The AR-15 is a highly customizable rifle platform that can be tailored to fit any shooter's needs. Whether you're looking to improve accuracy, enhance ergonomics, or simply add some personal flair, there are countless upgrades available on the market. In this article, we will explore some of the best AR-15 upgrades currently available and discuss how they can benefit your shooting experience.
Essential AR-15 Upgrades include items such as triggers, handguards, and bolt carrier groups. These upgrades can significantly improve the rifle's performance and reliability. Ergonomic Improvements, such as adjustable stocks, grips, and charging handles, can make the rifle more comfortable to shoot and easier to handle. Accuracy and Performance Mods, such as muzzle brakes and match-grade barrels, can improve the rifle's accuracy and overall performance. Customization and Compatibility upgrades, such as rail systems and optics, can add personal flair and improve the rifle's compatibility with various accessories. Building and Compliance upgrades, such as lower parts kits and compliance parts, can aid in building your own AR-15 and ensuring compliance with local laws.
Key Takeaways
- Upgrading your AR-15 can significantly improve its performance and reliability.
- Essential upgrades include triggers, handguards, and bolt carrier groups.
- Ergonomic improvements, accuracy and performance mods, customization and compatibility upgrades, and building and compliance upgrades are all available to improve your AR-15.
Essential AR-15 Upgrades
When it comes to upgrading your AR-15, there are a few essential upgrades that can enhance its performance and user experience. The following subsections will discuss some of the most important upgrades that can be made to an AR-15.
Trigger Enhancements
Upgrading the trigger is one of the most significant upgrades that can be made to an AR-15. The trigger is the heart of the rifle, and a good trigger can make a significant difference in precision and accuracy. There are two types of triggers: single-stage and two-stage triggers.
Single-stage triggers are very crisp triggers that move back in one movement with a lighter trigger pull. They are an excellent choice for those who want a precise and accurate trigger pull. Rise Armament RAVE 140 is a drop-in single-stage trigger that is a great bang-for-the-buck upgrade at under $100.
Two-stage triggers are more complex and have a longer trigger pull. They are an excellent choice for those who want a more precise and accurate trigger pull. Geissele SSA-E is a two-stage trigger that is widely regarded as one of the best triggers on the market.
Handguard Selection
Changing your handguards and free-floating rail systems is one of the best AR-15 upgrades you can do because it's a quick change that results in immediately noticeable benefits. The handguard is the part of the rifle that you hold onto, and it's essential to choose one that is comfortable and suits your needs.
The Magpul MOE SL Handguard is an excellent option for those who want a lightweight and durable handguard. It is made from high-quality polymer and has M-LOK slots for easy attachment of accessories.
Optics and Sights
Optics and sights are essential upgrades for those who want to improve the precision and accuracy of their AR-15. There are several options available, including red dot sights, LPVOs, and scopes.
Red dot sights are a popular choice for those who want a simple and easy-to-use sight. They are easy to acquire and offer a clear sight picture. The Aimpoint PRO is a popular red dot sight that is widely regarded as one of the best on the market.
LPVOs are a more advanced option that offers variable magnification and a reticle for precise aiming. The Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II is an excellent option for those who want a high-quality LPVO.
In conclusion, upgrading your AR-15 can significantly improve its performance and user experience. The essential upgrades discussed in this section include trigger enhancements, handguard selection, and optics and sights. By choosing high-quality upgrades that suit your needs, you can take your AR-15 to the next level.
Ergonomic Improvements
When it comes to improving the ergonomics of an AR-15, there are a few key areas to focus on. These include the stock and pistol grip, as well as the charging handle and safety. Making upgrades to these components can help to improve the overall comfort and handling of the rifle, making it easier to shoot accurately and comfortably for longer periods of time.
Stock and Pistol Grip
The stock and pistol grip are two of the most important components of any AR-15 when it comes to ergonomics. Upgrading to a more comfortable and adjustable stock can help to improve the fit of the rifle to the shooter, while a more ergonomic pistol grip can help to reduce fatigue and improve control.
There are many different types of stocks and pistol grips available, ranging from simple rubber grips to more complex designs with finger grooves and other features. Some popular options include the Magpul MOE stock and grip, as well as the Hogue Overmolded grip.
Charging Handle and Safety
The charging handle and safety are two other components of the AR-15 that can benefit from ergonomic upgrades. A larger charging handle can make it easier to operate the rifle, especially when wearing gloves or in other situations where fine motor skills may be compromised.
Similarly, a more ergonomic safety can help to improve the overall handling of the rifle, making it easier to engage and disengage the safety quickly and reliably. Some popular options for both of these components include the BCM Gunfighter charging handle and the Battle Arms Development Enhanced Safety Selector.
Overall, upgrading the ergonomics of an AR-15 can help to improve the comfort and handling of the rifle, making it easier to shoot accurately and comfortably for longer periods of time. Whether you're looking to upgrade the stock and pistol grip or the charging handle and safety, there are many different options available to suit your needs and preferences.
Accuracy and Performance Mods
When it comes to improving the accuracy and performance of an AR-15 rifle, there are a number of upgrades that can be made to the barrel and gas system, as well as the bolt carrier group.
Barrels and Gas Systems
Upgrading the AR-15 barrel and gas system is one of the most effective ways to improve accuracy and precision. A high-quality barrel with a properly tuned gas system can help reduce recoil, minimize muzzle rise, and increase accuracy.
When selecting an AR-15 barrel, it is important to consider the caliber, length, and twist rate. For 5.56 rifles, a 16-inch barrel with a 1:7 or 1:8 twist rate is a popular choice for both performance and competition shooting. Additionally, a mid-length gas system is often preferred for its smoother recoil and longer sight radius.
