r/ar15•
mightyarrow

What tools do I really need to assemble a lower?

Well, I've got all my parts ordered to finish out my AR build. BCM complete upper which I'm gonna mate to a DIY lower using an Anderson receiver, Magpul CTR stock kit, and CMMG lpk.

Anyway, what tools do I really need here? I'm not gonna be building a bunch of ARs, so I don't want to waste money on tools. I'm 90 bucks under my budget and at this point only wanna get the truly necessary stuff.

I've got:

  • vise
  • elec tape and masking tape
  • computer/microdevice-sized screwdriver/hexdriver set
  • small hammer
  • other typical male household tools

Here's the tools it looks like I almost certainly need but dont have:

  • roll pin punch set
  • anti-sieze compound

Other tools I see mentioned but not sure I need:

  • dry lube for the stock/tube?
  • lowend block for vise? I heard you can just use elec tape on the sides of the vise (and plenty of masking on the lower), and it'll hold up well enough for a basic lower build.
  • armorer's wrench -- is this really necessary or is there a cheaper way? Bass Pro has one for $50 that includes a torque-measuring device, but I see some cheap options Amazon for under 25.

Posted Feb 22, 2016, 5:14 AM UTC · edited

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