Getting started with my first AR15 build

[Msmith4]

Got my upper and lowers. Also have my OEM LPK, trinity arms stock, palmetto arms premium BCG and my hellfighter kit ordered and on its way.....

[bababoris]

[Dave Hoback]

Good stuff brother!

No, it won’t be your last. My first was back in ‘05-‘06... I’m doing one right now and lost count sometime ago.

[Msmith4]

Thanks! Anyone have a tools list?

[pancakes go]

castle wrench, torque wrench, geissele reaction rod, punches, brass 2oz hammer, and a 4” vice

[Msmith4]

I just looked up the reaction rod.... $200!?! I might find a work around for that one

[shafferds]

reaction rod on ebay found for around 60 bucks

[TurboChrisB]

Get some snap caps too so you can function test safely.

[Msmith4]

reaction rod on ebay found for around 60 bucks

Brownells has a different brand for about $50. Just watched a video and they seem like it makes a big difference. Thanks for the advice.

[Msmith4]

https://www.botach.com/kz-barrel-spline-socket-rod-for-ar15-m4-upper-5-56mm-receivers/

[kcheung2]

do some research on Botach & their inventory levels.

[Dave Hoback]

You DON’T need a reaction rod! But they are nice. Spending the money on the Giessele is a waste of money. I’ve built more AR’s than I care to remember; and never used them. But if you want one, get the Botach for $40, Msmith4 gave the link.

Honestly..when I started building way back when, I had NOTHING as far as special AR tools. But I was an auto tech, so I had all kinds of specialty “auto” tools. I made do with what I had to save money.

I will say after more years & builds than the average bear...., don’t spend a lot on tools! Buy the cheapest you can find. They just don’t see much use and will last forever! Even the torque wrench. When I was a tech, I had a few $200 Snap on torque wrenches! Now I have a $10 HF wrench and it works just fine! Unless you are wealthy, save the money for mags & ammo. “Nice” tools DO NOT a better AR make!

[enorbit3]

Clevis pin. Thank me later.

Brass and rubber mallet. Castle nut wrench. Center punch. Grease.

[stevebla]

Roll pin starters and punches. Have fun.

[Old Flash]

Brownells has a different brand for about $50. Just watched a video and they seem like it makes a big difference. Thanks for the advice.

+1 on the reaction rod. Bought one a few years ago and never looked back. The clamshell sometimes will leave marks on the upper receiver especially when tightening the barrel nut so gas tube can align with hole in receiver. With reaction rod, upper assembly feels more solid when installing and removing barrel nuts and muzzle devices.