Want your AR-15 to be the best it can be?
We’ve built dozens of ARs and we’ll cover all the best AR-15 upgrades such as handguards, triggers, BCGs, gas blocks, and more.
Plus, there are individual hands-on articles for each part…so get ready to go down the rabbit hole!
THE QUICK LIST
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Editor’s Pick Muzzle Brake
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Best Bang for Buck Single-Stage Trigger
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Fastest Trigger
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Best Two-Strage Trigger
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Best Free Floating Handguard
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Lightest Handguard
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Editor’s Pick Mil-Spec BCG
Table of Contents
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Why Upgrade the AR-15?
After you get some time with a more basic AR, you’ll likely start to realize could be improved to meet your specific purpose. And the AR-15 modular system makes upgrading a breeze for most components.
We’ll start off first with possible upgrades to the upper receiver group followed by the lower receiver group and furniture. We’ll also provide examples of what we think are the best in class for each type of upgrade.
Don’t have an AR yet? Check out our Buyer’s Guide to the AR-15 first.
Let’s get started!
Best AR-15 Muzzle Brakes & Compensators
Brakes, compensators, and their hybrids are a super easy upgrade to help you reduce felt recoil and minimize vertical movement of your gun.
We cover a bunch of the best and most popular ones in our Best AR-15 Muzzle Brakes article…but here are our favorites.
Starting with…our Editor’s Pick.
Precision Armament M4-72
The Precision Armament M4-72 Severe Duty is one of the best recoil-reducing brakes…plus it had the least reticle movement after firing.
It barely moves! But beware…it is really loud and will annoy people next to you. Still…it’s the most effective.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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VG6 Gamma
The Best Hybrid Brake/Compensator goes to the VG6 Gamma.
It’s less punishing to your range friends but is also great at recoil reduction and limiting reticle movement.
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Strike Industries J-Comp V2
And our Goldilocks Muzzle Device goes to the Strike Industries J-Comp V2.
It’s great at recoil reduction…might have some flash-hiding capabilities…and definitely has very little reticle movement.
Oh…and it’s around $30-40 only.
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Again…see the rest of all the tests (along with more videos of side blasts and live fire) at Best AR-15 Muzzle Brakes.
Best AR-15 Triggers
In our original How to Choose Your AR article, we recommended sticking with the stock Mil-Spec (military specification) trigger and letting it smooth out with use. We still advise that with critical use ARs such as home/self-defense.
As you go with “better” triggers, you’re skirting the line between performance and reliability.
And with some guns, you want to make sure they will always go bang. For others, such as range plinking, competition, or precision shooting rigs, you care more about the crispness and lower trigger pull weight.
We’ll cover three varieties of aftermarket triggers: upgraded mil-spec, single-stage, and two-stage.
But also check out our complete Best AR-15 Triggers article for all our tested ones.
Upgraded Mil-Spec Triggers
These still maintain the same geometry as mil-spec stock triggers but are polished for a better feel. They maintain the same reliability with slightly better pull weight and crispness.
- ALG Defense Trigger QMS: The go-to brand for mil-spec reliability with some refinement at a 6.5 lbs trigger pull.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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- ALG Defense Trigger ACT: The slightly crisper version at 6 lbs.
- Trigger Pull Weight: 6 lb 15 oz
- Split Time: .20 sec
- Summary: Polished and coated mil-spec trigger that gives a much better feeling with less creep and a cleaner break…but maintains reliability.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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This is one of our favorite (and easiest upgrades). What do you think of an upgraded AR trigger? Let us know below!
Single-Stage Triggers
These are very crisp triggers that move back in one movement with a lighter trigger pull.
- Rise Armament RAVE 140: The best bang-for-the-buck upgrade at under $100 for a drop-in single-stage trigger that dramatically makes your AR-15 feel so much better.
- Trigger Pull Weight: 4 lb 2 oz
- Split Time: .16 sec even with my stutter
- Summary: Most affordable drop-in trigger with a lighter than mil-spec trigger pull, small take-up, clean break, and good reset
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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- Timney Competition Trigger: A huge name in the AR-15 trigger world is Timney. And I love their Competition Trigger, which comes in at 3.5 lbs of crisp goodness.
- Trigger Pull Weight: 3 lb 5 oz
- Split Time: .205 sec, which is decent
- Summary: Love the almost non-existent pre-travel combined with a clean break.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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- Timney Calvin Elite: If you want the absolute lightest trigger…you get the Calvin Elite which comes in at an astonishingly low 1.5 lbs. Truly a hair trigger for you competition shooters out there.
- Trigger Pull Weight: 1 lb 9 oz (lightest)
- Split Time: .115 sec (fastest)
- Summary: The lightest and fastest shooting for me…plus the most adjustable. I would make sure to Loctite all the adjustment screws since there’s a lot of potential for things to become loose.
