Hearing you mention del-ton makes me smile, I know we do not make the best stuff but as an employee I am glad to know we get a mention here. Everyone has to start somewhere in the riflemans journey.
My current lower is still my first firearm just aero upper and everything else upgraded. Wore out the sierra 316L barrel out at 5-6k rounds and wore the BA barrel at 6-7k rounds now have a noveske. Still have the original bolt carrier group as a spare just upgraded parts
Gotta say I like the features Aero M4E1 lower a bit better than the BCM. I have a number of both. If you’re apprehensive about gun smithing or modding then the BCM is a good choice.
@@richardmartel1869 aero stripped lower is the superior choice, kit it out with the lower parts you want. if buying complete than yeah I agree, just get the BCM lower too
thanks for choosing the 1-6 NOVA, great video! as an aside, we have a BDC reticle version for those who dont like using MILS. we also have a brand new suite of SLX scope mounts that are outstanding for price, and they look real sleek. So that would be a next step up from the deluxe mount.
At first I liked my PA SLX 1-6 but a warning on the lack of brightness would have helped. I got the standard Aurora reticle and I'm pretty ticked at the lack of brightness. If it is not pitch black, you cannot tell it is on. Useless
I really appreciate this video. I'm in the group of people who bought an AR before really doing any research, so now I'm in the position of upgrading it to something more useful. The trigger recommendation is great. Lots of good stuff here for me to consider. Looking forward to the next one.
this is awesome. incredible amount of information packed into a 30 minute no-nonsense video. simply the best content online-hands down. not suggesting parts cause they look cool but because they were rigorously TESTED and performed well and are dependable. for me, there’s no better guide when considering a build. Great job Brandon. love this series of videos man.
can’t wait to watch this one. love the “value”/best AR your money can buy video” and have watched it at least 3 times. actually plan on building that exact rifle. think Brandon does a fantastic job explaining why each part makes sense and why it maximizes your value or “peak” value. just really well done. thanks for the great content
BCM has Blem Complete uppers cheaper than stripped Aero uppers. They say unassembled but out of the 15 or so I have only 2 came unassembled. No cosmetic blemishes, just no white BCM paint on the side. Still have their star forging mark and BCM4 mark above the gas block hole. I believe they make their own instead of using the 3 foundries everyone else uses. Hence why theres a star instead of a keyhole, square or A. Fits great on BCM, Aero, PSA and even Anderson lowers. $20 is insane. But yall are wild if you think I wont go to Atwoods and buy a $50 Anderson when no one else has sales. Also id much rather save up a little extra and atleast get a better grip and buttstock and add a foregrip. If its your first and only rifle it probably doesnt matter, but any of us that have swapped those parts would have a harder time swapping. I cant stand standard grip angles, non rubber padded stocks and not having a way to push/lock in the rifle to my shoulder. Also ammo and training is always better than going gucci right off the bat.
That's completely false. You're talking about $300-$400 no BCG/charging handle Aero uppers compared to $750 complete BCM uppers. There's literally no way you can get complete BCM uppers cheaper than stripped Aero uppers unless you're stealing them.
They do make their own. It's listed somewhere on their site. They're also made slightly smaller so the barrel fits tighter to help accuracy. The only problem is it makes it a giant pain in the ass and God help you if the index pin isn't lined up.
Yes my first rifle was a PSA and I spent more on ammo then the gun at the time I bought it. Slowly been upgrading it as I’ve been shooting more and more rounds with a new trigger, bolt and buffer. Next upgrade will be a barrel I’m close to that 5k rounds and I know the PSA gun barrels with the cheaper ARs only last that long so the next will be that and a gas block. So far it’s done what I needed it to and hasn’t cost me a fortune
I upgraded my psa with a ballistics advantage .223 wylde Hanson Profile barrel. 55gr xtac ammo I average around 1.5 MOA and with black Hills match grade I've gotten anything between 1/2 to 3/4 moa.
On my last build, I bought a PSA Sabre complete lower. It's got a radian talon ambi safety, upgraded trigger guard and takedown pins, B5 systems grip and stock, anti walk pins, sprinco white buffer spring, and an excellent hiperfire single stage trigger. All for $270. It's a fantastic value. Slap on your complete upper/ upper build of choice and....voila. You get a great gun at a great value. With all that's included with the Sabre complete lowers, I may not build out another stripped lower. Only thing i changed was the C buffer for a H1 buffer I had laying around.
You can buy a blem complete BCM upper, for a little over $600… put that on a PSA complete lower, you’re sitting at about $850. I think that is more simple than piecing all these parts together.
Is it even possible to find a blem bcm upper when they don’t even have normal stock just curious because I really want an 11.5 mk2 but I can’t find them in stock anywhere
Not a bad job with your choices. The only choice I would drop is BCM. I tried a while ago to order some parts, barrel and a stripped upper, I was told they do not ship to my state. Perfectly legal things that I have not encountered any other company not sending to me. Just before that I ordered a BCM Mk2 upper which had just come out from Optics Planet. Oh yeah that was Dec of 2020. Still on backordered and they still show the link to buy it even though they have never managed to deliverer one that I can tell. The Aero Precision AR15 Stripped Lower Receiver, Gen 2 is very nice and like it better than any BCM I've seen. So, I do like the Radian charging handle, sorry I'm older and still like to open it like an M14/M1A. I know not budget but do love almost everything Forward Controls Design makes like on your other rifle. Not fan of Magpul B.A.D. Lever, prefer a cleaner gun. I like the Radian TALON 45/90 - GI which also keeping it cleaner. Foxtrot Mike rails are a nice option. CMC Triggers buffer tube kit also comes with a QD receiver end plate. For comfort Hogue stock with Ergo grip, not as cheap as your options but a lot more pleasant to shoot. Unfortunately, pricewise Streamlight hard to beat for price, but being made in China does that. I went Surefire Scout Light Pro Dual Fuel, definitely not the cheap option but can also use same batteries as an EOTech if I need to.
I really appreciate this kind of video because even if I'm not building a rifle right now, it's good to have some ideas on value components for future upgrades/builds or helping a friend build their first rifle.
