and non-US
manufactured ammo, it is clear that spending all the money and time to work on such projects just doesn't
yield results that can be achieved much easier and with far less cost and fanfare with virtually any AR15... Ammunition advancements in .223/5.56, prudent maintenance of one's choice in fighting rifles and honest
progressive training will produce same venerable results without requiring costly equipment diversions.
Blue Force Gear Universal Wire Loop - 3" or 6" coated stainless cable with billet aluminum loop ($23.95)
solves sling mounting difficulties and is also a versatile alternative to using snap hooks on small sling loops.
Need longer sling length and better location of sling to hang rifle from? Challenge solved with these
flexible wire loops. AK shown in the four pictures above is an Arsenal with side folding solid stock.
Various optics on rifles: spotlight on AK variant SLR 106 utilizing Ultimak rail
Installing Ultimak top handguard is relatively easy. It is the best replacement railed top handguard for AKs
that allows one to co-witness iron sights on the rifle visible thru most optics low-mounted right on the rail.
Ultimak railed upper handguard model for SLR 106 and 107 'krink' variants pictured is the M13; $120.
 Above: Arsenal SLR 106 (.223 / 5.56) with Ultimak; no optic.
|
 |
Shown: Aimpoint H1 mounted on Ultimak M13 handguard.
Another good dot optic at a really good price: Black Spider |
 |
Shown with Trijicon RMR, the smallest and lightest optic yet!
The RMR dot optic sight body obscures the least target area. |
 |
Reference pictures
Prices subject to change
These are not in stock; pictures and past pricing for reference
Most AKs that were foreign production are now predominantly made in US
* * * * * 2/3/22 Pricing and model availability not current * * * * *
January 2022: there have been price increases since Jan 1, 2022.
This page has not had any corrections to reflect current pricing.
These are not in stock; pictures and past 2019 pricing for reference
Springfield Armory M1As
Springfield M1A .308 Socom 16" barrel, fwd optic mount, XS sights, adv order $1,820. (ret $1,987)
Springfield M1A Scout 18" barrel, synth stock, intermediate optic rail, adv order $1,695. (ret $1,850)
Springfield M1A .308 Standard 22" barrel, synth stock, adv order $1,545. (ret $1,685)
Springfield M1A .308 Standard 22" barrel, walnut stock, adv order $1,640. (ret $1,788)
True classics; the M1A (M14) rifles that served our country since 1959
Renown for decades as solid iron-sighted battle rifles of the United States
and like M1 Garands, they're valuable collectibles and heirlooms to have
On the topic of small arms developments and .308 or 7.62x51 military semiauto rifles:
A percentage may be upset at this phrase, but some guns are 'old technology' and there are truly
great improvements in efficiency, materials, design and functionability combined with lower cost.
Many who buy .308 semiauto M1As try to add dots/magnified scopes - to an obsolete platform.
Why paint yourself into the corner with required quality components for ideal ergonomic results
($500+ stock, $300+ scope mount, $200+ change of iron sight configuration, then the scope)
insisting on a service rifle from the 60s that shone (and still can today) with open sights. It just
won't configure as well or easily as its successor's .30 caliber versions, scoped or open sighted.
Same situation with Belgium's FAL or Germany's G3. I favor M1As with irons just as those two
yet the ability to have scopes on the same sighting plane as backup iron sights and quick swap
capabilities of optics and purposeful equipment brings the AR system to being the better solution.
M1As are great with open sights; scoped semiauto .308s are better built on .308 pattern ARs.
These are not in stock; pictures and past 2019 pricing for reference
Military/Government/Law Enforcement stamped Colt AR-15s
Colt LE M4 flattop AR-15, 'Crime Bill' model, Mil/Govt/LE markings as seen below on lower.
No longer current, these are not easy to come by. Colt didn't make enough LE stamped ARs to go around.
*** these are now on the highly desirable list. if not legislation, leave it up to Colt's antics ***
Colt AR-15 6450 (9mm)
Colt model 6450 in 9mm. Fixed A1 upper, dedicated lower receiver, buffer system, hammer, magazines.
Few in circulation and collectible, prices higher than $1,200 if Mil/Govt LE rollmarked on lower receiver.
Current Colt '6951' 9mm AR15s equipped with flattop uppers and Magpul folding rear sight ~ $1,100
Colt AR-15 6920 (5.56)
Colt model 6920 in 1990s-early 2000s with detachable carry handle on flattop upper. ~ $1,100
Colt AR-15 6940 (5.56)
Colt LE model 6940 (5.56) introduced 2009 with folding front and rear sights. ~ $1,400
While monolithic quad rail handguards seemed innovative then, numerous alternatives
for lighter and simpler aluminum handguards have been produced since 2012 thru 2015.
This model has a monolithic railed handguard - the entire front handguard is part of the upper receiver.
Front of railed handguard has integrated plug-in points left and right side for quick-detach sling swivels.
Folding front and MA Tech folding rear sight assemblies.
The upper receiver and main rail section is machined from one block creating a monolithic rail upper.
Removal of lower rail section is simple; depress a recessed spring-loaded latch and slide rail forward.
Detail of front sight assembly and one-piece upper monolithic rail-receiver.
Building an AR with a complete flattop upper and lower receiver
A complete upper can be added easily to a lower receiver project.
Building an AR project - various examples
January 2022: there have been price increases since Jan 1, 2022.
This page has not had any corrections to reflect current pricing.
These are not for sale; pictures and project build prices (2020) for reference
Build up stripped lower, add complete M4 upper and backup folding rear sight
| Bushmaster complete upper M4 contour 16" barrel, bolt carrier group, charging handle |
$539 |
| Magpul back-up folding rear sight |
$58 |
| Aero Precision stripped lower receiver |
$105 |
| CMMG complete lower parts kit |
$65 |
| LBE buffer tube $26 + Luth buffer $14 + spring $6 + castle nut $7 |
$53 |
| BCM QD sling mount end plate |
$20 |
| Magpul SL-K buttstock |
$40 |
| Retail total (further discounts need to be calculated at time of project build) : |
$880 |
Build up stripped lower and stripped upper w/ 14.5" + 1.5" barrel configuration
| Bushmaster M4 contour 14.5" barrel, front sight tower, handguard cap, delta ring assembly |
$200 |
| YHM 1.5" Phantom flash hider |
$35 |
| Perm. attach YHM Phantom to LBE 14.5" - required by Federal Law for Title1 regulations |
$100 |
| Spikes carbine length gas tube |
$16 |
| YHM stripped upper receiver |
$99 |
| Delton upper completion kit (ejection port door, forward assist) |
$16 |
| Midwest Industries drop-in carbine MLok handguards |
$130 |
| Ergo MLok rubberized rail cover, set of 4 |
$20 |
| Various ladder cover cut sections from past projects (to index optic placement, protect rails) |
- - - |
| LBE Bolt Carrier Group |
$115 |
| BCM Gunfighter Mod4 (Medium) charging handle |
$50 |
| Spikes Tactical Crusader stripped lower (Crusader has integral trigger guard) |
$115 |
| Color fill stripped lower (by individual) |
$30 |
| CMMG lower parts kit without trigger-hammer-disconnector |
$40 |
| ALG 4.5lb Combat Trigger group |
$70 |
| Radian ambi selector, Dark Brown |
$48 |
| Luth combo: milspec stock tube, buffer, spring, end plate, castle nut |
$50 |
| Daniel Defense Milspec stock, Dark Brown |
$70 |
| BCM Mod 1 pistol grip |
$30 |
| Diamondhead folding rear sight, aluminum body |
$138 |
| Trijicon RMR Type 2 Adj $700 + American Defense throwlever base $70 |
$770 |
| Retail total (further discounts need to be calculated at time of project build) : |
$2,142 |
Complete upper, change handguard, add Surefire light,
build up stripped lower, add backup folding rear sight
| Colt complete upper w/ lightweight contour 16" barrel, bolt carrier group, charging handle |
$650 |
| Diamondhead folding rear sight, aluminum body |
$138 |
| Midwest Industries M-Lok carbine handguard |
$130 |
| Magpul MLok Type 1 rubberized rail cover, 1 set |
$15 |
| BCM Gunfighter Mod4B charging handle |
$50 |
| Spike's Tactical Calico Jack stripped lower receiver |
$115 |
| Color fill stripped lower (by individual) |
$30 |
| CMMG lower parts kit without trigger-hammer-disconnector |
$40 |
| ALG 4.5lb Combat Trigger group |
$70 |
| Battle Arms Development stainless ambi selector |
$80 |
| LWRC angled trigger guard, FDE |
$9 |
| UTG FDE milspec buffer tube $29 + Luth buffer $14 + spring $6 + castle nut $7 |
$56 |
| BCM QD sling mount end plate |
$20 |
| Magpul CTR buttstock, Stealth Gray |
$60 |
| Magpul K2+ rubber overmolded pistol grip, Stealth Gray |
$25 |
| Haley Strategic offset light mount $50 + Surefire Executive E2 Defender $190 |
$240 |
| Trijicon RMR Type 2 Adj $700 + American Defense throwlever base $70 |
$770 |
| Retail total (further discounts need to be calculated at time of project build) : |
$2,498 |
January 2022: there have been price increases since Jan 1, 2022.
This page has not had any corrections to reflect current pricing.
These are not for sale; pictures and project build prices (2020) for reference
Battleworn Tungsten & Black Cerakote, 14.5" + 1.5" YHM Phantom flash hider,
BCM handguard, Daniel Defense MilSpec buttstock, Ergo Barricade handstop
| LBE 14.5" 5.56 lightweight contour barrel, requires .625 gas block, not .750 |
$135 |
| YHM 1.5" Phantom flash hider |
$35 |
| Perm. attach YHM Phantom to LBE 14.5" - required by Federal Law for Title1 regulations |
$100 |
| Spikes Tactical .625 lo-profile gas block $29 + midlength gas tube $16 |
$45 |
| BCM 13" KMR Alpha handguard |
$200 |
| BCM Keymod vertical grip |
$20 |
| Ergo Barricade Handstop, Keymod |
$53 |
| Ergo Wedgelock handguard covers, set of 4 |
$20 |
| Various ladder cover cut sections from past projects (to index optic placement, protect rails) |
- - - |
| Spikes Spartan stripped lower |
$115 |
| CMMG complete lower parts kit |
$65 |
| BCM angled trigger guard |
$8 |
| Radian Ambi Safety selector set |
$48 |
| Luth combo: milspec stock tube, buffer, spring, end plate, castle nut |
$50 |
| Daniel Defense Milspec stock |
$70 |
| Magpul K2 grip |
$21 |
| Luth stripped upper receiver |
$90 |
| Delton upper completion kit (ejection port door, forward assist) |
$16 |
| Radian Enhanced Bolt Carrier Group |
$150 |
| Luth standard charging handle |
$20 |
| UTG front + rear backup folding sights |
$50 |
| Cerakote finish: Battleworn Tungsten and Armor Black on handguard, upper and lower |
$250 |
| Retail total (further discounts need to be calculated at time of project build) : |
$1,561 |
Having 7 or 8 picatinny slots open and available ahead of front sight allows
immediate mounting of light units like the Inforce APL light shown below.
