SBR - build vs buy

[txpitdog]

My original plan was to buy a stripped lower and register it then wait to build it until my suppressor is processed. I didn't realize that in doing so I would have to become the manufacturer and engrave the receiver. Not a big deal but potentially more cost (?). The cost part got me to thinking whether it is cheaper to just buy a fully assembled SBR from a dealer then tweak it to my specs or if it is cheaper to build as I go as I originally planned.

It sounds like the Form 1's are getting turned around in 4-6 weeks vs 4-6 months for the Form 4. I'm not necessarily in a huge rush to get the SBR, mainly just want to avoid the hassle of fingerprints and photos like everyone else.

Anyone have suggestions based on what they've done?

[Samson]

Build it. Engraving the receiver will be one of the cheapest parts of the build. And yes form 4s are taking much longer than form 1s.

[Zen Archery]

Build, the important shooting parts only come from 1-4 factories around the world. But the buffet of options is endless. It can be cheaper if you have 1 plan and stick to it and not do a lot of furniture changes.

[philcam]

Buy vs build. I guess it depends on what you want in your rifle. Colt 6933s are running $1350 but if you shop around can be found much cheaper.

Ident Markings in Rockwall can go a great engraving on your lower at a reasonable cost. If you take it to them stripped they can do inside the trigger guard so it's inconspicuous. I'd build and function test my lower on a non NFA upper first though before sending off for the tax stamp.

[philcam]

double tap

[Horitexan]

Build it. It may not, necessarily, have the resale value of a factory built but you can configure it exactly the way YOU want; and I think you COULD build an even better rifle because you're not married to a specific/limited parts list, like a company is. It'll definitely be cheaper to build your own than to buy one and then start modifying. Build your own and it can be about as inexpensive as you want or as high quality as you want or anywhere in between that you want.

Engraving isn't much. I think we paid like $30 for the last one. Dropping off another today so I may update that pricing later. Anyway, it's by no means expensive and shouldn't deter you from building.

Pick the lower receiver you want to use, get it and file your Form 1 with that serial number. You'll need to know what barrel length you're going to use and you can calculate your OAL so that you can complete your Form 1 online. Then, while you wait, start shopping and buying your components.

[Mike D]

Depends. The engraving is no big deal. $60 max. If you have someone that does them on a regular basis like Ident, they know what to do if you are worried about the engraving being inconspicuous.

As to saving money, if you throw it together with cheap parts you can save some $$. But if you use quality parts you won't save a dime.

Turn around on a F1 will be much quicker than an F4.

Once you file your form (either 1 or 4) it will be grandfathered and not subject to the new ATF 41F regulations.

I have (2) factory built SBRs and (2) that I built. The only thing the 2 self built guns saved me was time.