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We liked our Timney Triggers so much that we even made a YouTube video on the two:
Want the fastest shooting trigger with near-zero reset distance? It’s all about the Blackout Defense Zero.
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It comes in 3 and 4.5-lb models for both the AR-15 and AR-10. Check it out in action:
Still with us? Let’s move on to two-stage triggers!
Two-Stage Triggers
While single-stage triggers require all the force to engage, these two-stage triggers allow you to take up most of the slack in the first stage before requiring just a little more pressure to fire on the second (about 1 pound).
Thus, two-stage triggers are normally reserved for precision rifles but, when pressed quickly, act just like single-stage triggers.
You can choose varying combinations of force required to “set” the trigger and the final force to “release.”
- Geissele SSA-E Trigger: Geissele is a well-known name in the competition trigger world, especially for their two-stage triggers. Good choice of types of triggers and different weights. Also, check out their budget model, the G2S ($140).
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- PSA Two Stage Trigger: For the more budget conscious…the PSA version is very similar to the Geissele and comes in at half the price.
- Trigger Pull Weight: 4 lb 7 oz (listed is 3 lb 8 oz total)
- Split Time: Not timed, but seemed respectable
- Summary: Great deal in the realm of 2-stage triggers if you don’t want to spring for the TriggerTech or a Geissele. I pair this up with my PSA AR-10 precision builds.
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- TriggerTech Adaptable AR Trigger: A drop-in two-stage trigger that’s weight adjustable and silky smooth.
- Trigger Pull Weight: 3 lb 3 oz to 7 lb 2 oz (listed is 2.5 to 5.o lb)
- Split Time: .24 sec, but 2-stage triggers are mostly for precision work
- Summary: Very nice first stage that’s reminiscent of 1911s that leads to a clean light break and minimal over-travel. Good reset to the end of the first stage if you’re shooting slowly.
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Again…see all the triggers we tested in our Best AR-15 Triggers article…complete with videos of us firing and split times.
To test your trigger pull weight, check out our recommendations for the Best Trigger Pull Gauges.
Best AR-15 Drop-In Handguards
We’ll focus on two types of handguards, drop-in and free float. We cover this in much more depth in our Best AR-15 Handguards section. But here are our top selections.
Drop-in handguards are when you have a delta ring on the receiver and a fixed front sight base.
You’re limited in the established length from the receiver to the FSB. Drop-in handguards are also in two pieces so they can fit without removing the barrel, delta ring, or FSB.
You also have to make sure you get the proper length for your gas system.
Magpul MOE Handguards
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- Price: $27
- Length: 9.2″ (Mid-Length)
- Total Weight: 8.7 oz
Probably the most ubiquitous drop-in handguard due to its weight, affordability, and looks. Comes in several colors and all the normal gas lengths: carbine, mid-length, & rifle.
Midwest Industries Two-Piece Drop-In Handguards
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- Price: $130
- Length: 9″ (Mid-Length)
- Total Weight: 6.6 oz
Aluminum rail options for the different gas lengths. Pricier but from a reputable company. We run multiple versions of their free-float handguards.
Troy Industries Drop-In Quad Rail
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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If you’re looking for a quad rail system, here it is. Comes in a variety of gas system lengths.
- Price: $160
- Length: 9″ (Mid-Length)
- Total Weight: — oz
Best AR-15 Free-Floating Handguards
Free-floating handguards connect only to the receiver and do not touch the barrel. This increases accuracy since there’s nothing interfering with the barrel, such as the stock, grip, or accessories.
You can also choose the length of your handguard to be much longer to accommodate an extended grip and hang extra accessories. Just be sure to measure your barrel + muzzle device so you order the right length handguard.
My personal recommendation is for a 12″ or 13″ handguard, which will give you enough space for almost any arm position. Plus, I prefer M-LOK over KeyMod. Looks like US Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) agrees too.
The trend is moving towards just Picatinny rails on the top instead of quad rails (all around) to reduce weight. And then just adding on rails where needed for flashlights, grips, etc.
Again, here are a few of our top choices. For more, see our Best AR-15 Handguards article.
Aero Precision ATLAS
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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- Price: $140
- Length: 12″
- Handguard Weight: 7.0 oz
- Barrel Nut Weight: 4.7 oz
- Total Weight: 11.7 oz
One of my favorites due to the weight savings from the removal of the top Picatinny rails. Plus, the front taper perfectly fits my thumbs.
Note that since it’s curved, you will not be able to run a pressure switch for your lights/lasers.
Here it is on an Aero upper I love (full review).
