Starting the process of building an AR-15 can be an exciting yet stressful endeavor, even under ideal circumstances. One of the primary reasons most recreational shooters choose the AR-15 platform is that it allows for customization down to the finest detail, and each individual part of the weapon can make an impact on how it performs. There are countless iterations of the AR-15 platform, and with the increasing prevalence and popularity of the MLOK rail attachment method, a plethora of accessories from different manufacturers can also be taken into account. The last couple of years has made this particularly challenging as the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic have continued to spread, even into the firearms industry. A number of factors, particularly in the US, have played a role in driving the demand for products to an all-time high, while simultaneously causing material shortages on the supply side. Now, more than ever, finding the right product for an AR-15 build can be both challenging and rewarding for the end-user.
To Begin With Your AR-15 Build
Most users will likely want to update and outfit their lower receiver first, as many of the AR 15 accessories that can be upgraded will directly affect the performance of the firearm. What may initially seem like subtle upgrades can have a widely varying impact on the AR-15’s performance. Whether updating to a two-stage trigger to hone first shot accuracy, finding a more ergonomic rear grip, or adding versatility with an ambidextrous safety, there are a vast array of options on the market to enhance a build. Another piece that often gets overlooked on the AR-15 lower receiver is the mag release button. While not integral to performance, an upgraded and ergonomic mag release button can certainly affect the shooting experience. One such option is the CSMR Button by RailScales, which features an 8º angled rake on the face of the button to give it a more natural and ergonomic feel, concentric compression bosses around the spring to keep the spring compression fluid throughout the release, and two textures and colors available to ensure they will fit with any AR-15 build.
The Next Step: Lower Reciever
Once the lower receiver has been properly outfitted, attention can be turned toward enhancing and upgrading the upper receiver. Because the primary function of the upper receiver and rail is to provide support for the off-hand, many of the best accessories for the AR-15 available pertain to a user’s subjective view of adding ergonomics, textured grip, and stabilizing products that help improve shooting accuracy. With a large part of the industry shifting to the MLOK rail as standard issue, most accessory manufacturers have a large offering of products available to work within these specifications. One of the drawbacks of the slimmer, lighter MLOK rail that anyone building a new AR-15 should take into account is heat transfer to the rail. Fortunately, companies like RailScales have a great selection of products that fit any budget to help not only mitigate heat transfer from the barrel but also to add textured grip and streamlined aesthetic to the AR-15 platform. While primarily known for their namesake RailScales MLOK grip panels, they also offer variants on these in other materials like the high-temp polymer HTP Scales, their 3-sided XOS panels which give additional surface area for grip and heat protection, and most recently adding TerraCore FR4 to the lineup.
Karve, Karve-P and A Multitude of VFG Grips
While not everyone will see the benefit of having an AR-15 vertical forward grip or handstop attached to their handguard, they are a common addition that most should at least consider. RailScales has a strong selection of options available in this category, with their Karve handstop, the budget-friendly polymer version Karve-P, or their suite of VFG grips including the Anchor, LDAG, RSB, and RSB/M. Recreational shooters usually have a specific idea in mind for their AR-15 build, and with so many options to choose from it can be quite an undertaking. With an array of innovative US-made products that improve function and aesthetics, RailScales makes a strong case for upgrading an AR-15 build. Interested in viewing more or all? Learn more now:
