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  #51  
Old 01-18-2021, 11:53 PM
78Fleetwood 78Fleetwood is offline
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Originally Posted by ameridaddy View Post
Right now, more ammo if you can luck up on it without breaking the bank. Seriously shoot it a whole bunch until it's familiar as an old shoe, and decide from that what kind of shooting you'll probably want to do with it; e.g., home defense, long range work, tactical games, varmint hunting - then you'll know what you might change or add to your satisfaction. There's so much stuff out there for AR's, you can easily waste a lot of money trying stuff and end up not liking it or needing it.
In the meantime - scrounge ammo, magazines, and read.

Thank you. I have been able to get ammo, but not a ton. I haven’t taken it to the range yet either because I don’t want to use what I have. Quite the conundrum. Great advice. I have been able to get 7 mags and practice the controls at home. Haven’t felt its kick though which I want to badly. How many rounds would you spend shooting as a first timer?
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  #52  
Old 01-19-2021, 09:57 AM
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Thank you. I have been able to get ammo, but not a ton. I haven’t taken it to the range yet either because I don’t want to use what I have. Quite the conundrum. Great advice. I have been able to get 7 mags and practice the controls at home. Haven’t felt its kick though which I want to badly. How many rounds would you spend shooting as a first timer?
I'd suggest 40 rd or two boxes. Load 5-10 rd per mag, and work on slow, deliberate fire to get the feel of the rifle and trigger, as well as get the sights adjusted.
DO NOT get in a hurry to mag-dump. While fun, it can easily reinforce bad shooting technique.
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  #53  
Old 01-19-2021, 11:15 AM
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I'd suggest 40 rd or two boxes. Load 5-10 rd per mag, and work on slow, deliberate fire to get the feel of the rifle and trigger, as well as get the sights adjusted.
DO NOT get in a hurry to mag-dump. While fun, it can easily reinforce bad shooting technique.

Thank you very much. I had no idea where to start! Some day I will have to reach my son’s to shoot so I want to know everything I can!
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  #54  
Old 01-19-2021, 11:33 AM
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Thank you very much. I had no idea where to start! Some day I will have to reach my son’s to shoot so I want to know everything I can!
You’re welcome! The point is to learn to make each shot go exactly where you want it. As skill improves, you can start picking up the speed, but missing fast is simply...missing.
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Old 01-19-2021, 11:56 AM
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Great question! Until recently I lived on the east coast so owning anything was highly difficult. With the way things are right now I wanted a versatile platform. I saw my neighbors Springfield Saint Victor and talked my wife into getting a AR but couldn't spend that kind of money. I ended up getting a used M&P 15 with 3 mags and a soft case for $700.00. Been staring at her every night!

Sent from my SM-G950U using Tapatalk
I too steered clear from the AR platform mostly because I live in Commiefornia and it just seemed like it was more trouble than its worth. but 2020 changed that for me (and many others, I suspect). I was looking at the exact gun the op purchased as I wanted the reliability of a "factory" built ar, not a custom build. After a little more research, I actually decided on a Ruger Mini 14. The firing operation is a little different and the Mini's also present in a more traditional manner, which I prefer.

Can't believe I waited so long, this gun is tons of fun!

...and yes, everyone should own at least one!
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  #56  
Old 01-19-2021, 02:06 PM
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You’re welcome! The point is to learn to make each shot go exactly where you want it. As skill improves, you can start picking up the speed, but missing fast is simply...missing.

That’s a really great way to think about it. Seems so basic but really important. Thank you.
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  #57  
Old 01-19-2021, 09:15 PM
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I have never been addicted to heroin, or those other addictive drugs,,
but,,,
the AR must come pretty close,,

I had one for over a decade, then I wanted an "OR",, and I lucked into a used one at a gunshow,,



It don't look like much, but, it shoots great, and came with a 22LR conversion kit,,,

This one has allowed me to "learn" without worrying about damaging an expensive gun,,

If there was more ammo around, I am positive that I would own WAY more of these things,,,
It appears that your sights are installed backwards and need to be spun around.

The portion of the sights that affix to the rail should be facing forward.
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  #58  
Old 01-19-2021, 10:36 PM
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It appears that your sights are installed backwards and need to be spun around.