Great work, sir. I really appreciate your opinion. You have to be one of the most unbiased opinionated people I've heard talk about this content. The trick is determining if your opinion is TO BE different, or purely from experience... Though, the want to BE different does require at least some knowledge of what you DONT want. So - that said. You're doing great work at TREX! :)
I appreciate that you gave real-world expectations for the accuracy section. If you look through forum posts, everybody and their brother has an "MOA all day" build that they've probably shot 150 rounds through over its entire life
First off, thank you for a. Your service b. For making this video. I have always felt you could do a feature rich, quality component AR build sub-1k. The only thing I’d change in your formula is do a complete BCM upper at $700. No worry about mating a barrel to the upper and gassing issues, and you get a manufacturer warranty on it. I did a BCM 11.5 on a complete PSA lower and swapped out the controls and got a similar result. Add an Aimpoint pro and a Streamlight HLX and you are GTG and right at $1500. Great video.
The term, budget friendly " is going to be defined on your own personal income so please don't get upset if it does or doesn't meet your interpretation of budget friendly. Awesome video
At first I was like, this guy is crazy. Then I priced out my budget at pistol and it’s about $1400 altogether. So I def think budget is in the 1200 to 1700 range. I could definitely build a phenomenal rifle in that price range though
Really killer breakdown Brandon, appreciate the extreme details of the actual build. Its like you are the tax accountant brother of Charlie from Garand Thumbs team of misfits. Both of you are extremely watchable, but for polar opposite reasons.
Super solid build. I'd go with the cheaper BCM upper with the free BCG, sig tango combo, complete aero lower, same streamlight light, and a $20 Magpul sling with 550 cord.
PSA Mlok railed 16” stainless barrel upper, PSA lower with Magpul STR stock. BAD lever, Primary arms 1x8 ACSS, Throw lever from MK machining, upgraded trigger (Larue, or similar 2S) streamlight HL, sling, etc. This all would be about $1000 depending on how great of sales that are shopped, and this rifle, with adequate training, would successfully meet or exceed the needs of using a rifle for all the purposes listed in this video.
Chat what yall think of this. I am currently looking into a similar $1500 total "doesnt suck" rifle and here's my options: Both using a PSA Sabre complete lower ( B5 sopmod stock, B5 grip, Radian talon selector, Sprinco spring and buffer, Hipfire trigger w/ JP reduced power springs and anti walk pins, some kinda fancy takedown pins: $280). Upper: "King of the poors" PSA Sabre complete upper (PSA receiver, FN cold hammer forged chrome lined 14.5" mid length barrel, Geissele pinned gas block, Geissele mk8 or mk14 free float rail, microbest 158 carpenter HP MPI tested BCG w/ dual extractor springs, and a choice of a already pinned and welded surefire warcomp, JMAC keymo or silencerco ASR flash hider) for $850-950. Or BCM upper for like $1000. already have sling, vortex strike eagle and streamlight pro tac ready to throw on. If you made it this far, thanks for reading lol but im split. Sabre upper is kinda calling my name by using all those good parts for a great price. what say you
I really appreciate that you’re using other brands to build guns other than g$, dd, bcm etc. you used a lot of parts from different companies and built a great rifle. It’s weird how knowing the parts makes the weapon just have a different vibe. That gun doesn’t view the same as a similarly built out rifle with a bcm upper and an aero lower. Likely similar or comparable performance, but it’s different and I like that. The aftermarket for AR’s is so huge it bothers me to see the community go so narrow minded on a couple good brands because of hive mentality. Nothing wrong with bcm, dd, g$, but there’s a ton of equally quality parts makers out there. Great video 👍🏼
Okay so I’m a veteran. 2 trips across the pond. Combat arms. All that jazz. I make decent money these days, 1500+ a week. And I’m tellin you right now 7k for a put together rifle is still wild to me. I’ve got just over 2k in my pride and joy and that’s including a can that ran me about 1,000 + tax stamp. It does everything I could ask of it, I train 3-5 times a month. Use what you can afford and train with it. At the end of the day who gives a shit what your rifle cost. If you can perform with that then you’re doing better than 90% of people out there. Thanks for coming to my Ted talk
I just built a new budget but good upper. Wilson combat upper that was on sale for 70$, Rosco 12.5" K9 barrel that was 140$, Sionics handguard for 110$, KAK BCG 100$, radian charging handle on sale for 50$. Shoots 1.25" 10 rd groups, runs great. For less than 500$.
*Counter opinion:* Person buying a budget rifle, a novice, probably shouldn't build it. Missing all the knowledge like Blue loctite, Scope levelling, proper torque, making sure barrel nut is well tightened (dangerous if not) *Just buy a full budget gun, like PSA BLEM, or M&P Sport II* *Put a simple optic that's easy to zero and use* (red dot or irons, LPVO is too complex with levelling it and also learning it's BDC, etc.) Lucas's M&P build from years ago is the perfect example of this.
The only way to learn is to do it tho. No one is going to buy a complete and then disassemble it to learn. They will build it. It's really not that complicated, all info is online, tools are cheap and I don't know many people leveling red dots or LPVOs. I'd rather someone have the knowledge. Also get better quality and can afford better upgrades if you build it. Or save more for ammo and training.
@@turbocateyeS475 it's easy to level. Level the rifle. Put scope in rings or one piece mount. Evenly tighten it but keep it loose enough to move the scope. Hang a plumb bob.... Align the scope for proper eye relief and then align the vertical statia line with the plump bob. Or.... Just use Arisakas scope leveling kit. Which...is cheap. If a scope is not leveled, you can't exactly get a proper zero.
@@DZ4295DBW CPUs have been around for ages too - now build one. Example: I have a friend, a newbie in firearms -> now I try to explain he needs to: - buy the right size rings - watch a tutorial on how to level the scope - watch a tutorial on how to zero it - watch a tutorial on what BDC is - buy a chrono or somehow find out his muzzle velocity so that BDC fits - explain to him that not all ammo is the same, and needs to stick to a brand that he zeroed for (which doesn't apply to RDS shooting within 100yds as much as it does to an LPVO) A red dot is mounted, zeroed, done. Different ammo doesn't matter much for
I think Brandon’s build should be more towards someone who wants to build a better rifle in the faraway future. This lets you get into building an AR, get a better performing rifle, get training, learn how to tune it, and gives you an excellent foundation to building a much better AR in the future. I’d say the same goes for Glocks and 1911s. Everyone starts there. IMO, yes, the actual steps should probably be buying a premade rifle to train with and learn the parts of, building your first rifle to learn even more, then finally building your long term rifle. This lets someone crawl, walk, and then run without missing a beat. Most would probably give up building their first rifle.
