First-Time AR-15 Build Advice Needed

[rg115]

Been thinking about jumping into building my first AR-15 for a bit now. Just started browsing parts and there seem to be some pretty good deals out there, but honestly, I feel a bit lost. Trying to figure out what’s really worth it and what’s just hype.

Thinking of keeping it simple with a basic 5.56 set-up. Is that a solid choice for a first build, or is there something better I should consider? I’m open to feedback.

Also, are there any brands of parts you’d say to definitely steer clear of? I mean, I want this to be a reliable build, not something that’s gonna give me headaches later on. I've heard that costs can creep up on you too. What kind of hidden costs should I be on the lookout for? And honestly, should I just bite the bullet and buy a pre-built one instead?

I’d really appreciate any tips or things you learned the hard way when you were starting out. Thanks in advance!

 

[Deleted member 10]

If you don't already have AR's my advice is to buy a reasonable priced reputable AR and get comfortable with how it runs and shoots....
They are a very versatile weapon, that works well and as you are finding the parts situation is endless.. I picked up a rebuild kit with the little springs and such to keep mine running, and magazines and ammo......lots and lots of magazines and ammo..

 

[king_of_riffles]

I built my first one when I was tight on cash and wanted to know how everything worked. You learn a lot by doing, but you also learn where money vanishes fast.

 

[Handyman]

Spend on the things you notice every time you pull the trigger. A good barrel and a dependable bolt carrier group make the rifle feel grown up. Don't skimp on the trigger either if you want to enjoy shooting

 

[Rothman]

When I started I wanted every gadget. Big mistake. Get simple irons or a low power scope and learn to zero. Once you know how your rifle groups, upgrades make sense. You can also get a mount that stays put, that one detail ruined a weekend for me once

 

[Trigger_talk]

If you want instant reliability and a warranty, buy a prebuilt. If you want to tinker, build it and learn the platform..either choice is valid, just take a basic safety class before your first range day and you will save yourself headaches

 

[Mtman725]

I did one years ago, picked it up as a basket case and I mean box case, Just did an M4 1-7 5.56 Palmetto arms upper and lower, I put a single stage trigger in it hind sight wish I would have spent more on the trigger, good barrel shoots good, but had more fun putting it together then anything else.

 

[Godzilla]

A basic 5.56 is the perfect start but you should focus on a quality BCG and barrel from BCM or Aero, skip the ultra-cheap kits, reliability starts with those core components