Building Your AR-15 From Scratch

Thank you, thank you, thank you! It would be very difficult to over-emphasize how good this video is. I’m amazed. Maybe it’s because of all the ridiculously poor YouTube junk I’m used to watching, but this video went WAY beyond what I expected, both in terms of detail of information, but also in quality of presentation and production. It is NOTHING like anything on YouTube. It truly is excellent. By the way, I cannot believe people complained about the machine shop noises going on in the background – sheesh! I did not find that objectionable in the slightest.This video is so good, I see no need whatever for any additional material, such as books, etc. for a novice to build an AR from scratch. After watching, I have no un-answered questions. Everything was explained in fine detail and in a very understandable way. I assumed I would use this video to supplement a good book or manual, but really, there is no need for anything else. Collect all the parts in a big pile on your bench, and just follow the video, pausing as necessary. This video shows how to assemble an AR from scratch. The upper and lower are totally stripped. There is no need to buy anything pre-assembled. The video clearly shows each and every little spring, detent, and part and how to assemble them.This DVD made me realize how much better the video format is compared to a book or manual. For instance, Jim Van Middlesworth shows very clearly just exactly how to install the little ejection port cover spring in a way that is infinitely more understandable than looking a pictures in a book. The are so many little tricks and tips, such as how to use a simple special tool to install the pivot pin spring and detent, eliminating the possibility of shooting the detent across the room.All necessary special tools are shown and explained. I didn’t realize there is a special flat punch made especially for installing/removing the bolt stop pin. Most of the necessary special tools are available on Amazon, none of which are particularly expensive.Lenny Magil is, God love him, Lenny Magil. He’s been making gun videos for a long, long time. He is off camera, asking questions and making comments. Some of them are a little questionable, but so what. He made a great video.Jim Van Middlesworth is phenomenal! I did not expect him to be so cool, calm, and professional. No “um…ah…um…” or awkward pauses. He KNOWS his business, and he did a fantastic job. Really. He did a great job.This DVD is worth every penny. It has been a long time since I bought something that I thought was such a good value for the price.If you get bitten by the AR-15 bug, and you are at all handy, do not fear building a complete rifle from scratch. This video is literally all you need.

If you're looking to build your first AR-15 or even if you've already built one, this video will provide you valuable tips, tricks and insight into the How and Why of building and maintaining your AR-15. I scoured the web - forums, YouTube and major retailers for info, and there is tons of it out there. The only problem is that you'll spend lots of time trying to figure out what is good or bad practice, especially if you're new at all this AR-15 building business. Well, look no further, because this DVD puts it all together for you using a Master AR-15 Armorer as your instructor. Unlike a major web retailer that offers free videos and trying to sell you tools and gadgets, this instructional DVD spends more time on the How and Why you need to do the things you do when building your AR-15. I highly recommend you give this DVD a chance - you'll be glad you did. You may also want to pick up a copy of the "M4 Carbine-M16A2 W/E Armorer's Guide" by Desert Publications as a reference resource after your build.Here's a breakdown of the DVD Chapters:Intro - This is an brief intro to the AR-15, the extensive background of the instructor, and what the DVD will teach youOpening Comments - a conversation with the instructor discussing major components/quality/choices, discussion of the lower receiver and what to look for in a quality lower receiver, how to select a quality lower parts kit and a detailed explanation of all the parts in itLower Receiver - detailed explanation of the assembly of the lower parts kit into the lower receiver, the sequence of parts installation and why that sequence is important, some specialized tools (and how to make them yourself), other tips and tricks, what to do and what not to do and why, alternate methods to install roll pins, installation of buffer, spring, butt stock.Upper Receiver - discussion of the different types of uppers and how to decide which type to select for your build, an explanation of the basic parts needed for the upper receiver assembly and their function, whether to buy a built upper or a stripped upper and separate parts (ejection port assembly, forward assist parts), how to install the parts, he also explains the use of an upper receiver vise block if you have one.Barrel/Gas System - discussion of barrel types/prices and how to choose one, determining quality, barrel length, rate of twist, accuracy determinants, discussion of gas systems/lengths, A2 FSB discussion, barrel extension timing explanation, explanation of the bolt carrier and function with the barrel, checking the crown of the barrel, muzzle brake/flash hider sizing/selection, specialized tools to drill the gas hole and install an A2 FSB (taper pin explanation) and hand guard ring if you don't buy a completed barrel, detailed barrel installation, gas tube installation, muzzle brake timing/installation, hand guard installationBolt Carrier Group - explanation of bolt carrier group (BCG) and gas system operation, BCG function with the barrel and assembly/disassembly, extractor inspection/cleaning, BCG gas ring replacement.Gas Blocks/Final Assembly - explanation of different types of gas blocks available, discussion/installation of Magpul MOE Handguards, discussion/installation of free-float handguards, final assembly of charging handle, bolt carrier group and upper receiver to lower receiver. Enjoy your new AR-15.Buy the DVD, you won't regret it.

We believe that we have wasted money on nearly a dozen+ different AR-Build related videos over a number of months and having found this "Building Your AR-15 From Scratch" by "Jim VanMiddlesworth" is the 1st time we feel utterly confident in what we are doing.Jim approaches his instruction by covering every pin, spring, tool and component to ensure a successful build. While taking time to perform a show-n-tell on the tiniest of parts, you will be able to keep up, pause the video, take notes, or how ever you prefer to follow along.This is one of the best ways to learn start to finish and Jim includes mentioning many of the best tools out there to help with a successful build, as well as which tools are not necessary - but useful. For anyone with a desire to build an AR for the 1st time, brush up on some great tips and tricks of the trade, you will not be disappointed.This is the A to Z build guild with nothing left out. IMPORTANT: Jim does not cover any prefiring safety tips, no actual shooting instructions or some of the safety inspections one my expect to know before actually shooting your new build. But if the idea is perfect assembly, he has you covered - and well!I would recommend to watch this video many times and let it be part of your library and part of your instruction. Always perform more research, read, watch videos, check with the NRA as they usually offer proper classes and the like.Most HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!