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Tag: AR-15

Video: US MARINE – The Truth About Thumb Over Bore!

There’s not much that will create an argument more than asking “What is the best firing stance and grip?” in a forum of AR shooters. While everyone has an opinion and many feel theirs is the only one that counts. I’ll give you my quick answer – “The one that you are comfortable with and allows rounds to be sent down range – accurately.”

Pretty simple.

Several years ago I heard of this method competition shooters were using to control recoil and shoot very accurately – called the “C-Clamp”. I tried and hated it. It felt so uncomfortable. I preferred to hold the magazine well, however, I just could not control recoil well and get multiple rounds on target quickly. This is a popular way of holding a gun while playing paintball. I had signed up for a defensive carbine and pistol course from Wolf-Fire Firearms Training and decided to try the C-Clamp again. I used it throughout the class and it really grew on me. This is now the primary method I use for shooting the AR and have done so for years.

The video below gives some perspective on the “thumb over bore” and explains my position on it well. I agree with this guy 100%.

May 21, 2025
It’s just a matter of time……
The House of Representatives is heading to be controlled by the gun-control friendly Democrat party. A new round of elections in the Senate, as well as the Presidential election, will be taking place in 2020. Nothing is certain as to the outcome. There is no better time than now to stock up on full capacity magazines, firearms, and ammunition. Prices are incredibly low and all it takes is a look back to after the Sandy Hook shooting to remember how prices can skyrocket and supplies dry up with the threat of gun control legislation.

Recommended steps:
- stock up on quality AR magazines (PMAG’s 10 for $99.95 – LINK)
- stock up on normal capacity pistol magazines greater than 10-rounds
- stock up on stripped AR lowers and/or complete AR lowers(LINK)
- stock up on ammunition(1000 rounds .223/$301.38 – LINK)
- purchase firearms “off the books” with no traceability to you
This is not fear mongering. Stocking up now is merely a commonsense approach in response to what is very possible. If not in 2020 it’s only a matter of time before the next gun control scare takes place.

Rourke
December 8, 2018
Video: US MARINE – The Truth About Thumb Over Bore!

There’s not much that will create an argument more than asking “What is the best firing stance and grip?” in a forum of AR shooters. While everyone has an opinion and many feel their’s is the only one that counts I’ll give you my quick answer – “The one that you are comfortable with and allows rounds to be sent down range – accurately.”

Pretty simple.

Several years ago I heard of this method competition shooters were using to control recoil and shoot very accurately – called the “C-Clamp”. I tried and hated it. Man – it felt so uncomfortable. I preferred to hold the magazine well however I just could not control recoil well and get multiple rounds on target quickly. I had signed up for a defensive carbine and pistol course from Wolf-Fire Firearms Training and decided to try the C-Clamp again. I used it throughout the class and it really grew on me. Now, this is the primary method I use for shooting the AR.

The video below gives some perspective on the “thumb over bore” and explains my position on it well. I agree with this guy 100%.

February 13, 2018
How To Paint Your AR-15

I’ve made a few attempts to paint AR’s and the results were amateurish at best. While Cerakote and other specialty coatings are very popular(and expensive) – a good-ole paint job can do wonders to enhance your AR.

The video below shows a great technique. Think I’ll try it on my next build.

On with the show……

Looking for full auto conversion plans? Check FullAutoPlans.com. For informational purposes only.

December 25, 2017
Project: AR Pistol Build

I’m addicted to building AR’s. I admit it. I’ve been actively searching for a support group to get help. Unfortunately, they all meet at my local gun shop and we end up walking out with lower parts kits, bolt carrier groups, and triggers. It’s not helping.

For my latest build, I went after another AR pistol(aka legal SBR). I’m not going to go through every pin, spring, and part as it was put together. That’s boring and will take too long. Here are the basics with a summary at the end:

Lower: 80% non-serialized, completed to 100%

Upper: Mid State Firearms 10.5″ SS 5.56/.223 Slanted Hybrid Keymod & Flash Can with Phosphate M16/AR15 Bolt Carrier Group

Trigger Group: HIPERTOUCH EDT

Charging Handle: Strike Industries AR Charging Handle with Extended Latch

Lower Parts Kit: Basic Anderson kit

Bolt Release: Strike Industries Extended Bolt Catch XBC

Fire Control Pins: KNS MOD-2 Anti-Rotation/Anti-Walk Pin Kit

Stock/Brace: Sig SBX15 Brace with KAK Buffer Tube Kit

Optic: Sightmark Wolverine CSR

SLIDESHOW

[slideshow_deploy id=’9532′]

So – why did I build this gun? Did I have some objective? Is it in my arsenal to fill a specific role?