They now also have a version that has the entire top rail if you need more space.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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STNGR VYPR
My current favorite for the price is the STNGR VYPR.
It’s missing vowels but it makes it up for great fit/finish/color…and price.
I also like the aggressive design but was initially wary since the top cuts seemed a little too large.
But after multiple mags (and other shooters)…my fear was mitigated.
Plus, they also have packages with comfy and cool-looking rail covers.
The reduced-rail VLCN has also become the basis of our night vision build…so that’s pretty much the best rec I can give!
- Price: $139
- Length: 15″
- Total Weight: 11.5 oz
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Yankee Hill Machine Quad Rail
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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- Price: $119
- Length: 12.58″
- Total Weight: 15.2 oz
If you’re still looking for a quad rail…YHM has got you covered. A little heavier, but you get tons of real estate to put anything your heart desires.
Brigand Arms Carbon Fiber
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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- Price: $296
- Length: 12.4″
- Handguard Weight: 2.9 oz
- Barrel Nut Weight: 1.4 oz
- Total Weight: 4.3 oz
Literally, the lightest I’ve ever felt…and still plenty strong. But you gotta pay to play. This was the winner of the Lightest Handguard roundup.
Best AR-15 Bolt Carrier Groups (BCG)
If Whatever BCG came with your rifle has run fine, it will likely continue to run fine.
But if you’re dead set on fixing something that isn’t broken, or if you’re building a new rifle…check out Best AR-15 BCGs.
You can take a look at new coatings or lighter-weight profiles for BCGs.
Here are a couple of our favorites.
BCM M16 BCG
The go-to for mil-spec that will always go bang. If it’s a duty or self-defense rifle, I suggest going with a BCM.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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WMD Guns Nickel Boron BCG
Want something slicker and easier to clean? Check out this Nickel Boron coated BCG from WMD. Plus, the silver looks cool showing through your upper.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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PSA BCG
This is what I’d use for a budget build. They are available in both phosphate and nitride coatings. The phosphate coatings are a little bumpy but they’ve always gone bang.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Brownells Lightweight BCG in Titanium Nitride
This one is a double threat.
Lightweight to go with an adjustable gas system for less recoil..remember the BCG is a big hunk of metal moving in your gun.
And if you’re upgrading…might as well go with a different coating.
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Rubber City Armory Titanium BCG
Want the same BCG profile but still the weight savings? I use the RCA Titanium BCG in my race gun for reduced recoil.
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Check out the rest of the BCGs we love in Best AR-15 BCGs…or go straight to Best Lightweight BCGs for the competition shooters out there.
Best AR-15 Charging Handles
One of those upgrades that you were fine without…but now that you’ve experienced it…you wonder how you could have ever done without it.
Every one of my serious rifles has an upgraded charging handle for easier and more robust bolt manipulation. See the whole batch in Best AR-15 Charging Handles.
BCM Gunfighter Charging Handle
The OG and one that goes on every one of our competition/defensive rifles. Makes it much easier to rack the charging handle without worrying about flex or premature wear.
We’ve tried the cheaper options of just switching out the latch, but it just doesn’t feel as robust. We go for the medium-size Mod 4 for the balance of ease of use and potential to snag.
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Radian Raptor (Ambidextrous)
The most robust and smoothest ambi charging handle out there. But it will cost you.
Now let’s move on to upgrades you can do to the AR-15 lower…
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Radian Raptor LT (Ambidextrous)
A newer kid on the block…this is the “light version” of the ambidextrous Raptor. More affordable and lighter.
Especially useful if you’re a lefty or like to use your right hand to brass check. Only a couple of bones more than the BCM, and you upgrade to ambidextrous controls.
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We cover a bunch more charging handles for affordability and even for suppressed use in Best AR-15 Charging Handles.
Overwhelmed yet? We’re almost done!
Best AR-15 Barrel Upgrades
You might consider a barrel upgrade if you’ve worn out your barrel or if your current profile/length isn’t up to par for your purpose. Or you’re doing a new build!
For more accuracy-related tasks, you might consider a heavier contour which makes the barrel stiffer and more resistant to accuracy drop-offs due to heat and barrel whip.
If you’re wanting to reach out farther, you might consider a longer 18″ or 20″ barrel for that extra boost in velocity. Stainless steel barrels are also known for being more accurate but at the expense of a shorter life (and more expense).
Or if you’re looking to cut back on weight and looking at sub-300 yard distances, you could go for a lightweight profile and drop to the standard 16″ or even 14.5″ with a pinned muzzle device.
And for critical use rifles, we would suggest both MP/HP tested barrels for that extra margin of safety.
For those looking for a softer shooting AR-15, you could look for a longer gas length, such as moving up to mid-length from a carbine. The extra length gives more space/time for gas pressures to lower before cycling back.