CMMG 9mm lower, Rosco 14.5" barrel + 1.5" Silencerco ASR flash hider,
Midwest Ind handguard, Radian Ambi short throw selector, Matrix stock
| Rosco 14.5" 9mm barrel |
$140 |
| Silencerco ASR flash hider |
$90 |
| Perm. attach Silencerco to Rosco 14.5" - required by Federal Law for Title1 regulations |
$100 |
| Midwest Industries G3M 12.5" MLok handguard, FDE |
$190 |
| Ergo MLok rubberized rail cover, FDE, set of 4 |
$20 |
| Various ladder cover cut sections from past projects (to index optic placement, protect rails) |
- - - |
| LBE stripped upper receiver |
$85 |
| CMMG 9mm upper ejection port cover kit $16 + CMMG forward assist kit $17 |
$33 |
| Faxon 9mm Bolt Carrier Group |
$165 |
| Luth standard charging handle |
$20 |
| CMMG 9mm lower receiver for Colt SMG mags |
$185 |
| Matrix Arms 9mm CQB retracting stock kit w/ specific buffer and spring, FDE |
$450 |
| GI basic hammer-trigger-disconnector-springs-pins |
$40 |
| Radian Ambi Safety selector set, FDE finish, installed in short throw configuration |
$48 |
| BCM Mod 1 pistol grip, FDE |
$30 |
| BCM angled trigger guard, FDE |
$8 |
| Diamond Head Aluminum front + rear backup folding sights |
$238 |
| Inforce APL 400 lumen light |
$150 |
| Retail total (further discounts need to be calculated at time of project build) : |
$1,992 |
Having 7 or 8 picatinny slots open and available ahead of front sight allows
immediate mounting of light units like the Inforce APL shown here.
Silencer Co 3-prong flashhider has dissimilar length tines - no ringing sound upon firing.
Diamond Head sights give very fast, decisive sight picture. The rear leaf can be set in mid-position
which promotes the fastest flash front sight picture, utilizing front and rear wings to bracket targets
Shown here with addition of optic: Trijicon RMR in FDE on American Defense throwlever mount.
January 2022: there have been price increases since Jan 1, 2022.
This page has not had any corrections to reflect current pricing.
These are not for sale; pictures and project build prices (2020) for reference
Faxon 16" 9mm barrel in FDE, Spikes Tactical Glock pattern 9mm lower receiver,
Spikes Tactical dedicated 9mm upper receiver, Midwest LW MLok 14" handguard
- Many varied earth tones and brown shades on this rifle project -
| Faxon 16" Cerakoted 9mm barrel (FDE) |
$205 |
| AAC Blackout 9mm flash hider |
$57 |
| Midwest Industries Combat 14" MLok handguard |
$205 |
| Ergo MLok rubberized rail cover (set of 4, two shown installed in Gray) |
$22 |
| Ergo MLok Barricade stop |
$47 |
| Magpul MLok Angled Fore Grip (Olive Drab) |
$27 |
| Spikes Tactical dedicated 9mm upper receiver with door |
$115 |
| Brownells 9mm Bolt Carrier Group |
$160 |
| Radian Ambi charging handle (Dark Brown) |
$90 |
| Spikes Tactical 9mm lower receiver for Glock mags |
$180 |
| Schmid Engineering Nickel Boron Trigger-Hammer-Disconnector |
$50 |
| Radian Talon ambi safety selector (Dark Brownn) |
$48 |
| Luth milspec stock tube, buffer, spring, castle nut |
$45 |
| IWC QD sling end plate |
$20 |
| B5 Systems grip (Coyote) |
$20 |
| Mission First Tactical Battlelink Utility stock (Scorched Dark Earth - SDE) |
$70 |
| Midwest Industries fixed front and rear sight set |
$120 |
| Trijicon RMR Type 2 HRS (Coyote) |
$739 |
| Kinetic Design Group RMR Sidelock mount |
$139 |
| Inforce WML light unit (FDE) |
$129 |
Retail total (further discounts need to be calculated at time of project build) : |
$2,488 |
KDG Sidelock mount for Trijicon RMR has extremely fast mounting or dismounting from flattop upper.
MFT Battlelink Utility stock offers large storage space. WML model has momentary pressure switch.
Theory-based AFG provides secure braced grip. AAC 3-prong flash hider will resonate on firing.
