Lower parts kit question
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- Dutch253
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Lower parts kit question
I've started my first AR build and went with the Aero Precision ambi stripped lower. I got a little confused when I started picking parts for the lower though. When I did the math, the parts cost around $300..for a lower that cost half that! I didn't select anything over the top or exotic. This is my first build so the question is, is this normal?
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Re: Lower parts kit question
LPK (lower parts kit) should be in the $30-50 range most places. Unless you're getting the extra special smoothed, shaved, titanium, unicorn blood trigger stuff. Match level trigger assemblies can go for the $300 you're mentioning, so perhaps that's what you're looking at?
But the standard LPK I got from PSA was right around $30 and worked like a charm.
But the standard LPK I got from PSA was right around $30 and worked like a charm.
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Re: Lower parts kit question
Hey Dutch, I would check out PSA. A parts kit itself should only cost 20-40$ for a very basic kit. you can of course get much more expensive sets that have a lighter trigger pull weight. I would link you some however I'm at work and don't like to search gun parts at work.Dutch253 wrote:I've started my first AR build and went with the Aero Precision ambi stripped lower. I got a little confused when I started picking parts for the lower though. When I did the math, the parts cost around $300..for a lower that cost half that! I didn't select anything over the top or exotic. This is my first build so the question is, is this normal?
But PSA has some, Midway USA has some, I believe you can even get some off Amazon. The only kits that should cost that much are VERY high end light trigger pull kits.
Good Luck!
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- Dutch253
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Re: Lower parts kit question
So the kits I was looking at included more than just the springs and pins. They had the grip, trigger, take down pins, ambi safety selector and the trigger guard.
"But Lord, during the hardest trials of my life, why was there only one set of footprints?"
"Because," said the Lord, "Sandpeople always ride single-file, to hide their numbers."
"Because," said the Lord, "Sandpeople always ride single-file, to hide their numbers."
Re: Lower parts kit question
Just LPK or buffer, tube, stock and the other parts required to finish a stripped lower? Most people just all the trigger and springs the LPK.
Edit: I figured as much.
Edit: I figured as much.
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You go over and under
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Re: Lower parts kit question
Some if the parts you will choose depend on what type of complete AR you are looking to complete. Do you want a carbine length rifle? Or will you want a longer barrel to complete a full rifle length AR?
Below are the basic parts to complete your lower for a carbine. Brownells is having a sale this weekend and has DPMS complete lower parts kits for $39.95 and a complete carbine stock kit for $49.95. Basically for $90 you would have a complete lower half. If you use coupon code M6S you would also get free shipping.
Complete lower parts kit
http://www.brownells.com/rifle-parts/re ... 24955.aspx
Complete Carbine Stock Kit
http://www.brownells.com/rifle-parts/st ... 44659.aspx
If you want a complete upper for your AR, you would also receive a free $25 gift card with the purchase of this upper.
http://www.brownells.com/rifle-parts/re ... 86806.aspx
The final part you would need is either an optic or basic "iron" sights. I would suggest these sight if you just want something quick, easy and inexpensive.
http://www.brownells.com/rifle-parts/si ... 44044.aspx
Enjoy!
Below are the basic parts to complete your lower for a carbine. Brownells is having a sale this weekend and has DPMS complete lower parts kits for $39.95 and a complete carbine stock kit for $49.95. Basically for $90 you would have a complete lower half. If you use coupon code M6S you would also get free shipping.
Complete lower parts kit
http://www.brownells.com/rifle-parts/re ... 24955.aspx
Complete Carbine Stock Kit
http://www.brownells.com/rifle-parts/st ... 44659.aspx
If you want a complete upper for your AR, you would also receive a free $25 gift card with the purchase of this upper.
http://www.brownells.com/rifle-parts/re ... 86806.aspx
The final part you would need is either an optic or basic "iron" sights. I would suggest these sight if you just want something quick, easy and inexpensive.
http://www.brownells.com/rifle-parts/si ... 44044.aspx
Enjoy!
Re: Lower parts kit question
One other thought. Keep in mind you will need a small hammer and a punch set to complete the lower. If you don't have one or don't know anyone that you can borrow them from you can use the ones in the following links:
8 oz. Ball Pein Hammer
https://www.harborfreight.com/8-oz-stub ... 95930.html
Punch Set
https://www.harborfreight.com/5-piece-l ... 93111.html
Are these the best tools money can buy, no. But to get the job done for one lower receiver they are perfectly fine. However, I would suggest investing in the following tool for placing the bolt catch release pin. It will help you keep from marring the side of your receiver while pushing in the bolt release pin. If you don’t use this tool you can cover the receiver with vinyl electrical tape to protect the finish. Don’t be shy with the tape!
