First AR15 Build

[Whistle4Fly]

I was wondering it there are any build groups in or around Knoxville? I am getting ready to start my first build. Del-Ton Upper and Spike's Lower.

[East_TN_Patriot]

Welcome to the forum. Plenty of knowledgeable folks here. Even if you don't find a build group, I'd be happy to answer any questions and I'm certain others who are more knowledgeable than I am will be happy to help you out as well.

[Whistle4Fly]

I've tried to find tools around here locally with no success. I've read for the required tools and have ordered them. Now it's hurry up and wait!

[xRUSTYx]

CDukes .... Where's this list of required tools? I'd be interested in seeing it!

[Guest TargetShooter84]

I'm starting my build of my first AR15....I have the LR and the kit.

No upper yet though. Probably will be til summer when I can get one.

[Dolomite_supafly]

If you or TargetShooter84 want to get together I can help either of you put your AR's together.

I am about 20 miles east of Knoxville.

As far as tools go you really don't need anything special unless you are going to be installing the barrel into the upper. If it is an upper with the barrel already installed there is not a specialized tool that you will need. The fire controls are the easiest among the firearms world. There definitely is a order in which to put all the parts in but other than that it is pretty easy.

I use a small hammer, a few punches, some tape, a vise and a screw driver or two. That is pretty much it. I have done a lot of AR's over the years without having any specialized tools. I did have a stock wrench at one point but even then I rarely used it.

Dolomite

[Magiccarpetrides]

I was going to 2nd what Dolomite said....I don't think there is anything you need that most home "tool boxes" don't already have since im assuming your del-ton upper has the barrel already installed which means its headspace is correct. What part of Knoxville you in? (pm me)

[Guest iScream]

I asked this question on arfcom not long ago and one suggestion that I probably agree with after building my first two lowers is a set of roll pin punches. There were a couple pins I finished setting with a regular punch and it could have slipped, possibly scratching my lower.

I thought the dpms multi tool was nice for the castle nut as well. Didn't use it anywhere else though.

[mikegideon]

I asked this question on arfcom not long ago and one suggestion that I probably agree with after building my first two lowers is a set of roll pin punches. There were a couple pins I finished setting with a regular punch and it could have slipped, possibly scratching my lower.

I thought the dpms multi tool was nice for the castle nut as well. Didn't use it anywhere else though.

Yep. Roll pin punches are great for building a lower. I have a reglular punch set, with an assortment of steel, brass, and delrin punches with a brass hammer. The roll pin punches are fairly cheap...

Lyman Roll Pin Punch Set 4-Piece Steel - MidwayUSA

I have the DPMS Multi tool as well.

[Whistle4Fly]

just wanted to jump back on and thank everyone for their responses. The build went great and I am very pleased. I've put about 250 rounds through. Definitely ready for my next build.