Getting started with my first AR15 build

[Dave Hoback]

+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.

[PachecoFTW]

Noice I remember when I turned 21, then again at 18 my first gun ever was a m16a3 clone I got off a calgunner, still got it.
Good luck!

[SanDiego619]

I have a bench block, a vice, roll pin starters and punches. The rest of the stuff are normal tools you'd have. I use an adjustable wrench instead of a brass hammer, because that's what I have already. Works great!

[SamSepiGunnerz54]

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.....

Looking good brother!

[wpage]

Watch some you tube videos and decide what you need based on your skills and resourcefulness.

[edgerly779]

Save up and get a mill vise. Frame jig for ar. Screw that namby pamby 4" vise unless it is a mill vise or machinists vise. About 60 bucks for used 4"-6"on ebay look for cheap shipping or pick up they are heavy. I just saw a couple on craigslist as well.

[protohyp]

welding machine if you're going 14.5 barrel

[sigstroker]

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

Geissele charges too much for everything. There are plenty of other makes for less money. You don't really need one for assembly, you might want one for disassembly. Things can be stubborn after many heat cycles and not want to come loose.