Gun Parts & Components to Help You Build the Ultimate Hog Hunting AR-15
Guest Author 07.27.22
The Ultimate AR-15 for Deer or Hogs
The following is Hinterland Outfitters’ take on an “Ultimate AR-15” Build:
AR-15s are lightweight semi-automatic weapons that have been in circulation for over a half-century. The rifle’s ecosystem of gun parts and components is extensive, built from every corner of the world. Every owner has their definitive configuration of the ultimate AR-15.
AR-15’s popularity is in part based on its modularity. No matter why the rifle was purchased, it can be configured and remade into “exactly” what the owner wants.
The sheer magnitude of available gun parts for this weapon makes it imperative the owner knows what they want before commencing with the build.
Major components of an AR-15:
- Lower Receiver
*Butt Stock and Buffer Tube
*Pistol Grip
- Bolt Carrier Group
- Charging Handle
- Upper Receiver
*Forward Assist
*Ejection Port
*Rail
*Handguard
*Gas Block
*Barrel with Flash Hider/Compensator/Muzzle Brake
- Magazine
It is highly advisable to learn the parts of this great rifle. Know which parts can be swapped out and which one can be swapped easily. The AR-15 was revolutionary when it hit the military market. The rifle combined several technologies such as gas-operation, pistonless, and center-fire into one unique package. In a world of wood and steel, the AR-15 extensively used polymers and aluminum alloys.
Upper Receiver:
Barrel:
The AR-15 barrel should be at least 16-inches, or you risk filing a federal tax stamp. The barrel may have different rifling twists and flash hiders or muzzle brakes.
The base of the AR-15’s upper receiver will be the barrel, as this will determine which caliber your rifle will be chambered in. .300 Blackout is a solid cartridge choice for effective power out to 200 yards on medium sized game such as deer or hogs. For close range shots, suppressed subsonic .300 provides quiet punch, and for longer ranges, supersonic ammunition will provide on average 800-1000ft/lbs of energy out to 200 yards.
- Wilson Combat Match Grade Barrel. If you want a lot of bang for the buck in an AR-15 build, consider this 300 blackout stainless steel barrel with a bead-blasted finish. Wilson Combat constructed the barrel by computer-controlled machining for exact precision. The aggressive 1:7 twist highlights the component’s accuracy.
- FailZero AR-15 Bolt Carrier Group. This unique part features no hammer and is finished in EZO Nickel Boron for excellent durability and precision. This FailZero BCG comes fully assembled and ready to drop into your build. The FailZero BCG is military grade for “Active Weapon Advantage.”
Flash hiders, muzzle brakes, and other compensators improve the rifle’s accuracy, flash, and recoil. A well-designed flash hider reduces the bloom of the round caused by the muzzle blast. Most of the extensions are threaded onto the end of a barrel. There are endless quality extensions for the AR-15 barrel; it is advisable to do a lot of research and find precisely the effect you need for your build.
Handguard:
- Timber Creek Outdoors Enforcer Handguard. Just as with any other component, there is an endless number of handguards to choose from. Some packages include just the handguard, while others include a complete redesign. The Enforcer is a black anodized 15-inch with Picatinny/M-LOK. A slim, lightweight design increases the modularity of the build. The Enforcer requires a low-profile gas block.
Lower Receiver
Trigger Assembly/Fire Control Group:
Trigger and fire control group assemblies allow the shooter to adjust the trigger pull to their needs. If the assembly that came with the rifle is uncomfortable, replace it and enjoy your shooting. Anything less than a four lb. pull is considered light.
- Bravo Company Trigger Assembly. The polished nickel Teflon assembly is wear-resistant and will last a lifetime if taken care of. Bravo Company has crafted a well-designed trigger with a smooth pull action and perfect alignment. Each part is meticulously ground to a fine finish for superior tolerances. The Bravo Company trigger is built by Mil-Spec castings.
- Aero Precision FCG Kit is built on Mil-Spec tolerances. The kit includes everything a shooter needs to redesign their build. Included are the trigger/hammer pin, trigger, and hammer spring, disconnector spring, and hammer.
Buffer Tube/buffer:
This component absorbs the recoils from the AR-15. The buffer assembly supports the buttstock and connects the lower assembly to the buttstock. The buffer tube serves two functions: the recoil buffer assembly and the attachment point for the buttstock.
The suitable buffers and buffer springs are necessary for an AR-15 to function at a high level.
- Advanced Technology Buffer Tube Assembly. Advanced Technologies manufactures these tubes to Mil-Spec tolerances, making them highly durable. The tubes are finished in hard black anodized coating and will fit most AR-15 builds and variants. The assembly has a recoil plug, buffer spring, and military-grade castle nut and locking ring.
Butt Stock:
A comfortable butt stock improves the rifle’s overall feel, which translates into better accuracy. The butt stock uses the buffer tube as its primary support mechanism. Choose either a fixed or collapsible configuration. A collapsible stock allows the shooter to access more of the rifle’s functions and aids in storage. A fixed butt stock lets the shooter feel comfortable with the consistent position.
There are many styles and configurations for an AR-15 butt stock. So many options give the shooter plenty of quality choices.
- Fab Defense GL-Shock PCP Buttstock. Fab Defense has created one of the best-looking and functional buttstocks on the market. This component is matte black, built from a polymer composite. Mil-Spec tolerant GL-Shock features an airtight and water-resistant built-in storage compartment. Other revolutionary features include shock-absorbing tolerances and materials with an Anti-Rattle recoil-reducing mechanism. The GL-Shock has an integrated rubber butt pad and a built-in adjustable cheek weld.
Magazines:
- Magpul MCT PMAG. A Gen 3 detachable capacity magazine with window, 30 round capacity for various calibers. Built from polymer alloys and the Mil-Spec design. Long-life stainless steel springs offer reliable feeding and tool-less disassembly. A Low profile look, and aggressive front and rear textures give the shooter complete control in all environments.
Grips:
- Command Arms Pistol Grip. The black polymer and lightweight design make this grip one of the best. The tactical grip increases the control and overall performance of the AR-15 build. Finger swells and backstrap are incorporated into the design, creating more comfort and efficiency—no more slippage when the grip is wet. A storage compartment is built into the bottom for added convenience.
Final Word
No other rifle in the world has the ecosystem of the AR-15. Each part of the weapon can be changed with higher tolerances and functionality. If a shooter wants to take on an AR-15 build, it is essential to scour all available options.
There is a vast number of parts and components for the venerable AR-15.
This Article is brought to you in partnership with Hinterland Outfitters