Last updated March 6th 2024
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The AR-15 is one of the most popular and customizable rifles in the United States and you can tailor your gun for specific jobs. The costs can add up fast, but with a bit of research and savvy shopping, you can find high-quality AR-15 parts online at affordable prices.
Understanding What You Need
Before diving into the online shopping spree, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of what you need. Whether you’re building an AR-15 from scratch or upgrading specific components, knowing the exact specifications and compatibility of each part with your firearm is essential. This not only ensures the functionality and safety of your AR-15 but also prevents wasting money on incompatible parts.
Beyond that, you need to learn how what parts are essential, and what parts really don’t give that much of a performance advantage. Prioritize accordingly and make sure you get value for money at every step. Read more about that in this post on the main parts of the AR-15.
If you’re really not sure about prices then you might even be better off buying a cheap AR-15 off the peg to begin with. Or if you’re ready to spend a little more then have a look at the best AR-15s under $1000.
Finding the Best Deals
The key to finding great deals on AR-15 parts online is knowing where to look. Several reputable retailers offer competitive prices, frequent sales, and even clearance sections for various components. Signing up for newsletters, joining loyalty programs, and keeping an eye on holiday sales can lead to significant savings. Additionally, buying parts kits or bundles can often be more cost-effective than purchasing individual components.
Top Retailers for Affordable AR-15 Parts
Palmetto State Armory
Palmetto State Armory (PSA) is a go-to source for affordable AR-15 parts and kits. Known for their own line of AR-15 rifles and components, PSA offers everything from lower parts kits to barrels and triggers at competitive prices. They’ve built a reputation for providing decent quality at lower prices, making them a favorite among budget-conscious builders. PSA also frequently runs sales and has a daily deals section, providing excellent opportunities to save even more.
Primary Arms
Primary Arms is another excellent destination for purchasing AR-15 parts online. They carry a wide selection of components from top brands and offer their own branded parts as well. Known for their outstanding customer service and fast shipping, Primary Arms also provides detailed product descriptions and guides to help customers make informed decisions. Their sales and clearance sections are worth monitoring for discounts on high-quality parts.
Brownells
Brownells has been a trusted name in the firearms industry for decades, offering a vast inventory of AR-15 parts and accessories. Their website is a treasure trove for builders, featuring everything from basic components to specialty tools and tactical accessories. Brownells is known for its high-quality standards, extensive product selection, and excellent customer support. They also offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee, making them a risk-free option for buying AR-15 parts online.
Building on a Budget
While finding affordable parts is important, it’s equally crucial to balance cost with quality. Opting for the cheapest parts available can sometimes lead to issues down the line. They include poor fitment, reduced reliability, and potential safety hazards. Researching and reading reviews from other builders can provide valuable insights into the quality and performance of budget-friendly parts, as well as collections of parts that just go together better than others.
Don’t be afraid to learn from other people’s experience. It’s a much cheaper way of doing things and it will help you develop your own solutions and preferences as you build and upgrade more guns.
Conclusion
Building or upgrading an AR-15 doesn’t have to break the bank. With careful planning, research, and strategic shopping, you can find high-quality parts at affordable prices from reputable online retailers like Palmetto State Armory, Primary Arms, and Brownells. Remember, the key to a successful AR-15 project is not just finding the cheapest parts but the best value parts that offer reliability, compatibility, and satisfaction.
