Are you new to the AR-15 and AR-15 Build Kits? Before you order your first kit, browse this handy guide to learn more.?

What is an AR-15?

The AR-15 is perhaps the most iconic modern American sporting rifle. Originally manufactured in the 1950s for civilian use by Armalite, it was named the ?Armalite Rifle,? which was popularly shortened to ?AR.? Contrary to widespread belief by the uninformed, ?AR? does NOT stand for ?Assault Rifle? or ?Automatic Rifle.? These early models were gas operated and semi-automatic.? In 1959, Armalite sold the design to Colt Arms. In the early 1960s, Colt began manufacturing a model of the AR-15 to the United States Military, known as the M-16. This rifle was widely used throughout the Vietnam War.?

After the war, Colt expanded the production of a semi-automatic version for civilians and law enforcement, once again called the AR-15. Beginning in the 1970s, other arms manufacturers obtained the patents to produce AR-15 rifles, each using their own brand name. However, the term ?AR-15? has become the popular blanket term for this style of rifle.?

Is an AR-15 Rifle Legal??

AR-15 rifles are legal firearms. Uninformed people confuse them with ?assault rifles? because their aesthetic design resembles well-known military-style rifles that are fully automatic. The AR-15 is a semi-automatic rifle (and has been since its inception) and is not an assault weapon by function or legal definition.?

An Assault Weapons Ban in 1994 temporarily restricted AR-15s and lasted for 10 years. It was allowed to expire when smarter heads realized that AR rifles had been misclassified and were misunderstood. Fully automatic weapons are illegal by federal statute. AR-15 rifles are completely legal to build, purchase, and own; however, some states like California have placed certain restrictions making it more difficult.?

What Are AR-15 Build Kits??

AR-15 Build Kits are sets of disassembled parts and components that can be assembled to create a custom AR-15 rifle. Various options exist to customize AR-15 build kits, including calibers, barrels, stocks, grips, sights, and numerous accessories. Most kits come with the necessary components to build a functioning rifle and little else; however, some advanced kits may include some specialization mods or accessories.?

Is the AR-15 a Good Hunting Rifle??

Hunters tend to be particular over their favorite rifles, but it is no surprise that many have traded in more traditional bolt-action rifles for an AR-15. More than 50 calibers are available for the AR-15 platform, and its lightweight design, semi-automatic fire, and reliable accuracy have made it a growing favorite.?

The 5.56 and .223 are favored for small game like hogs, goats, and coyotes, while .243 Winchester, .308 Winchester, and 6.5 Creedmoor are usually chosen for deer or other big game. Also, AR-15s in 5.56 or .223 with a 16-inch barrel are extremely effective out to 600 meters, while versions chambered in .308 Winchester or 6.5 Creedmoor can reach beyond 800 meters.?

Why Should I Consider AR-15 Build Kits Over a Completed Rifle??

AR-15 rifles are available in most gun stores ready to fire, so why should you consider AR-15 build kits? AR-15 build kits allow for a high level of customization, so builders can create a fully unique firearm that cannot be found anywhere else. Plus, there?s nothing like creating your own firearm with your own two hands. A custom rifle from AR-15 build kits just means more than an over-the-counter model.?

Some other reasons to consider AR-15 build kits include:?

• Performance ? the AR-15 rifle is lightweight, tough, easy to handle and fire, and fully capable of filling numerous roles in hunting, sport shooting, and home defense.?
• Affordability ? AR-15 build kits are overwhelmingly popular, and that makes them extremely affordable. Plus, even with full customization options, a builder can create a custom rifle for $500 – $800.?
• Customization ? we mentioned this above, but there are virtually endless ways to configure AR-15 build kits, including carbon fiber barrels, lightweight receivers, over 50 calibers, drop-in triggers, folding stocks, custom grips, equipment rails and accessories, even pistol kits in various calibers for compact home defense.??
• Reliability ? the simple and time-tested design of the AR-15 makes it one of the most reliable rifles in existence. Plus, AR-15 build kits come with all the parts necessary for a complete rifle without any modifications.?
• Simplicity ? perhaps the best benefit of AR-15 build kits is they are simple to build. Just a few common tools are required, and no prior gunsmithing knowledge or experience is needed.?

Order Custom AR-15 Build Kits Today?

Are you ready to order custom AR-15 build kits? CBC Industries has loads of kits from which to choose, with various calibers, barrel lengths, and other options. Shop our online store for available kits and be sure to take advantage of any special offers.?