Come on. I built it because I wanted to!!

AR pistols are some of the most fun firearms you can own. They can serve numerous functions when it comes to self-defense as well. In fact, my “SHTF Go To” gun is an AR pistol.

The barrel is 10.5″ in length. For a “pistol” build I prefer 10.5″ as it is MUCH quieter and has MUCH less concussion than a 7.5″ and retains better ballistics as well. The Sig brace was chosen as I wanted to do something different. Previous projects used the Shockwave Blade. I didn’t think I would care for the Sig brace however after putting it to use I love it. So comfortable and makes for a great cheek weld.

The Phosphate M16 Bolt Carrier Group is a budget bolt however it works. I have one in another gun with many rounds through it and so far so good.

The Hipertouch EDT trigger is phenomenal. Crisp, short reset, almost no take up at all, and breaks at around 5.5 pounds. For around $90 it is a bargain. I use it in my of my AR’s.

The Mid State Firearms upper has performed perfectly. The front handguard is extremely comfortable and lends itself to a c-clamp grip. The Sightmark CSR optic so far has done well. Seems very well built and has stayed zeroed through a few hundred rounds. The red dot has a slight touch of flaring but nothing that will be an issue for ranges this gun is likely to see. Controls are perfect. 50,000-hour battery life is nice.

The flash can helps drive the concussion and noise forward. I struggle to tell a difference but it certainly protects the muzzle.

Summary:

As with all AR pistols, this project is small, light, portable, and incredibly handy.

December 10, 2017
Gun’s & Fun: Lightweight AR Build

I’ve slowly built this budget AR-15 over the last few months. It came out pretty much as expected. The first question everyone wants to know is – “How much does it weigh?” I have to give an estimate as I used various methods for weighing it and came out with a few different results. The average of the measurements was 5.8 pounds. This is significantly lighter than many AR’s commercially made – and just a tad lighter than some others. The typical AR with an optic and a couple of rail attachments easily peaks out over 8-9 pounds. So yeah – 5.8 pounds is obviously lighter.

The picture below shows it in its complete form minus sights. The budget on this gun was under $700 and I barely made it.

The components were as follows:

Mid State Firearms custom upper – see MidStateFirearms.com

MFT AR Minimalist Stock

Anderson Lower Parts Kit

Odin Works BCG

Fostech Lightweight Stripped Lower

Standard Mil-Spec Buffer Tube and Spring

Magpul MOE Grip

Standard Ambi Safety Selector

Rousch AR Charging Handle

[slideshow_deploy id=’9145′]

Summary:

Moving around with a sub-6 pound AR versus my Stag which runs around 8.5 pounds really highlights the weight difference. While there are ultralight AR’s out there costing upwards of $3,000 – a budget lightweight build is very possible. In fact – this particular build could have easily had a few ounces shaved off. A different flash hider could drop a couple ounces. The all-metal handguard could be replaced with a polymer one. Those that partake in the challenge of building ultra lightweight AR’s go to extremes with exotic metals and extremely expensive componentry.

Why go lightweight? Ounces equal pounds. Pounds equal fatigue. Weight matters. Pounds removed from the rifle can equal more pounds of ammunition carried. Options.

A standard AR is not too heavy. Quality of components, barrel type, comfort, etc. is much more important to me than weight. But – weight is on the list.

A special thanks go out to MidStateFirearms.com for custom building the upper for me.

Let the fun begin!!!!!

Rourke

November 5, 2017
Trajectory of the .223/5.56 Round in a Carbine
With the popularity of the AR platform and the .223/5.56 round I thought it would be a good idea to review the trajectory of the round and common sighting ranges. Being a high velocity round the trajectory is relatively flat within a few hundred yards – past 400 the drop-off is significant.

There are several philosophies on sighting in the AR and what range in best. Here are a few examples:

50 Yard Zero – Sighting in the AR to be on the money at 50 yards is extremely popular and typically what I do. Why? Because at 100 yards I will be hitting about 1.5″ inches high and at 200-225 I will be back on the money. This provides excellent accuracy from 0 out to past 250 yards with little if any compensation especially if we are talking about shooting man sized targets.