Faxon factory 14.5" lightweight barrel + 1.5" flashhider, Spikes Tactical stripped lower
Midwest LW MLok 14" handguard, Midwest Combat folding sights
| Faxon 14.5" lightweight .625 barrel w/ their 1.5" 3-prong flashhider permanently attached |
$260 |
| Spikes Tactical .625 lo-profile gas block $29 + midlength gas tube $16 |
$45 |
| Midwest Industries LW 14" MLok handguard |
$205 |
| Magpul MLok rubberized rail cover, set of 2 |
$16 |
| Magpul Paraclip sling mount, MLok |
$20 |
| LBE stripped upper receiver $85 + Luth upper parts kit $17 |
$102 |
| Brownells basic Bolt Carrier Group |
$100 |
| Basic charging handle |
$19 |
| Spikes Tactical Snowflake color fill stripped lower |
$145 |
| CMMG complete lower parts kit |
$65 |
| Fortis Ambi Safety selector set |
$70 |
| Luth combo: milspec stock tube, buffer, spring, end plate, castle nut |
$50 |
| Daniel Defense grip |
$30 |
| LWRC compact stock |
$60 |
| Midwest Industries Combat folding sight set |
$160 |
Retail total (further discounts need to be calculated at time of project build) : |
$1,347 |
Faxon flashhider has dissimilar length tines - no ringing sound upon firing. Fortis ambi selector.
Faxon factory 14.5" + 1.5" flashhider, Spikes Tactical stripped lower
Rise Armament MLok 13.5" handguard, Trijicon 3x compact ACOG
| Faxon 14.5" lightweight .625 barrel w/ their 1.5" 3-prong flashhider permanently attached |
$260 |
| Spikes Tactical .625 lo-profile gas block $29 + midlength gas tube $16 |
$45 |
| Rise Armament 13.5" MLok handguard |
$190 |
| Ergo MLok rubberized rail cover, set of 4 |
$20 |
| LBE stripped upper receiver $85 + Luth upper parts kit $17 |
$102 |
| Brownells basic Bolt Carrier Group |
$100 |
| Zev Billet ambi charging handle |
$62 |
| Spikes Tactical Spartan stripped lower |
$115 |
| Color fill stripped lower (by individual) |
$30 |
| Rise Armament complete lower parts kit (without trigger-hammer-disconnector) |
$38 |
| ALG 4.5lb Combat Trigger group |
$70 |
| Radian Ambi Safety selector set |
$48 |
| Luth combo: milspec stock tube, buffer, spring, end plate, castle nut |
$50 |
| Magpul K2 grip |
$21 |
| Magpul SL stock |
$60 |
| Trijicon 3x compact ACOG |
$1,407 |
Retail total (further discounts need to be calculated at time of project build) : |
$2,618 |
Faxon flashhider has dissimilar length tines - no ringing upon firing. Trijicon 3x ACOG = Excellence
[ Addition of angled sights shown below ]
UTG angled sights stowed and folded UTG angled sights deployed
Rosco 13.7" barrel + 3.2" Noveske KX5 blast deflector, Riton X1 optic, Fortis Blue parts
Seekins Billet stripped lower, Aero Precision M4E1 upper, Fortis Rev II MLok handguard
| Ballistic 13.7" Gov't profile barrel |
$160 |
| Noveske KX5 blast deflector |
$125 |
| Machining and indexing of KX5 alignment to line up Noveske markings |
$50 |
| Perm. attach Noveske KX5 to 13.7" barrel - required by Federal Law for Title1 regulations |
$100 |
| Luth lo-profile .750 gas block $20 + Bootleg midlength gas tube $16 |
$36 |
| Fortis Rev II 13.8" MLok handguard |
$220 |
| LBE barrel nut [Fortis Rev II does not include barrel nut] |
$12 |
| Aero Precision M4E1 upper receiver |
$135 |
| Radical Firearms basic Bolt Carrier Group |
$130 |
| Radian ambi charging handle |
$90 |
| Seekins Billet stripped lower |
$259 |
| CMC lower parts kit (without trigger-hammer-disconnector) |
$40 |
| Schmid Engineering 5lb Nickel Boron trigger group |
$60 |
| Fortis Blue Ambi Safety selector set |
$70 |
| LBE milspec stock tube, buffer, spring |
$50 |
| Fortis Blue K2 Enhanced QD end plate and lock ring |
$55 |
| Reptilia grip |
$20 |
| LWRC compact stock |
$63 |
| Cerakote finish: Battleworn Tungsten and Armor Black on handguard, upper and lower |
$250 |
| Riton X1 red dot optic |
$200 |
Retail total (further discounts need to be calculated at time of project build) : |
$2,125 |
January 2022: there have been price increases since Jan 1, 2022.
