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Our Dream AR-15 Builds

The military style appearance of many AR firearms has fed the controversy.
We sat down recently to brainstorm the AR's we'd build if money, time, and other constraints were thrown out the window. These are the guns we came up with. Take a look, and let us know what you think!
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    So, if you’re like us, you’ve probably spent some time sitting around daydreaming about what your ideal AR would be.  No?  Just us? Well anyway, here are the AR’s we would build if money wasn’t any object, and we could get our hands on any parts.  Hopefully, something in here will inspire you in your own builds. Let’s get to it. Note: We will be updating this list until we have something from all the writer’s dream setups, so be sure to check back in!

    Brandon

    Upper and Lower Receiver: 2055 LR Enlightened AR-15 Receiver Set by V Seven

    The 2055 LR Enlightened Receiver Set gives you a high-quality and mighty fine looking upper and lower receiver for your AR-15.  I opted to go with the set rather than selecting a different upper and lower receiver because I really like the way this product is designed.  
    V Seven 2055 AR-15 Receiver Set
    V Seven 2055 AR-15 Receiver Set
    For starters, it’s made from a 2055 lithium and aluminum alloy that outperforms 7075 T6 aluminum in virtually every way – it’s lighter, more durable, and better protected against corrosion than its counterpart.   It also has a combined weight of 12.2 ounces (5.8oz for the upper receiver and 6.4oz for the lower), making it nice and lightweight.

    Lower Parts Kit: AR-15 with Ambi Selector by CMMG

    When it comes to a LPK, all I’m really looking for is quality components made by a reputable company – and you can’t get more reputable than CMMG.
    Product Image for CMMG AR-15 Lower Parts Kit

    CMMG AR-15 Lower Parts Kit

    $62
    at Palmetto State Armory

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    $62 at Palmetto State Armory

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons
    Their AR-15 LPK comes with all of the springs, pins, and knickknacks you need to get your lower receiver up and running.  The kit also comes with a pistol grip and trigger, and in my opinion, CMMG make some pretty good triggers.  But since this is my dream AR-15, we’re going to save this trigger for a replacement. And I’m always a fan of having an ambi safety selector, so be sure to get this add-on.
    Product Image for CMMG Ambi Safety Selector

    CMMG Ambi Safety Selector

    $30
    at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    $30 at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Trigger System: Drop-in Elftmann Match Trigger by ELF

    ELF has a good reputation for making quality competition triggers.  Regardless of what you plan on using your AR-15 for, this trigger system will give you a smooth, jerk-free pull every time.
    Product Image for Elftmann Match Trigger Curved

    Elftmann Match Trigger Curved

    $249
    at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    $249 at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons
    ELF triggers minimize overtravel and trigger reset, which is great for anyone who’s looking to squeeze off a few rounds rapidly.  But what I really like about this trigger system is the added safety that it provides.  The trigger system’s special design prevents it from being discharged on impact, turning your AR-15 into a drop-safe gun.

    Barrel: AR-15 Carbon Fiber Barrel with 2” Gas Seat by Christensen Arms

    When it comes to carbon fiber barrels, there are two things that you need to know: they perform brilliantly and they’re ridiculously expensive.   
    Product Image for Christensen Arms AR-15 Carbon Barrel .223 WYLDE

    Christensen Arms AR-15 Carbon Barrel .223 WYLDE

    $499
    at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    $499 at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons
    But carbon fiber barrels are worth every penny to those who can afford spending so much on a barrel.  They give you top precision and accuracy like their stainless steel counterparts, but are way more durable.  And when it comes to carbon fiber barrels, Christensen Arms knows a thing or two –they did develop the first carbon fiber rifle barrel, after all. This barrel comes with an aluminum .936 gas block and is available in a variety of lengths and calibers, including the .204 Ruger and the 6.5 Grendel.  But for this AR-15, I prefer to stick to the basics and go with 5.56 NATO at 16”.