This is by far the most popular method used for sighting in an AR.

100 Yard Zero – Not a bad option at all. With a zero of 100 yards the .223/5.56 round will impact approx 3/4″ low at 50 yards and around 2.25″ low at 200 yards.

25 Yard Zero – I don’t care at all for sighting in at 25 yards. When zeroed at 25 yards the round will also be zeroed at 300 yards. This strategy does not provide much of an advantage unless longer range shooting is planned. The problem is between 25 and 300 yards where either the rear sight has to be adjusted for elevation while shooting or english used.

All these numbers are relative and depend on specific barrel lengths, loads, and barrel rifling.

I recommend the 50 yard zero.

JR

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Here are a few recommended preparedness supplies and items:
- Bushnell TRS-25 Red Dot Optic – excellent sight at any price
- Streamlight TLR-1 800 Lumen Weapons Light
- Sustainable Seed Bank
- Magpul MBUS Gen II Front and Rear Sight Set
- Inforce Weapons Light – 500 Lumen
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Emergency Essentials carries Mountain House as well as their own house-brand of freeze dried foods. Great prices and inexpensive shipping provides a great way to increase food stores and save money in the process.

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Want to help support what we do here at 1776PatriotUSA.com? Follow any link from this website to Amazon, make a purchase, and we receive a small commision at no additional cost to you. Zero. Nada.

Amazon has a little known feature called “Best Selling” lists. Basically they rank the most popular products purchased within certain categories. Here are a few Best Selling lists you might be interested in…..

Best Selling Camping & Hiking Products

Best Selling Hunting & Fishing

Best Selling Flashlights & Lanterns

Best Selling Tents & Shelters

Best Selling Tactical & Personal Defense

Thank you!!
October 4, 2017
From the Desk of John Rourke – August 21st, 2017

A little bit of a rant….

It’s everyone’s right to have an opinion on everything. Something to consider is whether to express that opinion or not. If you arrived at that opinion due to a complete lack of thought and investigation on your own then maybe just keep it to yourself……

Much of this is from experience on FB and various internet forums I visit.

AR-15 Magazines Plastic versus Metal: Whatever you want to use. Come on folks let’s move on. Polymer magazines made by Lancer and Magpul are PROVEN. Numerous aluminum and steel mags are fantastically reliable – Brownells, D&H, and C-Products to name few. Buy whatever you want and stack it deep!

Tactical Abilities: I’ve never seen so many keyboard warriors profess tactical advice when the extent of their training is pulling triggers and loading magazines. Until you’ve engaged targets under pressure from varying factors such as intense heat, sweat, physical exhaustion, movement, and other conditions don’t act like some kind of Rambo. You’ve put holes in paper – it’s different.

AR Pistols: I have multiple AR Pistols and regardless of what “brace” you have and what the ATF has stated you absolutely can be questioned, AND arrested for said firearm. If the law enforcement who sees that firearm believes it’s illegal then he will arrest and then it will be a massive money pit involving lawyers. Guess what….you will win and you will be out thousands of dollars. Feel better?

Anderson Lowers: Holy crap. The questioning over an inexpensive lower versus an expensive lower. Either they work or they don’t. Anderson Lowers work. Period. Why don’t these same questions come up with uppers? Hmmmm…..

7.5″ AR pistols: While incredibly cool and compact the concussion is ridiculous and not conducive to combat effectiveness UNLESS something is done to reduce the concussion.

Nothing but Glock: The Glock line of firearms have proven to be a fantastic sidearm. There should be no dispute. However…..the notion that every other pistol is inferior to Glock is ridiculous. Get what you like and STACK IT DEEP!

Politics Have Nothing to Do With Preparedness: BS!!!!. The preparedness movement received a huge boost in 2008 and 2012 due to politics. Anyone who has a concern with economic collapse or EMP should be well versed in current events related to politics.

If You Haven’t Served: I have the up most respect for all that have served in the military. There are those who have served who very much take a “higher than thou” attitude and speak with a level above us mere mortals. With all due respect be my fellow American Patriot not my superior.

Enough for tonight.

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Hope everyone has a great week!!!

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August 20, 2017
VIDEO: How to Build an AR-15

It used to be very cost effective to build your own AR-15. With the aggressive pricing today, complete factory produced AR’s can be had so cheap there is little reason to build your own – other than you want to. Advantages to building your own AR-15 range from putting together something unique which you cannot buy from S&W to designing/building an AR that is specific to its intended mission.

