In this, the final AR-15 assembly video, we’ll walk through the installation of the takedown pin and the buttstock assembly. Finally, we’ll put the upper and lower together for the first time and establish basic functionality (formal function check to follow in subsequent posts).
After all of the planning and work that went into getting this rifle into its proper form, it’s quite exciting to see it come together, and to hold it as if I was at the range, or stalking down a Coyote.
From the Video- Checking Basic Functioning - Image Copyright 2011 Ultimate Reloader
Next, we’ll take a look at the Nikon Monarch scope that was selected for this project, trick it out, install it on the rifle, level reticles, do a basic sight-in, and then head to the range. Can’t wait!
Continuing our way through the lower build steps, in this video, we’ll look at installing the Geissele national match trigger assembly, the trigger guard, the safety selector lever assembly, and the pistol grip.
Geissele trigger assembly as shown in the Video - Image Copyright 2011 Ultimate Reloader
In this video, we’ll start the assembly of the lower by walking through the installation of the magazine catch, the bolt catch, and the pivot pin. You’ll see a trick for installing the pivot pin that makes use of a dulled razor blade, and a modified section of drill rod.
From the video, in this screenshot we can see the special tool (1/4″ drill rod with flat ground on the side) used in conjunction with the razor blade (with edge dulled for safety) being used to install the pivot pin, spring, and detent. This trick allows you to perform the installation without having to worry about having the spring and detent going across the room (I’ve done that!). Thanks to a friend Tim Hermann for the tip on the razor blade!
Video Screenshot - Homebrew special tools - Installing the Pivot Pin - Image Copyright 2011 Ultimate Reloader
Next, it’ll be on to the trigger group. You won’t want to miss this- we’ll be installing the Geissele Match Rifle Adjustable Trigger.
Have tips you want to share? Please leave a comment!
Hey everyone, hope some of you have the opportunity to attend the SHOT show this year… I we won’t be attending, but I do want to cover as much reloading product information as possible from afar…
For starters, here’s some booths you may be interested in visiting:
When I started to prepare for this project, I decided to reach out to partners in industry that could help me put this project together, and who are leaders in their area of business. I contacted Larry Weeks at Brownells and had a quick discussion with him about what I was going to do, and he said- We’d love to help! For this project, Brownells has offered assistance with tools, parts, and expertise.
Brownells has a great collection of resources that you can find on their website to help you with your AR-15 project. They also sell a vast array of tools, parts, and accessories related to building and maintaining your AR-15 rifle. One of the most helpful resources is GunTech- where you can watch videos related to gunsmithing and gun care. I’ve personally watched all of the How to Build an AR-15 videos in order to prepare for this project. I’m going to complement these videos (rather than just mimic them in a redundant way). I’ll also narrow my focus towards building a precision A3 style varminter/competition AR-15 as opposed to the comprehensive and general information that you’ll find at Gun Tech.
So, thank you Brownells! I’ll be linking to the product pages for parts and tools used for this project so that you can find them easily at www.brownells.com.
In this, the final AR-15 assembly video, we’ll walk through the installation of the takedown pin and the buttstock assembly. Finally, we’ll put the upper and lower together for the first time and establish basic functionality (formal function check to follow in subsequent posts).