http://www.brownells.com/gunsmith-tools ... 26484.aspx
8 oz. Ball Pein Hammer
https://www.harborfreight.com/8-oz-stub ... 95930.html
Punch Set
https://www.harborfreight.com/5-piece-l ... 93111.html
Are these the best tools money can buy, no. But to get the job done for one lower receiver they are perfectly fine. However, I would suggest investing in the following tool for placing the bolt catch release pin. It will help you keep from marring the side of your receiver while pushing in the bolt release pin. If you don’t use this tool you can cover the receiver with vinyl electrical tape to protect the finish. Don’t be shy with the tape!
http://www.brownells.com/gunsmith-tools ... 26484.aspx
Last edited by ssdtopgun on Sat Jun 17, 2017 6:23 pm, edited 1 time in total.
Re: Lower parts kit question
Sorry, thought keep rolling in.
If you haven’t actually already purchased your AR lower here is a link to a complete kit with every part you need to build a complete AR15 all in one box.
http://www.brownells.com/rifle-parts/re ... 88054.aspx
Personally I’d use an 80% lower receiver but that requires additional tools that you might not have access to or be willing to purchase.
Enjoy.
If you haven’t actually already purchased your AR lower here is a link to a complete kit with every part you need to build a complete AR15 all in one box.
http://www.brownells.com/rifle-parts/re ... 88054.aspx
Personally I’d use an 80% lower receiver but that requires additional tools that you might not have access to or be willing to purchase.
Enjoy.
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Re: Lower parts kit question
I'll take all that into consideration, thanks.ssdtopgun wrote:One other thought. Keep in mind you will need a small hammer and a punch set to complete the lower. If you don't have one or don't know anyone that you can borrow them from you can use the ones in the following links:
8 oz. Ball Pein Hammer
https://www.harborfreight.com/8-oz-stub ... 95930.html
Punch Set
https://www.harborfreight.com/5-piece-l ... 93111.html
Are these the best tools money can buy, no. But to get the job done for one lower receiver they are perfectly fine. However, I would suggest investing in the following tool for placing the bolt catch release pin. It will help you keep from marring the side of your receiver while pushing in the bolt release pin. If you don’t use this tool you can cover the receiver with vinyl electrical tape to protect the finish. Don’t be shy with the tape!
http://www.brownells.com/gunsmith-tools ... 26484.aspx
"But Lord, during the hardest trials of my life, why was there only one set of footprints?"
"Because," said the Lord, "Sandpeople always ride single-file, to hide their numbers."
"Because," said the Lord, "Sandpeople always ride single-file, to hide their numbers."
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Re: Lower parts kit question
I pretty much stick to SOLGW LPKs with thier "fighting trigger" wich is basically thier version of an ALG ACT trigger. Thier parts are none mim and on par with BCM and DD, the lpk+trigger are around $80. Sionics Weapons systems also sells complete blemished lowers for $200-250 with a NPQ or Nickle boron coated trigger,QD end plate,magpul grip,good buffer springs. Both Sionics and SOLGW are "combat grade" hard use type stuff and not lifestyle brand crap. I'm a noob here so feel free to ignore me or interrogate me as needed.
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Re: Lower parts kit question
JF89 wrote:I pretty much stick to SOLGW LPKs with thier "fighting trigger" wich is basically thier version of an ALG ACT trigger. Thier parts are none mim and on par with BCM and DD, the lpk+trigger are around $80. Sionics Weapons systems also sells complete blemished lowers for $200-250 with a NPQ or Nickle boron coated trigger,QD end plate,magpul grip,good buffer springs. Both Sionics and SOLGW are "combat grade" hard use type stuff and not lifestyle brand crap. I'm a noob here so feel free to ignore me or interrogate me as needed.
If you head over to our introduction section we can start with that interrogation you mentioned. We try to make it fun, but waterboarding can only be so exciting.
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Re: Lower parts kit question
sounds good i'm drunk so I this should be fun. I didnt see anythingin the rules about language, is this a PG or Rated R type of forum?woodsghost wrote:JF89 wrote:I pretty much stick to SOLGW LPKs with thier "fighting trigger" wich is basically thier version of an ALG ACT trigger. Thier parts are none mim and on par with BCM and DD, the lpk+trigger are around $80. Sionics Weapons systems also sells complete blemished lowers for $200-250 with a NPQ or Nickle boron coated trigger,QD end plate,magpul grip,good buffer springs. Both Sionics and SOLGW are "combat grade" hard use type stuff and not lifestyle brand crap. I'm a noob here so feel free to ignore me or interrogate me as needed.
If you head over to our introduction section we can start with that interrogation you mentioned. We try to make it fun, but waterboarding can only be so exciting.