Many have chosen not to build their own AR’s as assembling all those pieces can be intimidating. The reality is for most builds it is a step by step process – much like baking a cake.

The two videos below show the process for both the lower and upper parts of the AR.

Time to have some fun!!!

How To Build an AR-15 Lower

How To Build an AR-15 Upper

July 18, 2017
Video: US MARINE – The Truth About Thumb Over Bore!

There’s not much that will create an argument more than asking “What is the best firing stance and grip?” in a forum of AR shooters. While everyone has an opinion and many feel their’s is the only one that counts I’ll give you my quick answer – “The one that you are comfortable with and allows rounds to be sent down range – accurately.”

Pretty simple.

Several years ago I heard of this method competition shooters were using to control recoil and shoot very accurately – called the “C-Clamp”. I tried and hated it. Man – it felt so uncomfortable. I preferred to hold the magazine well however I just could not control recoil well and get multiple rounds on target quickly. I had signed up for a defensive carbine and pistol course from Wolf-Fire Firearms Training and decided to try the C-Clamp again. I used it throughout the class and it really grew on me. Now, this is the primary method I use for shooting the AR.

The video below gives some perspective on the “thumb over bore” and explains my position on it well. I agree with this guy 100%.

May 31, 2017
Impression of the Mossberg 715T Tactical .22 Rifle
Went shooting this past weekend and had an opportunity to take a look at his recently acquired Mossberg 715T. Modeled after the AR-15 it closely resembles an AR with a few significant differences.

Here are a few observations:
- Sights are pretty good typical rear peep front post. Adjustable.
- Trigger is spongy but not very heavy.
- Picatinny rails galore for mounting everything including the kitchen sink.
- There is a side charging handle which works fine but is not like an AR. There is a fake charging handle for cosmetic purposes only.
- Magazine release is terrible and nothing like an AR. This is a serious design flaw. Lever has to be pulled down and at the same time pull on the magazine. I was able to practice and do this one-handed but not reliably.
- I could not figure out how to take it apart for cleaning. It certainly is different than a hinged action like on an AR.
- Safety is a typical push-button style and extremely stiff. Would have preferred an AR-style.
- Magazine has a faux AR bottom with a “stick” .22LR metal portion sticking up through. Again – design flaw.
- The Mossberg 715T was 100% reliable with Federal bulk box 40-grain solid points.
- Handling was good and very similar to a typical AR including weight.
If I’m not mistaken I believe this AR-looking inexpensive .22LR is actually a Mossberg 702 Plinkster with polymer furniture attached to it.

The Mossberg 715T Tactical .22 typically sells for around $299. Would I by one? No, I wouldn’t. With the Plinkster available for $140 a more realistic and value-driven price would be $199 new. But hey – that’s why I am not a Marketing Manager for Mossberg I guess.

No – for $299 I would pick up a Ruger 10/22 every time along with a BX-25 magazine and a brick of .22LR rounds and call it a day.

My buddy who owns the Mossberg bought it off a friend used for $150. It looks to be hardly shot. Now that’s a decent deal.

Rourke
March 12, 2017
From the Desk of John Rourke – March 9th, 2017

I’ve been thinking of another AR project. Why not, right? The possibilities are truly endless with the AR platform and budget restraints d0 exist. I could build a 9mm carbine. That would be interesting though I have a Beretta CX4 Storm in 9mm that I am getting ready to start testing. How about building a lightweight AR? I like that idea. Just how light could I go for under $XXX? Hmmm…..I could do another AR-pistol with a “stabilizer” stock. Absolutely love my current one and it is my go to SHTF weapon. I always wanted to get a replica of a standard CAR-15. Maybe.

I would consider a .308 but just cannot afford that build right now.

Any ideas?

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The extent in which the CIA is reported to be able to spy on civilians is concerning. While protection against terrorism is important it would be curious to know the amount of money – and the quantity of rights violated – to stop how many terrorist plots? For those of us worried about an abusive, overbearing government this is not very encouraging. The fact that Alex Jones – 11 years ago – actually reported on one of the programs involved in this latest report and named it by name(Weeping Angel) has me wondering.

