Guides & reference
Deep dives that pair with the guided builder. Explore ballistics, compatibility notes, and mission-first decision tools designed for AR-pattern platforms.
All guides
AR-15 Barrel Length 2026: 10.5" to 20" Velocity & Dwell Time Compared
Complete AR-15 5.56 barrel length comparison from 10.5" to 20". Compare muzzle velocity, effective range, overall length, dwell timeDwell Time[Gas System]The duration the bullet travels inside the barrel after passing the gas port but before exiting the muzzle. It determines how much gas pressure is fed back into the system to cycle the action., and gas system compatibility to match your mission.
Updated with interactive velocity & range visualizer.
5.56 Ammo Selection 2026: Match Your Load to Barrel Length & Mission
Pick the right 5.56 / .223 ammo for your rifle and mission. Learn bullet weights vs twist rateTwist Rate[Barrel]How many inches it takes the rifling to complete one rotation (e.g., 1:7 means one twist every 7 inches). Faster twists (lower numbers) stabilize heavier bullets better., short barrel tradeoffs, projectile types (FMJ, OTM, bonded, copper), and practical buying tips with an interactive ammo finder.
Includes an interactive 5.56 ammo finder + curated OpticsPlanet picks.
How to Build Your First AR-15: Complete Beginner's Guide 2026
Step-by-step first AR-15 build guide: choose a stripped lower via FFL, install quality lower parts kit and trigger, add grip and stock, then pair with vetted complete upper from PSA, Aero, BCM, or Geissele by budget.
Keeps it simple with vetted uppers from PSA, Aero, BCM, or Geissele.
AR-15 Gas System & Buffer Tuning 2026: Fix Overgassing & Cycling Issues
Master AR-15 gas system and buffer tuning for suppressed and unsuppressed rifles. Match barrel length, gas system, buffer weightBuffer Weight[Gas System]The mass of the buffer (Carbine, H1, H2, H3) inside the receiver extension. Heavier buffers delay the unlocking of the bolt, helping manage gas pressure and recoil., and springs for reliable cycling. Includes troubleshooting.
Includes interactive buffer weightBuffer Weight[Gas System]The mass of the buffer (Carbine, H1, H2, H3) inside the receiver extension. Heavier buffers delay the unlocking of the bolt, helping manage gas pressure and recoil. calculator & troubleshooting wizard.
How to Zero AR-15 Optics 2026: Complete Guide (Red Dots, LPVOs, Iron Sights)
Master optic zeroing with step-by-step process for iron sights, red dots, and LPVOs. Includes range prep checklists, mechanical offsetMechanical Offset[Optics]The vertical distance between the center of the bore and the center of the optic (approx. 2.6 inches on AR-15s). You must aim high at close ranges to compensate. tips, and confirmation drills.
Now features an interactive clicks calculator & visualizer.
AR-15 Caliber Selection 2026: 5.56 vs .300 BLK vs 6.5 Grendel Compared
Choose the best AR-15 caliber for your mission. Data-driven comparison of 5.56 NATO, .300 Blackout, 6.5 Grendel, 7.62x39, and 6mm ARC. Velocity, energy, cost, suppressor performance, and mission-specific recommendations.
Includes interactive caliber comparison widget with mission recommendations.
Best AR-15 Triggers 2026: Geissele vs LaRue vs ALG Compared
Select the best AR-15 trigger for your build. Compare single-stage, two-stage, match, and competition triggers with pull-weight guidance, reliability notes, and brand recommendations.
Includes ALG ACT, LaRue MBT-2S, and Geissele picks by mission.
300 Blackout Guide 2026: Barrel Length, Suppressors & Subsonic vs Supersonic Compared
The definitive .300 Blackout guide for suppressed and PDW builds. Compare subsonic vs supersonic loads, find optimal barrel lengths (9" is the sweet spot), match suppressors, and understand true cost of ownership.
Features interactive subsonic vs supersonic comparison, barrel picker, and suppressor matcher.
AR-15 Optic Mounting 2026: Complete Guide (Red Dots, Scopes, Accessories)
Learn proper AR-15 optic mounting with practical steps for eye reliefEye Relief[Optics]Distance from your eye to the optic's rear lens where you get a full sight picture. Critical for comfort, safety (avoiding scope eye), and proper use with magnified optics., rail placement, threadlocker application, torque specsTorque Specs[Mounting]Exact tightness required for critical fasteners, measured in inch-pounds or foot-pounds. Too loose causes failures, too tight strips threads. Always use a torque wrench., and accessory positioning for repeatable zero.
Focuses on repeatable zero and accessory placement.
