The Fundamentals of Building a Lower Parts Kit
The great thing about the AR-15 is its modular design. For over 50 years, thousands of parts have come up to optimize these amazing rifles to the builder’s desires. Well that’s great for those of us who know how to build an AR-15 from scratch using completely custom parts.
For first time builders though, the building process can be a daunting experience. Unfortunately this deters a lot of people from going the 80 lower route even though, 80 lower built rifles have an increased chance of being higher quality over bought completes that cost a lot more.
In reality, simple things like organization, the right tools, and the proper kit can make all the difference between a good build, a bad build, and a waste of money. Read this article to found out more on the fundamentals of 80 Lower Parts Kits.
When looking for the best AR-15 lower parts kits, it is important to understand what you are getting. Some kits do not come with the essential bits needed to complete the AR-15. Here is everything a kit should have to ensure you are able to build it.
Also look here for our list of great AR 15 KITS
| Trigger Spring | Bolt Catch | 2 – Takedown Detents & Springs |
| Trigger Pin | Bolt Catch Plunger | Pivot Pin |
| Trigger | Bolt Catch Spring | Rear Takedown Pin |
| Hammer Spring | Bolt Catch Roll Pin | Buffer Retainer & Spring |
| Hammer Pin | Safety Selector | Magazine Catch Assembly |
| Hammer | Safety Selector Detent | Triggerguard Assembly |
| Disconnector & Spring | Safety Selector Detent Spring | Pistol Grip |
Usually 80 Lower Parts Kits will have all these pieces and organized into their respective groups.
It really isn’t as hard as it looks. In fact, there are many outlets out there giving their own guides on building an AR-15 lower parts kit from the ground up. Thunder Tactical provides information every week detailing the proper tools, which we will list again in this article, as well as guides on how to build, what to look for in quality, as well as legal updates regarding 80% lowers.
Proper Tools
Literally anyone with a hand drill and the proper bits can build an 80 lower from a lower parts kit. Here is a list of the required tools to complete your 80 lower AR-15.
- 80% Lower Jig
- 5/32” Drill Bit
- 3/8” Drill Bit
- 5/16” Drill Bit
- 3/8” End Mill
- Dremel with 1⁄4” Grinding Head
- Drill Press Vise
- Drill Press
Building an AR15 is not as hard as it looks. And with these tools, you will be able to build your 80 lower parts kit in no time. Visit Thunder Tactical to get more news on AR-15 as well as great deals on parts and accessories to optimize your dream rifle.
What are the Biggest AR 15 Misconceptions?
The Ar 15 has gone through quite a bit of controversy in the last few years unfortunately. This is especially when it comes to 80 lowers, as many will try to demonize these parts, and the legal methods gone through to obtain them. Here at Thunder Tactical, we do not promote violence, rather, we seek to help empower lawful citizens with their second amendment rights. This article will cover some of the major 80 lower AR 15 misconceptions.
Legal Loophole
The first AR 15 misconceptions as that 80 lowers are a loophole in the law. This , in fact is completely untrue. The ATF has come out openly to say clarify the nature of the law that regulates the manufacture of 80 lowers. Here is a run down of what has been stated many times.
The sale of the part of the rifle that contains the fire control group is strictly prohibited without an FFL. However, when it comes to 80 lowers, which are essentially aluminum blocks, an FFL is not required because it is not sold with an FFL.
The ownership of 80 lowers is actually protected by the law.
Serial Numbers
Let’s get this straight. Serial numbers only became legal as a part of the GCA of 1968. Before that, they were not mandatory on any rifles. They were used by manufacturers as a method of organizing interchangeable parts. The GCA requires any firearm that is built and then sold to be registered with a serial number. In this way, firearms can be traced.
However, 80 lowers do not require them, because they are not sold as firearms. The owner may choose to put a serial number on the rifle for his or her own purpose. The idea that 80 lowers are more dangerous because they cannot be traced is simply incorrect.
The Term AR
AR stands for ArmaLite, the company that made the original AR 15 back in the 50s. This name has taken a few turns according to the liberal left, as they use such terms like Assault Rifle to denote the AR 15. This is just a tactic for propaganda.
The AR is used really to pay homage to the company that first created. When colts license to the AR 15 expired, it became open source to other manufacturers around who created different variations of the AR frame.
NOTE: An assault rifle refers to any rifle that is used by the military.
This has been the major 80 lower AR 15 misconceptions that still run around the internet. We at Thunder Tactical urge our customers, and our readers to be informed about the true nature of the second amendment. It is a right to self defense. Let us help you make that possible with our highest quality AR 15 80 lower receivers, parts and kits!