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Added a social media icon bar on the right side of the website. This links to the site’s accounts for Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube, and Google+. Still in the process of updating some of these. The plan is in a month or so to start posting videos again. Can’t stand watching myself on video but enjoyed the interaction when I did it years ago. A bit odd as some of the content on the social media accounts are related to my previous project.

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March 8, 2017
The “Patriot” Rifle AR Build

My latest AR is the result of the “Katrina” rifle concept. Katrina rifle you ask? The term came about after Hurricane Katrina devasted the Gulf and left many residents in a state of WROL(Without Rule of Law). Widespread looting, lawlessness, and general civil unrest provide a very dangerous environment. Add to this the absence of law enforcement the need for a Katrina rifle is evident. This single weapon – like in New Orleans – may be used at 25 yards or 250 yards. Yeah – there are a lot of AR’s and other firearms that will fit the bill. A firearm similar to this should be part of every preparedness system. This is merely one example.

Components List:

80% AR low from 80-Lower.com ($60)

Anderson Lower Parts Kit – LINK ($50)

Magpul AR grip ($20)

Strike Industries Charging Handle w/Extended Latch ($40)

PSA Full Auto Bolt Premium Carrier Group – LINK ($70 – SALE)

Standard M4 Stock/Buffer Tube

16″ Mid State Firearms Specter .223 Wylde AR Upper w/12″ Gen3 Slim Rail – LINK ($279)

Vortex Crossfire II 1-4X24mm Rifle Scope w/Mount – LINK ($210)

TruGlo Micro Laser – LINK ($70)

2-Point Sling – still yet to purchase

Lower: The 80% lower started this project. No particular reason I used an 80% other than it was sitting on my shelf. The fact that there is zero traceable paperwork connected to it is just the icing on the cake. While many may fear to attempt an 80% build jigs and instructions provide an avenue for the manufacture of the lower with minimal equipment.

Mine came from 80-Lower.com and the finish is fantastic and I have zero fit/function issues.

Upper: The 16″ Mid State Firearms Specter .223 Wylde upper is amazing. The slim configuration along with available picaninny attachment rails offer tremendous comfort as well as real estate for attachment of accessories. This is my second Mid State Firearms upper and couldn’t be happier. Free float barrel and a 1:8″ twist rate provide a high level of accuracy with a variety of bullet weights. I shoot 55-grain almost always with 62-grain making an appearance periodically. Accuracy? I readily admit that I am not the best shot and every gun I own will shoot better than me. So far 3 shot groups at 100 yards under 2″ is repeatable with XM193 ammunition. I plan to work with some premium rounds and reduce to 1″ or under.

Charging Handle: Historically a standard AR charging handle has always worked fine for me. With this project, I decided to look and see what was available for a little more than the cost of a standard one. Once I saw the Strike Industries I bit. While a normal charging handle still works fine on some of my other guns the Strike Industries definitely provides a secure grip especially in lieu of the Vortex optic. A standard handle would be more difficult to reach. For an extra $10 or so it was so worth it.

Magpul Grip: I have several AR’s with Magpul MOE grip or a slight variant of it. It simply works and provides not only comfort but a more secure grip than an A2 grip.

Stock: I had a standard M4 stock with buffer tube sitting on the shelf so I used it. Nothing special and it works just fine. I have considered moving on to the Magpul but so far just cannot justify the cost.

Flash Hider: The Mid State upper came with the Specter Flash Hider. I had wanted a flash hider that was more “tactical” than a standard A2 cage. Hopefully “poking” someone is not in the future for the Patriot but if the need arises I like the sharper edges of the Specter. Night time shooting? It’s on par with a standard A2 flash hider which by the way is way better than many aftermarket models costing a lot more.

Optic: The Vortex Crossfire II 1-4X24mm Rifle Scope w/Mount is precisely the kind of optic I was looking for. When set at 1X it is very close to true 1X allowing operation with both eyes open similar to a red dot. For CQC this is great. For longer ranges the power can be twisted up to 4X bringing things closer for more precise shooting. The Vortex is very clear.

Summary:

I’m in the process of selecting a sling. I want something simple and a 2-point rather than my normal single point. I mounted a TruGlo Micro Laser for use at night as being able to see black crosshairs would be problematic at best. Not a huge fan of throwing a bunch of attachments on a gun but the Micro Laser is tiny and super lightweight. I’ve run into a roadblock as about 10 minutes after mounting and during the sight-in process it stopped working. Strange. I am sending it back for replacement and am confident I’ll have a new one mounted soon.