AR-15 Muzzle Device Guide 2026: Flash Hider vs Comp vs Brake Compared
Choose the right AR-15 muzzle device: compare flash hiders, compensators, muzzle brakes, and hybrid designs with mission-driven selection matrices and performance metrics.
Performance metrics and use-case recommendations included.
AR-15 Optic Selection 2026: Red Dot vs LPVO vs Prism vs Magnifier Compared
Choose the best AR-15 optic for your mission. Compare red dots, LPVOs (1-6x, 1-8x), prism scopes, and magnifier setups with weight data, mounting heights, and use-case decision tables.
Updated with interactive optic picker & mission matrix.
Best AR-15 Brands 2026: Is Daniel Defense Worth 3x More? (PSA to KAC Ranked)
Is a $2,000 Daniel Defense really 3x better than a $700 PSA? We break down exactly what you get at each price tier—from budget builds to KAC—with honest QC data, not marketing.
Breaks down value tiers, support policies, and upgrade paths.
Super Safety Guide 2026: Forced Reset Selectors for AR-15 (FRT, Binary)
Complete guide to Super Safety (Forced Reset Selectors) for AR-15s. Learn how FRS devices work, installation basics, tuning optimization, legal considerations, and top product recommendations.
Covers Atrius Development and MARS 3-Position selectors with tuning tips.
Lightweight AR-15 Build 2026: Cut Weight Without Losing Reliability
Trim AR-15 weight where it matters. Choose lighter barrels, rails, and stocks (including KP-15 polymer lowers), then set up optics, lasers, lights, and suppressors to avoid front-heaviness.
Focuses on front-end weight savings and smarter mounting choices.
DI vs Piston AR-15 2026: Why Piston Is Overrated (Except One Setup)
Piston ARs are overrated—except for one specific use case. We explain why 16" piston rifles are a $500 mistake, which brand failed military testing, and the only barrel lengths where piston actually makes sense.
Essential reading before buying a SIG Spear or LMT Piston.
Best LPVO 2026: Top 10 Low Power Variable Optics Ranked (Vortex, Trijicon, Primary Arms)
The definitive guide to the best LPVOLPVO[Optics]Low Power Variable Optic. A scope that goes from 1x (no magnification) to 6x, 8x, or 10x. A versatile choice for close quarters to mid-range engagements. for AR15 in 2026. We've tested and ranked the top low power variable optics from Vortex, Trijicon, Leupold, Primary Arms, and more. Includes budget picks under $500, mid-tier 1-6x scopes, and premium 1-10x options. Plus: FFP vs SFPFFP vs SFP[Optics]First Focal Plane (reticle grows with magnification, holdovers work at any power) vs Second Focal Plane (reticle stays same size, holdovers only accurate at max magnification). comparison, eyebox analysis, and why cheap scopes are a trap.
Top 10 ranked LPVOs with honest reviews for every budget (2026).
AR-15 Lower Parts Guide 2026: What's Worth Upgrading (And What Isn't)
AR-15 lower receiver parts quality guide. Review triggers, springs, buffers, and LPK components by tier with upgrade priorities, reliability considerations, and replacement schedules.
Includes round-count driven replacement schedules.
AR-15 Build Playbooks 2026: Home Defense, Patrol, Recce & SPR Complete Builds
Mission-focused AR-15 build recipes with complete parts lists and rationale. Includes Home Defense, Patrol, Recce/SPR, PCC crossover, and minimalist truck build configurations.
Each playbook lists parts, accessories, and training notes.
AR-15 Suppressor Setup 2026: Complete Compatibility & Tuning Guide
Set up AR-15 suppressors correctly. Learn host preparation, backpressure management, POI shift tracking, mount selection, and overgassing fixes for reliable suppressed operation.
Mount selection and over-gassing mitigations explained.
AR-15 Maintenance Schedule 2026: Complete Armorer Inspection Guide
AR-15 maintenance and armorer schedule with round-count checkpoints. Inspect bolts, gas rings, springs, extractors, and barrels with printable service log templates for fleet readiness.
Add-on worksheets keep fleet rifles mission ready.
AR-15 Build Tools 2026: Complete Kit List ($100 Budget to $500 Pro Setup)
Essential tools for AR-15 builds, maintenance, and optic mounting. Covers armorer wrenches, torque wrenches, punch sets, vise blocks, headspace gauges, and proper usage techniques.
Budget-tiered tool kits and complete torque reference included.
AR-15 Night Vision Setup 2026: Complete Guide (PEQ-15, DBAL, Optic Heights)
Complete AR-15 night vision compatibility guide. Setup IR lasers (PEQ-15, DBAL), passive aiming, optic mounting heights (1.93", 2.26"), and NVG training requirements for low-light operations.
Covers mount heights, IR devices, and training requirements.