Ive used Rosco Sauce Packs for a couple different rifles and I think for what you get is a steal. Ive gotten good accuracy out of the 12.5 I built. I couldnt be happier
Lucas will poor shame you. Don't forget you should be training 5 days a week at a top tier range and if you don't find time you have no meaning to life.
That must be a government budget 🤣😂 . The host keeps using the word budget, I think he doesn't know what it means. Inflation is hurting everybody. Calling this build budget is insulting.
Like the build. A few years ago it was easier to build a really nice rifle for around $1,000. Amazing they can still sell AR15’s for 500 or less. It does not make sense to build anything unless you’re around that $1000 range or more.
I have a Ruger 556 free float Barrel a decent handguard ruger's updated trigger not a Precision trigger but better than mil after-tax it was about 9:20 I got a Romeo 7s on sale for 120 T-Rex sling love you guys. It is not Gucci at all but I would go to the trenches with it a little shy of a thousand rounds no issues yet
Currently have a BCA rifle that I'm switching the upper on to an AERO, Plan on running a Radian BCG. Had to get a Kinetic rail section which I'm very happy with they're a solid product and put a vert grip on that. Plan on going with an Arken EP8 (Hate if you want to but not your rifle not your problem). Already changed out the stock because no likes stock rattle and plan on going with a Vickers sling.
PSA Complete lower, Focus LLC upper, PA Nova optic, sling, light OCL Polonium K, and you can just squeek that all under $2.5k. Dang things are expensive these days
Highly recommend the Vector optics continental 1-6 fiber over the PA nova. Essentially the same reticle but uses German glass which looks amazing and they usually can be hard for $350 Glass quality is comparable to the Steiner PX4i and viper pst gen 2.
@@SpookyEng1 you’re welcome! Im broke but still like nice things so i spent a unhealthy amount of time researching budget scopes before landing on Arken EP8 and the vector i mentioned above. Both seem to be top of the class for the under $400 budget category IMHO. Each for different reasons, the Vector for the amazing glass and bright dot, The Arken for the great features (still had really nice glass also)
750$ is worth considering not buying those airsoft GBBRs… keep on reaching/ communicating with this community.. those are multipliers who ‚spread the word‘ Thank you for all your content! A jealous German
I'd really like to know how much the groups open up on the BCM barrel when hot. The data for every 100 meters all the way out to 400 or even 500 meters would be great! Keep up the great work Brandon! I really like the content you're getting put out there!!!
you can definitely put one together for a good price if you arn't in a hurry to get it together, I recently did mine for around 800, got a premium lower on clearance for 50% off, put PSA nickle Boron trigger, B5 sopmod stock, toolcraft BCG. it will shoot sum MOA with the right ammo, how long it will last, only time will telll! RIght now, very happy with my first adventure in piecing together an AR. Search LGS and internet retailers for sales, it took me two years to get it all together with the optic, but it came together nicely.
Good job. You squeezed lots of information into that video! We have very limited options here in Canada. Crusader Arms Templar is one of the better options available for the money.
I went through the same exercise, only difference is that I used a Roscoe limited husky barrel, m4e1 lower and BCM stock. Also opted for the triarc easy pin gas block. Shooting 1moa at 100 with m855
Midwest Industries nighfighter uppers are being slept on. Criterion Core barrels, handguards that look nice and supposedly as rigid as a BCM rail for mounting lasers, milspec receiver, can be had on sale multiple times a year. That upper + a complete B5 furniture with EPT trigger from PSA is under $1000 depending on if you bought during sales. Your choices are 16, 11.5, and 10.5 though so if you want a different barrel length then you gotta go elsewhere (or build your own and save more $$)
My build: Aero precision complete lower with magpul SL furniture, aero BCG and upper receiver, ballistic advantage barrel with gas block, Midwest industries handguard… I think the total including tools to assemble it was around $1200 🙂 probably 2K rounds, no malfunctions
1. I've always understood the aversion to the Holosun optics and even the made in china lines from American manufacturers from the "serious" 2A space. If you can afford it, absolutely buy the right optic from the right manufacturer. But I think we are at a point where the benefits of a $200 407C or $120 403R (or equivalent Romeo5, Crossfire 2, etc) outweigh the perceived costs when compared to an optic that costs over three times the amount to be made in the USA. Getting a new shooter or someone who cannot swing the extra few hundred dollars a viable tool is worth it. 2. I think this price range is attainable for anyone who is serious about getting the functionality that is necessary and realistic out of an AR. This direction I have been pushing people in my own circle. It can be a little hard to swallow at first, but it is only beneficial in the long run. My opinion. Thanks for the quality content and consistently standing for truth.
The arken one piece mount is solid for $70. Triggertech duty trigger is just over $100. Ive had good luck with psa premium line. The fn chf barrels with geissele gasblock/ mk 14 rails are still the best budget uppers available. Was even better when they were $500 4 years ago but they still sell the 14.7"s for $630. not bad
I spent a total of $700 on PSA parts (upper and lower parts), Anderson receiver, Sig Romeo 7s optic, Streamlight Weapon Light, and a WPS sling. It runs everything I put it in.
I built: PSA CHF 14.7 mlok upper, stag lower, geissele g2s, moe grip, B5 bravo stock, raptor charging handle, microbest bcg, holosun 403 - Most of which I got on sale or blem. I've never heard of sionics, but a chrome lined milspec barrel for $209? Damn!
Buying a cheap AR and replacing everything on it is the cornerstone of the amateur gunsmith community. Building an ar with training wheels. Super fun way to learn and allows the user to evaluate each part independently.
Another trigger option that I felt is very slept on is the PSA enhanced polished trigger (EPT). Really just a refined mil-spec, but it’s crisp and predictable with a good clean break and reset.
I have a standard T charging handle and I hate it. I've only gotten my hands on friends' Aero and DD handles, but I'm convinced that anything is better than the standard one!
The upper is really the most important stuff. Just built a gun with a $700 BCM upper and a $150 PSA lower and I know it'll run. BTW BCM has a free BCG deal with purchase of an upper going on right now.