Recommended AR-15 Barrels & Manufacturers
We cover all of our favorite manufacturers and specific barrels in Best AR-15 Barrels…but here’s the gist:
- Faxon Firearms: My go-to barrel manufacturer. These are accurate, affordable, and have a specific Gunner profile. Made in-house with their aerospace manufacturing background. Great across the board for 16″, precision, short, and other calibers.
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- Ballistic Advantage: Another in-house manufacturer that has a proprietary Hanson profile that reduces barrel whip. I currently have one in my competition rifle. Also great for other calibers.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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- White Oak Armament: No frills here…just plain accuracy and build quality.
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- BSF: Did someone say carbon fiber?
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Again, for a lowdown on everything barrel…check out our Best AR-15 Barrels Guide.
Best AR-15 Gas Blocks
Having a low-profile gas block allows you to put on a free-floating handguard which unlocks better accuracy and more rail space for your grip and accessories.
Some gas blocks will also be adjustable so you can tune your rifle to your specific ammo to create a softer shooting AR.
Be sure to match up the diameter of the gas block to your barrel profile. Light profile is .625″, normal is .750″, and heavy profile is .936″. Also, make sure to have the appropriate length gas tube if you are not reusing your old one.
If you have a front sight base barrel, it is extremely difficult to remove and can result in a bent barrel if done improperly. We recommend taking it to a gunsmith or just shaving it down yourself to have a makeshift low-profile gas block.
Recommended AR-15 Low Profile Gas Blocks
- Daniel Defense: They do what they are supposed to do and stay on.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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- Bravo Company Low Profile Gas Block: Another heavy-duty low-profile gas block for pencil and regular barrels.
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- Seekins Low Profile .750 Adjustable Gas Block: We love that it has a set screw to lock in the adjustments ($56). Hard to keep in stock, here are other adjustable gas blocks.
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- Superlative Arms Adjustable Gas Block: My new favorite because you can easily adjust without taking off your handguard plus it bleeds the excess gas forward instead of all over the place like other adjustable blocks.
You can check out our full review here.
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Best AR-15 Ambidextrous Safeties
For the lefties out there or for poor Californians running “featureless” AR-15s who need to be able to flick their safety on the right side.
Battle Arms Ambi Safety
Lower profile safety lever on the right side that won’t interfere with right-handed shooting. What we run in our competition guns.
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Seekins Ambi Safety
Or if you’re looking for some flair and quality. Plus, these work best with Featureless AR Builds.
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Best AR-15 Suppressors
We’ve got an entire article dedicated to Best AR-15 Suppressors since it’s way too much info for an overview article.
But if we had to choose one…it’d be the Silencer Central Banish 30. It’s titanium, multi-caliber, and user-serviceable.
Plus blowback is way less than other suppressors…and it’s super quiet.
Again…check out all our picks in Best AR-15 Suppressors, which will walk through how they work and how to buy one.
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Miscellaneous AR-15 Upgrades
Law Tactical Gen 3 Folding Stock Adapter
Want to make your AR carbine or pistol the tiniest it can be?
You’ll want the Law Tactical Gen 3 Side Folder Adapter, which lets you fold the buffer tube & stock over to the side…then quickly flip it back into place when you need to shoot.
For this…the best explanation is with a short clip:
There are other companies that make something like it but Law Tactical is our current favorite. Just be sure not to fire with it folded back.
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Magpul B.A.D. Lever
We love the B.A.D. Lever since you can manipulate the bolt release using your right hand and not resort to hitting the paddle with your left hand. Also great to easily lock your bolt back during cease-fires at the range. Great for competitions and what we have on all our AR-15s.
Plus, they are super easy to install.
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OuterImpact Adjustable Co-Witnessing Red Dot Adapter Mount
While the name is a mouthful, what this product does is pretty simple. OuterImpact has a few products that are all about giving you options.
This red dot mount is essentially a riser that includes their super-adaptable plate. It allows you to mount up a wide array of optics to your rifle.
They didn’t stop there. OuterImpact designed the riser to be adjustable in height, offering co-witness, lower 1/3, and multiple points between. Shooters can set it how they like.
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Final Thoughts
That should get you through most of the major upgrades for the AR-15. But there are still tons of things to upgrade!
What are your fave upgrades? Let us know in the comments below. If you’re planning on upgrading a lot…you might be better off building your own. Check out how with our AR-15 Resources Page.
76 Leave a Reply
Need to check out HUDU muzzle breaks. They are an up n coming company. Clone G3 308 reticle dosent move. 300 Win mag feels like shooting a 22. Give em a look see. sptshooting dot com
Not that a 5.56 AR recoil is bad, its actually not bad at all, but I use the Strike Industries J-Comp Gen 2' on a few of my rifles. Out of all the various I've tried over the years, including those on this list, the Strike Industries J-Comp Gen 2 has been the best overall.