A flashlight has yet to be added though I am considering an Inforce 200-lumen model. We’ll see.

I have the standard trigger in the lower that came with the lower parts kit. It feels very good however an upgrade is likely in the near future. I’ve been using D&H aluminum magazines as well as PMAG’s – no issues.

Reliability has been 100%. At a little over $800 invested I am loving the “Patriot” AR and glad it is part of my battery.

Oh – the small American flag perfectly located on the right side of the lower? Amazon.

Rourke

March 5, 2017
Rourke’s new AR Build

As a certified gun nut and a true believer than “too many guns” is something that should never be uttered – I am putting together another AR-15. Figured I would discuss what I am doing and discuss a few options I am looking at. Feel free to chime in….

LOWER:

I already have the lower. It was originally an 80% lower that I and only I and absolutely no one else machined to 100% completion. The lower came from 80-lower.com. I finished it out with an Anderson lower parts kit and a PSA M4 stock kit with buffer tube.

TRIGGER:

I am looking at several different triggers right now. One is the Hypertouch EDT which I have in my AR pistol. Great trigger breaking at around 5-5.5 pounds and for the money is excellent. Another I am considering is the Rise Armament RA-140. With a trigger pull of 3.5 pounds it is on the light side however as this will be a magnified optic mounted weapon that could prove beneficial.

UPPER:

I have done business with Mid State Firearms and so far have been extremely happy. Looking at all they have to offer I decided on a 16″ free-float barrel with an 1:8″ twist rate. I chose 1:8″ as it provides a good twist rate for a multitude of loads and as I shoot only 55 and 62 grain rounds it works. The slim rail is fantastic and inclusion of picatinny rails provide attachment points. At $279.99 it’s a bargain.

Note: I am not a fan of attaching a bunch of accessories to a rifle. About the only thing I might attach via picatinny is a weapons light or an angled foregrip.

SIGHTS/OPTICS:

I am planning to install standard Magpul Rear and Front back up sights. These fold down out of the way for use with an optic. In addition to open sights I want to add an optic with magnification.

One possibility is a Vortex Strikefire II paired with a flip mount 3X magnifier. I have used a similar setup and while it works well I am leaning towards a 1-4X scope such as the Vortex Crossfire II.

STOCK/GRIP:

While the standard A2 grip works I would like something that fills my hand a bit better. I’m looking at the Hogue AR grip. The Hogue feels great. As far as the stock the standard adjustable M4 works just fine however I am looking at Magpul CTR or Hogue stock. I played with the notion of investing in an expensive sliding rail stock such as this, or this – but have decided against it.

FLASHLIGHT:

I am going to mount a flashlight on one of the front rails. Currently looking at the InForce 200 Lumen Weapons Mounted Light. There are more powerful lights however I’m concerned with being blinded if my beam hits a wall or object nearby. 200 lumens is plenty bright.

MAGAZINE:

Most likely I will continue to use standard PMAG’s or aluminum mags with this firearm. I am looking at picking up a Magpul D-60 but they are ridiculously expensive.

BOLT CARRIER GROUP:

Will likely order a standard BCG from Mid State or PSA. I am not of the belief that special coatings add anything to the performance of the firearm – just cost. Bolts will last more rounds than I will ever shoot out of the gun.

OTHER:

Single point sling adapters, charging handles, etc. – I’ve not really looked into these a whole lot. I like things simple and I have seen some charging handles out there with metal sticking out all over the place. Guess that makes it easier to grab – or get caught on something.

Feel free to give your opinions and thoughts. I’ll update as the project moves along.

Keep your powder dry –

Rourke

November 17, 2016
From the Desk of John Rourke – November 4th, 2016

Springfield Armory has released their version of the AR-15 – the “Saint”. I got a chance to lay my hands on it in a non-shooting inspection and handling session. I like it. A lot. At the street price of around $869 it is not super inexpensive nor out of reach for most. I have a couple of priorities I MUST take care of first – then I may pick one up.

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The amount of information flowing regarding the FBI, Hillary Clinton, emails, the Foundation – and the Justice Department is just overwhelming. It appears the evidence is tremendous that Hillary is guilty of…..something. Will she ever be charged or will this be enough to keep her out of the White House? I suspect Obama will provide a blanket pardon when he leaves office. Will she still win? I believe it is almost guaranteed.