    Handguard: Midwest Industries G3 ML

    It’s not the fanciest handguard out there, but it’s easy to install and does everything you need it to.  It’s also incredibly lightweight, weighing only 8.8oz.  
    Best Value
    Product Image for Midwest Industries G3 ML

    Midwest Industries G3 ML

    $179
    at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    $179 at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Bolt Carrier Group: Titanium Bolt Carrier Group by SCT Solutions 

    Titanium BCGs aren’t cheap by any stretch of the imagination, but they’re great for when you’re looking for strength, durability, and something significantly lighter than steel.
    Titanium BCG SCT
    Titanium BCG SCT
    This BCG comes highly recommended thanks to its top-notch craftsmanship and promises smoother cycling and less recoil than some of the other BGCs on the market.  Plus, another great thing about this product and other titanium BCGs is that you don’t have to restrict yourself to adjustable gas systems, like you would with an aluminum BCG. Still, this little component does cost a pretty penny.  

    Charging Handle: AR-15 Raptor Charging Handle 5.56 by Radian Weapons 

    I like this charging handle because it’s ambidextrous and ergonomically designed.  More than just an aluminum rod, this charging handle has a perfectly angled grip that makes it easy to grab ahold up, regardless of whether you’re working with your right or left hand.  
    Product Image for Radian Weapons AR-15 Raptor Charging Handle 5.56

    Radian Weapons AR-15 Raptor Charging Handle 5.56

    $76
    at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    $76 at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons
    Plus it’s gentler on the fingers than some of the cheaper handles out there.

    Optics: Aimpoint Patrol Rifle Optic PRO 

    When it comes to optics, you get what you pay for.
    The "Goldilocks" Red Dot
    Product Image for Aimpoint Patrol Rifle Optic (PRO)

    Aimpoint Patrol Rifle Optic (PRO)

    $497
    at OpticsPlanet

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    $497 at OpticsPlanet

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons
    Despite its unforgiving sticker price, the Aimpoint Patrol Rifle Optic is a solid accessory to any AR-15.  It’s water resistant, has a long battery life, and can handle extreme temperatures – that already places it a notch above EOTech’s holographic sights in my book (still, I think they’re also good).   Plus, the optic works clearly in both day and night and is compatible with night vision devices and Aimpoint’s 3X magnifier.

    Offset Backup Iron Sights by Ade Advanced 

    Personally, I believe that it’s always a good idea to have a good set of BUIS in case your optic breaks or malfunctions. 
    Product Image for Ade Advanced Optics BUIS Backup Iron Sight

    Ade Advanced Optics BUIS Backup Iron Sight

    $22
    at Amazon

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    $22 at Amazon

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons
    I don’t really see the purpose of spending a lot of money on BUIS.  My only requirement is that they’re durable, which Ade Advanced’s offsets just happen to be.

    Putting Together my Dream Gun

    As you can see, there’s not anything flashy or exceptional about my piece.  Some AR-15s are built to go, others are built for show – and I prefer mine to be ready to go the distance! With a ~$2600 price tag, it’s probably one of the more expensive range guns that I’d own.  But I do think that it’d be a great gun to spend a lot of time shooting.  Not only would it be fun to spend the weekends shooting, it should be able to withstand heavy use with minimal issues.  

    Travis

    Upper: Critical Capabilities AR-15 9mm Upper Receiver

    We’ll start with the upper receiver.  The upper really tells you what the gun is really going to be.  My AR is starting with a Critical Capabilities AR-15 9mm upper.  This gun is outfitted with a short 5.5-inch barrel.
    Product Image for Critical Capabilities AR-15 9mm Upper Receiver

    Critical Capabilities AR-15 9mm Upper Receiver

    $330
    at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    $330 at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons
    You see my gun is going to be a super small and easy to carry AR-15 pistol, chambered in 9mm.  The Critical Capabilities upper receiver is a flat top upper and comes with a 4-inch M-Lok rail.  The upper is already built and ready to go, all you need is a charging handle and a bolt carrier group. Of course, the upper is in 9mm and can’t exactly be called “Mil Spec,’’ but it shares several Mil Spec features.  This includes being a forged 7075-T6 upper, a type 3 anodization, and a chrome moly nitride treated barrel. It’s simple, lightweight, small, and perfect for CQB.

