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Thanks for reminding me to order the mag covers. I store all my mags loaded and for some reason when I bought them through palmetto they came without. Thanks!
Love the video. Just a quick note. The dust covers included with the Gen3 Pmags are just that, dust covers. Despite taking pressure off of the feed lips, Magpul had stated that the purpose of these is not to preserve the condition of the feed lips. They've said you can safely store Gen2 and Gen3 Pmags fully loaded indefinitely without a dust cover or down loading and not suffer deformation of the lips shape or affect their retention abilities. I always thought I needed them for every mag I had stored loaded. But after some research and contacting Magpul, they're just dust/debris covers.
magpul states a lot of things that turned out to be bs. magpul mags are very 2003. not only are the metal feed lips smaller letting the bolt grab the case and feed better, but if they do get bent, they can be adjusted back in place. if you use magpuls, i immediately think less of you.
@@noise117 The entire US military and dozens of private testers and paramilitaries have considered your point, and don't care. Keep paying more for less idc honestly.
Thanks for not putting down the people that really can't afford the high end rifles but still love to shoot. Every other gun channel does and it's so aggravating.
dude expensive guns aren’t even worth it dude nobody should be putting down anybody especially when we all share the same interests and hobbies like this.
@NoMemes4You i mean i love my geissele super duty, but i also love my aero. I have a decked out gss and a decked out aero as well as both stock. The decked aero is no less fun to shoot than the gss.
My small channel and I haven’t needed any gizmo’s I just use my money to buy ammo and then train. I use one sling with quick release and transfer it from gun to gun. It something breaks on your gun then upgrade it then.
@@nobodynoone2500 it probably is in the long run. The thing about PSA is it's a good starter gun to get people interested in the sport or good for people who don't want to wait forever to save up for a gucci gun and want one now. I start with 80% lowers and build everything myself because I think it's fun to do and sometimes it gets more expensive but I have fun and usually learn something along the way.
i agree, i just got my first AR-15 and am really budgeted on how much i can spend so may take me longer to invest into my AR but atleast i can find vids like this that allow us to not have to spend nearly as much to get started
New toys are nice, but just using what you have to practice/train should be considered as well. You'd benefit from a new case of ammo and a trip to a range quite a bit!
I worked on small arms in the Army for 17+ years, My AR is mostly mil spec (barrel, BCG, trigger) except the free float hand guard, upper and lower receiver, they're PTAC (Precision Tactical Arms) out of Crestview Florida, I tuned my own trigger by simply mirror polishing the engagement points, I've never seen a cam pin break however what you said about the indexing sounded legit, the main issues on military M16/4's was worn barrels, extractor springs and unauthorized maintenance ( armorers or soldiers taking trigger group out then putting them back wrong) and worn or broken rings
For anyone wondering, the PSA drop in trigger is definitely underrated, it doesn’t have the shortest reset but they use full power springs. After a quick polish job it’s one of my favorite triggers, way better then other triggers in like it’s price range.
I bought my PSA AR-15 with their "EPT" trigger group and their Nickle Boron BCG. It works extremely well and I don't think I've ever had a single problem.
I have the pa15 and other then a jam because i had 31 in the mag i never have had a malfunction with it. I'm highly impressed with it. Now this is in ideal situations lubed and clean but still a really good weapon
@@nicholascarbonell6817I have a 11.5" PA-15 with a Fostech AR 2 binary trigger in it that I let everyone mag dump and beat up. Still has the factory BCG after thousands of rounds being mag dumped fast as hell.
A little late to the party, but I did want to say. That this was refreshing, no over the top comedy and not delivered like a lecture. I appreciate that you actually offered up 3 upgrades as your title stated. Working on my 6.5 Grendel but similar enough to try your example of success. I have a Surefire war comp and warden along with a Huxwrx muzzle with the Blasphemy can. Also the SD3G trigger what I will try is now the JP silent buff. See if that helps the tune a little. She is not bad by any means but no wear close to your flat shooting lol. At worse case, I can swap all parts to my super duty and hope for the same/similar results. Thanks for the good video content.
Definitely agree on improving the furniture. Unfortunately, unless you’ve handled a lot of ARs or can try out friends’ setups, it can be really hard to know what will feel right to you (more or less vertical, beavertail or no beavertail, what kind of texture, finger grooves or not), so it’s easy to spend a fair bit of money on stuff that isn’t quite right for you. One thing I really appreciate about this channel is you do a really great job at illustrating WHY you like or don’t like a particular product, or it just isn’t a good fit for you.
I bought an airsoft knockoff B5 sopmod stock just to see if the added cheek weld made a difference. It was only 30 bucks on Amazon, and it's actually fairly solid. So I bought a B5 bravo, and now the knockoff lives on my S&W 15-22.
One thing someone can do is just go to the LGS and handle lots of AR15s. Many different manufacturers provide many different brands of furniture, I've seen plenty of Magpul, B5, and BCM furniture, and I've even seen some more unique things like Tango Down grips on used carbines and such. Or, abuse some return policies. Or, there's always Armslist to try and recoup some loss.
Literally just asked the same question about grips this morning to my gun owners group chat. Everyone responded it depends. But I agree that having the why and explanation that he provides is very helpful!
Uh, I personally run Pmags gen 2, for 5.56. For my .300blk and 6.5Creedmoor, I run the see through. Also have a few magazines and drums, that hold over the standard 40 rounds.
I agree @boltfiend; I have the traditional curved version on 2/3 of my setups and a PSA drop in on the other. You can obviously feel the difference between the two types but the Larue is just too sweet.
BAD levers are awesome...I eye balled them for awhile, decided to buy one for a Budget build that was sub $1,000 to see what I can do with a rifle under $1,000. And I can tell you the build is quite nice, and the BAD lever is a great ergo mod. Locking the bolt open manually is super easy with it, shooting at a table makes it super clean to reload. I recommend it definitely if you're making a long ranged rifle meant for hitting farther targets. On a side note...omg I'm buying lithium grease now! Thanks
Over the last few months PSA has put the CMC 2.5lb drop in trigger on sale for 99 bucks .. the PSA drop in is a great option and the larue MBT2 is another great 100 dollar option
Psa makes a lot of great stuff, they practically break my bank account because everytime I get one of their emails I'm like oh man I could really use that! 🤣
I work at a gun shop. I replaced the trigger on my AR10 with a Black Talon tactical AMAZING!!!!! My friend is a master gunsmith and suggested the JP springs for the AR15. My trigger went from 5.5 to 3.25lbs pul and honestly I wish I’d known about those first. I love the drop in but that spring kit made a massive change that I didn’t expect. Good call
The clip for the magpuls are for dust. Its a dust cover. The whole spring tension/feed lips thing is an internet myth. The clip keeps dust out and protect the feed lips from impact (you dropping the mag) the feed lips dont "flex out of spec". They're either gtg, or broken. Also, PLEASE checkout LaRue's MBT-2 trigger. It will be your favorite trigger under $100, it won't disappoint.
@jessiehubble1973 please show me evidence where storing the mags jammed with or without the clip on the top has had any effect on the feed lips. I'll wait.
I think the lip deforming are older beginning versions of non metal mags or badly manufactured mags. A pmag gen 3 even gen two should not deform. Agree with Larue, own a lot of Geissele and both versions of Larue and the Larue is cheeper yet better break than the pricy Geissele triggers.
@@immikeurnotyep. I’ve have pmag gen 3’s stored full up for years (3-4 at least). To test, I found the box that had all my covers and they still go on and off easily. There is no deformation whatsoever.
The larue MBT deserves a spot here, especially the flat face. Its similar to the SD-E but with a little less crisp break and not as short of a reset. Also the FCD bolt release is the bomb
Actually, they’ve done longevity tests on the Pmags and determined that they WILL not deform when stored loaded. Magpul made a statement that the removable covers are simply for dust and debris. There’s quite a few videos and articles about it. I personally have also left all my mags loaded and over the last two decades I haven’t had any magazine malfunctions that weren’t due to impact damage. I do like the translucent mags better than just having a window though.