I think you can improve the optic by: 1) Buying a vortex venom 1-6 which is a better optic + a budget mount; 2) Getting the sig msr for 300 which also comes with a good mount
Surprised to see a Sionics barrel on the build, but in a good way. I built a similar budget rifle myself with a Sionics 16" that I also used for competition. Very underrated in my opinion.
Your definition of budget is how can I save money when I have money. But the video we need is how to get the most performance with literally no money. And be useful
I got my MK18 stripped upper for under 700, and psa lower completed for like 220. I went gucci with everything but easily couldve went with cheaper optic, light and sling and got it for less than this. I just prefer having top of the line things
If I were looking for an ultimate budget build, I’d go with a full PSA rifle, front sight post mid length. Clamp a light to the front sight post, and throw a used Sig or Holosun red dot on it, probably around $80 and you can usually find a Holosun 3x magnifier for $150. If I had a slightly higher budget, but a basic PSA lower and a BCM upper. Give it a 3x PA microprism optic. If your budget is not really an option, go for an all BCM gun and either go with a 4x ACOG or 1-8x PA PLXc. Until you have really built up your skill, don’t spend money on stuff like upgrading your stock, grip, charging handle, etc. whatever the gun comes with is just fine. Spend the money on extra ammo.
I consider under $1500 budget for a complete build. Optic, sling, and accessories. You can definitely have quality at that price range as seen here. If you dont have the means to build start with a good upper like a bcm and build on that.
A video on AR barrels, coatings, materials, and their lifespan, would be awesome. There’s so much to choose from, it’s hard to know what fits my needs.
Love the idea of videos based around a budget build, but Id call anything beyond a 1500 buck build to be beyond a 'budget build' to the point of it being a rifle well in excess of what the average joe would ever need. Personally, Id pick an 800 dollar AR and kit it out with light, red dot, magnifier, sling, and extra mags. Perhaps backup irons if the budget allows.
Yeaup. I didn't discover that rail until after I filled. I would 100% for a KAK on this gun and their non-ambi extended charging handle. Those two parts alone would've saves 100 bucks.
What about all the S&H charges when buying 20 pieces? It's nearly IMPOSSIBLE to find everything you want at 1 or even 2 places. You end up spending $80-$100 on shipping.
It's always a fun exercise to try to closely approximate the performance of your preferred setup on a budget.
You’re the king of Frankenstein builds
If my preferred setup is a Mosin M91/30, then what would be a budget version?
@@ronenton4037The budget option for a Mosin was a Mosin ten years ago
@@ronenton4037 if you didn’t build out your ideal mosin when they were 70 for a crate of them, you might find yourself out of luck these days
The King of the Poors has spoken!
Hearing you mention del-ton makes me smile, I know we do not make the best stuff but as an employee I am glad to know we get a mention here. Everyone has to start somewhere in the riflemans journey.
My current lower is still my first firearm just aero upper and everything else upgraded. Wore out the sierra 316L barrel out at 5-6k rounds and wore the BA barrel at 6-7k rounds now have a noveske. Still have the original bolt carrier group as a spare just upgraded parts
My family has 2 Deltons. One pistol one rifle. They run great. My son took the pistol to 2 training events (weekends) with zero issues. You guys rock
Hey I’m in nc. Glad to hear a local🎉🎉 north of Raleigh 🎉
Great Dissipators though
The funny part is Del-ton doesn't make an end plate like he says. Maybe he means the monstrum
$1,500 rifle that’s well performing and more than durable enough for 99% of shooters. Sounds like a solid deal.
Aero/BCM like button
Given that a BCM lower and an Aero lower are the same price, just go full BCM these days
@@richardmartel1869Yeah Aeros went up in price. Haven’t seen much to indicate they’ve gone up in quality
Gotta say I like the features Aero M4E1 lower a bit better than the BCM. I have a number of both. If you’re apprehensive about gun smithing or modding then the BCM is a good choice.
@@richardmartel1869 aero stripped lower is the superior choice, kit it out with the lower parts you want. if buying complete than yeah I agree, just get the BCM lower too
Aero lower and bcm upper is 1100 bucks HOW how do you consider that budget?
thanks for choosing the 1-6 NOVA, great video!
as an aside, we have a BDC reticle version for those who dont like using MILS.
we also have a brand new suite of SLX scope mounts that are outstanding for price, and they look real sleek. So that would be a next step up from the deluxe mount.
At first I liked my PA SLX 1-6 but a warning on the lack of brightness would have helped. I got the standard Aurora reticle and I'm pretty ticked at the lack of brightness. If it is not pitch black, you cannot tell it is on. Useless
Brandon is getting better at public speaking! It's been a long way.
Tbh, I thought he was already pretty good since his very first videos.
i think public speaking is far easier than talking to yourself in front of a camera.
@@zm1786agreed
Communication is an art to be practiced and mastered
@@zm1786agreed. Similar to phone interview, most ppl love them , but for me they are awkward I prefer face to face to read the room better
Buy 20 psa lowers for 20 bucks. Sell them at a gun buyback for 200 bucks. Boom profit
If you sell anything at “gun buy backs,” you’re a certified cuck.
I think he just means the stripped lower not a complete one. No1 is buying a stripped psa for 200$
@@tristen777 regardless, it supports the gun control agenda.
@@tristen777The idea is that at a gun buyback where they say “$200 for all rifles” and a stripped ar lower is a rifle..
Some people have no nuance of thought it's sad
I really appreciate this video. I'm in the group of people who bought an AR before really doing any research, so now I'm in the position of upgrading it to something more useful. The trigger recommendation is great. Lots of good stuff here for me to consider. Looking forward to the next one.
this is awesome. incredible amount of information packed into a 30 minute no-nonsense video. simply the best content online-hands down. not suggesting parts cause they look cool but because they were rigorously TESTED and performed well and are dependable. for me, there’s no better guide when considering a build. Great job Brandon. love this series of videos man.
can’t wait to watch this one. love the “value”/best AR your money can buy video” and have watched it at least 3 times. actually plan on building that exact rifle. think Brandon does a fantastic job explaining why each part makes sense and why it maximizes your value or “peak” value. just really well done. thanks for the great content
When it comes to budget builds i think a dot is the best option
He's right on the money with his parts and choices he definitely knows what he's talking about,good job
@Brandon.Wombat You are the perfect example of a utilitarian gun owner. Love it!
