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Winter project: An AR build on your own

When building a lower, the longer buffer tube on a “rifle extension” shown above, is smooth. Stock attachment is through the butt, into the back of the tube. A “carbine extension” contains a ridge along the bottom with attachment/adjustment points. You will find more options for a buttstock to fit a carbine extension than a rifle extension. (Photo by John Tertuliani)

The Armalite Rifle, our beloved AR platform, began as a modular concept in 1954. The company set out to produce something reliable and versatile. The concept revolutionized how we think about rifles. An AR could not be more practical for those who like to shoot rifles.
Buying a completed rifle was my first interest. There are a lot of parts, and a guaranteed learning curve. Buying a completed rifle would be the less expensive route. A build piece by piece is the most expensive way to go.

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