Building vs. Buying an AR-15

Do you want to start from scratch when buying an AR?

The AR-15 styled rifle is one of the most popular firearms amongst gun enthusiasts all over the place, as they are extremely customizable, affordable, and effective. Whether you are looking for home defense or you are looking to use it for target shooting or whatever, the AR is a platform that you cannot go wrong with. Now, the decision to acquire an AR style rifle—whether by building it yourself or purchasing a pre-assembled model—can be a relatively difficult one for firearm enthusiasts and sportsmen alike, but it is a decision that needs to be made. Each route offers distinct advantages and considerations, all of which should align with your personal preferences, skill level, and intended use. Let's delve into the nuances of building versus buying an AR style rifle to help you make an informed choice.

Buying a Pre-Built AR: The Convenience Factor

Opting to purchase a ready-made AR comes with undeniable convenience. Here's why it might be the right choice for you:

1. Out-of-the-Box Readiness: When you buy an AR that is already put together, it's typically ready to go. This means no assembly required—just load up and start shooting.
2. Warranty and Support: Established manufacturers often provide warranties and customer support, offering peace of mind in case of any issues.
3. Time and Effort Savings: Buying an AR saves you the time and effort of sourcing parts, tools, and potentially navigating the complexities of assembly.
4. Regulatory Compliance: A purchased AR should adhere to all legal and regulatory requirements, ensuring compliance without additional research.

There also are a wide variety of AR style rifles that can be found from plenty of different manufacturers, so it is not as though you will have trouble finding a pre-built option. 

Building an AR: Tailored to Your Tastes

For those inclined towards customization and a hands-on approach, building an AR presents a compelling alternative. Think of building an AR rifle like putting together Legos, but it is aimed more at an adult audience. That is basically what it is, but let’s take a look at a few key components of building an AR.

1. Customization Galore: Now, it is true that there are plenty of pre-built options to buy when it comes to a pre-built AR rifle, but building from scratch allows you to really customize your rifle. When you decide to build one, you are able to hand-pick every component, from the barrel and trigger to the stock and optics, creating a firearm tailored to your needs and preferences.
2. Learning Experience: Assembling an AR is an educational journey. It deepens your understanding of the firearm's mechanics and enhances your overall proficiency. You are learning the rifle inside and out, quite literally, so if it ever jams, needs to be cleaned, or has another issue, you will basically already have the schematics in your head.
3. Cost-Effective Options: Contrary to popular belief, building an AR rifle can be cost-effective. By sourcing parts strategically, you can create a high-quality rifle within your budget. Just think, when you build an AR, you do not have to buy from all one manufacturer. You can source your lower from a different manufacturer than your upper if you want to watch your budget and reliability of each part.
4. Sense of Achievement: There's a unique satisfaction in crafting something with your own hands. Building an AR fosters a sense of accomplishment and ownership.

Key Considerations Before Deciding

Before embarking on your AR acquisition journey, consider the following:

1. Skill Level: Building an AR demands basic mechanical aptitude and familiarity with firearm components, it is not too challenging in all honesty, as there are not that many parts that need to be assembled. However, if you're someone who is new to firearms, buying might be a more accessible starting point.
2. Budget: Determine your budget and compare the costs of purchasing versus building. Factor in not just the base rifle but also additional accessories or modifications.
3. Time Commitment: Building an AR requires time and patience. Assess whether you have the bandwidth for research, assembly, and potential troubleshooting.
4. Legal Compliance: Be aware of your local laws regarding firearm ownership, especially when building a custom AR.

Where to Build or Buy an AR 

Now when it comes to building or buying an AR, you can do so right at Shoot Angry Inc., located in Pennsylvania. You have the option to choose from countless pre-built AR rifles that will fit any budget or need, but you also are able to build your own, even online. 

That’s right, Shoot Angry allows you to build your AR online, then have it shipped to a dealer near you. You can customize just about every piece you can think of when it comes to an AR style rifle.

So Which is Better, Building or Buying?

Now when it comes to deciding if you are going to build or buy an AR, that is something that is completely up to you. It comes down to what your goals are with the outcome of the rifle, as well as budget and personal preferences. 

In reality there is no right or wrong answer to if you should build or buy an AR, but we do recommend that you do your research extensively. The last thing you want is to end up with parts that do not fit, a rifle that does not work, or misfires.

That being said, do your research.

Conclusion

Just to wrap everything up, ultimately, the decision to build or buy an AR hinges on your preferences, skills, and intended use. If you prioritize convenience and immediate readiness, purchasing a pre-made AR is likely the way to go. Conversely, if you relish the idea of customizing your firearm and enjoy hands-on projects, building your own AR can be a rewarding endeavor.

Remember to conduct thorough research, adhere to legal regulations, and prioritize safety throughout the process. Whichever path you choose, owning an AR is a responsibility that demands respect and diligence. By weighing these factors carefully, you can confidently select the option that aligns best with your needs and preferences.