If you are going to be on a public range with it with other shooters who are not your friends (your friends will understand, others who are not your friends might be annoyed with you), I'd recommend you add the Strike Industries 'SI OPPRESSOR' (it is quick attach and detach on the J-Comp Gen 2 so you can put it on any take it off easily with no permanent attachment).
For triggers, the Rise Armament AR-15 Rave 140 will be the best all around for most people, if you are not satisfied with the standard mil-spec trigger (and a lot of people are happy with the standard mil-spec trigger and actually I don't mind it). I got a few Rave 140's on a few rifles and I like them and although I have tried various triggers over the years including some on this list, I found the Rave 140 to be the best all around trigger that will suit most people.
You can go nuts with 'upgrades' on the AR platform, its not called the 'money pit' as a term of endearment. But to be honest, most things people and reviews and articles like this consider upgrades are really not upgrades but rather more of 'I wants'. If you are going to upgrade and don't have a lot of free spending cash then skip the 'I wants' and spend your money wisely for the solid functional, and then later if you want when you do have the money maybe treat yourself to some of the 'I wants'. For example, the 'Brigand Arms Carbon Fiber Handguard' is an 'I want' kinda thing (and other than the 'cool looking bling' aspect is kinda useless for anything else).
My upgrade, go ahead and laugh, is a handgrip plug! It holds a button and 2 AAA batteries and there is still room for "stuff".
Realize many haven't heard of them, but kinda' surprised to see Cryptic Coatings BCG's left off the list - at least for competition builds. Their Mystic Black has a frictional coefficient of 0.01. You can't do any better for lubricity & it's the only BCG coating I've seen that you can genuinely clean to a mirror shine with just a dry cloth. Mine has held up well, but I'm only 2-3K rounds in. Just thought it was worth a mention; I realize the market is too saturated to include all options so - a good article, all the same.
The Aero free floats are nice, but I rather have a full top rail front to back. I have an Atlas with the split top and it feels great in the hand but for mounting a light switch pad or an IR/laser unit it's not optimal.
When I saw them claim the aero was the best Handguard I stopped reading......
You left out review of 'Best Receiver End Plate'
Wish I had had your article covering the AR, 11 years ago, when I bought my first AR. I knew next to nothing about the rifle and ended up buying a DPMS Oracle. It was garbage. I spent the next 2 years and $600 turning it into a decent gun. All told about $1100. I'd have been better off buying up from the beginning.
Good articles, and definitely saving for future reference.
Weary means tired, you meant wary as in cautious.
Some of the best and simplest upgrades I've done for accuracy are getting a free float handguard, and a drop in trigger. Those two items do a lot to eliminate some of problems when shooting for accuracy. Another (not sure if it was mentioned) is to 'fix' the upper receiver to the lower - meaning reduce (eliminate) the sloppy-rattle loose fit that you get between the upper and lower receiver with the pivot/take-down pins that come standard with the AR. Simply - for the pivot pin slop, I cut shim material (0.010 inch metal) strip 1/8"x 1" and just lay it in tight to the forward pivot pin where it closes between the upper and lower receivers (avoid any overhang into the mag well as it could interfere with the magazine feed). As you close the upper to the lower it will compress on the shim strip eliminating any rattle or slop. True, there will be a 0.010" gap between the upper and lower, but it is rock solid and causes no problems with fit or function of the firearm. My older Colts have a two piece nut/bolt pivot pin connection to accommodate the two different diameter pivot pins holes of the older lower receivers and the newer uppers pivot pin diameters. After tightening the slotted nut to the pivot pin, simply turn the slotted head of the pin and "cam-lock" the pivot pin tight - no rattle or slop. To tighten up the sloppy take-down pin connection, I install one of those little receiver wedges by Accu-wedge. By taking these simple steps, the AR can be tightened up from a loose fitting upper/lower two-piece rifle to a rock-solid one piece firearm with a free floated barrel with a light and crisp trigger.
Also, I have POF's drop in trigger and am very pleased with it.
Glad that works at the flat range for you for poking holes in paper....
Good info, but I never see an reviews on POF AR's or there accessories.
I have a L.H. STAG Arms A4 and I have sum upgrades on it but not real expensive stuff like a Vortex red/ green dot plus a 3x magnifier behind it that can be dropped to the side as I'm sure all are and a muzz brake and nice charging handle, had more junk but felt it was mostly junk. But I'm at the point where I think a lot of it is just for selling, I mean unless ur a comp shooter I don't see the use for a lot of it for a civvie. I mean if you don't shake like a leaf and have decent eye sight in 15 mins of training you can throw up a AR and hit a grapefruit at 200 yds. All this for what? Thank you and I do love it all tho.
