AR-15 Basics – A Buyer’s Guide for the AR-15

If you’re new to the world of the AR, there’s a lot of information on AR-15 basics that is critical to know, but unfortunately it can be difficult to know where to start. Due to so much bad information out there, it can be hard to know which way to turn.

That’s what this series of articles by author Todd Gimian is all about. Rather than written to try to sell you something, Todd’s goal is to arm you with the knowledge you need to make smart decisions about your AR.

About The Author

Todd is a gunsmith based out of Las Vegas, Nevada. After receiving his degree from Sonoran Desert Institute, Todd has spent his time building and maintaining a variety of machine guns and product testing for various companies. His main focus is expanding his knowledge on the AR-15 platform and helping bring better quality products to the market for end-users to enjoy.

AR-15 Basics – AR-15 Basic Upgrades – Fashion vs. Function

With all the parts, options, and information online, how is the average person supposed to know what is correct for them? The key here is understanding fashion versus function when upgrading.

AR-15 Basics – Best AR-15 Upgrades – What to Consider and WHY

What are the best AR-15 upgrades you can do to enhance the function and reliability of your rifle? The answer depends a lot on what you managed to pick up. If you were lucky enough to find a BCM, a Barrett or an H&K, most of this isn’t going to apply to you. If, on the other hand, you grabbed something that was a bit more budget-friendly, there are a few definite upgrades that are available to you right now.

AR-15 Basics – AR-15 Ownership – A Basic Guide of Do’s and Don’ts

This article will offer some very basic do’s and don’ts related to AR-15 ownership. It’s a jumping off point, be sure to use your own common sense and do your own deep research on the subjects discussed below.

AR-15 Basics – How to Build an AR-15 – Budgeting for Quality

A common question I often encounter is how to build an AR-15 at a reasonable cost while maintaining quality. Wanting to get the most for your money is a natural human inclination. For many of us, myself included, budgets are a very REAL thing that we must adhere to. That doesn’t mean that you have to run out and get the cheapest stuff you can find to live within your means. There are ways to get more value for your money if you’re willing to put in the time.

AR-15 Basics – Best AR-15 Upper Receivers – What to Look For

Regarding the best AR-15 upper receivers, often times when I hear people talking about building the AR15s a common sentiment I see is “I’ll spend the money on the bolt carrier group and barrel, receivers are just receivers.” This is sadly the thought process of many people out there, and unfortunately, it couldn’t be further from the truth. The upper receiver of the rifle is responsible for handling several major things during building and cycling, but not all receivers are created equally.

AR-15 Basics – Best AR-15 Lower Receiver – What to Look For

What is the best AR-15 lower receiver? Expanding on my last article about what to look for in an AR-15 upper receiver, lower receivers are the next major component we need to look at. When it comes to finding a quality lower, one of the most inane and misunderstood arguments that presents itself online is that “there are only three forges, and you are just paying for a roll mark.”

AR-15 Basics – Best AR-15 Barrel – What to Look For

What is the best AR-15 barrel? As a gunsmith, I am frequently asked for recommendations on firearms, parts, and gear. I understand the desire to own the best things possible, but no two shooters are the same.