    Lower: JP Enterprises GMR-15 9mm Lower Receiver

    For the lower I’d go with the always fantastic JP Enterprises GMR-15 9mm lower.  It takes Glock 9mm magazines and is a billet lower.  It looks fantastic and the billeted cuts will match well with the M-Lok rail system on the upper.
    Product Image for JP Enterprises GMR-15 9mm Lower Receiver

    JP Enterprises GMR-15 9mm Lower Receiver

    $445
    at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    $445 at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons
    If you don’t look cool what’s the point?  JP Enterprises makes great gear and this lower is a great option for a 9mm build.

    Brace: Sig Sauer SBX

    So we have to attach something to the rear of the lower right?  You can go SBR, but keeping it a pistol is much easier.  A brace keeps the gun a pistol but makes it a little easier to stabilize.
    Product Image for Sig Sauer SBX

    Sig Sauer SBX

    $168
    at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    $168 at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons
    By stabilize we mean strapping the gun to your forearm…or maybe putting it against your shoulder.  The ATF has come down and said, “Hey, that’s cool, you know, don’t modify it to make it easier to shoulder in any way.” There are lots of braces out there, but the SIG Sauer SBX is perfect for this build. It’s lighter and smaller than the original SB 15 brace, and is a bit better suited for my plan to with the brace and buffer tube. It’s not the cheapest brace, but it’s one of the best.

    Buffer Tube: Brownells AR-15 Pistol Buffer Tube

    Not much to say here.  Just a simple, completely smooth tube.  It’s a pistol buffer tube and needs to be smooth to accommodate the SBX brace.
    Product Image for Brownells AR-15 Pistol Buffer Tube

    Brownells AR-15 Pistol Buffer Tube

    $20
    at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    $20 at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Buffer: Angstadt Arms LLC 9mm Buffer

    Again the buffer needs to be simple.  Sometimes s standard AR buffer will work, but I want perfection.  So, we are going with an Angstadt Arms LLC 9mm buffer with the appropriate spring.  With this in the gun you’re guaranteed to get bang after bang out of your gun.
    Product Image for Angstadt Arms LLC 9mm Buffer

    Angstadt Arms LLC 9mm Buffer

    $55
    at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    $55 at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    LAW Tactical Folding Stock Adapter

    Now buffer tubes and buffers may not excite you, but the LAW Tactical folding stock adapter should.  This attaches between your gun and buffer tube and gives your AR-15 a folding stock.  You can’t shoot with the stock folded, but this makes it easy to store and even conceal the gun in a bag or box.
    Product Image for LAW Tactical Folding Stock Adapter

    LAW Tactical Folding Stock Adapter

    $230
    at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    $230 at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Pantheon Arms Dolos Kit

    The Dolos Kit is a takedown system for the AR rifle.  It installs between your upper receiver and barrel instantly turns your gun into a takedown design.  You can remove or install the barrel and rail system in about 3 seconds.
    Product Image for Pantheon Arms Dolos Kit

    Pantheon Arms Dolos Kit

    $189
    at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    $189 at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons
    The Dolos Kit is super simple to use, and really easy to install.  Because the 9mm AR is blow back, you don’t need a traditional gas system.  This makes the Dolos install even simpler. This system will work with the Critical Capabilities included MLOK rail, and works with almost any standard rail system.

    JP Enterprises BCG

    We used the JP Enterprises lower and now we are going to toss in the JP Enterprises 9mm BCG.  The BCG is even compatible with JP’s super silent capture spring.  It’s important you watch the BCG to the magazine pattern.
    Best Standard Low Mass BCG
    Product Image for JP Enterprises BCG

    JP Enterprises BCG

    $238
    at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    $238 at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons
    The JP Enterprises BCG will function with both Colt and Glock magazines.

    Charging Handle: Geissele Automatics Airborne Charging Handle

    Since we are doing Dream AR-15s I’m going with the Geissele Automatics Airborne Charging Handle.  This thing costs nearly a hundred bucks, but man, it’s sweet.
    Product Image for Geissele Automatics Airborne Charging Handle

    Geissele Automatics Airborne Charging Handle

    $89
    at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    $89 at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons
    It is massive, easy to grip and rip, and looks great while you’re doing it.  It’s super comfortable in the handle and you can access it overhand and underhand.