Great Article. Would liked to have seen the Radian Talon Ambi Selector included. Having owned a Custom Gun Shop specializing in AR's I have built many rifles and have used many different selectors........in my experience the Talon is the absolute best! Just my .02
I like the Radian Talon Selector, I didn't go Ambi as I like nothing over to hit when working the action with a Radian charging handle.
Pew, Pew must have wrote this article 5 years ago because I have not seen a BCG from PSA for 69.00 in my remembrance. BTW they only have 7 different ones now out of 30 or so offered.
Exceedingly interesting.
I have several of the triggers mentioned, plus a few. I've found the Rock River Arms TWO STAGE VARMINT TRIGGER KIT and MATCH TRIGGER at less than $100 to be a good choice for the money.
Ok i gota ask....you said the best trigger for under 100bucks for the Rise Armament trigger.Just under that a picture of the drop in trigger then just under that an add for the trigger for "120.00" so where r u getting it for under 100bucks or is that just how much you get it for?It may go on sale once in a while for 89.99 but NOT a regularly priced trigger "under" 100bucks! Wishful thinking brother!
Well for me its been a Mil-Spec Nickel Boron trigger for all my ARs and its worked out great for me. The only gun i went to a really good trigger on was my long range Savage Axis chambered in 6.5Creedmoor.Went with a two stage there.
Whoa...what did this do to my spacing? Sorry guys, I spaced out my response so it wouldn't look like a dictionary. :(
I have been shooting for a very long time...I have gone through many differing rifle platforms in my life. I went from the AK-47 (cheap and obtainable for an 18 year old working at McDonald's) through several different makes of the AR-15 platform to European weapons like my Styer Aug A3.
Even though my AUG is amazing, I will always prefer the AR-15. I have quite literally watched this platform grow from a few options for optics to a smorgasbord of everything you can possibly imagine. My goto AR-15 is my Colt M4A4 Leo Edition. Aside from the Eotec 512 it is bone stock and it just works for me. The reason I'm typing this message is I feel you guys missed an amazing hand guard that I myself just discovered....
I was not in the market to buy a new weapon as I have collected so many over the years; However, if I see something and the price is just right...I can't help myself. At any rate, I was shopping at a local hardware store yesterday when I decided to peruse their firearms department and what did I spy? An entry level AR-15 by a company called Diamondback. They only had one left and were selling it at only $542.00! I bought it then and there no question asked. As I have a CCW, I was able to take it home that day. What is so striking to me was its hand guard. It is, bar none the lightest (metal) hand guard I have ever held in my hands. It includes an amalgamation of both picatinny and M-block. The rifle for what it is....is flat out amazing but that hand guard is just awe worthy. The build quality is absolutely fantastic....look it up and if you can test it do so with haste. I don't know if they sell them outside of the weapon but it's worth a look.
Addendum- Sorry for the length, I am a very passionate 2A supporter that loves all things firearms. This article was very thorough and an enjoyable read. I would love to see something like this for the AR-10! I have an Armalite AR-10 that's just begging for a full polymer makeover...it really needs to drop a few pounds. ;)
HAHA i see your taste and wallet grew for sure over the years from an AK back when they were cheap to Eotec's! lol i have taken notice to the Diamondback's and did see the hand guards! They look awesome and if you check them out on yourtube there are some videos on them.I'm almost 100% sure they sell the hand guards separately.Where i live in my Bluest of States im the same way.Very passionate about the 2A and love anything firearms! All i have spotted when it comes to Diamondbacks are "not" cheap but i am mostly shopping online.Also live in an area with very few and in fact only two places to buy firearms in my immediate area. Only two indoor pistol ranges close by and one is one of those snooty ranges that cost so much for a membership you would need a 2nd job.The other is only 15yrds :>/All our Public ranges only allow Shotgun with bird or target shot and Archery.The only time you permitted a rifle "not a sporting rifle" a bolt gun only is to zero in your deer gun for the season.Even though in our states its only shotgun hunting and a 22Cal for trappers and Varmint's.Our state has had the "worst" gun restrictions in the entire country up til now and those being implemented in Virginia by their Communist Governor,is him just catching up with New Jersey's model of communist control and treason to our Constitution! Didnt want this to get political but its the times and conversation of the year....sadly.I pray that the decision in Cali.'s Mag ban spreads.Because all the touting of protecting our 2A that Trump has been doing means very little as hes done Absolutely nothing to protect it in reality.Hes just "not" creating new gun restrictions is all hes doing.Meanwhile at the state levels the Blue states are having their Constitutional Rights "shredded"!!!! I pray things change before something bad happens?!?!?! GOD Bless all and great article as always!