BCM has Blem Complete uppers cheaper than stripped Aero uppers. They say unassembled but out of the 15 or so I have only 2 came unassembled. No cosmetic blemishes, just no white BCM paint on the side. Still have their star forging mark and BCM4 mark above the gas block hole. I believe they make their own instead of using the 3 foundries everyone else uses. Hence why theres a star instead of a keyhole, square or A. Fits great on BCM, Aero, PSA and even Anderson lowers. $20 is insane. But yall are wild if you think I wont go to Atwoods and buy a $50 Anderson when no one else has sales. Also id much rather save up a little extra and atleast get a better grip and buttstock and add a foregrip. If its your first and only rifle it probably doesnt matter, but any of us that have swapped those parts would have a harder time swapping. I cant stand standard grip angles, non rubber padded stocks and not having a way to push/lock in the rifle to my shoulder. Also ammo and training is always better than going gucci right off the bat.
Where do you find this kinda deal at ? lol
That's completely false. You're talking about $300-$400 no BCG/charging handle Aero uppers compared to $750 complete BCM uppers. There's literally no way you can get complete BCM uppers cheaper than stripped Aero uppers unless you're stealing them.
He's talking about the stripped uppers that come with the small parts and forward assist. Not an actual complete barrel upper.
People don't listen anymore, they think they know it all . That's why their the first to F thinks up .@@wallacelea1222
They do make their own. It's listed somewhere on their site. They're also made slightly smaller so the barrel fits tighter to help accuracy. The only problem is it makes it a giant pain in the ass and God help you if the index pin isn't lined up.
The A2 birdcage is what gave away how serious you were about keeping this a legitimately budget build. What a great video
Yes my first rifle was a PSA and I spent more on ammo then the gun at the time I bought it. Slowly been upgrading it as I’ve been shooting more and more rounds with a new trigger, bolt and buffer. Next upgrade will be a barrel I’m close to that 5k rounds and I know the PSA gun barrels with the cheaper ARs only last that long so the next will be that and a gas block. So far it’s done what I needed it to and hasn’t cost me a fortune
I upgraded my psa with a ballistics advantage .223 wylde Hanson Profile barrel. 55gr xtac ammo I average around 1.5 MOA and with black Hills match grade I've gotten anything between 1/2 to 3/4 moa.
Sionics is slept on
On my last build, I bought a PSA Sabre complete lower. It's got a radian talon ambi safety, upgraded trigger guard and takedown pins, B5 systems grip and stock, anti walk pins, sprinco white buffer spring, and an excellent hiperfire single stage trigger. All for $270. It's a fantastic value. Slap on your complete upper/ upper build of choice and....voila. You get a great gun at a great value. With all that's included with the Sabre complete lowers, I may not build out another stripped lower. Only thing i changed was the C buffer for a H1 buffer I had laying around.
You can buy a blem complete BCM upper, for a little over $600… put that on a PSA complete lower, you’re sitting at about $850. I think that is more simple than piecing all these parts together.
We were aiming for capability, not so much simplicity. And that build doesn't give you ambi controls, 2-stage trigger, or a tuned buffer.
@@brandon.wombat that's fair.
Is it even possible to find a blem bcm upper when they don’t even have normal stock just curious because I really want an 11.5 mk2 but I can’t find them in stock anywhere
@@timmyturner8579 BCM complete blem uppers were in stock this morning. Idk about the 11.5 mk2, but the 14.5s were in this morning.
@@timmyturner8579They have 11.5 mk2 in stock right now unless you mean blem
Once again you make amazing videos! Thanks man all great info. And you spill it so smoothly very well done thx again. 👍🏻🙏🏻
Not a bad job with your choices. The only choice I would drop is BCM. I tried a while ago to order some parts, barrel and a stripped upper, I was told they do not ship to my state. Perfectly legal things that I have not encountered any other company not sending to me. Just before that I ordered a BCM Mk2 upper which had just come out from Optics Planet. Oh yeah that was Dec of 2020. Still on backordered and they still show the link to buy it even though they have never managed to deliverer one that I can tell. The Aero Precision AR15 Stripped Lower Receiver, Gen 2 is very nice and like it better than any BCM I've seen. So, I do like the Radian charging handle, sorry I'm older and still like to open it like an M14/M1A. I know not budget but do love almost everything Forward Controls Design makes like on your other rifle. Not fan of Magpul B.A.D. Lever, prefer a cleaner gun. I like the Radian TALON 45/90 - GI which also keeping it cleaner. Foxtrot Mike rails are a nice option. CMC Triggers buffer tube kit also comes with a QD receiver end plate. For comfort Hogue stock with Ergo grip, not as cheap as your options but a lot more pleasant to shoot. Unfortunately, pricewise Streamlight hard to beat for price, but being made in China does that. I went Surefire Scout Light Pro Dual Fuel, definitely not the cheap option but can also use same batteries as an EOTech if I need to.
To be fair, I don’t personally count a suppressor as a cost towards the build.
Agreed. That and the scope are _additions_ to the rifle, not parts of the rifle.
You guys should really list each part in the description so it's easy to find and source for people to shop vs having to replay and write down.
They can't pretty sure that's against UA-cam guidelines.
Or just quit being lazy. That's an option too.
@@johndunbar2393 asking a subaru guy to do something other than a copy paste cookie cutter build is really disrespectful to them, bro.
They probably can't because of UA-cam's unconstitutional anti-gun rules.
@@893R6-w8t My apologies to the Subaru guys. JK 😂
I really appreciate this kind of video because even if I'm not building a rifle right now, it's good to have some ideas on value components for future upgrades/builds or helping a friend build their first rifle.
Great work, sir. I really appreciate your opinion. You have to be one of the most unbiased opinionated people I've heard talk about this content. The trick is determining if your opinion is TO BE different, or purely from experience... Though, the want to BE different does require at least some knowledge of what you DONT want. So - that said. You're doing great work at TREX! :)
I appreciate that you gave real-world expectations for the accuracy section. If you look through forum posts, everybody and their brother has an "MOA all day" build that they've probably shot 150 rounds through over its entire life
These new channels are such a valuable resource for viewers. And the removed "clutter" on the main channel is also nice.