This page has not had any corrections to reflect current pricing.
These are not for sale; pictures and project build prices (2020) for reference
Ballistic 16" Hanson profile barrel, Holosun 512C optic, Fortis and Phase 5 red accents
Spikes Billet lower, Luth upper, Strike Industries Gridlok MLok quick release Lite Rail
| Ballistic 13.7" Gov't profile barrel, includes low profile gas block |
$230 |
| Bootleg midlength gas tube |
$16 |
| Silencerco ASR flash hider |
$92 |
| Strike Industries Gridlok Lite Rail 15" MLok handguard |
$230 |
| Luth stripped upper receiver |
$115 |
| Spikes Tactical forward assist assembly |
$12 |
| Fortis Red Billet Carbon Fiber Dust Cover |
$40 |
| Fail Zero Bolt Carrier Group |
$110 |
| Fortis Hammer Red charging handle |
$90 |
| Spikes Tactical Crusader Billet stripped lower |
$350 |
| CMC lower parts kit (without trigger-hammer-disconnector) |
$40 |
| ALG Nickel Boron trigger group |
$70 |
| Strike Industries extended bolt release/catch |
$17 |
| Phase 5 Red Ambi Safety selector |
$45 |
| LBE milspec stock tube, buffer, spring |
$50 |
| Standard basic milspec stock |
$30 |
| Fortis Red K1 Enhanced QD end plate and lock ring |
$45 |
| Phase 5 Red Mini Handstop MLok |
$35 |
| BCM Mod 2 grip |
$35 |
| Midwest Industries folding front & rear sight set |
$160 |
| Holosun 512C enclosed red circle-dot optic |
$423 |
Retail total (further discounts need to be calculated at time of project build) : |
$2,235 |
Strike Industries handguard throw lever Silencerco flashhider [dissimilar length prongs, no resonace]
Strike Industries Gridlok quick release capability Fortis overbuilt & stout Hammer charging handle
Convenient to get under handguard to clean / adjust gas settings if applicable Phase 5 mini handstop
True function tests of your AR-15s
Tests that may not result in reliable cycling: mixture of steel & brass-cased foreign and US mfg ammo.
I conduct ongoing testing whenever possible, running steel cased foreign ammunition as a priority to find
rifle systems that have better reliablility if having to press that type of ammo into service in an emergency.
Where to mount various lights on rail sections
Surefire Rail Mount Switch momentary + click on/off button mounted on side rail, X300 underneath.
(caution however is the switch pad shown above has tendency to come off rail in rough handling)
Many consumers simply don't encounter rough situations on typical range visits... - link to training -
Better location on short section above & in front of front sight tower. X300 does not block sights.
The X300 can be utilized on numerous popular defensive handguns as well, so there is versatility.
Short rail section in front of sight tower is great for mounting X300s. Ambidextrous thumb actuation easy.
'Either hand' and intuitive 'momentary press forward' switch on X300 makes it a smart choice for DDM4.
If light was mounted at 6 o'clock rail position, illuminating from covered position would require shooter
to be exposed unnecessarily. Above, light hotspot is at ideal location: between sight line and bore line.
