Present Arms, A Platform To Build On

So you want to build your own AR. There is so much to consider. First, what do you want to do with it? Are you going to use it for competition, hunting, target shooting, plinking, or home defense? What caliber? It goes on and on. The versatility of the AR platform makes it the most popular platform on the market.

The next question, how much do you want to spend? Purchase a complete upper or build from scratch? The lower receiver forged or billet. Trigger assemblies, what kind of trigger pull? Stock, fixed or collapsible? Hand guard? Rails? The options are endless.

The good news is there are parts available from many suppliers, distributors and manufacturers. Instructions available and armorer classes are recommended. Not to mention valuable information available on YouTube. You’ll need some quality tools, also from endless sources.

What we bring to the table is a third hand, our AR Service Kit, complete with the Large Sentinel Plate, AR Magazine Post and AR Hook. A vise is not needed, the assembly can be done on your kitchen table. The AR Magazine Post has pins and is mounted into the plate. The lower receiver is placed on it by way of the magazine well, making for a secure mounting of the lower receiver in a vertical position. The assembly can begin. The Sentinel Plate is molded with a parts pocket to keep those small parts from going adrift.

Having both hands free makes the assembly of the lower receiver a lot easier. From the installation of the front pivot pin, with spring and detent, to installing the magazine catch assembly. Working the dust cover is a two-hand job. Most of them are. Install the safety, rear takedown pin, buffer retainer spring and retainer and receiver extension assembly. Turn it over and work the safety spring, detent and grip.

Laying the lower receiver flat makes assembly of the bolt stop and installing the trigger guard pin a lot easier when both hands are free. Of course, always follow the manufacturer's procedures. Sometimes those parts can go airborne, so always wear safety glasses.

When you're all done, the AR Service Kit now makes for a perfect stand to hold your AR. Use the AR Hook for cleaning. The magazine posts are interchangeable and we have them for 1911s, Glocks, S&W, HK, Berettas and more.

For more information, call (413) 575-4656.