Getting better and better at the content 👌
Thank you 😢. Finally something affordable. AR 10 next!!!
that's easy, Ruger SFAR or PSA Sabre.
First off, thank you for a. Your service b. For making this video. I have always felt you could do a feature rich, quality component AR build sub-1k. The only thing I’d change in your formula is do a complete BCM upper at $700. No worry about mating a barrel to the upper and gassing issues, and you get a manufacturer warranty on it. I did a BCM 11.5 on a complete PSA lower and swapped out the controls and got a similar result. Add an Aimpoint pro and a Streamlight HLX and you are GTG and right at $1500.
Great video.
The term, budget friendly " is going to be defined on your own personal income so please don't get upset if it does or doesn't meet your interpretation of budget friendly. Awesome video
At first I was like, this guy is crazy. Then I priced out my budget at pistol and it’s about $1400 altogether. So I def think budget is in the 1200 to 1700 range. I could definitely build a phenomenal rifle in that price range though
Really killer breakdown Brandon, appreciate the extreme details of the actual build. Its like you are the tax accountant brother of Charlie from Garand Thumbs team of misfits. Both of you are extremely watchable, but for polar opposite reasons.
Super solid build. I'd go with the cheaper BCM upper with the free BCG, sig tango combo, complete aero lower, same streamlight light, and a $20 Magpul sling with 550 cord.
PSA Mlok railed 16” stainless barrel upper, PSA lower with Magpul STR stock. BAD lever, Primary arms 1x8 ACSS, Throw lever from MK machining, upgraded trigger (Larue, or similar 2S) streamlight HL, sling, etc.
This all would be about $1000 depending on how great of sales that are shopped, and this rifle, with adequate training, would successfully meet or exceed the needs of using a rifle for all the purposes listed in this video.
Chat what yall think of this. I am currently looking into a similar $1500 total "doesnt suck" rifle and here's my options: Both using a PSA Sabre complete lower ( B5 sopmod stock, B5 grip, Radian talon selector, Sprinco spring and buffer, Hipfire trigger w/ JP reduced power springs and anti walk pins, some kinda fancy takedown pins: $280). Upper: "King of the poors" PSA Sabre complete upper (PSA receiver, FN cold hammer forged chrome lined 14.5" mid length barrel, Geissele pinned gas block, Geissele mk8 or mk14 free float rail, microbest 158 carpenter HP MPI tested BCG w/ dual extractor springs, and a choice of a already pinned and welded surefire warcomp, JMAC keymo or silencerco ASR flash hider) for $850-950. Or BCM upper for like $1000. already have sling, vortex strike eagle and streamlight pro tac ready to throw on. If you made it this far, thanks for reading lol but im split. Sabre upper is kinda calling my name by using all those good parts for a great price. what say you
Go for it. Sounds like a decent build. Especially with an fn barrel.
That’s a solid configuration at that price point.
Budget friendly rifle for self defense, something I can keep home and take with me on the road. Maybe even a practical survival rifle. Thank you!
I really appreciate that you’re using other brands to build guns other than g$, dd, bcm etc. you used a lot of parts from different companies and built a great rifle. It’s weird how knowing the parts makes the weapon just have a different vibe. That gun doesn’t view the same as a similarly built out rifle with a bcm upper and an aero lower. Likely similar or comparable performance, but it’s different and I like that.
The aftermarket for AR’s is so huge it bothers me to see the community go so narrow minded on a couple good brands because of hive mentality. Nothing wrong with bcm, dd, g$, but there’s a ton of equally quality parts makers out there.
Great video 👍🏼
Okay so I’m a veteran. 2 trips across the pond. Combat arms. All that jazz. I make decent money these days, 1500+ a week. And I’m tellin you right now 7k for a put together rifle is still wild to me. I’ve got just over 2k in my pride and joy and that’s including a can that ran me about 1,000 + tax stamp. It does everything I could ask of it, I train 3-5 times a month. Use what you can afford and train with it. At the end of the day who gives a shit what your rifle cost. If you can perform with that then you’re doing better than 90% of people out there. Thanks for coming to my Ted talk
Finally a realistic budget build! Great job Brandon 👍👍
I just built a new budget but good upper. Wilson combat upper that was on sale for 70$, Rosco 12.5" K9 barrel that was 140$, Sionics handguard for 110$, KAK BCG 100$, radian charging handle on sale for 50$. Shoots 1.25" 10 rd groups, runs great. For less than 500$.
Definitely a cool little Carbine. I like these videos yall have been doing lately.
*Counter opinion:*
Person buying a budget rifle, a novice, probably shouldn't build it.
Missing all the knowledge like Blue loctite, Scope levelling, proper torque, making sure barrel nut is well tightened (dangerous if not)
*Just buy a full budget gun, like PSA BLEM, or M&P Sport II*
*Put a simple optic that's easy to zero and use* (red dot or irons, LPVO is too complex with levelling it and also learning it's BDC, etc.)
Lucas's M&P build from years ago is the perfect example of this.
LPVOs aren't complex. Acting like scopes and scope rings haven't been around for ages. Lol
The only way to learn is to do it tho. No one is going to buy a complete and then disassemble it to learn. They will build it. It's really not that complicated, all info is online, tools are cheap and I don't know many people leveling red dots or LPVOs. I'd rather someone have the knowledge. Also get better quality and can afford better upgrades if you build it. Or save more for ammo and training.
@@turbocateyeS475 it's easy to level. Level the rifle. Put scope in rings or one piece mount. Evenly tighten it but keep it loose enough to move the scope. Hang a plumb bob.... Align the scope for proper eye relief and then align the vertical statia line with the plump bob. Or.... Just use Arisakas scope leveling kit. Which...is cheap. If a scope is not leveled, you can't exactly get a proper zero.
@@DZ4295DBW CPUs have been around for ages too - now build one.
Example: I have a friend,
a newbie in firearms ->
now I try to explain he needs to:
- buy the right size rings
- watch a tutorial on how to level the scope
- watch a tutorial on how to zero it
- watch a tutorial on what BDC is
- buy a chrono or somehow find out his muzzle velocity so that BDC fits
- explain to him that not all ammo is the same, and needs to stick to a brand that he zeroed for (which doesn't apply to RDS shooting within 100yds as much as it does to an LPVO)
A red dot is mounted, zeroed, done.