Seconded. The spring does not have enough force to deflect that polymer in that feed lip profile and thickness of those magazines. It's fun lore that engineers laugh about.
I’m a disabled veteran and could only afford a Bushmaster but it’s never failed to fire and I’ve had no other problems. I did put a Rise drop in trigger in it and a EOTECH sight on it.I don’t need all the bells and whistles on it just to show off.
@@ericsfishingadventures4433 the bearing surfaces of the hammer and trigger. Where they slide on each other. Just a metal polishing compound and something to buff with. A dremel with buffing wheel is ideal but it can be done by hand too. Goal is not to remove metal just polish to a mirror finish.
Helpful tip for those who don’t know. Arisaka makes a tailcap adapter for the Streamlights so you can use Surefire tailcaps and pressure pads. This also fixes the issue with recoil affecting the battery compartment which causes flickering/light shutting off. At least in my experience it makes them almost as good as Surefire if not as good for less than half the price.
My choice of upgrades that can be had under 100 bucks, not in total, but for each. 1) quality magazines- Magpul, DuraMag 2) quality foregrip/angled grip/ hand stop 3) bipod (magpul bipods can be had for 70 bucks) 4) quality safety selector 5) ambidextrous Charging handle 6) B5 Sopmod stock 7) B5 pistol grip 8) some sort of Heat guard or shield
I prefer BCM over B5 for stocks, they're the closest thing I've found to a solid stock. The B5 is nice, but still has a little wiggle, both BCM & B5 have the best cheek welds imo.
lefty with phase 5 bad lever. it definately speeds the bolt drop on mag changes as there is nothing on the right side of the gun to do this on the stock AR.
Regarding the ambi safety. I picked one up the other day that is a GAME CHANGER. It is not shorter on the "on hand side", but tapers down to a lower profile than the off hand side, so when going to the fire position with the thumb, it simply slides right under your trigger finger. It makes going to and from fire so effortless. As long as you're sliding your trigger finger along the surface of the lower, when going back to safe, you will catch it every time. It is the BEST upgrade that I have made to my AR. Unfortunately, it was one of those things that the gun shop had in a small zip lock bag in the display case and had no brand name on it.
I bought two AR Stoner enhanced trigger group and learned how to polish the sear surfaces. It helps a lot. Not hard to do. Dremel tool, polishing compound, and a fine stone. Go to youtube to see how. Still mill spec but smoother. A good sling is worthwhile. Blue force. Thanks for this good info. I do have a JP buffer spring very nice but yeah pricey.
For the slings, I really like the warrior poet supply slings. They have a kinda stiff bungee at the back that can either give you some extra mobility or really help to lock the rifle into a stable shooting position depending on how you use it. It's strong enough that you don't have to worry about the rifle bouncing around at all. Up front, they have two different options: either a quick release buckle or a quick-adjust pull tab.
hmm...les'see - *Trigger* = Velocity any of 'em that are #3.5 - *Bolt Carrier Group* = Sharp's - *Grip* = LaRue Coarse - *Sling* = Standard Manufacturing or Warrior Poet or Saavy Sniper - *Charging Handles* = Radian or POF - *Muzzle Comp/Brake* = SJC or Odin Works or Lantac or VG6 Gamma - *Mags* = Lancer
I’ve been researching captured buffer systems cause I hate the spring noises on my AR 15. Armaspec has a “Stealth Recoil Spring” (SRS) that’s about 65$ and a “Sound Mitigation Buffer” (SMB) for about 40$. There aren’t many in depth youtube videos about them and it could be worthwhile to check out. Love the content!! ❤
I've never had a p mag come with the top cover. Gen 2 or 3 bought brand new. According to my friends in the military (active and retired) they're there to keep dust and debris out. I could be wrong they could be wrong. Probably best to just to consult magpul about that. But I do like the ones with the metal feed lips on them. Might have to pick some up.
@@TacticalToolbox They definitely relieve pressure on the feed lips, but I've seen more than a few people do tests of mags which have been loaded for 10 years or more without the retainer and they function fine. Is it smart to leave them loaded that long? Probably not... but it's totally doable. My "primary" magazines for self defense loads get replaced every 5ish years anyway.
In the beginning, you show a clip of you shooting your AR. Looks 3:59 to me that your shoulder is “scrunched up.” Looks like you should put on a longer adjustable stock so your length of pull is more natural. I know you are the expert and know way more than me but I have been shooting for 60 years.
As a left handed person I disagree, extended bolt catches suck. The bad lever is the only solution I’ve found that works. All I have to do is insert mag, and engage the bad lever with my thumb before I let go of the magazine. People that are having NDs because of bad levers, are right handed people putting their index finger in the trigger guard.
One of my favorite upgrades and by far the cheapest you can possibly make to a forged AR is an Accu-Wedge. It completely takes out the annoying "slop" between your upper and lower receiver for...wait for it...$1.97! I will also add that while he does not like the BAD lever, I run them on any AR that is not fully Ambi and have zero issues with them. I highly recommend them to anyone who does not have a fully ambi lower, train with them, and just see if it works for you. If it does not, take it off. It is not an expensive item.
The trigger I run is a ALG QMS. It's made by Geissele Automatics (ALG is his wife's initials, if I recall), and the QMS means "Quality Mil-Spec." It's basically your mil-spec FCG made smoother and with better springs, removing the gritty feel of a cheap mil-spec FCG. Regarding how the trigger feels, I'll put it like this: I'm not thinking about my trigger one way or the other while shooting. It does what it's supposed to without distracting you, and I'd call that a win. I bought mine for about $40 in 2019, but last I saw, Bidenomics has it up to something like $55-$60 now. I'd still highly recommend it. It's been serving me well.
love my b5 grips i put them on everything the non beaver tail version for my short fingers puts me at the perfect spot, and the angle/grip provided is unmatched imo
Another great option for a trigger in this price point is the Aimsurplus SSTAT. It is a 3.5lb cassette drop in. Super solid available in both flat and curved trigger and available in traditional black, NiB, and a TiN coating.
My wife and I have had our S&W Sport II since 2020. She bought it at Scheels. I've upgraded some things. Some for function, some for FDE color. It's never had a malfunction. Now, I'm, maybe, going to upgrade the trigger, going to upgrade buffer spring. Those are the only 2 things. Thoughts??
I’m a lefty and a redi-mag bad lever has significantly improved my ability to manipulate the bolt release. This in conjunction with a Norgon mag release which turns my standard release into ambi has given me the ability to operate a standard rifle just as fast as a righty and in many instances faster since the bolt release lever is right where my thumb is the second the mag is fully seated. When mags empty and BCG locks back, I use left index to drop mag, right hand to insert new one, and with my right thumb as I’m inserting the new mag, I swipe the redimag lever to drop the bolt. I now run both of these products of ever one of my rifles and I think the bad lever has made the single biggest improvement to me as a lefty.
I have thirteen AR's now and these are the identical things I put on all of them, the B5 Bravo stock, a LaRue MBT-2S trigger, and a Magpul MOE K2+ grip. I do this not only because I really like that stuff, but so the ergonomics of all thirteen stay the same. For magazines I also use nothing but the Lancer mags.
23:44 I have always done this with my AR and have never learned it from anyone! It just felt right to me to store it that way!😅 its awesome to see that my first build I had done had most of this list done to it! I would also recommend anti walking trigger pins to start with!😅
@Cavdragoneb12 That's not true. I don't have a cartridge style trigger, and they walked out on me twice, and I had to break down and reset my trigger. Then I spent $15 and never needed to do it again!