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Re: Lower parts kit question
JF89 wrote:sounds good i'm drunk so I this should be fun. I didnt see anythingin the rules about language, is this a PG or Rated R type of forum?woodsghost wrote:JF89 wrote:I pretty much stick to SOLGW LPKs with thier "fighting trigger" wich is basically thier version of an ALG ACT trigger. Thier parts are none mim and on par with BCM and DD, the lpk+trigger are around $80. Sionics Weapons systems also sells complete blemished lowers for $200-250 with a NPQ or Nickle boron coated trigger,QD end plate,magpul grip,good buffer springs. Both Sionics and SOLGW are "combat grade" hard use type stuff and not lifestyle brand crap. I'm a noob here so feel free to ignore me or interrogate me as needed.
If you head over to our introduction section we can start with that interrogation you mentioned. We try to make it fun, but waterboarding can only be so exciting.
I like this guy already!! Drunk posting... classic....
Any news on Dutch and what he ended up buying for his build??
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Re: Lower parts kit question
I'd say it's more of a PG-13 type that leans towards R rated on occasion.JF89 wrote:sounds good i'm drunk so I this should be fun. I didnt see anythingin the rules about language, is this a PG or Rated R type of forum?woodsghost wrote:JF89 wrote:I pretty much stick to SOLGW LPKs with thier "fighting trigger" wich is basically thier version of an ALG ACT trigger. Thier parts are none mim and on par with BCM and DD, the lpk+trigger are around $80. Sionics Weapons systems also sells complete blemished lowers for $200-250 with a NPQ or Nickle boron coated trigger,QD end plate,magpul grip,good buffer springs. Both Sionics and SOLGW are "combat grade" hard use type stuff and not lifestyle brand crap. I'm a noob here so feel free to ignore me or interrogate me as needed.
If you head over to our introduction section we can start with that interrogation you mentioned. We try to make it fun, but waterboarding can only be so exciting.
You can curse, but keep in mind that folks often browse ZS at work or around their kids.
Welcome to ZS, by the way.

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Re: Lower parts kit question
Thanks man, hopefully theres less zombies here then the last couple forums ive signed up at.12_Gauge_Chimp wrote:I'd say it's more of a PG-13 type that leans towards R rated on occasion.JF89 wrote:sounds good i'm drunk so I this should be fun. I didnt see anythingin the rules about language, is this a PG or Rated R type of forum?woodsghost wrote:JF89 wrote:I pretty much stick to SOLGW LPKs with thier "fighting trigger" wich is basically thier version of an ALG ACT trigger. Thier parts are none mim and on par with BCM and DD, the lpk+trigger are around $80. Sionics Weapons systems also sells complete blemished lowers for $200-250 with a NPQ or Nickle boron coated trigger,QD end plate,magpul grip,good buffer springs. Both Sionics and SOLGW are "combat grade" hard use type stuff and not lifestyle brand crap. I'm a noob here so feel free to ignore me or interrogate me as needed.
If you head over to our introduction section we can start with that interrogation you mentioned. We try to make it fun, but waterboarding can only be so exciting.
You can curse, but keep in mind that folks often browse ZS at work or around their kids.
Welcome to ZS, by the way.
- 12_Gauge_Chimp
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Re: Lower parts kit question
We don't get many zombies here, but we do get the occasional troll who comes in, makes a few idiotic posts and then gets banned by whatever moderator on duty that day.
If you want to laugh or feel your IQ drop, I suggest looking up posts by 'Zantra', 'Longy' and 'Hokicake'.
We're all still unsure if those were three different people or just one really determined person with multiple accounts.
If you want to laugh or feel your IQ drop, I suggest looking up posts by 'Zantra', 'Longy' and 'Hokicake'.
We're all still unsure if those were three different people or just one really determined person with multiple accounts.

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Re: Lower parts kit question
And a turtle.12_Gauge_Chimp wrote:We don't get many zombies here, but we do get the occasional troll who comes in, makes a few idiotic posts and then gets banned by whatever moderator on duty that day.
If you want to laugh or feel your IQ drop, I suggest looking up posts by 'Zantra', 'Longy' and 'Hokicake'.
We're all still unsure if those were three different people or just one really determined person with multiple accounts.
*Remember: I'm just a guy on the internet 
*Don't go to stupid places with stupid people & do stupid things.
*Be courteous. Look normal. Be in bed by 10'clock.
“It's a dangerous business, Frodo, going out your door. You step onto the road, and if you don't keep your feet, there's no knowing where you might be swept off to.” -Bilbo Baggins.

*Don't go to stupid places with stupid people & do stupid things.
*Be courteous. Look normal. Be in bed by 10'clock.