Different ammo doesn't matter much for
I think Brandon’s build should be more towards someone who wants to build a better rifle in the faraway future. This lets you get into building an AR, get a better performing rifle, get training, learn how to tune it, and gives you an excellent foundation to building a much better AR in the future. I’d say the same goes for Glocks and 1911s. Everyone starts there.
IMO, yes, the actual steps should probably be buying a premade rifle to train with and learn the parts of, building your first rifle to learn even more, then finally building your long term rifle. This lets someone crawl, walk, and then run without missing a beat. Most would probably give up building their first rifle.
Ive used Rosco Sauce Packs for a couple different rifles and I think for what you get is a steal. Ive gotten good accuracy out of the 12.5 I built. I couldnt be happier
Trex arms: budget rifle = $10,000 lol
Well that is a budget. 😂
I missed that too, the 7k rifle is an sbr previous build. The budget build is 1.5k. I was very confused
Lucas will poor shame you. Don't forget you should be training 5 days a week at a top tier range and if you don't find time you have no meaning to life.
That must be a government budget 🤣😂 . The host keeps using the word budget, I think he doesn't know what it means. Inflation is hurting everybody. Calling this build budget is insulting.
It is a budget build. 100%
Like the build. A few years ago it was easier to build a really nice rifle for around $1,000. Amazing they can still sell AR15’s for 500 or less. It does not make sense to build anything unless you’re around that $1000 range or more.
I have a Ruger 556 free float Barrel a decent handguard ruger's updated trigger not a Precision trigger but better than mil after-tax it was about 9:20 I got a Romeo 7s on sale for 120 T-Rex sling love you guys. It is not Gucci at all but I would go to the trenches with it a little shy of a thousand rounds no issues yet
Currently have a BCA rifle that I'm switching the upper on to an AERO, Plan on running a Radian BCG. Had to get a Kinetic rail section which I'm very happy with they're a solid product and put a vert grip on that. Plan on going with an Arken EP8 (Hate if you want to but not your rifle not your problem). Already changed out the stock because no likes stock rattle and plan on going with a Vickers sling.
PSA stripped lower Giselle and BCM and everything else is what I use
Sound like myself, lol.
Same, but LaRue trigger
Bummer.
same with an 11.5
I actually enjoy the alg triggers
PSA Complete lower, Focus LLC upper, PA Nova optic, sling, light OCL Polonium K, and you can just squeek that all under $2.5k. Dang things are expensive these days
Highly recommend the Vector optics continental 1-6 fiber over the PA nova. Essentially the same reticle but uses German glass which looks amazing and they usually can be hard for $350
Glass quality is comparable to the Steiner PX4i and viper pst gen 2.
I’ll have to check that out. Thanks for the info.
@@SpookyEng1 you’re welcome! Im broke but still like nice things so i spent a unhealthy amount of time researching budget scopes before landing on Arken EP8 and the vector i mentioned above. Both seem to be top of the class for the under $400 budget category IMHO. Each for different reasons, the Vector for the amazing glass and bright dot, The Arken for the great features (still had really nice glass also)
750$ is worth considering not buying those airsoft GBBRs… keep on reaching/ communicating with this community.. those are multipliers who ‚spread the word‘
Thank you for all your content!
A jealous German
I'd really like to know how much the groups open up on the BCM barrel when hot. The data for every 100 meters all the way out to 400 or even 500 meters would be great! Keep up the great work Brandon! I really like the content you're getting put out there!!!
Great video. I really enjoyed it but what I'd like to see a reliable jack of all trades budget rifle build with a pre assembled barreled upper.
I love the thumbnail lol, he is a happy boi
you can definitely put one together for a good price if you arn't in a hurry to get it together, I recently did mine for around 800, got a premium lower on clearance for 50% off, put PSA nickle Boron trigger, B5 sopmod stock, toolcraft BCG. it will shoot sum MOA with the right ammo, how long it will last, only time will telll! RIght now, very happy with my first adventure in piecing together an AR. Search LGS and internet retailers for sales, it took me two years to get it all together with the optic, but it came together nicely.
Good job. You squeezed lots of information into that video!
We have very limited options here in Canada.
Crusader Arms Templar is one of the better options available for the money.
My budget build is my home defense carbine. PSA Geissele upper, Aero lower, nitride 9310 BCG, and SIG Romeo. Oh, and Elzetta light.
I went through the same exercise, only difference is that I used a Roscoe limited husky barrel, m4e1 lower and BCM stock. Also opted for the triarc easy pin gas block. Shooting 1moa at 100 with m855
Midwest Industries nighfighter uppers are being slept on. Criterion Core barrels, handguards that look nice and supposedly as rigid as a BCM rail for mounting lasers, milspec receiver, can be had on sale multiple times a year. That upper + a complete B5 furniture with EPT trigger from PSA is under $1000 depending on if you bought during sales. Your choices are 16, 11.5, and 10.5 though so if you want a different barrel length then you gotta go elsewhere (or build your own and save more $$)
My build: Aero precision complete lower with magpul SL furniture, aero BCG and upper receiver, ballistic advantage barrel with gas block, Midwest industries handguard… I think the total including tools to assemble it was around $1200 🙂 probably 2K rounds, no malfunctions
I’d like to see some Arken optic testing
1. I've always understood the aversion to the Holosun optics and even the made in china lines from American manufacturers from the "serious" 2A space. If you can afford it, absolutely buy the right optic from the right manufacturer. But I think we are at a point where the benefits of a $200 407C or $120 403R (or equivalent Romeo5, Crossfire 2, etc) outweigh the perceived costs when compared to an optic that costs over three times the amount to be made in the USA. Getting a new shooter or someone who cannot swing the extra few hundred dollars a viable tool is worth it.
2. I think this price range is attainable for anyone who is serious about getting the functionality that is necessary and realistic out of an AR. This direction I have been pushing people in my own circle. It can be a little hard to swallow at first, but it is only beneficial in the long run.
My opinion. Thanks for the quality content and consistently standing for truth.
The arken one piece mount is solid for $70. Triggertech duty trigger is just over $100.
