Ist AR Build

First I will start with, this is my first build. I want to build a AR10 and I have been looking at components. I am trying to stay within $1000-1200 at least for my first. i found this upper kit and want to know thoughts both good and bad. Thanks

https://davidsondefense.com/dpms-lr-308-ar-308-grain-deluxe-rifle-kit-18-308-ultra-match-416r-stainless-steel-1-10-socom-barrel-12-free-float-keymod-handguard/

I’m very curious as to what makes you choose a .308 for your first build.

Highly recommend looking at the AR15 platform for a first build. Parts compatibility won’t be nearly as much of an issue compared to an AR10 build.

What’s the intended use of the rifle? A Sunday afternoon paper-puncher won’t have the same requirements as a long range precision rig or a dedicated home-defense rifle.

‘Beyond 5.56/.223’ might be a better place for this discussion.

I have 2 AR15’s and want an AR10 so i thought I’d build one. I actually did build a lower for one of my AR15’s. This is my first full rifle build. For now I want a rifle for the range and eventually upgrade to something more intense.

It’s going to he hard to build an ar10 on your budget. But it can be done with catching good sales. There are some cheap barrels out there now but I see them as questionable quality.

Sent from my SM-S327VL using Tapatalk

I’m a strong advocate of the Buy Once, Cry Once doctrine. Don’t skimp on the barrel or bolt carrier group.

Yea I would typically agree but, for this price the upper alone goes for $170 so, for now especially since I live in New Jerkistan where we have to use a muzzle break and it has to be welded on. Next year when I move back home to PA I’ll need a new barrel anyway. I will not skimp on the bolt, trigger and other important parts but, for now I think this is a good deal especially for my situation.

Davidson defense is garbage. If you want an ar10 Armalite or Aero in that price range are my recomendations

If it works, it is a great deal. If it doesn’t, or if you decide to upgrade parts later, it may become a money pit. That being said, it is super cheap, and if you buy a semi decent lower, at least you can buy a better upper later on when you get to a free state.

On a side note, if you are in the pretty section of NJ, which is what I consider the NW portion in the tristate area, it is beautiful. Out by Dingmans ferry, or Sussex county, it is too nice to be run by NJ, it should be part of PA or something.

My thoughts… I wouldn’t be surprised if all of the components were sourced from the Chicoms. I would run AFAFP rom a 239 dollar upper.

In case you need a translation, that would “as fast as ****ing possible” and I agree.

Seems like 333 State St, Orem, UT 84057 is a pretty popular address for all sorts of ChiCom crap…
https://davidsondefense.com/contact-us/
http://www.omegamanufacturinginc.com/About-Us_ep_7.html …Omega Mfg. Keymod 12" Free Float Handguard
https://www.deltateamtactical.com/Help-Support_ep_51-1.html

Connect the dots as you wish

Agree with GH41 and Tits. Avoid the chicom crap. You’re throwing your money away. Might as well just buy an M&P10.

If you want to build, build a good rifle that you can be proud to own and that you know is built with USA made - quality parts.

You have essentially picked one of the hardest to put together (due to compatibility and parts issues) not to mention one of the most expensive. I would skip it and purchase a solid one.

Ok as I said I am new to building AR’s I just a lower for one of my AR’s. I would like a AR10/AR308 so, what do you recommend within reason. $1200 is what I have maybe I can push another $300. Thanks

Buy a separate complete upper and lower from aero and you are good to go for decent quality. Brownells also sells an oem version without furniture in your price range.

Armalite defender or maybe the Smith and Wesson and Savage offerings would be worth looking into for recreational use in your budget.

PSA has them for around $650 but you would need to plan on adding an adjustable gas block and possibly new barrel depending how it shoots.

Whatever you decide stay with the same manufacturer for compatibility. Ar10 is not standard across parts/brands like ar15 platform

As IG said, skip the build & purchase a complete solid performer.

If you are interested in some of the compatibility issues one face building 308 ARs, here a pretty good primer:
https://308ar.com/ar-10-308-ar-compatibility-reference-guide/

It’s just hard to do what your trying. Many become $$$ pits and after a year of dropping $250 more , $90 more , $$$$ more, you could have bought a Colt, DD, or even LMT. Save your dollars and buy once cry once. Better to gamble on used quality vs new lesser quality. If you have to, Armalite or M&P, are a fair lower dollar bet.

PB

Thanks, I knew nothing about AERO. Never heard of them quite frankly. How are AERO’s barrels, bolt groups etc… Thanks for the advice to all I think I will go this way. Where are reliable places to buy from? In a quick search I found this what do you think?

http://www.tomstactical.com/aero-precision-m5e1-ar-10-enhanced-upper-receiver-combo-set

The barrels in Aero’s complete uppers are Ballistic Advantage, which is a “sister” company.
The one I have experience with is SS and 5R rifled.
It is accurate= 3/4 MOA and under being common with good handloads/ammo.

Ballistic Advantage barrels which are GTG. A member her RoberttheTexan uses them in his 308 builds and has posted very positive feedback. I wouldnt consider Aero top teir or anything, but they are definitly not a fly by night company and one of the better options in your price range IMO. I would look into the Armalite DEF 10 i believe its called as well. Good feedback on that one too.

As far as where to purchase i know that Granite Ridge Outfitters, Shuyler Arms, Brownells And Aero’s own site would be good places to check. If you sign up for Aero email list they frequently have sales. Memorial day sales will be out there as well.

For the complete lower e-arms has a really good price right now https://www.e-arms.com/aero-precision-m5-308-carbine-complete-lower-receiver-w-a2-grip-no-stock-anodized-black/ just need to add a stock of your choice