“It's a dangerous business, Frodo, going out your door. You step onto the road, and if you don't keep your feet, there's no knowing where you might be swept off to.” -Bilbo Baggins.
- 12_Gauge_Chimp
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Re: Lower parts kit question
I knew I forgot something. Thanks, Woodsghost.woodsghost wrote:And a turtle.12_Gauge_Chimp wrote:We don't get many zombies here, but we do get the occasional troll who comes in, makes a few idiotic posts and then gets banned by whatever moderator on duty that day.
If you want to laugh or feel your IQ drop, I suggest looking up posts by 'Zantra', 'Longy' and 'Hokicake'.
We're all still unsure if those were three different people or just one really determined person with multiple accounts.
Back on topic, I've been seeing the DPMS and XTS branded lower parts kits the local Academy store and I'm considering picking one up for my eventual AR build.
I know DPMS' quality is decent enough for a plinker, but I've never heard of XTS. Anyone use the XTS lower parts kits ? If so, what's the quality like ?
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Re: Lower parts kit question
Well, first you’re gonna need a Ciener .22 conversion...
I’d just grab a PSA lower parts kit with some flavor of the ALG trigger when they go on sale. Many versions... You can get just the LPK and piecemeal the rest when they’re on sale too. Sign up for the deal blast email...can get annoying with multiple emails every day, but lots of good deals pop up.
Currently out of stock, but here it is with a Magpul MOE stock and grip: http://palmettostatearmory.com/palmetto ... igger.html
I’d get the 7075 series aluminum mil-spec buffer tube vs. the 6061 “mil-spec size” tube for a few bucks more, though either will do just fine. I have builds with both and no issues.
Have you built the upper yet?
PSA also has the magpul MBUS set on sale for under $100.
Re: parts, I spend money where it matters: bolt/bolt carrier, trigger and barrel. Unless it’s a specialty build with lightweight parts I almost always use Bravo Company/BCM or Daniel Defense (DD).
Almost every rifle I’ve built has a BCM bolt (most with a BCM carrier too) regardless of cost...simply the best in my experience.
Every one of my personal rifles has a Geissele trigger, again the best trigger for my needs...ALG gets you 90% (or more) of that trigger for 1/4 the price. Built on the same EDM wire cutting machines as the Geissele triggers, just not guaranteed to be match grade. I have ALG triggers in most of the builds I’ve done for friends and family.
Barrels are a preference thing...a lot depends on what you need it for. Hard to go wrong with any flavor of BCM or DD barrel.

I’d just grab a PSA lower parts kit with some flavor of the ALG trigger when they go on sale. Many versions... You can get just the LPK and piecemeal the rest when they’re on sale too. Sign up for the deal blast email...can get annoying with multiple emails every day, but lots of good deals pop up.
Currently out of stock, but here it is with a Magpul MOE stock and grip: http://palmettostatearmory.com/palmetto ... igger.html
I’d get the 7075 series aluminum mil-spec buffer tube vs. the 6061 “mil-spec size” tube for a few bucks more, though either will do just fine. I have builds with both and no issues.
Have you built the upper yet?
PSA also has the magpul MBUS set on sale for under $100.
Re: parts, I spend money where it matters: bolt/bolt carrier, trigger and barrel. Unless it’s a specialty build with lightweight parts I almost always use Bravo Company/BCM or Daniel Defense (DD).
Almost every rifle I’ve built has a BCM bolt (most with a BCM carrier too) regardless of cost...simply the best in my experience.
Every one of my personal rifles has a Geissele trigger, again the best trigger for my needs...ALG gets you 90% (or more) of that trigger for 1/4 the price. Built on the same EDM wire cutting machines as the Geissele triggers, just not guaranteed to be match grade. I have ALG triggers in most of the builds I’ve done for friends and family.
Barrels are a preference thing...a lot depends on what you need it for. Hard to go wrong with any flavor of BCM or DD barrel.
Last edited by 91Eunozs on Sat Feb 10, 2018 12:04 am, edited 1 time in total.
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Re: Lower parts kit question
Heres a complete buffer kit from Aero Precision: https://www.wingtactical.com/firearm-pa ... -tube-kit/ its 7075 and mil spec for $38
Re: Lower parts kit question
Can't go wrong with aero stuff. Their lpk has just abo7 t everything in it except the buffer tube, s rping and stock.
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Re: Lower parts kit question
Just realized we’ve all been responding to an 8 month old thread! 

Molon Latte...come & take our coffee order
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Re: Lower parts kit question
I love necro posting...I have some dirty disgusting inappropriae jokes that go with that but I will watch my mouth.91Eunozs wrote:Just realized we’ve all been responding to an 8 month old thread!
Re: Lower parts kit question
Hahaha you ain't right for that! I accidentally necro a lot of threads
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