Gas blocks are another important component of the AR-15 gas system. A low-profile gas block can improve accuracy by reducing barrel harmonics and minimizing interference with the handguard. Adjustable gas blocks are also available, allowing the shooter to fine-tune the gas system for optimal performance.
Bolt Carrier Group
The bolt carrier group (BCG) is another critical component of the AR-15 rifle platform. A high-quality BCG can help improve reliability, reduce recoil, and increase accuracy.
When selecting a BCG, it is important to consider the material, finish, and weight. A lightweight BCG can help reduce recoil and improve cycling speed, while a full-auto profile BCG can help improve reliability and reduce wear and tear on the rifle.
Some of the best AR-15 triggers on the market today are designed to work with high-quality BCGs. A quality trigger can help improve accuracy by reducing trigger pull weight and improving trigger reset.
In conclusion, upgrading the AR-15 barrel and gas system, as well as the bolt carrier group, can help improve accuracy and performance. By selecting high-quality parts and components, shooters can fine-tune their rifles for optimal performance in a variety of shooting scenarios.
Customization and Compatibility
When it comes to customizing an AR-15, the possibilities are virtually endless. However, it is important to ensure that any upgrades or modifications made are compatible with the firearm and with each other.
Rail Systems and Attachments
One popular upgrade for the AR-15 is the addition of a rail system. This allows for the attachment of various accessories such as lights, lasers, and grips. There are two main types of rail systems: Picatinny and KeyMod. Picatinny rails are the more traditional option and are compatible with a wide range of accessories. KeyMod rails, on the other hand, have a more modern design and offer a sleeker look.
Another important consideration when choosing a rail system is whether it is free-floated or not. Free-float handguards do not touch the barrel, which can improve accuracy. Additionally, some rail systems have M-LOK slots, which allow for even more customization options.
Furniture and Aesthetics
In addition to rail systems and attachments, there are a variety of other upgrades that can be made to the AR-15's furniture and aesthetics. This can include replacing the stock, grip, and trigger guard with polymer or aluminum options for increased durability and comfort.
Iron sights are another important consideration when customizing the AR-15. Some firearms come with iron sights already installed, while others may require the addition of aftermarket options. It is important to ensure that any iron sights chosen are compatible with the rail system being used.
Overall, the modular design of the AR-15 allows for a high degree of customization. However, it is important to ensure that any upgrades made are compatible with the firearm and with each other. By carefully considering options for rail systems, attachments, furniture, and aesthetics, shooters can create a highly personalized firearm that meets their specific needs and preferences.
Building and Compliance
Assembling Your AR-15
Building an AR-15 can be a fun and rewarding experience for gun enthusiasts. However, it's important to note that building an AR-15 requires a certain level of technical skill and knowledge of firearms. It's recommended that builders have a good understanding of the various parts that make up an AR-15 and how they work together.
When assembling your AR-15, it's important to pay close attention to the manufacturer's instructions and to ensure that all parts are properly installed and torqued to the correct specifications. Failure to do so can result in malfunctions or even catastrophic failure.
Legal Considerations
When building an AR-15, it's important to be aware of local and federal laws regarding firearms. Builders must ensure that their build complies with all applicable laws and regulations.
One of the most important legal considerations when building an AR-15 is the lower receiver. The lower receiver is considered the firearm under federal law, and must be transferred through a licensed dealer. Builders must also ensure that the lower receiver they use is compatible with the upper receiver they plan to use.
Additionally, builders should be aware of any state or local laws that may restrict the type of AR-15 they can build. Some states, for example, have restrictions on magazine capacity or certain features such as flash hiders or pistol grips.
In summary, building an AR-15 can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it's important to approach it with the necessary technical skill and knowledge. Builders must also ensure that their build complies with all applicable local and federal laws.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the essential parts to upgrade on an AR-15 for improved performance?
Upgrading the trigger, handguard, and muzzle device are the most essential parts to enhance the performance of an AR-15. A good trigger can improve accuracy, and a free-floating handguard can increase accuracy and provide more mounting options for accessories. A muzzle device can reduce recoil and muzzle rise, making it easier to stay on target.
Which brands offer the highest quality AR-15 accessories?
There are many brands that offer high-quality AR-15 accessories. Some of the most popular brands include Geissele, Magpul, BCM, Aero Precision, and Vortex. It's important to do research and read reviews to find the best accessories for your specific needs.
How can I enhance the accuracy of my AR-15 rifle?
There are several ways to enhance the accuracy of an AR-15 rifle. Upgrading the trigger, barrel, and handguard can all improve accuracy. Additionally, using high-quality ammunition and a good optic can also help improve accuracy.
What are the top-rated AR-15 upper receivers on the market?
Some of the top-rated AR-15 upper receivers on the market include Aero Precision, BCM, and Anderson Manufacturing. It's important to choose an upper receiver that is compatible with your lower receiver and meets your specific needs.
What modifications can I make to my AR-15 to improve its handling and stability?
Upgrading the stock, grip, and handguard can all improve the handling and stability of an AR-15. A good stock can provide a comfortable and stable shooting position, while a vertical grip can help with control. A free-floating handguard can also improve stability and reduce weight.
What are the latest trends in AR-15 upgrades for enhanced tactical functionality?
Some of the latest trends in AR-15 upgrades for enhanced tactical functionality include adding a suppressor, using a red dot sight, and adding a bipod. These upgrades can all improve accuracy and control in tactical situations. Additionally, using a sling and upgrading the trigger can also improve tactical functionality.