As others have mentioned, the LaRue MBT is stellar and punches well above it's price point. It's also nice that it comes with a stiffer trigger spring so anyone with a duty requirement can still use it, however according to my finger scale it pulls under the advertised 6lbs it's supposed to be. Unfortunately these have recently been inflated. They are no longer $89, they're $115. They are still worth the money, but harder to argue for a "poverty pony." Full-size ambi safeties have never bothered me. My natural hand position isn't really choked up high on the grip, so I don't have any issues with the safety lever hitting my hand. Lucky me, I can get an ambi safety for $20. I love BCM pistol grips and stocks, but I dislike their rail panels and rail grips. I like Magpul rail accessories but I dislike Magpul pistol grips and stocks. lol
Great Intel; thanks for sharing. If you have a bit of rattle use some electrical tape on the top part of buffer tube along where the stock slides. You can also use different thickness sizes of bowling tape used for balling ball thumb holes. You can layer it as needed. You can also use the tape at the bottom of the buffer tube, making sure to place a hole or slit at the point in which the stock locks into the adjustment holes of the buffer tube.
PDQ bolt catch/release is hands down the best affordable upgrade for the AR, PERIOD! I used the Phase5 BAD lever on my first build, and it’s cool, but even with small girl hands, it worried me. The next build I got the PDQ ambi bolt catch/release, and I LOVE IT! I installed it myself, which isn’t hard, as long as ur careful and a “type A”, everything has to be perfect type person! If you’re not, hire someone else to install it, as one wrong move u will ruin your lower! Get one! U will love it! ❤
Nevermind I missed that part of the video lol. I use the Lucas oil and gun grease heck pretty much everything they make is a great product. I've been using their gun grease on the buffer assembly so I'll try the white lithium and see if I noticed any difference
I bought my AR in 2017 and slowly upgraded it over the last few years. I finally finished the last part a week ago and it’s a work of art, haha. The last thing I am considering is a different muzzle, but I need to research it.
One trick I've found for loose stocks is to out a piece of electrical tape along the length of your buffer tube to help take up a bit of space. Usually 1 or 2 straps adds just enough fill that it isn't tough to move but wiggles far less.
Subscribed! Got out of the Marines last year and that was my biggest introduction into firearms outside of going on hunting trips every once in awhile with friends before (only twice). Just recently got some good deals following 4th of July and my gun collection is already at 4 (1 handgun, 1 shotgun, 1 AR-15, 1 .308 bolt action). I got what I believe the community calls "poor man" rifles with the bolt and AR-15 (Savage Arms Axis II and Unbranded AR) as I want to get into shooting now that I'm out and see what I fancy then go up in tier from there. Your video was very concise and clear that even someone with only basic knowledge could understand. Thank you!
I am a lefty that uses a bad lever, I have tried extended bolt catches like the Geiselle, and the bad lever is the best. I can use my trigger finger to push in the vertical portion on the left side of the gun to lock the bolt back super easy and the portion that sticks out on the right side is perfect to index with my thumb when inserting a mag (with my right hand) during a reload. As far as dropping the bolt with my left hand, it serves as more surface area for my left pointer finger to reach than a mil-spec paddle.
Phase 5 has a bad lever that is bolt on slimmer and slicker I love it! It even fits a lot of billet uppers with a lot of shrouding around the battery assist device.
Exactly, As soon as he said that I thought "Uh, that's NOT what those are for...". Magpul started shipping these little covers to our units who was using some of their mags when soldiers discovered how easily sand can get into ANY mag and Magpul was quick to develop and send out these little covers. In fact when they first handed them out to our guys in the field the supply guys even referred to them as "Sand Covers" and they've evolved over time from those first ones they gave us back then.
27:42 the feed lips thing is a myth. Magpul says the cover thing is meant to keep out dust/debris and has nothing to do with flips flexing/degrading over time.
No it's not a myth at all....just watched a video a week ago where the email from Magpul was shown, they completely acknowledged that for all PMAGS up until the most recent version it is an issue and they do recommend using the cover, but in the last version they've reinforced the plastic because the mags were breaking.
With the MagPul slings, which I also use. I just flat coil the sling and put an elastic band on it to take up the slack. Just pull on it and the sling is uncoiled when the elastic band slips off.
did not think flash hiders made a big difference but upgraded from A2 which somewhat overdrives the muzzle down and now have a 4 prong and it pushes straight back and lets me focus more on just using my support hand to control the muzzle instead of the somewhat unpredictable push downward. KAK industries has a nice 4 prong which is around $45 and set up with a pin hole if you want to do a 13.9 build, has worked good but only thing that sucks with the 3 and 4 prong devices is they ping like a tuning fork otherwise been really nice.
Never change the trigger and hammer springs, they make the trigger pull lighter because the springs aren’t full powered springs and you will have light primer strikes on M855 and m193 ammo. I know the PSA hammer spring is a full power spring and you’ll never have light primer strikes
So far I've switched out my charging handle which I absolutely love! I never thought I could get excited by a charging handle but yet here we are. I also switched out my hand guards because my old ones were nothing but key mod and got some forward grips. Loving every minute of it! I think I might do my trigger next!
The LWRC UCIW Ultra Compact stock requires some modification; not just a stock, it's a kit that includes the special receiver extension (buffer tube) that enables it to be so short, the plate, castle nut, plus proprietary buffer and spring. It's close to $150. Great choice if you're building an AR from scratch and you want as short a rifle as possible without going SBR, but if you've already built one as mil spec, you've got a little rebuilding to do. Note that LWRC also makes a compact stock, but it won't shorten your length of pull the way the Ultra Compact kit does, it just slides onto your mil spec receiver extension like any other stock does.
A Poverty Pony(definitely had to edit that....lmao) will be my first AR purchase haha. Haven't handled a rifle since getting out the military. I need a toy to get familiar with again!
@@MoveInSilence2444 i love my raptor defense ar15, im 18 and still a beginner and im able to control it with absolute ease. check out my page i js uploaded a short on it 🕺
I'm with you on the suppressor thing! I am 50yrs old this year and have owned and shot ARs since before I joined the Army in 95'. But I have not and WILL not buy a suppressor while the government forces us to pay an extra tax, put your name on ANOTHER list and make us do a more extensive background check! Along with an average waiting period of a YEAR before you can pick up and use it! I believe that they will be removed off the NFA, or the NFA will completely go away with the newest SCOTUS ruling and my patience will be rewarded! Then I will build my own! Or get an 80% kit that we all know will start hitting the market!
I have two of the AA piston kits. They do work great, and keep the bolt area cleaner. But check out the hand grip and barrel nut. certain ones are a problem and have to be fitted for free slide.
LOVE that review! I'm the one that tears things down past the manufacture recommendations, so that's what I did with the trigger on my AR. It's about 3.5 to 4 pounds now. Low profile gas block. free float rail, Magpul Funiture. It started as a DPMS Panther, but is totally different now. I would put it up against any of your so much more expense rifles dollar for dollar any day.
Black t-shirt blends into the background and doesn’t make the subject gun move forward. A neutral color helps the gun remain defined and available for reference. Great videos!
I run " Ergo Sure Grip / gen 1 & 2 " Rubber pistol grips $ 21 , Mission First Tactical Engage Polymer pistol grips $ 20 , Advanced Technology 3 position Vertical Forend Grip ( really like em - their on All my ARs ) $24 , and Adaptive Tactical EX performance Collapsible AR Buttstock ... You won't be Sorry...!! Also really like the Archangel AR buttstock $50
I own 31 guns ..Aks ,SWMag500 shotguns pistols...never owned a AR-15 after carrying one in Afghanistan an having one attached to me for 4 years I never wanted one again I went AK ...I think it's time I buy a AR15. Or three 😂
I did probably 20 builds in last 10-12 years, and also widdled it down to 2 ARs and 1 AR10. 1 AR is a superlative arms piston centered and is lighter, more compact than most 3 gun rifles.
I highly recommend the ball bearing roller cam pin, it’s an excellent upgrade and lessens wear and tear on your upper and makes your action a lot smoother. I know a couple companies that make them. I think POF and maybe Lantac are the two companies. I believe the part itself is quite a bit under $100 or you can buy the whole bcg but that’s definitely over $100.