In the Article "Best AR-15 Upgrades [2019]: Triggers, Brakes, Handguards, BCGs & More"
in the section titled "Best AR-15 Barrel Upgrades"
there is a picture of a "Bootleg Upper with Faxon 18″ Fluted Barrel"
Could you tell me who makes that Handguard ?
What the name of the Handguard ?
I been reading all day on your website all the Great Articles,
and Appreciate everything you have presented here.
Thanks in advance.
well i already found out what the exact Handguard is?
"Bootleg Inc.-Piclok" .... i believe the one in the picture is 15" length.
Thanks for your articles.
In the Photo of the two similar AR-15's titled "More Modded AR-15s". what is the but stock on the top AR? This article a great source of info. Thanks for taking the time to help us out with being Americans and having a hell of a lot of choices lol. I love this country.
Glad the article helps! That buttstock is the Magpul PRS Gen 3! I highly recommend it for a precision AR-15 or AR-10. It's a little heavy for a buttstock but it is rock solid and highly adjustable.
Geissele Airborne charging handle beats all the others hands down.
What modifications are needed to make my AR15into an effective bear stopper?
5.56 with soft point ammo is not a bad bear stopping round, good penetration and good damage with 30 rounds on tap. However, if you wanted something with a bit more effect on target you could go with a new upper in 6.5 Grendel, .300 Blackout, 6.8 SPC, .50 Beowulf, or .458 SOCOM. Really any of those would be a good option. Of all of them though I would pick .300 Blackout since it's more economical than the other options, is a more user-friendly round, and still packs 30-rounds to a mag. .50 Beowulf and .458 SOCOM has more punch, but they only fit 10-rounds to a magazine. Personally, I rather have 3x the ammo.
I'm a lefty and replaced the mil-spec charging bar, pistol grip, and added a rear flip-up sight to my A4 flat top for a measly $50. Shoots 2" groups and easy to handle
Man, every time I think about adding something to my ARs, money burning a hole in my pocket and everything, I go looking and realize that, yup, 99% of the stuff out there is still a gimmick that adds weight and no real utilitarian value to the rifle.
yeah, I hear you strych9, my only real change I like to make to the standard is a better charging handle, and maybe a muzzel break.
wait maybe also a better trigger. Ugh there goes the wallet you are talking about. :). Good article by Eric Hung though.
Thanks Eric, this is great!
I always value your input on what works best, and have used your guidance on many component of my AR, even if it is a 6.5 Grendel. Now I'm expanding my inventory and pushing into more powerful calibers. Would you still recommend the PRECISION ARMAMENT muzzle brake on a 300 Win Mag?
Handguards....
you left out Stngr. They look great, easy to install...and the price.
It makes for an awesome Handguard. I have The Hawk. killer look.
Agreed! Amazing handguards made right here in Texas!
I just got a BCM RECCE kmr-a 16. Swapped out the BCM comp for a VG6 Epsilon and cage. Took out the PNT trigger group and dropped in CMC single stage 3.5 flat bow. Run them in all my rifles. Added BAD lever, BCM kag and veritcle grip, Magpul MS4 sling, Vortex Strike Eagle 1x8x24.
It's kinda nice. ;)
Thank you for all your emails and internet content. Have learned so much from you folks and trust your opinions.
I wonder if the HABU by Falcon 37 is an unknown out there, it if it just isn't well received. I run these in 3 different builds and I love them, as does my son and son in law. I think it's at least with a look.
There are a few brands offering basically the same thing, a charging handle that works more like a pistol slide. As far as I've seen, none of them have ever really taken off.
I don't find them to offer anything over a more standard charging handle, maybe better than milspec but not better than a Radian or Geissele charging handle. I'd be interested in using one more extensively though!
I would love in the future put together an AR and would love your assistance in do so. I will surely bookmark this page and site. Thanks.
Glad we could help!
I’ve read recently that some leaders in the field/experts/gunsmiths are now advising against HP (high pressure tested) barrels and bolts, due to the concern that subjecting them to pressures well beyond those they would ever realistically operate at can introduce stress and potential failure to the barrel/bolt a few thousand rounds later. This seems logical to me, do you have any experience in this area? Do you still recommend HP tested components?
POF offers a full auto drop in trigger - if I have a full auto BCG will my rifle be full auto?
You'll have to ask them for clarification...this treads into NFA territory.
It could be possible, but the full auto capability generally is achieved through the full-auto sear, but I've never seen a "full auto trigger", tread carefully, and update if available
Absolutely not. You need an auto sear, and auto selector switch. Before all that contact the NFA to fill out the correct forms. I don’t advise in anyway skirting these laws. Good luck.
