The Pros and Cons of Building Your Own A2 Upper Receiver
The AR-15 platform has become one of the most popular firearms in the United States, thanks to its versatility, accuracy, and reliability. It’s a favorite among both hobbyists and professional shooters alike. One of the key components of an AR-15 is the upper receiver, which houses the barrel, gas system, and bolt carrier group. When it comes to the upper receiver, you have two options: you can either purchase an upper or build your own. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the pros and cons of building your own A2 and AR 15 upper receiver, which can be made with 100% certified material and 100% made in the USA
What is an A2 Upper Receiver?
Before diving into the pros and cons of building your own A2 upper receiver, it’s essential to understand what an A2 upper receiver is.
An A2 upper receiver is a component of the AR-15 rifle that houses the barrel, bolt carrier group, and charging handle. It is the top half of the rifle and is responsible for directing the bullet’s trajectory.
The A2 designation refers to the specific type of upper receiver that was adopted by the United States military in the 1980s. The A2 upper receiver features a fixed carry handle with a rear sight that is adjustable for both windage and elevation. It also has a longer sight radius than previous AR-15 models, which can improve accuracy.
In addition to its military adoption, the A2 upper receiver is popular among civilian AR-15 enthusiasts due to its classic look and practical design. Now that we have a basic understanding of what an A2 upper receiver is, let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of building your own.
Pros of Building Your Own A2 Upper Receiver
Customization:
One of the biggest advantages of building your own A2 upper receiver is customization. When you build your own upper, you have complete control over the components you use, which allows you to create a rifle that is tailored to your needs and preferences. You can choose the barrel length, gas system, handguard, and other components to fit your specific shooting style.
Learning Experience:
Another benefit of building your own A2 upper receiver is the opportunity to learn about the inner workings of your rifle. Building your own upper allows you to gain a deeper understanding of how your firearm functions, which can be valuable knowledge in the long run.
Cost Savings:
Building your own A2 upper receiver can also save you money in the long run. While the initial investment in tools and parts can be significant, building your own upper can be more cost-effective than purchasing a complete upper, especially if you plan on making future upgrades.
Satisfaction:
There is a great sense of satisfaction and accomplishment that comes from building your own rifle from scratch. You can take pride in your creation and feel a deeper connection to your rifle when you take it out to the range.
Cons of Building Your Own A2 Upper Receiver
Skill Level
Building your own A2 upper receiver requires a certain level of skill and knowledge. If you don’t have experience with firearms or aren’t comfortable working with tools, building your own upper receiver may not be the best option for you.
Tools and Equipment
Building your own A2 upper receiver also requires specialized tools and equipment. This can include an AR-15 armorer wrench, barrel nut wrench, torque wrench, and more. If you don’t have access to these tools, you’ll need to purchase them, which can add to the overall cost of your build.
Warranty
When you purchase a complete upper receiver, it typically comes with a warranty from the manufacturer. If you build your own A2 upper receiver, you won’t have the same level of protection. This means that if something goes wrong with your build, you’ll be responsible for fixing it on your own.
Legal Considerations:
Building your own A2 upper receiver requires compliance with federal and state laws. It’s important to make sure that you’re following all regulations and obtaining the necessary licenses and permits before you begin your project.
Time and Effort:
Building your own A2 upper receiver can be a time-consuming and challenging process. It requires patience, attention to detail, and a certain level of technical skill. If you’re not comfortable with this level of complexity, it may not be the best option for you.
Conclusion
Building your own A2 and AR 15 upper receiver can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience for AR-15 enthusiasts. It allows you to customize your rifle to your specific needs and preferences and gain a deeper understanding of how your firearm functions. However, building your own upper does require a certain level of skill and knowledge, as well as specialized tools and equipment. Additionally, it’s important to ensure that the parts you use are made with 100% certified material to ensure the safety and reliability of your firearm. If you’re up for the challenge and have the necessary skills and equipment, building your own A2 upper receiver with certified materials can be a great way to take your AR-15 to the next level.