One quick comment about the feed lips thing at the end of the video is that magpul has officially stated that the cover does not actually reduce wear on the feed lips and is just a dust cover, and says it is perfectly fine to store the mag with or without it however it does keep dust and debris from getting into the magazine. I think it is a little of column A a little bit of column B but I do know that pmags will last a very long time loaded without that cover on them.
I really like your frank and honest reviews. I also like the deals you share and what you can expect from them. Very helpful. The parts list is an added plus.
just bought my first ar-15, a S&W M&P 15 for a decent price was looking around the web to find stocks, grips and other gear i want to add to my base gun but got confused but stumbled upon this video and now im pretty sure what to add to help better myself and feel more comfortable holding and firing my rifle
Just found your channel and immediately subscribed. Very informative. Lots of good information for someone like me who was never in the military, but still has an AR-15 (or several) for home defense and range time. With all of your recommendations backed up by good reasons why you choose those items, I'll definitely be putting some of this upgrades on my shopping list. Thanks!
Lefty here, just throwing it out there, I train with the magpul bad lever on my gun and it makes things easier so I don't remove my hand away from the trigger. I can make fast reloads because I will push the lever with my right hand thumb after inserting the magazine
I am happy to say that I have finally built my first AR-15, it was easier than I thought it would be and exciting seeing it come to life. Had it not been for this page I think I may not have ever made it. On to the next one.
I've got 4 y/o pmags gen 2's that have been loaded for three years plus and no problems whatsoever with spreading feed lips, I also load 1 and 27 ( first round is a tracer and number 27 is a tracer)
It makes me feel good to see that my rifle came stock with some of these items! I bought the Safelite at the same time that I bought my rifle and my dealer was kind enough to install it for me. One thing I think is worth buying, if it doesn’t already come with your rifle is mechanical sights. As far as I know, you can pick up a set for under $100.
And a SQUARE STEEL cam pin runs in an aluminum upper. Not smart. Patriot Ordinance Factory has a roller cam pin. Never reduce your hammer spring. Bravo Company Mod 0 if you think it's smarter to fire prone. Best thing you can put on any AR is a Patriot Ordinance buffer tube with a lip to keep your BCG in line with the tube. You'll love inline movement of everything. A JP Enterprises Flash Hider does exactly that and does it fantastically well. Best ambi safety I've found was from JoeBob's Outfitters for $15. Best shipping ever. My AR-10 likes Patriot's Archangel charging handle. A JP polished buffer spring does great. The silent captured spring works great with the POF buffer tube and you can modify your buffer detent to eliminate a castle nut.
You can clean rubber grips and prolong their grip by wiping then down with a technical grade alcohol wipe. It takes the oil off the surface without breaking the grips down excessively.
I have an LWRC, and ended up getting a Geisele SSA EX. It was more than $100 but really like how it responds compared to the stock trigger. I also bought the sling from Flatline Fiberco which is the original sling that Tier 1 put their logo on. I then added a Ultradyne Apollo Max compensator wch really reduced rifle rise and the slight recoil to stay on target.
I have a Delta team tactical trigger and had almost no issues with it. It has a super clean break, and is adjustable down to 2.5 lbs I believe. The only issue I have had is there is a set screw you can tighten to reduce take-up to almost nothing and if you tighten it too far it will cause a hammer drop when the bcg comes forward. I discovered this hand cycling the action after install so luckily no range action runaway rifle lol
I changed my trigger and it was best decision. I installed a James Madison tactical black ops evo trigger. It was 99 dollars and it’s so nice. 3.5-4lbs and almost no reset it’s so fast.
I have had the same Olympic Arms Car-15 since 2008 with the same bolt etc etc and cam pin and it’s been taken apart a trillion times and never ever heard of even going through the Colt AR armorers course of a cam pin breaking…ever.
I hope you guys are doing Awesome!
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Heck yeah broski! Great content as always. Hope all is well.
Thanks for reminding me to order the mag covers. I store all my mags loaded and for some reason when I bought them through palmetto they came without. Thanks!
You said the hipster trigger is $30 to $40 but when I used the link u provided it shows a price of $99. So that's a big difference.
Gotta bunch of Eggo waffle ads on your video. hope your getting revenue.
''550 paracord trigger job'' for those who have mil-spec triggers
Love the video. Just a quick note. The dust covers included with the Gen3 Pmags are just that, dust covers. Despite taking pressure off of the feed lips, Magpul had stated that the purpose of these is not to preserve the condition of the feed lips. They've said you can safely store Gen2 and Gen3 Pmags fully loaded indefinitely without a dust cover or down loading and not suffer deformation of the lips shape or affect their retention abilities. I always thought I needed them for every mag I had stored loaded. But after some research and contacting Magpul, they're just dust/debris covers.
all of my gen 2 pmags have deformed feed lips after storing loaded. i might go to metal mags ngl
I spent a lot of money buying lots of dust covers because I thought my loaded magazines (I have LOTS) would self-destruct without them. Silly me.
magpul states a lot of things that turned out to be bs. magpul mags are very 2003. not only are the metal feed lips smaller letting the bolt grab the case and feed better, but if they do get bent, they can be adjusted back in place. if you use magpuls, i immediately think less of you.
@@noise117 The entire US military and dozens of private testers and paramilitaries have considered your point, and don't care. Keep paying more for less idc honestly.
@@noise117 I have hundreds of dollars in brand new Magul P-mags. I am going to live with them.
Thanks for not putting down the people that really can't afford the high end rifles but still love to shoot. Every other gun channel does and it's so aggravating.
A budget gun will kill the same as a high price name brand gun . shoot your gun and find any problems and fix or adjust it
@@davidgosnell5901savage enters the chat
dude expensive guns aren’t even worth it dude nobody should be putting down anybody especially when we all share the same interests and hobbies like this.
@NoMemes4You i mean i love my geissele super duty, but i also love my aero. I have a decked out gss and a decked out aero as well as both stock. The decked aero is no less fun to shoot than the gss.
AMEN
I love these types of videos. Not all of us can afford expensive guns. A lot of the big channels seem to have forgotten that.
My small channel and I haven’t needed any gizmo’s I just use my money to buy ammo and then train. I use one sling with quick release and transfer it from gun to gun. It something breaks on your gun then upgrade it then.
@@GuneTools I treat my gun like my woman. She may not need big boobs and a tiny waist but it's much more fun when they do.
Cheaper to buy a 'Gucci' rifle than to upgrade your PSA to similar standards. Find out the hard way if you want, most of us have.
@@nobodynoone2500 it probably is in the long run. The thing about PSA is it's a good starter gun to get people interested in the sport or good for people who don't want to wait forever to save up for a gucci gun and want one now. I start with 80% lowers and build everything myself because I think it's fun to do and sometimes it gets more expensive but I have fun and usually learn something along the way.
i agree, i just got my first AR-15 and am really budgeted on how much i can spend so may take me longer to invest into my AR but atleast i can find vids like this that allow us to not have to spend nearly as much to get started
Absolutely the *BEST* information on AR-15.
Wow, thanks man!
here to ruin my bank account......again...
Like the rest of us… again and again. 😂
New toys are nice, but just using what you have to practice/train should be considered as well. You'd benefit from a new case of ammo and a trip to a range quite a bit!
Truth... lol
Amen
The struggle is real man
I worked on small arms in the Army for 17+ years, My AR is mostly mil spec (barrel, BCG, trigger) except the free float hand guard, upper and lower receiver, they're PTAC (Precision Tactical Arms) out of Crestview Florida, I tuned my own trigger by simply mirror polishing the engagement points, I've never seen a cam pin break however what you said about the indexing sounded legit, the main issues on military M16/4's was worn barrels, extractor springs and unauthorized maintenance ( armorers or soldiers taking trigger group out then putting them back wrong) and worn or broken rings
For anyone wondering, the PSA drop in trigger is definitely underrated, it doesn’t have the shortest reset but they use full power springs. After a quick polish job it’s one of my favorite triggers, way better then other triggers in like it’s price range.