    Critical Capabilities LPK

    The bad thing about pistol caliber ARs is that using decked out match triggers is possible, but they can have some issues.  Mil Spec triggers are the go to for reliable function with an AR-15 in 9mm.
    Product Image for Critical Capabilities LPK

    Critical Capabilities LPK

    $57
    at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    $57 at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons
    That’s the reason you don’t see a super high-end trigger on my dream AR.  I want reliability to be the key with this build. Since we are rocking a Critical Capabilities upper receiver we’ll use a Critical Capabilities LPK.

    Pistol Grip: Magpul MIAD

    This isn’t the fanciest of grips, but it is one of my all-time favorites.  Having the right grip angle on your guns means a lot when it comes to handling your gun.  The right angle can help with maneuverability, reduce fatigue, and shoot a little straighter.
    Product Image for Magpul MIAD AR-15 Pistol Grip

    Magpul MIAD AR-15 Pistol Grip

    $24
    at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    $24 at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons
    For shorter ARs like my dream build, I want a steeper grip.  The Magpul MIAD offers that steeper grip, as well as adjustable backstraps and a storage compartment.

    Optic: Trijicon RMR Dual-Illuminated Sights

    Since it’s my dream build, I want the best miniature red dot on the market, the Trijicon RMR.  This particular model is the dual powered design.  It uses both batteries and light to power it.
    Product Image for Trijicon RMR Dual Illuminated Sight 7.0 MOA

    Trijicon RMR Dual Illuminated Sight 7.0 MOA

    $426
    at OpticsPlanet

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    $426 at OpticsPlanet

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons
    No matter what, when I pull my gun out of the bag or box, it’s ready to rock and roll.  The Trijicon RMR is a tough optic.  I used one on my M240 in the Marines and it never let me down.  It’s small, reliable, and perfect for dream build.

    Sights: XS Sight Systems AR-15 Sights

    If you have an optic, but no iron sights you are doing it wrong.  With budget not being a concern, we are going with the XS Sight Systems AR-15 sights.  This collaboration between XS and Troy has given 24/7 sights.
    Product Image for XS Sight Systems AR-15 Sights

    XS Sight Systems AR-15 Sights

    $270
    at Amazon

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    $270 at Amazon

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons
    This glowing night sights are perfect for both quick and precise shooting.  The rear aperture has three options, including a wide open sight for reflex shooting, a small circle and a large circle for precise shooting.  

    Final Thoughts

    That’s it!  We hope you enjoyed this look into the often crazy way our brains work and what kind of AR’s we’d build if we had the freedom to just go nuts with it. Which of these AR’s did you like the best?  Are there any parts here that might make their way into your build?  Let us know in the comments below!
    shop products mentioned
    Brownells AR-15 .458 SOCOM Barrel $320
    Written By
    Author Image for Eric Hung
    Eric Hung

    I'm Eric Hung, the founder of Pew Pew Tactical, and I love guns. For over 10 years I've been soaking up as much information as possible online, in competitions, classes, and from my own testing. Now I hope to bring that info to you! I've written over 250 articles on Pew Pew Tactical that are read by millions a month. I'm also an NRA certified pistol instructor and avid USPSA/3-Gun/NRL22 competitor. Learn more at About Us.

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    11 Leave a Reply

    • Cole

      I’ll include mine…

      Sharps forged livewire lower
      radian ambi safety selector
      FCD ambi mag release.
      CMC 2.5lb single stage flat trigger
      JPE silent captured buffer spring
      BCM SOPMOD stock
      Lantac side charging upper
      Lantac enhanced nickel boron BCG
      Proof research 16 in. barrel in .223 Wylde
      Precision Armament M72 brake on the muzzle
      STNGR VYPR 15 in. Handguard
      Midlength gas system w/ melonite tube and JPE adjustable gas block
      POF tomahawk charging handle
      Eotech VUDU 1-10x28 scope
      Magpul MBUS Pro BUIS

      September 25, 2022 8:58 pm
    • Chad g Wilkins

      may i offer mine?
      aero m4e1 upper and lower. forged strength, billet look, tension screw, no roll pin assembly.
      v7 lower parts- although this isnt a lightweight build.. save oz where ya can, plus its just great parts!
      hyperfire eclipse trigger
      brownells 7075 rifle buffer tube
      magpul prs stock
      strike industries pistol grip (seriously underrated grip imo)
      v7 ejection port
      v7 forward assist
      dd slim 15" rail
      bcm gas block, pinned
      v7 inconel gas tube
      larue stealth barrel
      surefire qd flash suppressor
      magpul mbus pro with tritium inserts
      colt/dd/bcm bolt carrier group
      bcm charging handle
      trijicon accupower scope in larue mount
      unsure on bipod and monopod

      that's what im building right now.