Other handheld Surefire lights mounted with rail adaptors can work with wired pressure pads on top rail.
With tape switch on top, far less chance of negligent light discharges. Positive light actuation regardless of
tilt due to aiming requirements or the situation. Hotspot of light remains between sight line and bore line.
Don't limit yourself to rely on vertical grip tape switches. Imagine firing from difficult grounded situations.
Will you require your body and hands to grasp vertical grips the same as when firing from standing?
If tape switch was affixed to vertical grip, how would you actuate light from any horizontal position?
Other common mounting positions of lights are often on left or right side rails; at 3 o'clock or 9 o'clock.
Too much of head/body is revealed as barrel and sights AND hotspot of light must clear position of cover.
Who's to guarantee observation or engaging of threats only from right or left side of a covered position..?
Light's emission notably left of bore and sightline. ^ Ensuring hotspot of light clears horizontal barrier.
Using a Surefire X300 option versus Defender. ^ Illustrating opposite hand for horizontal barrier.
Magpul Illumination Kit ($20) includes short rails, ^ Lights shown are at 9 and 3 o'clock positions,
tape switch housings - made for MOE handguards. notable distance left or right of boreline.
- better answers to switch mounting location and light position on rifle -
Cost efficient setup: Surefire G2X light ($70) and Vltor offset light mount ($60) on a railed handguard.
Thumb / thumb joint of either hand can activate light's tailcap switch - in any emergency firing situation.
Whether upright, angled, horizontal - firer can activate light with less change of negligent light discharge.
This setup allows support hand to be free in grasping handguard and using light at any position needed.
Vertical grips (VG) with tape switches affixed to them make it too easy to trigger lights under stress.
If their use became habit-dependent, any need to remain low or fight from grounded side positions
could be bad news if limiting oneself to vertical grip or only one comfortable firing grasp or stance.
Ideal positioning of light source at 1 o'clock (or 11 o'clock) - centered between sight line and bore.
With the light's hotspot being between sight and bore line, less exposure from cover is required of user.
Any position of firing becomes less compromised by having the light's emission more coaxial with bore.
Light shown here is Surefire M600 Scout ($400) with included tape switch, integral thumbscrew clamp.
Detail of Surefire M16 barrel clamp mount ($60) and Tango Down remote switch pocket rail panel ($20).
Clear advantage is either hand's fingers that grips the handguard can press the tape switch of this setup.
Less chance of negligent light discharges. Regardless of position for gun and user, this is more versatile.
A truly ambidextrous centered location of tape switch: on top. Any angle of rifle required - no problem.
Solid, proven light system like M600+M16 barrel mount+Tango Down switch panel is money well spent
instead of sinking $400 (or more!) into a fancy laser-only apparatus or 2010-era gas piston conversion.
Either thumb / fingers can activate light. Tape switch is in location least likely to be unintentionally pressed
by normal or stressed grasp of handguard portion of rifle, and thumb / fingers do not block sight picture.
Examples of 'red dot' optics and various back-up sights
2010: EoTech and Aimpoint introduced much smaller red dot optics succeeding their earlier models.
Front view EoTech XP and Aimpoint H1/T1 Rear view
2014: sensibly sized red dot optics for serious use have been EoTech XPs and Aimpoint H1/T1s.
Their cost is still high ($500+) for most consumers who will not put them through heavy use.
The most efficient cowitness red dot optics currently are Trijicon RMRs and Holosun Optics.
They are small, lightweight, very power efficient and costs in their price categories are reasonable.
Trijicon RMR Sight - perfection in the world of red dot sights
Trijicon RMR (Rugged Miniature Reflex) red dot sight, this is a 4MOA model with RM34 flattop mount.
Uses common and cheap #2032 battery; lasts months, auto intensity adjusting, never need to turn on or off.
Co-witness thru iron sights or use by itself. Dot is clear and bright, entire unit is small and lightweight.
