Need an AR Build Tool List...

[xSHEMx]

I'm about to undertake my first AR build, but I'm not sure what tools I will need. I have scoured this forum (if I didn't dig deep enough, please link me) and watched many instructional videos, but it seems like everyone has a different idea or is trying to sell a particular tool/product. So, once again I turn to the fine people of Calguns.net for help. I'd like to know what the essential tools are, which tools aren't required, but are helpful, and what to avoid. I've seen plenty of "all-in-one" kits for sale, but I'd like to avoid paying for stuff I'm not gonna use.

If it helps to narrow things down, I'm building from a completely stripped lower and upper receiver and I'll be installing a free-float hand guard.

Thanks!

[kcstott]

AK builder, Toth tool, those would be my top two recommended places to look for tooling.

list
Flat bending die
short rivet jig, or tooth tool bolt cutter jaws
long rivet jig.
Trigger guard rivet jig
12 ton press
Barrel press tools
5mm, 7mm reamers
drill bits
headspace gages
not everything but a damn good start

[CRTguns]

the tools to build are rarely required for maintenance. And to buy the tools you'll you'll pay 3 times what a shop would charge to assemble for you.
Something to consider.

[CRTguns]

the tools to build are rarely required for maintenance. And to buy the tools you'll you'll pay 3 times what a shop would charge to assemble for you.
Something to consider.

But here goes:
Barrel nut wrench- there are a few patterns- GI nut and free float, so you'll need both. Stay away from the 1 for all kinda wrenches.
Strap wrench for Hogue forearms.
barrel extension holder (slides into the action and locks into the lugs for tightening stuff ont0 the barrel. If youre wrenching on the barrel- hold the barrel. If youre wrenching on the upper, hold the upper
Action holder (not the kind that hooks into the takedown holes on the upper) the clamshell thing. If you have DPMS or Sundevil or any other billet upper, there's a different set of jaws that interface with a bench vise that hold the to and bottom of the upper.
Stock wrench (can be found on the barrel nut wrench, but there are 2 styles. The 1 for all wrench has a peg that that is cast into the wrench... it will break.
Slave pins for fitting fire control. (makes it faster)
diamond hone for timing fire control
Allen wrenches
roll pin starter punches
pin punches
needle nose pliers
long flathead screw driver

ready
set
go.

[Alex$]

AR gentlemen, A-R.

I assembled my first AR with nothing more than vice grips, punches and a healthy sense of adventure.

Start by looking at the "OLL assembly guide" above in the blue menu bar. That will give you a starting point.

Assembling an AR is nothing more than having the ability to follow instructions and reading a diagram. Did you put models together as a child? Good at IKEA projects? Then the AR is your platform.

Now as KC hinted at, the A-K platform is more along the lines of a bootlegger trying to outrun the law... only your imagination can hurt you... (given a good sense of Appalachian engineering)

AR's require tolerances in the .00x's inch in certain spots, AK's require tolerances that a hammer can provide, but a decent sense of mechanical knowledge.

Look to the "OLL Assemby Guide" above, if you have more questions post here.

*EDIT* CRTGuns posted a correction/addition while I was typing. His post is on point for a refined build, the tools he mentions are a great if you have the money to invest.