The AR-15 is the most modified rifle on earth, and the aftermarket behind it is enormous. This is our directory of the companies that actually build the parts – the triggers, handguards, barrels, bolt carrier groups, muzzle devices, charging handles, grips and stocks that turn a stock carbine into your rifle.
Each brand below has its own full profile – the lineup, where it is made, how it compares to its rivals, and live prices. Several of these companies also build pistol parts, slings or magazines, so you will see them again on our other brand category pages.
30 brands in this category, each with a full profile and live pricing.
What AR-15 parts are worth upgrading first? For most builds the order is trigger, then sights or an optic, then the handguard, and after that the muzzle device, charging handle and bolt carrier group. A better trigger changes how the rifle shoots more than almost anything else.
Does it matter whether parts are mil-spec or premium? For a duty or defensive rifle, buy proven mil-spec or better from a reputable maker. For a range or precision build, premium parts (match triggers, stainless or carbon barrels) earn their price. The brand profiles say which tier each company plays in.
Will these parts fit my AR-15? Most AR-15 parts follow mil-spec dimensions and drop in, but check the part against your rifle – barrel gas length and profile, handguard mounting system (M-LOK, KeyMod, proprietary), and pistol vs carbine buffer.
Which AR-15 brands are best value, and which are premium? Value and mid-tier makers like Strike Industries, Guntec USA and ProMag get a rifle running for less; premium names like Geissele, Radian and Wilson Combat command higher prices for proven performance. Use the directory to compare them.