Agreed 💯
thank you for reassuring me ive been on the fence on getting one. i love psa guns they are highly underrated IMO.
@@LuisCruz-pm2wy notice it's not got a checkmark and highlighted name. That means it's not the actual video uploader
Have the PSA in all 5 of mine. Less than $80
Do the PSA drop ins work with all lowers, or only PSA?
I bought my PSA AR-15 with their "EPT" trigger group and their Nickle Boron BCG. It works extremely well and I don't think I've ever had a single problem.
Yep their EPT trigger is a great budget option. I have several of them and they work great. Much better than milspec.
I have the pa15 and other then a jam because i had 31 in the mag i never have had a malfunction with it. I'm highly impressed with it. Now this is in ideal situations lubed and clean but still a really good weapon
@@nicholascarbonell6817I have a 11.5" PA-15 with a Fostech AR 2 binary trigger in it that I let everyone mag dump and beat up. Still has the factory BCG after thousands of rounds being mag dumped fast as hell.
Keep one mag with its lips spread. They make excellent live fire malfunction drills.
I believe the correct term is "labia."
Nice. @@haywoodjablome44
I've got a mag for malfunction clearance drills. It reliably causes bolt overrides and double feeds.
@@poisonouslead85 that's one evil mag.
Always keep the lips spread for drilling
A little late to the party, but I did want to say. That this was refreshing, no over the top comedy and not delivered like a lecture. I appreciate that you actually offered up 3 upgrades as your title stated. Working on my 6.5 Grendel but similar enough to try your example of success. I have a Surefire war comp and warden along with a Huxwrx muzzle with the Blasphemy can. Also the SD3G trigger what I will try is now the JP silent buff. See if that helps the tune a little. She is not bad by any means but no wear close to your flat shooting lol. At worse case, I can swap all parts to my super duty and hope for the same/similar results. Thanks for the good video content.
Definitely agree on improving the furniture. Unfortunately, unless you’ve handled a lot of ARs or can try out friends’ setups, it can be really hard to know what will feel right to you (more or less vertical, beavertail or no beavertail, what kind of texture, finger grooves or not), so it’s easy to spend a fair bit of money on stuff that isn’t quite right for you.
One thing I really appreciate about this channel is you do a really great job at illustrating WHY you like or don’t like a particular product, or it just isn’t a good fit for you.
I bought an airsoft knockoff B5 sopmod stock just to see if the added cheek weld made a difference. It was only 30 bucks on Amazon, and it's actually fairly solid. So I bought a B5 bravo, and now the knockoff lives on my S&W 15-22.
One thing someone can do is just go to the LGS and handle lots of AR15s. Many different manufacturers provide many different brands of furniture, I've seen plenty of Magpul, B5, and BCM furniture, and I've even seen some more unique things like Tango Down grips on used carbines and such.
Or, abuse some return policies.
Or, there's always Armslist to try and recoup some loss.
The answer is always magpul k2 and b5 sopmod
Literally just asked the same question about grips this morning to my gun owners group chat. Everyone responded it depends.
But I agree that having the why and explanation that he provides is very helpful!
Uh, I personally run Pmags gen 2, for 5.56. For my .300blk and 6.5Creedmoor, I run the see through. Also have a few magazines and drums, that hold over the standard 40 rounds.
LaRue MBT is definitely worth a mention for the cost. I recommend them to anyone looking for a trigger under $100.
The trigger that trolls Geissele
I agree @boltfiend; I have the traditional curved version on 2/3 of my setups and a PSA drop in on the other. You can obviously feel the difference between the two types but the Larue is just too sweet.
Probably the BEST trigger at that price point
I haven't tried it yet, But I'll definitely get one
You can pick them up on sale for $89. Well worth the money
BAD levers are awesome...I eye balled them for awhile, decided to buy one for a Budget build that was sub $1,000 to see what I can do with a rifle under $1,000. And I can tell you the build is quite nice, and the BAD lever is a great ergo mod. Locking the bolt open manually is super easy with it, shooting at a table makes it super clean to reload. I recommend it definitely if you're making a long ranged rifle meant for hitting farther targets.
On a side note...omg I'm buying lithium grease now! Thanks
Over the last few months PSA has put the CMC 2.5lb drop in trigger on sale for 99 bucks .. the PSA drop in is a great option and the larue MBT2 is another great 100 dollar option
Psa makes a lot of great stuff, they practically break my bank account because everytime I get one of their emails I'm like oh man I could really use that! 🤣
@@ericsfishingadventures4433 you ain’t wrong… I have spent over 2 grand in the last month 😂
@@nataliedeyton6829 yeah their dang sales get me everytime! 🤣
''550 paracord trigger job'' for those who are still running a mil-spec trigger.
La rue trigger is good as hell
I work at a gun shop. I replaced the trigger on my AR10 with a Black Talon tactical AMAZING!!!!! My friend is a master gunsmith and suggested the JP springs for the AR15. My trigger went from 5.5 to 3.25lbs pul and honestly I wish I’d known about those first. I love the drop in but that spring kit made a massive change that I didn’t expect. Good call
The clip for the magpuls are for dust. Its a dust cover. The whole spring tension/feed lips thing is an internet myth. The clip keeps dust out and protect the feed lips from impact (you dropping the mag) the feed lips dont "flex out of spec". They're either gtg, or broken.
Also, PLEASE checkout LaRue's MBT-2 trigger. It will be your favorite trigger under $100, it won't disappoint.
Lots of peoples experience says otherwise. Those covers are not just dust covers. They actually push the rounds down off of the feed lips.
@jessiehubble1973 please show me evidence where storing the mags jammed with or without the clip on the top has had any effect on the feed lips. I'll wait.
@@paladin556 I store my PMags loaded and threw the covers out years ago. No deformation of the feed lips on any of them.
The covers are useless.
I think the lip deforming are older beginning versions of non metal mags or badly manufactured mags. A pmag gen 3 even gen two should not deform. Agree with Larue, own a lot of Geissele and both versions of Larue and the Larue is cheeper yet better break than the pricy Geissele triggers.
@@immikeurnotyep. I’ve have pmag gen 3’s stored full up for years (3-4 at least). To test, I found the box that had all my covers and they still go on and off easily. There is no deformation whatsoever.
The larue MBT deserves a spot here, especially the flat face. Its similar to the SD-E but with a little less crisp break and not as short of a reset. Also the FCD bolt release is the bomb
Hooray , you won a prize!💰
Actually, they’ve done longevity tests on the Pmags and determined that they WILL not deform when stored loaded. Magpul made a statement that the removable covers are simply for dust and debris. There’s quite a few videos and articles about it. I personally have also left all my mags loaded and over the last two decades I haven’t had any magazine malfunctions that weren’t due to impact damage. I do like the translucent mags better than just having a window though.
Yup
Seconded. The spring does not have enough force to deflect that polymer in that feed lip profile and thickness of those magazines. It's fun lore that engineers laugh about.
Got to agree. Have original Pmags that have always been loaded and haven't had the lips spread yet.
@@chkmcgraw Just like a reluctant prom date.
@@chrisaguirre7018 🤣👍🏻
I’m a disabled veteran and could only afford a Bushmaster but it’s never failed to fire and I’ve had no other problems. I did put a Rise drop in trigger in it and a EOTECH sight on it.I don’t need all the bells and whistles on it just to show off.
Aftermarket springs and polishing the bearing surfaces is a cheap good upgrade. Just springs helps, polishing makes for a smoother pull.
Is it possible to polish the springs yourself? I'll have to look into it. You're talking about the trigger group springs right?
@@ericsfishingadventures4433 the bearing surfaces of the hammer and trigger. Where they slide on each other. Just a metal polishing compound and something to buff with. A dremel with buffing wheel is ideal but it can be done by hand too. Goal is not to remove metal just polish to a mirror finish.
