Should I buy or build my first AR?

[cas077]

I need some insight from the AR community:

I am looking at buying my first AR, but I can't decide which route to take? I am wanting a style like the Bushmaster Predator, 20" fluted barrel with metal forearm. I am trying to find the less expensive way and the most options that I am looking for. I wish I could sit down and read the AR thread, but I just dont have that much time in a day.

The first option: I know that I can buy the bushmaster at Cabelas for $1200-$1300 or I found a few on gun broker for $1130. I know if I buy one I may not get all the options I am looking for.

The second option: I have been looking at model1sales.com and can customize the AR to my liking, but I guess I am not smart enough to figure out what else I need to buy to complete my gun if I buy the Varmint Complete Kit. I think buying a kit from them would be less expensive, but not sure what else I would need to purchase. It says I need a Lower parts kit, but I think I am just not reading some right.

I would appreciate any insight from the AR gurus

[scott.str]

I just started my first AR build. Takes a few tools to get it put together so remmber adding that into the cost. I am building a 300 Blackoutand its gone smoothly so far should be finished today. Its a mix of parts but i dont mind. It fun building it from a blank. You know every part and how to fix it.

If it is a stripped lower a lower parts kit depending could cost from $30 on up to a few hundred. Trigger,springs, hammer and such is the lower parts kit.

[jbonney1986]

Build, Bottom line, BUILD

[Reaper33]

build build build....ALWAYS BUILD!!!!

[Reaper33]

Now that we have decided that your going to build make sure to take your time and review all the options out there as there are a million and one of them. What are you trying to spend on this AR?

[dpg481]

dont forget to check out palmetto state armory. That is my new favorite website these days. Alway looking for new deal of the day.

[cas077]

I would like to keep it under $1200.

I will have to check out Palmetto.

This gun will not be a safe queen, it will be riding with me in my mule at my property and with me when I am at the deer lease to shoot pigs and coyotes. Do I need to buy certain parts if it will be used like this?

Thanks again for all the help!!

[boh347]

Build!

[cas077]

Thanks for the help, looks like I'll build.

[TexasBear]

I built my first one a few years back and did it for $550 without scope and mount.

[TexasBear]

Keep us up to date on what you do!

[Reaper33]

I would like to keep it under $1200.

I will have to check out Palmetto.

This gun will not be a safe queen, it will be riding with me in my mule at my property and with me when I am at the deer lease to shoot pigs and coyotes. Do I need to buy certain parts if it will be used like this?

Thanks again for all the help!!

no you dont have to buy certain parts but you may not want to go out and nuy a really nice rail or something if its going to just be a truck gun and getting tossed around alot. Like stated about i would also look at PSA and wait for some deals to rolll around on there and you can come out pretty nice. model1sales is great for your springs and that kind of stuff that you can buy 1 or 10 of if you want extra but you can find some better deals on better gear if you look around. PSA being one of those places

[Caprock]

following, thinking about building for myself and 3 kiddoes.

[Z7_Matt]

I am in the process of building mine. Set up for competitive shooting (18" fluted) and after its all said and done, I have $850 in it instead of buying a Stag Arms 3G for $1400.

My new favorite place is joeboboutfitters.com I ordered parts last Friday at 1:00 lunch time and they are being delivered TODAY!! Free shipping on orders over $90. That's pretty easy to do.

[BuffaloHump]

I'm in the same boat. I'm wanting to build a 12.5" 6.8SPC SBR. Since I'm giving up barrel length, maximizing accuracy is important. How do you guys square the receiver and get the headspace correct?