Ive had good luck with psa premium line. The fn chf barrels with geissele gasblock/ mk 14 rails are still the best budget uppers available. Was even better when they were $500 4 years ago but they still sell the 14.7"s for $630. not bad
I've got that exact psa upper. Insanely good value
@tombo3425 the 14.7s are money. But the 18" 223 Wylde 1/8 rifle length is pure gold. I haven't seen them in stock for about 3 years
I spent a total of $700 on PSA parts (upper and lower parts), Anderson receiver, Sig Romeo 7s optic, Streamlight Weapon Light, and a WPS sling. It runs everything I put it in.
Used the two targets behind Brandon for dry fire the whole video
I've had great luck with the PSA 14.7" FN CHF upper with P&W MD. Add a good BCG and add it to whatever your lower is and g2g.
I built: PSA CHF 14.7 mlok upper, stag lower, geissele g2s, moe grip, B5 bravo stock, raptor charging handle, microbest bcg, holosun 403 - Most of which I got on sale or blem. I've never heard of sionics, but a chrome lined milspec barrel for $209? Damn!
Buying a cheap AR and replacing everything on it is the cornerstone of the amateur gunsmith community. Building an ar with training wheels. Super fun way to learn and allows the user to evaluate each part independently.
Aero lower/Psa upper. Will do everything the average person needs it to. Maybe not a shtf gun, but more than enough for +90% of people.
Another trigger option that I felt is very slept on is the PSA enhanced polished trigger (EPT). Really just a refined mil-spec, but it’s crisp and predictable with a good clean break and reset.
The PA LPVO Nova is good for an entry level competitive optic. Went with the AP light weight scope mount over the PA mount.
I have a standard T charging handle and I hate it. I've only gotten my hands on friends' Aero and DD handles, but I'm convinced that anything is better than the standard one!
Cmt handguard are awesome mine is super solid. Not budget but probably the cheapest you can go if you want solid lockup for aiming devices.
The upper is really the most important stuff. Just built a gun with a $700 BCM upper and a $150 PSA lower and I know it'll run. BTW BCM has a free BCG deal with purchase of an upper going on right now.
I think you can improve the optic by: 1) Buying a vortex venom 1-6 which is a better optic + a budget mount; 2) Getting the sig msr for 300 which also comes with a good mount
Surprised to see a Sionics barrel on the build, but in a good way. I built a similar budget rifle myself with a Sionics 16" that I also used for competition. Very underrated in my opinion.
Your definition of budget is how can I save money when
I have money. But the video we need is how to get the most performance with literally no money. And be useful
Love the end. Happens to the best of us!
I got my MK18 stripped upper for under 700, and psa lower completed for like 220. I went gucci with everything but easily couldve went with cheaper optic, light and sling and got it for less than this. I just prefer having top of the line things
If I were looking for an ultimate budget build, I’d go with a full PSA rifle, front sight post mid length. Clamp a light to the front sight post, and throw a used Sig or Holosun red dot on it, probably around $80 and you can usually find a Holosun 3x magnifier for $150.
If I had a slightly higher budget, but a basic PSA lower and a BCM upper. Give it a 3x PA microprism optic.
If your budget is not really an option, go for an all BCM gun and either go with a 4x ACOG or 1-8x PA PLXc.
Until you have really built up your skill, don’t spend money on stuff like upgrading your stock, grip, charging handle, etc. whatever the gun comes with is just fine. Spend the money on extra ammo.
I did an aero lower on sale with BCM upper - have an RMR on it but adding other optic soon.
Seeing a complete Gucci accurate build would be awesome. That’s what I want to do next.
Pws mk116 pro upper $600.
PSA complete lower $149.
Eotech 512 $300
Or sig msr 1-6 lpvo with mount $250-300
@@Pacificplinker556Vortex Venom over Sig MSR. Just a better scope
@@Pacificplinker556 or wait for a used Viper PST to pop up on GAFS 😉
don't give away the secret, delete this
@@m4e1supremacy Oh wait, you're right, definitely don't go to GAFS and buy shit for 40% off.
I consider under $1500 budget for a complete build. Optic, sling, and accessories. You can definitely have quality at that price range as seen here. If you dont have the means to build start with a good upper like a bcm and build on that.
For the handguard, CMT makes the same rail for Expo Arms (Primary Arms) but is significantly cheaper especially on sale.
Thanks for the info, I wondered who makes the expo rails.
CMT doesn’t make the expo arms rails anymore, the lockup system is different now (I think they’re made by Mega/Zev now, which is also pretty good)
that black ops 1, 14th prestige shirt logo is fire lmao
As always good info homies 🇺🇸
A video on AR barrels, coatings, materials, and their lifespan, would be awesome. There’s so much to choose from, it’s hard to know what fits my needs.
Coming soon. Not going to be super in depth or scientific but it will he a cool demonstration
KAK industry is super slept on.
Love the idea of videos based around a budget build, but Id call anything beyond a 1500 buck build to be beyond a 'budget build' to the point of it being a rifle well in excess of what the average joe would ever need.
Personally, Id pick an 800 dollar AR and kit it out with light, red dot, magnifier, sling, and extra mags. Perhaps backup irons if the budget allows.
Glad we have the same mindsets haha
sparing 10k from the yearly budget? I am busting hawgs and zombies as needed for home defense, not the black pajama guys.
Budget representation for us poors. Thank you.
Also, bloopers…. Nice. 👍
Bro people have made fun of my PSA lowers forever but they’re right AF. Zero wiggle after tons of rounds.
Think I'd rather have a blem complete bcm upper for the same price
I think you did good on this one.
7,000 dollars and NO BAYONET 😂
Makes me feel justified for buying the nova
KAK rail would also be a good option. Great video
Yeaup. I didn't discover that rail until after I filled. I would 100% for a KAK on this gun and their non-ambi extended charging handle. Those two parts alone would've saves 100 bucks.
I bought a 13.9 expo arms upper when they were available with a solgw bcg and poverty pony lower and man that thing is nice for around 500 total
What about all the S&H charges when buying 20 pieces? It's nearly IMPOSSIBLE to find everything you want at 1 or even 2 places. You end up spending $80-$100 on shipping.
Fair point! This should be factored in.
Pws pro upper $720 shipped, Ballistic adv complete lower $178 my favorite AR