308 build on AR platform help?

[kumathebear]

NEVER have built one, not in any caliber! I would like to try it for my Army son as a surprise "home coming gift," but don't have a clue IF I could do it and IF it would be more economical to do it myself or try to find one that's ready to go??

I will have several months to save some commission $$ and hopefully get it done a little at a time, so where do I start? So...any suggestions as to "on line" help to build one, best outlets to buy components and can I save "precious" $$ doing it this way..MAJOR factor? Are there any components of the build that will require an FFL connection?

Again..I'm a "newbie" at this even though have experience with firearms for about 52 years of my 62 old fart years.

I really WANT some good, experienced advice folks...this is something I am COMMITTED to doing for him..he's given his all, just want to give him something that will "Knock his Boots OFF" when he see's it.

Thanks in advance....
Kuma

[JustinJ]

Can't do it in a normal AR platform you'll have to go with an AR10. Lots of parts are interchangeable between an AR10 and AR15, but not all.

Check out palmettostatearmory.com as they constantly have deals on their relatively new AR10.

Just my personal preference, but I would steer clean of doing a complete build on an AR10 as you'll run into some parts compatibility issues. You can however build your lower for maybe a little discount and buy a complete upper and probably won't run into any issues.

[tx07]

Can't do it in a normal AR platform you'll have to go with an AR10. Lots of parts are interchangeable between an AR10 and AR15, but not all.

Check out palmettostatearmory.com as they constantly have deals on their relatively new AR10.

Just my personal preference, but I would steer clean of doing a complete build on an AR10 as you'll run into some parts compatibility issues. You can however build your lower for maybe a little discount and buy a complete upper and probably won't run into any issues.

You can do it in AR platform. If you go with the 308 arrow.

http://www.arrowarms.net/aarms/index.php/the-308-arrow/

[kumathebear]

What about a 300 blackout? Any experience with these...pro's and con's?

[DirtyDave]

What about a 300 blackout? Any experience with these...pro's and con's?

300 blackout is a great little round. Not going to beat a 308, but way more punch than a 223. Great thing about the blackout is that it uses all the same components as a 223 except for the barrel. Very easy to build.

If you've never built an AR15, dont attempt an AR10

What is your budget?

[kumathebear]

Embarrassed to say...around $900 max...all I have to save/spend.

[kumathebear]

Hit "post" too quick! I just want to get him something in this caliber and NOT a bolt, etc. He is in sniper school right not and career military...thus the specs. I'm VERY familiar with the AR 15 models and just want something "special" for him I can afford. Not "whining," but it is what it is...us Dad's...always trying to find a way for our boys.

[tx07]

Embarrassed to say...around $900 max...all I have to save/spend.

http://www.gunsamerica.com/933870346/Arrow-Arms-AR-15-M-4-308-Arrow.htm

It is possible to find one in that range, this one is sold. But you see the price.

[kumathebear]

I continue to learn more and more...thanks...never heard of the 308 Arrow! What is the difference with a standard 308 round? I can research but thought you would know and cut to the results?? Need some advice, even more unsure of what I can do for Jake.

[Mike D]

Sadly your budget is too low for a QUALITY "knock his boots off" ar in .308 cartridge. I wouldn't touch a PSA 308 rifle. I've read way too many mixed reviews on them and some parts are not interchangeable.

The minimum I personally would choose in that platform is the DPMS Recon Gen 2 and they are in the $1300 range.

[Gunnyart]

I'd never heard of the 308 Arrow and y'all got me reading about it. At first glance I think it isn't a viable choice yet. We're talking about a guy in sniper school he deserves an accurate rifle.

What do you envision him using the rifle for?

[kumathebear]

Thanks for your reply, but as for me...QUALITY is judged on opinions/experience/brands. My reference is to those who judge performance on "MOA" performance. I was trained to "combat" shoot with handguns/long guns and all my years of hunting centered on a ethical/1 shot to humanely take down a prey. I've never been one to take the 300+ shots as my son is in school to do now +, so probably not in the same situation as many here. Please don't take offense as I am in a "zone" not familiar with in this caliber I'm trying to find for my son.

Don't get me wrong..not criticizing your response..but I am are not that concerned with brands or LONG range performance when he gets home finally.. I have experience with many different calibers and brands...many will disagree...but the Ruger American is one of my favorites, but also have a "warm feeling" for Savage and and Winchester/S&W models. Don't get me wrong...my 3 sons have several of my old Brownings, Saiga and even a few custom builds I have passed down to them.

I'm just at the age that the $$ of the past are long gone....Thanks Brother for the advice, I'm still not TOO old to learn!

[Colton]

If I were you I would build either a 6.8 spc or 6.5 Grendel, it would be cheaper

[kumathebear]

Thanks

If I were you I would build either a 6.8 spc or 6.5 Grendel, it would be cheaper

I'll begin my research on your advice...

[philcam]

I'll begin my research on your advice...

.300 Blackout too.