Helpful tip for those who don’t know. Arisaka makes a tailcap adapter for the Streamlights so you can use Surefire tailcaps and pressure pads. This also fixes the issue with recoil affecting the battery compartment which causes flickering/light shutting off. At least in my experience it makes them almost as good as Surefire if not as good for less than half the price.
My choice of upgrades that can be had under 100 bucks, not in total, but for each.
1) quality magazines- Magpul, DuraMag
2) quality foregrip/angled grip/ hand stop
3) bipod (magpul bipods can be had for 70 bucks)
4) quality safety selector
5) ambidextrous Charging handle
6) B5 Sopmod stock
7) B5 pistol grip
8) some sort of Heat guard or shield
Lancer mags are also a good choice, and I got some MFT mags, so far they seem to be just as good as any from magpul and around $11 vs $14+ for Magpul.
@@chrisjosekuehllancer are junk. Magpul or surefeed are good to go
I prefer BCM over B5 for stocks, they're the closest thing I've found to a solid stock. The B5 is nice, but still has a little wiggle, both BCM & B5 have the best cheek welds imo.
@@chizorama I use BCM on my PWS, I do like them as well. I find the b5 is more comfortable however, BCM is sturdier though you’re not wrong.
lefty with phase 5 bad lever. it definately speeds the bolt drop on mag changes as there is nothing on the right side of the gun to do this on the stock AR.
Regarding the ambi safety. I picked one up the other day that is a GAME CHANGER. It is not shorter on the "on hand side", but tapers down to a lower profile than the off hand side, so when going to the fire position with the thumb, it simply slides right under your trigger finger. It makes going to and from fire so effortless. As long as you're sliding your trigger finger along the surface of the lower, when going back to safe, you will catch it every time. It is the BEST upgrade that I have made to my AR. Unfortunately, it was one of those things that the gun shop had in a small zip lock bag in the display case and had no brand name on it.
I bought two AR Stoner enhanced trigger group and learned how to polish the sear surfaces. It helps a lot. Not hard to do. Dremel tool, polishing compound, and a fine stone. Go to youtube to see how. Still mill spec but smoother. A good sling is worthwhile. Blue force. Thanks for this good info. I do have a JP buffer spring very nice but yeah pricey.
For the slings, I really like the warrior poet supply slings. They have a kinda stiff bungee at the back that can either give you some extra mobility or really help to lock the rifle into a stable shooting position depending on how you use it. It's strong enough that you don't have to worry about the rifle bouncing around at all. Up front, they have two different options: either a quick release buckle or a quick-adjust pull tab.
I came to the comments to say this. I have the magpul, blueforce, and WPS sling. By far, the WPS is my favorite.
Wouldn’t buy anything from that clown. He’s about as fake as it gets. Not his service mind you. His “character” on his channel.
hmm...les'see - *Trigger* = Velocity any of 'em that are #3.5 - *Bolt Carrier Group* = Sharp's - *Grip* = LaRue Coarse - *Sling* = Standard Manufacturing or Warrior Poet or Saavy Sniper - *Charging Handles* = Radian or POF - *Muzzle Comp/Brake* = SJC or Odin Works or Lantac or VG6 Gamma - *Mags* = Lancer
My new favorite trigger is the Larue Tactical MBT. It's a 2 stage with 4.5lb pull & it costs under $100.
I’ve been researching captured buffer systems cause I hate the spring noises on my AR 15. Armaspec has a “Stealth Recoil Spring” (SRS) that’s about 65$ and a “Sound Mitigation Buffer” (SMB) for about 40$. There aren’t many in depth youtube videos about them and it could be worthwhile to check out. Love the content!! ❤
I've never had a p mag come with the top cover. Gen 2 or 3 bought brand new. According to my friends in the military (active and retired) they're there to keep dust and debris out. I could be wrong they could be wrong. Probably best to just to consult magpul about that. But I do like the ones with the metal feed lips on them. Might have to pick some up.
actually some other channel called mag pul and confirmed that they only keep the dust out, you can store them how ever you want, loaded or not
@@Kek2cati that's what I thought heard I just wasn't sure if I was misremembering what I've heard and been told. Thank you!
Perhaps I heard incorrectly, my apologies
@@TacticalToolbox no apologies needed I heard some of the same things you were talking about
@@TacticalToolbox They definitely relieve pressure on the feed lips, but I've seen more than a few people do tests of mags which have been loaded for 10 years or more without the retainer and they function fine. Is it smart to leave them loaded that long? Probably not... but it's totally doable. My "primary" magazines for self defense loads get replaced every 5ish years anyway.
In the beginning, you show a clip of you shooting your AR. Looks 3:59 to me that your shoulder is “scrunched up.” Looks like you should put on a longer adjustable stock so your length of pull is more natural. I know you are the expert and know way more than me but I have been shooting for 60 years.
Totally agree on the bolt release add on.
Over complicates things.
As a left handed person I disagree, extended bolt catches suck. The bad lever is the only solution I’ve found that works. All I have to do is insert mag, and engage the bad lever with my thumb before I let go of the magazine. People that are having NDs because of bad levers, are right handed people putting their index finger in the trigger guard.
One of my favorite upgrades and by far the cheapest you can possibly make to a forged AR is an Accu-Wedge. It completely takes out the annoying "slop" between your upper and lower receiver for...wait for it...$1.97!
I will also add that while he does not like the BAD lever, I run them on any AR that is not fully Ambi and have zero issues with them. I highly recommend them to anyone who does not have a fully ambi lower, train with them, and just see if it works for you. If it does not, take it off. It is not an expensive item.
The trigger I run is a ALG QMS. It's made by Geissele Automatics (ALG is his wife's initials, if I recall), and the QMS means "Quality Mil-Spec." It's basically your mil-spec FCG made smoother and with better springs, removing the gritty feel of a cheap mil-spec FCG.
Regarding how the trigger feels, I'll put it like this: I'm not thinking about my trigger one way or the other while shooting. It does what it's supposed to without distracting you, and I'd call that a win. I bought mine for about $40 in 2019, but last I saw, Bidenomics has it up to something like $55-$60 now. I'd still highly recommend it. It's been serving me well.
I did my upgrade at the time of purchase, I bought a Colt H-Bar.$1200.00 1996. Put a $1000.00 scope on it, can sell it all day for $3000.00...
love my b5 grips i put them on everything the non beaver tail version for my short fingers puts me at the perfect spot, and the angle/grip provided is unmatched imo
Slings I have purchased, are Strike Industries combos, with a place for a tourniquet. Single or double, both ways work fine.
Another great option for a trigger in this price point is the Aimsurplus SSTAT. It is a 3.5lb cassette drop in. Super solid available in both flat and curved trigger and available in traditional black, NiB, and a TiN coating.
My wife and I have had our S&W Sport II since 2020. She bought it at Scheels. I've upgraded some things. Some for function, some for FDE color. It's never had a malfunction. Now, I'm, maybe, going to upgrade the trigger, going to upgrade buffer spring. Those are the only 2 things. Thoughts??
I’m a lefty and a redi-mag bad lever has significantly improved my ability to manipulate the bolt release. This in conjunction with a Norgon mag release which turns my standard release into ambi has given me the ability to operate a standard rifle just as fast as a righty and in many instances faster since the bolt release lever is right where my thumb is the second the mag is fully seated. When mags empty and BCG locks back, I use left index to drop mag, right hand to insert new one, and with my right thumb as I’m inserting the new mag, I swipe the redimag lever to drop the bolt. I now run both of these products of ever one of my rifles and I think the bad lever has made the single biggest improvement to me as a lefty.
I'm a righty but a guy I know runs the bad lever on all of his (AR-15's) and his LR-308's have the phase 5 lever, when i shot them i loved them both!!
I hadn’t really noticed the beavertail before. I tried one and have put ERGO grips on all of my AR45s and my Seekins build. Enjoy your videos.
LaRue MBT is also a great trigger. $80each if you buy three.