10 AR-15 Build Fails 2026: Exploding Lights, Fake Optics & Parts That Get You Roasted
The $300 Olight that exploded, the Amazon 'Eotech' that was counterfeit, and 8 other AR-15 parts that will get you roasted at the range. Learn from expensive mistakes before you make them.
Covers PSA tier minimum, barrel length safety, and reliability traps.
Best AR-15 Charging Handles 2026: Radian Raptor vs Geissele ACH vs BCM
Don't settle for mil-spec. Compare the best ambidextrous charging handles: Radian Raptor, Geissele ACH, and BCM Gunfighter. we test gas deflection for suppressors, durability, and ergonomics.
Definitive comparison of the Big 3: Raptor vs ACH vs Gunfighter.
AR-15 PDW Build Guide 2026: Exact Overall Lengths 15" to 27" (DDM4 vs Rattler)
Build an AR that fits in a backpack: 7" .300BLK collapses to 15", MK18 clone to 21". We compare DDM4 PDW vs SIG Rattler vs custom builds with exact OAL specs, and explain why 5.56 under 10.3" is a mistake.
Features DDM4 PDW, BCM Recce-11, MK18, and SIG Rattler comparisons.
Best AR-15 Handguards 2026: Top Picks (BCM, Geissele, LMT, SOLGW Wedgelock)
Complete AR-15 handguard selection guide. M-LOK dominance explained, carbon fiber vs aluminum, free-float vs drop-in (spoiler: free-float only), plus BCM, Daniel Defense, Geissele, LMT monolithic, and SOLGW Wedgelock comparisons.
LMT monolithic is the peak. Wedgelock is the sleeper pick.
AR-15 Clip-On Thermal Setup 2026: Complete Mounting & Zero Guide
Mount clip-on thermal optics on AR-15 platforms correctly. Learn rail placement, optic height alignment, POI verification, zero repeatability workflow, and support gear selection.
Includes zero repeatability workflow and support gear picks.
Best IR Lasers 2026: Top 8 Ranked (MAWL-C1+, RAID Xe, Holosun, DBAL)
Complete IR illuminator and laser guide for night vision. Compare MAWL-C1+, Wilcox RAID Xe, Holosun IRIS-3, SMS Trinity, and Steiner DBAL. Learn VCSEL vs LED, 850nm vs 940nm wavelengths, and zeroing methods for NVG operations.
Features comprehensive comparison of MAWL-C1+, RAID Xe, Holosun IRIS-3, SMS Trinity, and DBAL series.
AR-15 BCG Coatings 2026: DLC vs Nitride vs NiB Tested & Evaluated
Compare modern Bolt Carrier Group (BCGBCG[Components]Bolt Carrier Group. The heart of the rifle, housing the bolt, firing pin, extractor, and ejector. It cycles back and forth to chamber, fire, and eject rounds.) coatings. Deep dive into Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC), Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD), Nitride, and Nickel Boron (NiB). Learn which offer reliable lubricity vs which flake and cause failures.
Don't fall for the Nickel Boron hype. See the data.
Best AR-15 Red Dots 2026: Aimpoint vs Holosun vs EOTech Compared
The definitive guide to the best red dot for AR15 in 2026. We rank Sig Romeo, Aimpoint, Holosun, and EOTech. Includes budget picks, holographic vs red dot comparison, and why EOTech has issues.
Top 10 ranked with affiliate links and honest reviews.
Best AR-15 Weapon Lights 2026: Top 10 Ranked (SureFire, Modlite, Cloud Defensive)
The definitive guide to the best weapon lights for AR15 in 2026. We rank SureFire, Modlite, Cloud Defensive, Streamlight, and Arisaka. Covers lumens vs candela, throw vs flood, tape switches vs tail caps, and why Cloud Defensive has issues.
Top 10 ranked with honest brand assessments and tape switch warnings.
Best Rifle Sling 2026: Top AR-15 Slings Ranked (Vickers, VTAC, Magpul)
The definitive guide to AR15 slings. We rank Blue Force Gear Vickers, VTAC, Magpul MS4, and Ferro Concepts Slingster. Learn how QD quick detach slings work, QD vs direct mount, two-point vs single-point, and optimal attachment placement.
Complete QD mechanism breakdown and attachment point guide.
First 1000 Rounds 2026: New AR-15 Owner Training Plan
Structured training progression for new AR owners. Drills, zeroing, malfunction clearing, and skill development. Master the fundamentals with purpose-driven practice.
$500 AR + $1000 training > $1500 AR. Make your rounds count.
