Compatibility

[Shikkapow]

I just started looking into the AR-15 arena and I am confused abouta few aspects of the weapon system.

Is the lower receiver the only part that must be shipped to a FFL holder?
If I get a lower receiver is it caliber specific? i.e. can I get a .308 upper as well as a .223 upper and shoot them from the same lower?

I have no experience building rifles, but from what I understand I can buy a kit with everything I need with the exception of a lower and put it together with just a few inexpensive tools.

Can someone point me in the right direction for a breakdown of the step by step procedures for building an AR from a kit?

[M700Police]

Yes the lower reciever, stripped or assembled, is the only part that needs to go to an FFL. As for caliber conversions, .308 caliber AR-10 style uppers will NOT fit on an AR15 .223/5.56 caliber lower. Some companys do make different caliber uppers to fit an AR15 lower however with little to no modification of the lower itself.

Example....you can use a Rock River arms 9mm upper on a standard .223/5.56 lower by replacing the hammer and inserting a magazine adapter block. Or.....you could use a bolt action Ferret .50BMG upper on your standard AR15 lower.

For build directions, take a look at the main page of that "other" AR15 discussion site out there. ;) Personally I'd recommend buying a completed upper, stripped lower, and lower parts kit for your first build. Keep it simple.


Hope that helps.

[Shikkapow]

Thanks for the clarifcation, I didn't think it was the same across the board concerning the lowers.
Figured this would be the best place to ask.

Thanks!