Many variations and combinations of Trijicon RMR optics and mounts are possible. -RMR pictures-
Reference pictures of A2 upper recievers (fixed carry handle), A3 flattop uppers, and
mounting solutions for sights and optics and appearance of different configurations.
Standard A2 rear sight upper reciever
Trijicon 1.5x 24 compact ACOG
Bare flattop upper with Knight's Mfg 600m folding rear sight
Using fold-down rear sights with various optics in proper mounts allows co-witnessing of sight pictures.
If tube scopes like ACOGS are planned, be sure to get low-profile folding rear sights for your AR flattop.
As above with Trijicon TA01 ACOG scope on TA51 mount
For proven optics with 3~4x magnification and Bindon aiming concept, use Trijicon ACOGs
Pictures of (bulky, heavier-than-they-need-to-be) optic combinations - 2010
Aimpoint M4 sight with LMT rear sight.
Aimpoint shown mounted in-line to co-witness with front and rear sights.
ARMS SIR bi-level rail system
EoTech mounted for co-witnessing of iron sights and red circle/dot recticle - large, heavy, outdated
Full view of ARMS SIR equipped 20" heavy barrel rifle less scope
Another picture with scope mounted in place and backup iron sights folded down
American Defense scope mount and Leupold scope on an AR-15
Quality and economical scope setup: Leupold MK AR 3-9x40 in American Defense throw lever mount
Leupold MK AR scope $375, throw lever mount $185. (this MK AR scope is calibrated for 55gr .223)
Differences between Milspec and Commercial buttstock tubes
Four different receiver extensions (buttstock tubes).
Top to bottom: Colt milspec 4 position, Vltor milspec 5 position, LMT milspec 6 pos, commercial 6 pos.
Commercial tube often longer. The last position is virtually senseless for the understood purpose and use
of defensive carbines. Best honest advantage of milspec tube is shorter length, which shaves an inch -
as long as 'short, no-thick-buttpad-added' sliding stock assembly is utilized (like original Colt buttstocks).
L to R: LMT, Magpul, Colt, Vltor. Last two are noticably short; pic above shows end view Colt, Vltor.
LMT and Magpul stocks have buttpads, Colt and Vltor shown here do not, so they're more compact...
View of buffer retaining pins & various
tubes' forward edges. Some have cuttout or
shoulder lip to accomodate buffer retaining pin.
Receiver in background has the carbine buffer
just visible as it would sit in tube up to the pin.
Angled receiver and tube in picture has Vltor's
milspec tube - it has no cuttout for buffer pin.
|
At the threaded junction and buffer retaining pin:
On left one there's a cuttout just for the buffer retaining pin. Note how close it seats to the pin.
It even engages more threads than the other two.
And, it's one companies' commercial tube.
In middle is a different commercial tube, and
the one on right is milspec tube by Vltor...hmm.
|
Data sheet from Magpul CTR stock packaging; with specs on Milspec vs Commercial tubes.
There are several other variations that have come about thru the years with 5, 6, 7 position stock tubes.
Main concern should be outer diameter of tube to work with sliding buttstock; "milspec" or "comm".
Bottom line: if one wants to have most versatility to change buttstock assemblies, get a milspec tube.
Above: pictures that show how to differentiate Magpul MOE stocks if for Milspec or Commercial tubes.
(other than trying to measure with micrometer or to slide the stock onto the buffer tube in question)
Left and right pictures: Milspec over Commercial. (notice thickness of rubber buttpad on commercial)
* * * * * * * * * *
One can get AR-15s from various manufacturers, small parts from Bushmaster and DPMS, mounts,
optics, stocks, lower recievers, match triggers, grips, tac slings, fold-down sights, and more.
Upper and lower assemblies can be combined with sighting options on the top half to build your AR
and complete your project the way you want. It is only limited by how much one wants to spend.
However, gadetry only goes so far. Buy the best up front and there'll be no need to upgrade later...
but no added "stuff" will make one shoot straighter; there is no magic bullet or magic rifle.