Best AR-15 BCG 2026: Why the $80 Toolcraft Beats Most $200 Options
Why I stopped recommending $200+ BCGs for most builds. The $80 Toolcraft uses the same OEM as brands charging triple. We break down what actually matters: MPI/HPT testing, steel grades, and the coatings that are pure marketing.
Top 10 ranked with MPI/HPT testing breakdown and enhanced BCGBCG[Components]Bolt Carrier Group. The heart of the rifle, housing the bolt, firing pin, extractor, and ejector. It cycles back and forth to chamber, fire, and eject rounds. analysis.
Best AR-15 Stocks: Magpul vs B5 vs BCM (What Actually Matters)
The definitive guide to the best AR15 stocks in 2026. We rank Magpul CTR, B5 Bravo, BCM Gunfighter, and more. Includes friction lock explained, stocks to avoid, and why you should never buy the MOE or UBR.
Top 10 ranked with honest reviews and stocks to avoid.
AR-15 Ballistics Calculator 2026: Drop, Drift & Trajectory Tool
Physics-based ballistics calculator for 5.56, .300 BLK, 6.5 Grendel, .308 and more. Calculate bullet drop, wind drift, and trajectory from 0-1000 yards with environmental corrections.
Interactive calculator with preset ammo profiles and custom entry.
Best AR-15 Rifles 2026: Complete Buyer's Guide (Budget to Premium Ranked)
Top 10 AR-15 rifles ranked by price tier: Budget under $800 (PSA, S&W), mid-tier $800-$1,600 (Aero, BCM), and premium $1,600+ (Daniel Defense, Geissele, LMT, KAC). Reliability data, accuracy testing, and value analysis.
The definitive AR-15 buyer's guide with rifles ranked across all price tiers.
Backpack Gun Setup Guide 2026: Bags, PDWs & Essential Accessories
Complete guide to concealed backpack gun setups: bag selection (Vertx Gamut, Eberlestock Switchblade), PDW configuration with Law Tactical folders, and essential accessories for rapid deployment.
Covers Vertx Gamut, Eberlestock Switchblade, and Law Tactical folders.
Best AR-15 Complete Upper Receivers: BCM vs DD vs Geissele Compared
The definitive guide to AR-15 complete upper receivers in 2026. We rank BCM, Daniel Defense, Geissele, LMT, PSA, and Aero Precision. Includes CHF vs button-rifled barrels, chrome-lined vs nitride, and what features actually matter.
Top 10 ranked with honest reviews by price tier.
First $500 in AR-15 Upgrades 2026: What to Buy and What to Skip
Maximize your first $500 in AR-15 upgrades. Priority order: LaRue MBT-2S trigger, Sig Romeo 5 red dot, Streamlight HL-X, Magpul CTR stock. Plus what to skip: vertical grips, fancy dust covers, Amazon optics.
Prioritized upgrade list with what to skip and why.
AR-15 Accessories 2026: Top 10 Must-Have Upgrades Ranked
Complete guide to the 10 must-have AR-15 accessories. Prioritized list from optics to muzzle devices with budget and premium picks for each category. What to buy first and what to skip.
Prioritized accessory list with cross-links to detailed guides.
Best Holosun Optics 2026: Top Rifle & Pistol Red Dots Ranked (AEMS, 509T, ARO)
The definitive Holosun optics guide. We rank rifle red dots (AEMS, ARO), pistol optics (509T, 507C, EPS Carry), and IR lasers (IRIS series). Enclosed vs open emitter, MRS explained, and why Holosun beats Aimpoint on value.
Complete Holosun lineup ranked with enclosed vs open emitter breakdown.
Best Tactical Multi-Tools 2026: Leatherman Arc, MUT, Gerber, SOG Ranked
Complete guide to tactical multi-tools for AR-15 maintenance, EDC, and field use. Covers Leatherman Arc (MagnaCut), MUT (AR-15 specific), Gerber Center-Drive, Wave+, and budget picks.
Leatherman Arc with MagnaCut blade takes top spot for 2026.
Best CCW Fanny Packs & Sling Bags 2026: Off-Body Carry Ranked (Vertx, Eberlestock, 5.11)
Complete guide to off-body concealed carry with fanny packs and sling bags. Reviews Vertx SOCP, Eberlestock Bando, Hill People Gear, and more with safety protocols.
Eberlestock Bando ($50) takes best value; Vertx Transit Sling ($189) best overall sling.
Pistol Chassis Sling Bag Carry 2026: Flux Raider & MCK Setup Guide
Complete guide to carrying pistol chassis systems (Flux Raider, CAA MCK) in sling bags. Compare the Eberlestock Fade Sling, Vertx options, and learn deployment strategies.
Flux Raider P365 + Eberlestock Fade Sling ($600) is the sweet spot for concealed chassis carry.
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