Any advice for new buyers looking at rifle slings? Specifically, mount options, and one vs. two point slings.
Definitely 2 point based on what I've read. 1 point seems to be made by a feminist since the rifle will hit your junk every time you walk. 3 point is easy to get tangled in. I've heard good things about the blue force vickers sling but it's pricey at around $100. Another good option is the Magpul MS3. These 2 slings are modular in that you can change it from 2 point to 1 point on the fly based on the situation. I personally prefer the QD mount system, easy off, easy on.
Single-point is fine if you are working security and standing still all day, three-point is indeed a mess. Viking Tactics has a padded, adjustable two-point that works really well.
Check out "The Operator's Guide to the 2 Point Quick Adjust Sling" by InRangeTV
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZJCBmCQ7Txo
They also have a good one on choosing how many points to use
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jdUfsYinS-k
Check out our Best Rifle Slings article!
I just bought a Ruger Ar-556 the other day and I'm new to the AR game but man, this site is pinned in Google for me to use for a while. I have been reading what you have written on other articles over the past 6 months without posting, but I thought I should now. Thanks brother.
You're welcome Aiden and thanks for not being a lurker any longer!
What is the best AR15 scope thanks
Hey Tseng...you're in luck! https://www.pewpewtactical.com/best-optics-scopes-ar-15/
you say you run the B.A.D ambi safety in your comp guns, My understanding is they won't work with the 24 series hiperfire triggers??? I have 6 geisselle's and have no problems like that, I'm waiting on the ssp to ship, but wanted to try the eclipse also,, your thought, thanx
Hello Eric,
I have one question related to trigger upgrade. You said you use Hiperfire Eclipse ($275), and you've tried Elite ($215). I've seen they have even more options, like Competition model ($235). What is the real advantage spending more money for Eclipse?
OK, apparently I was too fast to post my question. And there is an answer already here:
https://www.pewpewtactical.com/hiperfire-trigger-review-best-single-stage-ar-15-trigger/
Thank you Eric for this site!
Been reading a lot of your website. Just getting into the AR market and recently purchased a DPMS Oracle. Do you have any guides to look over. Thanks for everything!
Hey Michael, thanks! I don't have any specific guides on the DPMS Oracle but since it's a pretty standard AR, all my AR guides should help.
Im making ca rifle sporting grip for ar15. Prototype finished. Working on molding next. You can reach me at my gmail attached to my posting name.
Nice article but.......the second picture of Modular AR15's has LaRue Tactical Handgurads with their index clips on Spikes Tactical Lowers but no mention of LT in the article. I suppose to each his own but I am a huge fan of their rifles and products especially their handguards. Their proprietary barrel nut and locking technology are second to none. Their service is second to none also and the fit and finish is fabulous. Just my opinion.
Eric, your articles are consistently interesting and informative. Keep up the great work!
Thanks so much Al!
Thanks for the great articles on this website! They are very informative and helpful, especially for those new to shooting. I was wondering what the model of the pistol grip is, shown on both of the rifles in the photo titled "Modded AR-15s" (towards the top of the article)? Is it an Ergo Deluxe? It looks very comfortable. Thanks!
Hi Greg, thanks! I believe so...it has that tell-tale palm swell.
A very timely article. My wife is insisting on buying me an AR (I know, terrible) for an anniversary gift. I have pretty much been a handgun guy for the last 25+ years so my knowledge regarding ARs is limited. The internet is a great source for information but, it can be a bit overwhelming at times. I am all but decided that I will buy a decent "starter" AR (probably a S&W M&P Sport II) and do some customization a little along. The information in your article has been very helpful.
Glad I could help out!
Fantastic info! This is a must read for anyone wanting to dabble in upgrading/building an AR. The speed at which these upgrades are coming is hard to keep up with, so this article was a great resource to bring me up to speed on all of the options out there. The links and descriptions were a huge help also! Thanks for taking the time and research you put into this article!
Hi Scott, thanks so much for your comments and glad I could help!
Hi Eric. I just bought the armalite Eagle-15 and its my first fighting gun. My problem is that I don't know how to break it down and customoze it. The armalite manual and customer service is terrible and unhelpful. Can you help by showing us how to actually break it down?
Hi Donald, thanks for the comment. The Eagle-15 looks like a standard AR with a front sight block. Here's a good video for taking off the handguards and some standard field stripping: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jzvFmaPPfFM
Even though I have 30+ years of AR experience, the last 12+ years have focused on the modernized M14. I picked up an AR over the weekend, and your AR upgrades page is going to be very helpful. Thank you.
Thanks so much...glad I could have helped out!