Lower Parts Kit - Does Brand Matter?

[NDFMF]

So, I am in the process of collecting the parts for my first AR build. I bought a Stag lower. So does it matter which LPK I get, or should I just grab the first one I can get my hands on? What are things to consider? Are there form/function issues, or is one kit pretty much as good as another?

[Teeznutz]

If I had a Stag lower, I'd definitely stick with a Stag LPK........

[supersonic]

As a rule, I steer WAY clear of DPMS because of how many out-of-spec parts I have encountered. STAG & RRA seem to be the easiest to find, and they are perfectly acceptable, just make sure (especially with STAG) that you double-check the orientation of the trigger/hammer springs if they come already installed. It's an easy mistake to make. If you want, IMO & experience, 'the Best' LPK, go with ArmaLite. Everything is in spec., fit & finish is impeccable, and the 2-stage 'TAC' trigger is simply great.

[glock_this]

I think, IMO, the real place it can matter is in the trigger. some of the misc pins, bolt catch, safety, trigger guard, mag release, crappy stock grip, .. etc - you can find nicer finish and maybe some quality and milspe is better, but to what real measurable benefit. But I would say in the trigger, that is where it could really be argued about brand and quality mattering.

also, FWIW, I would not in any way consider it important to get the same LPK as your lower... assuming you even could

I would also add.. I think this decision matters a lot relative to the kind of owner/shooter you are. There are guys here who, in a second, could tell the difference given years of experience and knowledge base and expertise. But I think the vast majority of owners would have a hard time telling the difference between average similar price/quality LPK kits. For example, think you could tell a RRA from a Stag? I can't.

[NDFMF]

Thanks for the advice. I doubt I could tell the difference between two kits that were comparable in quality. I just want to steer clear of anything that would give me problems, or make the rifle less reliable. While they are fun to play with, the real reason we build these things is to be ready just in case we ever need them, right?

[rumble phish]

As a rule, I steer WAY clear of DPMS because of how many out-of-spec parts I have encountered. STAG & RRA seem to be the easiest to find, and they are perfectly acceptable, just make sure (especially with STAG) that you double-check the orientation of the trigger/hammer springs if they come already installed. It's an easy mistake to make. If you want, IMO & experience, 'the Best' LPK, go with ArmaLite. Everything is in spec., fit & finish is impeccable, and the 2-stage 'TAC' trigger is simply great.

Really? I've built several AR using DPMS's lpk's and they've all worked flawlessly. Even the mil spec rifle "kits" I've built have all worked flawlessly.

[maschronic]

i own dpms lpk, stag lpk, and rra 2 stage lpk. besides the 2 stage trigger, i really don't notice the difference between stag and dpms lpk. i've never had any problems with either one of them. they all fit fine.

i say get whatever you can get. my choice is the rra 2 stage trigger.

[hoffman259]

I prefer either the Armalite or Bushmaster ones.

[Vtec44]

I own Stag, RRA single stage, RRA 2 stage, and DMPS. With the exception of the RRA 2 stage, I can't tell the difference between the other kits. They're all the same to me.

[glock_this]

my choice is the rra 2 stage trigger.

+1, now the trick is.. finding one

[PIRATE14]

For my rifles.....I go w/...

STAG
RRA
ARMALITE
BUSHMASTER
COLT

But we do sell them all and I've seen a few issues w/ all major brands but that's what I use....

[maschronic]

+1, now the trick is.. finding one

hrmm....my safe? i have 2 more 2 stage lpk's.

[doughboy334]

My first build is a STAG lower with a DPMS LPK, no problems yet and it's been almost a year since I built her.

My second build is a Charles Daly lower with a mix and match LPK. Still got to get a BCG + CH and ammo, but everything fits in the right places.

[Richie Caketown]

Colt = <3

My current setup is SPikes Lower with an RRA kit ... only issue i have is a little play on the lever when on SAFE , i know a couple of other members who have had this problem on the exact same setup

[alert1]

With Spike Tractical and Defensive Edge lower using DPMS LPK, I put about 1000 rounds in both AR with no issue.