Yeah – I’m being a “Negative Nancy” I know. Call it conspiracy but I think the fix is in. The tens of thousands of people attending rallies. The record setting primary vote. The amount of Trump-Pence signs all over America. The number of people who never vote but are invigorated to do so due to Trump. Yeah – if Trump loses the fix is in.

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By the way I voted yesterday. I actually flt extremely proud making my selection. SOmething different this time around.

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Have a great weekend everyone! Going to be an interesting week upcoming.

November 4, 2016
NO EXCUSES!!!! Build a Budget AR
Beyond the ever increasing threats existing in the world and the possibility that significant gun control could be realized after the Presidential election – having an AR-15 can be flat out fun! Although there are many models out there costing well over $1000 if funds are a challenge there is still hope.

Just one example of putting together a very useable AR is shopping the sales from Palmetto State Armory. Located in South Carolina they do a massive online business and send out great sales flyers for those on their email list. I have toured their Columbia, SC location and talked to the owner/manager. He was a nice guy. The staff? Not so much. Regardless, their mail order business is excellent.

From a recent sales promotion:
- Blemished PSA Carbine Upper (no BCG) – – ($199.99)
- Complete M4 Lower – – ($199.99)
- Complete Bolt Carrier Group w/Charging Handle – – – ($129.99)
For just over $500 a complete AR can be put together. Shipping and handling as well as any transfer fees are not included.

Putting together an AR in this manner can be done a little at a time and part by part. Stripped lowers/uppers can be purchased and then specific parts added over time. It can be a lot of fun putting together your own gun piece by piece.

If the money is available all at once most manufacturers offer up a budget model between $500 and $600. ClassicFirearms.com is a good source.

Point of the post? No excuses! If you are wanting an AR the time is now.

Rourke
October 31, 2016
Video: Completing An 80% Lower

There’s been some interest in 80% lowers and the process of finishing one. I have not completed one myself although I have seen the final product and talked to the machinist that did the work. If he chooses he can comment below this post on his experience.

The product I am familiar with came from 80-Lower.com. They sell an assortment of finishes as well as different designs and jigs which to use to complete the lower. Milling machine, drill presses, routers, and even hand drills can be used though hand drills are not recommended by most.

Below are two video’s from a different vendor – 80PercentArms.com. The top video is an instructional video direct from 80PercentArms.com. The demonstration is actually done using a hand drill I am assuming to convey how easy it is.

The bottom video is from someone who has completed the process and you get to hear of his experience with the process.

I will tell you that it is NOT cheaper to complete an 80% versus buying a normal serialized lower. Those willing to spend the extra money are doing so for specific reasons that make it well worth it to them.

Video 1

Video 2

For more information on the lowers that I have experiance with visit – – > https://www.80-lower.com

September 8, 2016
Video: AR 15 Mil-Spec Lower Build

A little while back I mentioned that when putting together an AR stripped lower I used YouTube to assist with assembly. Laying out all the required parts on a table along with a laptop and then following a build video step by step makes everything extremely simple.

Here is an example of one such video. There are many to choose from on YouTube.

Rourke

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August 26, 2016
Thoughts on guns, ammo, spare parts

Loyal reader Lightning recently commented that it is better to have a few guns with lots of ammo than lots of guns with little ammo. I agree. For many of us and I include myself in this group we are gun nuts at heart. We “collect” guns and often use the excuse that we need them for our preparedness system and ignore funding ammunition stores as we should.

How about spare parts? How many of us have extra firing pins, buffer springs, and bolt carrier groups? We will spend $1000 on an AR and hundreds if not thousands on ammunition and zero on spare parts. This should not be the case.

Granted most of us will never see a worn buffer spring or bolt but the investment is minimal. As prepper’s we do not think of what most likely WON’T happen we consider the possibilities of what MIGHT happen. A broken firing pin will render a firearm useless.

Rourke

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Choate, Machine, and Tool offers their AR-15 Essential Spare Parts Kit for $29.99. The kit comes with an Extractor, Extractor Pin, Two Extractor Spring Assembly, Ejector/Selector Detent Spring, Selector/Safety Detent, Takedown/Pivot Pin Detent, Takedown/Pivot Pin Detent Spring, Takedown Pin, Pivot Pin, Hammer/Trigger Pin and Three Bolt Gas Rings. These are the part most often lost or most often to fail on the AR platform.

July 25, 2016