AR Pistol build help

[Indyjones65]

I am considering an AR pistol build. I bought a SOG stripped lower during the possible gun ban feeding frenzy. This would be my first build of any AR and I'm seeking input/opinions on building a .223/5.56 pistol. Are there any differences besides the obvious lack of stock and shorter barrel length to building a pistol instead of a rifle? What are the best places to buy the parts? How about a good manual/book on AR building? Thoughts on barrel length, shorter the better? Thanks in advance for the help.

 

[Kernal1984]

11.5 inch barrel, palmetto state armory for parts, youtube for assembly

 

[Indyjones65]

Why 11.5 inch barrel? Kinda looking for shorter the better. Is anything shorter just to inaccurate?

 

[The Bubba Effect]

You are in for some fun! I have put together three or four AR carbines and just put together my first AR pistol.

I did not find the lower assembly to be different than the carbines other than my pistol build kit did not have a castle nut securing the buffer tube like my carbines did.

I have used this guide to assemble my AR's. I like it.
:: Guides

I also watched some build videos on youtube. Just search "AR lower assembly". Sometimes I find it helpful to actually see things done than just read the instructions.

I used this kit: Palmetto State Armory Pistol Lower Build Kit - Black
I have bought several things from Palmetto State. They have some pretty good prices when things go on sale, but be aware that sometimes it takes a while to get your order (usually uppers can take a while). Also be aware that you should check the contents of your order carefully when you get it. I have received incomplete orders from them before (build kit missing buffer tube and retainer plate a fairly recent example), but their customer service has always been quick to reply to me and quick to make it right.

As to barrel length, I have heard that sometimes the shorter barrels can have cycling trouble and are significantly louder to the shooter and those on either side of the shooter, but I do not know if that is true or just talk. I have a 12" barrel on my AR pistol and I really like it. I am not sure how far I can stretch it, but it holds a decent group (8") at 200 yards.

Be sure to keep us posted on what you choose and how you like it!

 

[Kernal1984]

Good compromise ballistics wise(if that matters)and shorter barrels sometimes have cycling issues and if you ever want to add a suppressor most manufacturers warranty is void on anything under 10.5 I beleive(some one please correct me if im wrong on the length)

I built a 9mm ar pistol with a 5 inch barrel that I'm planning on suppressing and sbr'in

 

[Indyjones65]

Good compromise ballistics wise(if that matters)and shorter barrels sometimes have cycling issues and if you ever want to add a suppressor most manufacturers warranty is void on anything under 10.5 I beleive(some one please correct me if im wrong on the length)

I built a 9mm ar pistol with a 5 inch barrel that I'm planning on suppressing and sbr'in

Good info on the cycling issue. And yes suppressing is in my future. Planning on setting up a Trust in the near future to get things rolling.

 

[Indyjones65]

You are in for some fun! I have put together three or four AR carbines and just put together my first AR pistol.

I did not find the lower assembly to be different than the carbines other than my pistol build kit did not have a castle nut securing the buffer tube like my carbines did.

I have used this guide to assemble my AR's. I like it.
:: Guides

I also watched some build videos on youtube. Just search "AR lower assembly". Sometimes I find it helpful to actually see things done than just read the instructions.

I used this kit: Palmetto State Armory Pistol Lower Build Kit - Black
I have bought several things from Palmetto State. They have some pretty good prices when things go on sale, but be aware that sometimes it takes a while to get your order (usually uppers can take a while). Also be aware that you should check the contents of your order carefully when you get it. I have received incomplete orders from them before (build kit missing buffer tube and retainer plate a fairly recent example), but their customer service has always been quick to reply to me and quick to make it right.

As to barrel length, I have heard that sometimes the shorter barrels can have cycling trouble and are significantly louder to the shooter and those on either side of the shooter, but I do not know if that is true or just talk. I have a 12" barrel on my AR pistol and I really like it. I am not sure how far I can stretch it, but it holds a decent group (8") at 200 yards.

Be sure to keep us posted on what you choose and how you like it!

I'll be sure and read that "guide" before starting. The PSA LBK looks like a pretty good deal at $99 right now. I'm gonna look at their site a little more, kinda looking for FDE hardware and furniture.

 

[Kernal1984]

Just look at some suppressor manufacturers websites for the barrel length/warranty info

 

[RGriff69]

Another place to look for parts is JoeBobOutfitters.com

My 5.56 pistol


I'm also building a 6.8spc pistol to hunt with.

 

[Indyjones65]

Another place to look for parts is JoeBobOutfitters.com

My 5.56 pistol
View attachment 27396

I'm also building a 6.8spc pistol to hunt with.

Nice looking pistol, Is that the Sig SB15 Pistol Stabilizing Brace on there? What barrel length?

 

[RGriff69]

Thanks. Yes, its a Sig SB15 and a 7.5" barrel. Lot of fun to shoot!

 

[Indyjones65]

Thanks. Yes, its a Sig SB15 and a 7.5" barrel. Lot of fun to shoot!

Do you have any cycling issues with the 7.5" barrel? What are you usually putting through it?

 

[RGriff69]

No cycling issues so far. Have a few hundred 55 grain x tac and PMC bronze through it.