I have thirteen AR's now and these are the identical things I put on all of them, the B5 Bravo stock, a LaRue MBT-2S trigger, and a Magpul MOE K2+ grip. I do this not only because I really like that stuff, but so the ergonomics of all thirteen stay the same. For magazines I also use nothing but the Lancer mags.
23:44 I have always done this with my AR and have never learned it from anyone! It just felt right to me to store it that way!😅 its awesome to see that my first build I had done had most of this list done to it! I would also recommend anti walking trigger pins to start with!😅
You only need the anti-walk pins with a cartridge style trigger, otherwise it's just a waste of money.
@Cavdragoneb12 That's not true. I don't have a cartridge style trigger, and they walked out on me twice, and I had to break down and reset my trigger. Then I spent $15 and never needed to do it again!
@TacticalTooIbox What prize? 😏
Where did you find hyper fire for 30-40$? Everywhere I looked was 99$ plus shipping so over 99$
As others have mentioned, the LaRue MBT is stellar and punches well above it's price point. It's also nice that it comes with a stiffer trigger spring so anyone with a duty requirement can still use it, however according to my finger scale it pulls under the advertised 6lbs it's supposed to be.
Unfortunately these have recently been inflated. They are no longer $89, they're $115. They are still worth the money, but harder to argue for a "poverty pony."
Full-size ambi safeties have never bothered me. My natural hand position isn't really choked up high on the grip, so I don't have any issues with the safety lever hitting my hand.
Lucky me, I can get an ambi safety for $20.
I love BCM pistol grips and stocks, but I dislike their rail panels and rail grips. I like Magpul rail accessories but I dislike Magpul pistol grips and stocks. lol
Great Intel; thanks for sharing. If you have a bit of rattle use some electrical tape on the top part of buffer tube along where the stock slides. You can also use different thickness sizes of bowling tape used for balling ball thumb holes. You can layer it as needed. You can also use the tape at the bottom of the buffer tube, making sure to place a hole or slit at the point in which the stock locks into the adjustment holes of the buffer tube.
In the past I found e-tapeto be gummy. I used painters tape for years with no problems. Now I run Roger's super stoks.
I run a small strip of gorilla tape on the buffer tube in a semi-circular pattern. It works best on noticeably wobbly stocks.
Thanks for this video, I was looking for some good upgrades on the cheap. Glad this would only set me back 1200.
Grease in the buffer tube is the unsung hero of the AR world. It makes a huge, positive difference.
My POF revolution has the bolt catch in yhe trigger guard area up top inside, you can't accidentally hit it, its nice
The thing I also like about bcm's stock is that you can flip the spring and turn it into a fixed stock
PDQ bolt catch/release is hands down the best affordable upgrade for the AR, PERIOD! I used the Phase5 BAD lever on my first build, and it’s cool, but even with small girl hands, it worried me. The next build I got the PDQ ambi bolt catch/release, and I LOVE IT! I installed it myself, which isn’t hard, as long as ur careful and a “type A”, everything has to be perfect type person! If you’re not, hire someone else to install it, as one wrong move u will ruin your lower! Get one! U will love it! ❤
Excellent video. I learned the white lith grease trick from Midway's build series, so that's a great tip. Keep up the good work.
Nevermind I missed that part of the video lol. I use the Lucas oil and gun grease heck pretty much everything they make is a great product. I've been using their gun grease on the buffer assembly so I'll try the white lithium and see if I noticed any difference
@@ericsfishingadventures4433 I don't think it matters what grease you use on the recoil spring. Any will dampen the noise. Cheers!
Thank ya man, will do!
use lucas marine grease it has corrosion protection properties.@@ericsfishingadventures4433
I’ve never greased my buffer spring. I hate the squeak. Where and how much grease should I use? Thanks
I bought my AR in 2017 and slowly upgraded it over the last few years. I finally finished the last part a week ago and it’s a work of art, haha. The last thing I am considering is a different muzzle, but I need to research it.
One trick I've found for loose stocks is to out a piece of electrical tape along the length of your buffer tube to help take up a bit of space. Usually 1 or 2 straps adds just enough fill that it isn't tough to move but wiggles far less.
Subscribed! Got out of the Marines last year and that was my biggest introduction into firearms outside of going on hunting trips every once in awhile with friends before (only twice). Just recently got some good deals following 4th of July and my gun collection is already at 4 (1 handgun, 1 shotgun, 1 AR-15, 1 .308 bolt action). I got what I believe the community calls "poor man" rifles with the bolt and AR-15 (Savage Arms Axis II and Unbranded AR) as I want to get into shooting now that I'm out and see what I fancy then go up in tier from there. Your video was very concise and clear that even someone with only basic knowledge could understand. Thank you!
Glad to hear our collab with Tier 1 made the list! Hit me up if you would like to check out our other products!
@TacticalTooIbox Gee thanks......
I am a lefty that uses a bad lever, I have tried extended bolt catches like the Geiselle, and the bad lever is the best. I can use my trigger finger to push in the vertical portion on the left side of the gun to lock the bolt back super easy and the portion that sticks out on the right side is perfect to index with my thumb when inserting a mag (with my right hand) during a reload. As far as dropping the bolt with my left hand, it serves as more surface area for my left pointer finger to reach than a mil-spec paddle.
Phase 5 has a bad lever that is bolt on slimmer and slicker
I love it!
It even fits a lot of billet uppers with a lot of shrouding around the battery assist device.
@@alorrick7546 I switched to the Phase 5, I like that it's a single solid piece and it definitely has less play.
The cover on the pmag isn’t to keep feed lips from separating it’s only function is a dust cover.
Exactly, As soon as he said that I thought "Uh, that's NOT what those are for...". Magpul started shipping these little covers to our units who was using some of their mags when soldiers discovered how easily sand can get into ANY mag and Magpul was quick to develop and send out these little covers. In fact when they first handed them out to our guys in the field the supply guys even referred to them as "Sand Covers" and they've evolved over time from those first ones they gave us back then.
27:42 the feed lips thing is a myth. Magpul says the cover thing is meant to keep out dust/debris and has nothing to do with flips flexing/degrading over time.
Still a great video though with tons of great info
No it's not a myth at all....just watched a video a week ago where the email from Magpul was shown, they completely acknowledged that for all PMAGS up until the most recent version it is an issue and they do recommend using the cover, but in the last version they've reinforced the plastic because the mags were breaking.
Magpul admitted to this? @@locophoto6881
With the MagPul slings, which I also use. I just flat coil the sling and put an elastic band on it to take up the slack.
Just pull on it and the sling is uncoiled when the elastic band slips off.
Magpul says the mag cover is for dust. Not needed for loaded storage.
did not think flash hiders made a big difference but upgraded from A2 which somewhat overdrives the muzzle down and now have a 4 prong and it pushes straight back and lets me focus more on just using my support hand to control the muzzle instead of the somewhat unpredictable push downward. KAK industries has a nice 4 prong which is around $45 and set up with a pin hole if you want to do a 13.9 build, has worked good but only thing that sucks with the 3 and 4 prong devices is they ping like a tuning fork otherwise been really nice.
Never change the trigger and hammer springs, they make the trigger pull lighter because the springs aren’t full powered springs and you will have light primer strikes on M855 and m193 ammo. I know the PSA hammer spring is a full power spring and you’ll never have light primer strikes
That's definitely a great point man
I've run reduced power hammer springs for years and never had light strikes on mil spec or commercial ammo.
JP has an enhanced reliability set that's still 3.5lbs. The reduced power set he showed has the weak hammer spring.
So far I've switched out my charging handle which I absolutely love! I never thought I could get excited by a charging handle but yet here we are. I also switched out my hand guards because my old ones were nothing but key mod and got some forward grips. Loving every minute of it! I think I might do my trigger next!
I completely agree with you about paying the gov't tax on things we should just be able to walk into a store and buy.
Yeah... It sucks
The LWRC UCIW Ultra Compact stock requires some modification; not just a stock, it's a kit that includes the special receiver extension (buffer tube) that enables it to be so short, the plate, castle nut, plus proprietary buffer and spring. It's close to $150.