      April 1, 2018 9:41 pm
      • Matthew Collins

        That's a nice build, Chad! We actually have an article on best bipods if you want to take a look. Other than that, this looks like a really solid build, let us know how it runs!

        April 2, 2018 7:59 am
    • Chad g Wilkins

      a fun article! im having a hard time picturing an rmr on a m240. was that standalone, or placed on top of an acog?

      April 1, 2018 9:10 pm
    • Jim M.

      I like Brandon's, but I'd get CMMG LPK w/o grip or trigger components. I'd go BCM grip and BCM's KMR handguard. I have the 10" KMR, I personally like the feel of the contour. His upper and lower choice is sweet though. Carbon fiber barrel!?! I WISH!!!

      February 2, 2018 2:59 am
    • Guest

      The Brandon looks nice, but I thought Eric was an M4E1 Atlas S1 Aero Precision guy? I'm looking to put together a .300 BLK and will check out these parts in greater detail. As always thanks for posting great articles.

      February 1, 2018 9:10 pm
      • Eric Hung

        I do love Aero for being the best bang-for-the-buck complete solution for most. But for unlimited budget builds, I really like Brandon's too. Let us know how your 300 BLK turns out!

        February 1, 2018 9:51 pm
    • Wzrd

      Ascend Armory 7075 AR15 receiver set.
      Falkor ambi CH.
      BAD ASS.
      BCM or K2+ grip.
      Geissele single stage or S3G, or maybe
      try one of those Hiperfire 24s. I have
      their EDT3 & really like it.
      Magpul SL-S stock or BCM SOPMOD.
      Mlok handguard is a toss-up between a
      few mfgs: Geissele, Radian, ADM, KAC,
      Wilson Combat, DD.
      Some super expensive, fancy, (probably
      carbon fiber) barrel in .223 Wylde. Or
      might go with a different caliber like
      .300 BLK or .224 Valkyrie. 16-18” rifle or
      11.5” for SBR.
      Trijicon 1-8x scope.
      Offset MBUS Pro.
      Any decent nitride HPT/MPI BCG.
      Not sure on muzzle brake. Would want to
      try one I haven’t used yet. But as for
      those I have used, Lantac or VG6. Or
      better yet a Surefire QD brake for
      suppressor.
      A nice cerakote job. After all, money is no
      object, right?


      ...or something like that.
      But that’s just one of many ever evolving dream builds.

      February 1, 2018 5:01 pm
      • Wzrd

        Forgot- also would use a Supetlative Arms or other piston kit

        February 5, 2018 6:23 pm
    • Ocelot1

      I have only been shooting a few years, long guns more recently, and one of the reasons I like reading this type of article is the awareness it brings of what is possible. For example, my first AR, a Noveske 300 SBR, while being rock solid, is a heavy little beast. So when I went looking for a 556 upper, I went with a light barrel and handguard from BCM. Man that thing is light…to me anyway! But I had no idea carbon fiber-based barrels are available until reading this article. I am older so have more disposable dollars at this point in my life and am admittedly a high-tech nerd so I wonder how the carbon barrels manage heat. I did notice that it does not take much shooting before my light barrel starts smoking all over! I have read that after a barrel "overheats" you lose some accuracy. I am not skilled enough yet to notice and have not tested this yet. I would appreciate your thoughts on that.

      Thanks, Mark

      January 31, 2018 5:21 am
      • Eric Hung

        Hey Mark, we did a review of Faxon's pencil barrel that highlights some of the groups opening up (again, it's only a little at 100 yards so unless you're shooting very far distances or in a marksmanship competition...it likely won't matter).

        February 1, 2018 1:47 pm
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