How to Build an AR-15 Upper Receiver: A Step-by-Step Guide
Building an AR-15 upper receiver is a rewarding and exciting project for firearm enthusiasts. This guide will walk you through the process of assembling an AR-15 upper receiver from scratch, ensuring that you have a reliable and personalized firearm. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gunsmith, following these steps will help you create a custom upper receiver that suits your needs.
Step 1: Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials
Before you begin, gather all the necessary tools and materials. This includes a drill press, a vise, a set of taps and dies, a screwdriver, a hex wrench, a file, a level, and the following components:
– Upper receiver
– Gas block
– Gas tube
– Carbine-length gas tube
– Forward assist
– Bolt carrier group
– Bolt
– Charging handle
– Magazine catch
– Magazine release
– Receiver extension
– Buffer tube
– Buffer spring
– Bolt catch
– Bolt catch spring
– Trigger
– Hammer
– Sear
– Safety selector
– Pistol grip
– Stock
Step 2: Install the Gas Block
Begin by attaching the gas block to the upper receiver. Place the gas block on the receiver and align the holes. Use a drill press to create the necessary holes in the receiver, and then secure the gas block using the appropriate screws.
Step 3: Install the Gas Tube
Slide the gas tube into the gas block, ensuring that it is properly seated. If you’re using a carbine-length gas tube, you may need to trim it to fit. Once the gas tube is in place, secure it with the appropriate screws.
Step 4: Install the Bolt Carrier Group
Insert the bolt carrier group into the upper receiver. Make sure the bolt is fully seated in the carrier. Secure the bolt carrier group using the appropriate screws.
Step 5: Install the Charging Handle
Attach the charging handle to the bolt carrier group. Ensure that the charging handle is properly aligned with the receiver and secure it using the appropriate screws.
Step 6: Install the Magazine Catch and Release
Install the magazine catch and release on the lower part of the upper receiver. Make sure they are properly aligned and secure them using the appropriate screws.
Step 7: Install the Receiver Extension and Buffer Tube
Attach the receiver extension to the lower part of the upper receiver. Slide the buffer tube onto the receiver extension and secure it using the appropriate screws.
Step 8: Install the Buffer Spring and Bolt Catch
Insert the buffer spring into the buffer tube, and then attach the bolt catch to the receiver extension. Secure the bolt catch using the appropriate screws.
Step 9: Install the Trigger and Fire Control Group
Install the trigger, hammer, sear, and safety selector in the upper receiver. Ensure that they are properly aligned and secure them using the appropriate screws.
Step 10: Install the Pistol Grip and Stock
Attach the pistol grip and stock to the upper receiver. Make sure they are properly aligned and secure them using the appropriate screws.
Step 11: Test and Finalize
Once all components are installed, perform a functional test to ensure that the upper receiver operates correctly. Load a magazine, chamber a round, and fire the weapon to check for any malfunctions. If everything works as expected, you have successfully built an AR-15 upper receiver.
Building an AR-15 upper receiver is a fulfilling project that allows you to customize your firearm to your preferences. By following these steps, you can create a reliable and personalized upper receiver that you can be proud of. Happy building!