Great choice if you're building an AR from scratch and you want as short a rifle as possible without going SBR, but if you've already built one as mil spec, you've got a little rebuilding to do.
Note that LWRC also makes a compact stock, but it won't shorten your length of pull the way the Ultra Compact kit does, it just slides onto your mil spec receiver extension like any other stock does.
I re-sub at each of your videos so I don't miss the next one. Take that gc gun nutts
Dang man! Thank you🙏
@@TacticalToolboxno sir, thank you. Your videos are awesome. You solidified my loyalty with the 2nd Amendment video. GOD Bless.
about the White lithium grease in the buffer tube. @2:11 Make sure you buy the inert type. There are flammable types.
lmao poverty pony, that's a first... also now my AR-15 has a name...
lmfao i heard it snd had to rewind to compare😭
A Poverty Pony(definitely had to edit that....lmao) will be my first AR purchase haha. Haven't handled a rifle since getting out the military. I need a toy to get familiar with again!
@@MoveInSilence2444 i love my raptor defense ar15, im 18 and still a beginner and im able to control it with absolute ease. check out my page i js uploaded a short on it 🕺
I bought my first AR yesterday and I feel that his comment was directed at me.
The phones,smart tvs have Dumbo ears brother@@wilbready
I'm with you on the suppressor thing! I am 50yrs old this year and have owned and shot ARs since before I joined the Army in 95'. But I have not and WILL not buy a suppressor while the government forces us to pay an extra tax, put your name on ANOTHER list and make us do a more extensive background check! Along with an average waiting period of a YEAR before you can pick up and use it!
I believe that they will be removed off the NFA, or the NFA will completely go away with the newest SCOTUS ruling and my patience will be rewarded! Then I will build my own! Or get an 80% kit that we all know will start hitting the market!
As a lefty, you gotta give props to San tan tactical. One of the best matched sets I've ever used on a build and full ambi love.
I have two of the AA piston kits. They do work great, and keep the bolt area cleaner. But check out the hand grip and barrel nut. certain ones are a problem and have to be fitted for free slide.
Larue MBT is the way to go for less than $100
LOVE that review! I'm the one that tears things down past the manufacture recommendations, so that's what I did with the trigger on my AR. It's about 3.5 to 4 pounds now. Low profile gas block. free float rail, Magpul Funiture. It started as a DPMS Panther, but is totally different now. I would put it up against any of your so much more expense rifles dollar for dollar any day.
Black t-shirt blends into the background and doesn’t make the subject gun move forward. A neutral color helps the gun remain defined and available for reference. Great videos!
I run " Ergo Sure Grip / gen 1 & 2 " Rubber pistol grips $ 21 , Mission First Tactical Engage Polymer pistol grips $ 20 , Advanced Technology 3 position Vertical Forend Grip ( really like em - their on All my ARs ) $24 , and Adaptive Tactical EX performance Collapsible AR Buttstock ...
You won't be Sorry...!!
Also really like the
Archangel AR buttstock $50
God gave you a thumb that is exactly long enough to hit the bolt release. So give God and Eugene a thumbs up and send it.
One of my favorite upgrades for recoil control is a buffer tube spring, get one from DD and make sure it’s the right for you, smooothhhhhh shooting
I own 31 guns ..Aks ,SWMag500 shotguns pistols...never owned a AR-15 after carrying one in Afghanistan an having one attached to me for 4 years I never wanted one again I went AK ...I think it's time I buy a AR15. Or three 😂
😂 I think so brotha
I did probably 20 builds in last 10-12 years, and also widdled it down to 2 ARs and 1 AR10. 1 AR is a superlative arms piston centered and is lighter, more compact than most 3 gun rifles.
I highly recommend the ball bearing roller cam pin, it’s an excellent upgrade and lessens wear and tear on your upper and makes your action a lot smoother. I know a couple companies that make them. I think POF and maybe Lantac are the two companies. I believe the part itself is quite a bit under $100 or you can buy the whole bcg but that’s definitely over $100.
One quick comment about the feed lips thing at the end of the video is that magpul has officially stated that the cover does not actually reduce wear on the feed lips and is just a dust cover, and says it is perfectly fine to store the mag with or without it however it does keep dust and debris from getting into the magazine. I think it is a little of column A a little bit of column B but I do know that pmags will last a very long time loaded without that cover on them.
I really like your frank and honest reviews. I also like the deals you share and what you can expect from them. Very helpful. The parts list is an added plus.
Heck yeah man! I'm really glad they help brother.
just bought my first ar-15, a S&W M&P 15 for a decent price was looking around the web to find stocks, grips and other gear i want to add to my base gun but got confused but stumbled upon this video and now im pretty sure what to add to help better myself and feel more comfortable holding and firing my rifle
Just found your channel and immediately subscribed. Very informative. Lots of good information for someone like me who was never in the military, but still has an AR-15 (or several) for home defense and range time. With all of your recommendations backed up by good reasons why you choose those items, I'll definitely be putting some of this upgrades on my shopping list. Thanks!
Lefty here, just throwing it out there, I train with the magpul bad lever on my gun and it makes things easier so I don't remove my hand away from the trigger. I can make fast reloads because I will push the lever with my right hand thumb after inserting the magazine
Bro said poverty pony and held up my rifle that’s next to me🤧
😂😂
I am happy to say that I have finally built my first AR-15, it was easier than I thought it would be and exciting seeing it come to life. Had it not been for this page I think I may not have ever made it. On to the next one.
I've got 4 y/o pmags gen 2's that have been loaded for three years plus and no problems whatsoever with spreading feed lips, I also load 1 and 27 ( first round is a tracer and number 27 is a tracer)
It makes me feel good to see that my rifle came stock with some of these items! I bought the Safelite at the same time that I bought my rifle and my dealer was kind enough to install it for me. One thing I think is worth buying, if it doesn’t already come with your rifle is mechanical sights. As far as I know, you can pick up a set for under $100.
Bull moose tactical makes a decent trigger/hammer/springs for about 65$ plus shipping
And a SQUARE STEEL cam pin runs in an aluminum upper. Not smart. Patriot Ordinance Factory has a roller cam pin. Never reduce your hammer spring. Bravo Company Mod 0 if you think it's smarter to fire prone. Best thing you can put on any AR is a Patriot Ordinance buffer tube with a lip to keep your BCG in line with the tube. You'll love inline movement of everything. A JP Enterprises Flash Hider does exactly that and does it fantastically well. Best ambi safety I've found was from JoeBob's Outfitters for $15. Best shipping ever. My AR-10 likes Patriot's Archangel charging handle. A JP polished buffer spring does great. The silent captured spring works great with the POF buffer tube and you can modify your buffer detent to eliminate a castle nut.
You can clean rubber grips and prolong their grip by wiping then down with a technical grade alcohol wipe. It takes the oil off the surface without breaking the grips down excessively.
I have an LWRC, and ended up getting a Geisele SSA EX. It was more than $100 but really like how it responds compared to the stock trigger. I also bought the sling from Flatline Fiberco which is the original sling that Tier 1 put their logo on. I then added a Ultradyne Apollo Max compensator wch really reduced rifle rise and the slight recoil to stay on target.
I have a Delta team tactical trigger and had almost no issues with it. It has a super clean break, and is adjustable down to 2.5 lbs I believe. The only issue I have had is there is a set screw you can tighten to reduce take-up to almost nothing and if you tighten it too far it will cause a hammer drop when the bcg comes forward. I discovered this hand cycling the action after install so luckily no range action runaway rifle lol
I changed my trigger and it was best decision. I installed a James Madison tactical black ops evo trigger. It was 99 dollars and it’s so nice. 3.5-4lbs and almost no reset it’s so fast.
I have had the same Olympic Arms Car-15 since 2008 with the same bolt etc etc and cam pin and it’s been taken apart a trillion times and never ever heard of even going through the Colt AR armorers course of a cam pin breaking…ever.