The portion of the sights that affix to the rail should be facing forward.
Good catch!
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  #59  
Old 01-20-2021, 04:52 AM
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Haven’t felt its kick though which I want to badly.
Then you may be in for a disappointment. It doesn't have much more "kick" than a .22 Long Rifle.
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  #60  
Old 02-04-2021, 11:12 PM
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Then you may be in for a disappointment. It doesn't have much more "kick" than a .22 Long Rifle.

Well then that’s okay; literally I meant that I haven’t gotten to fire it yet. But if not more kick than a .22 LR then that seems manageable
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  #61  
Old 02-04-2021, 11:21 PM
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Well then that’s okay; literally I meant that I haven’t gotten to fire it yet. But if not more kick than a .22 LR then that seems manageable
What you get is a slight jump as the shot goes. Not uncomfortable at all, just enough to let you know you shot a rifle and need to practice fundamentals.
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  #62  
Old 02-05-2021, 02:02 AM
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Originally Posted by 78Fleetwood View Post
Well then that’s okay; literally I meant that I haven’t gotten to fire it yet. But if not more kick than a .22 LR then that seems manageable
The press and movies have done the .223/5.56 chambered AR15 a great disservice in their portrayal of them. The recoil pulse on them is no where near as exaggerated as they portray them to be.
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  #63  
Old 02-05-2021, 06:33 PM
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Originally Posted by JohnnieBoy View Post
I too steered clear from the AR platform mostly because I live in Commiefornia and it just seemed like it was more trouble than its worth. but 2020 changed that for me (and many others, I suspect). I was looking at the exact gun the op purchased as I wanted the reliability of a "factory" built ar, not a custom build. After a little more research, I actually decided on a Ruger Mini 14. The firing operation is a little different and the Mini's also present in a more traditional manner, which I prefer.

Can't believe I waited so long, this gun is tons of fun!

...and yes, everyone should own at least one!
Having carried one when I wasn't having too much fun I stayed away from the AR types. Until I finally got tired of CA telling me I couldn't have one. Or trying to. I think I have about a half dozen now with some spare uppers.

I do like my Minis also.
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  #64  
Old 02-06-2021, 03:45 PM
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I purchased a used MP15 today with serial number starting with TL. Does anyone know what model I might have?, barrell is also 1/9. Very excited to start my journey with my first S&W! Thank you.

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For a used one, it sure looks clean! Nice.
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  #65  
Old 02-06-2021, 09:23 PM
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For a used one, it sure looks clean! Nice.

Outside was very clean, but she was definitely used. Cleaned out some good crud from the barrel and BCG. Firing pin was pretty blackened too but a little elbow grease and she’s sparkly now! Thank you. I’ve added a nice MLok hand guard as well.
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  #66  
Old 08-18-2021, 09:19 PM
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I have the crimson trace with no magnification at all. If I want to aim for targets and have a better look down range do I need a dot with some magnification? Any suggestions? Thanks!
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  #67  
Old 08-18-2021, 10:02 PM
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I have the crimson trace with no magnification at all. If I want to aim for targets and have a better look down range do I need a dot with some magnification? Any suggestions? Thanks!
Same answer as on your other post.....get a 3x tip-off magnifier, Should help out to a couple of hundred yards.
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  #68  
Old 08-18-2021, 10:06 PM
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Same answer as on your other post.....get a 3x tip-off magnifier, Should help out to a couple of hundred yards.

Thank you very much
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  #69  
Old 08-18-2021, 10:32 PM
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First time fired my Sport II was surprised by the sound of bolt and spring. Going shooting tomorrow haven't decided on optic.
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  #70  
Old 08-19-2021, 07:41 AM
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Spread some oil on the recoil spring. That should quiet the 'sproing'.
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  #71  
Old 08-21-2021, 12:09 PM
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The kings of the knockoff marketplaces.
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  #72  
Old 08-22-2021, 09:08 PM
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What size bit do I need to get the original grip off?, I’m trying to change it out for a MagPul. Thanks!
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  #73  
Old 09-20-2021, 03:49 PM
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Originally Posted by SweetMK View Post
I have never been addicted to heroin, or those other addictive drugs,,
but,,,
the AR must come pretty close,,

I had one for over a decade, then I wanted an "OR",, and I lucked into a used one at a gunshow,,



It don't look like much, but, it shoots great, and came with a 22LR conversion kit,,,

This one has allowed me to "learn" without worrying about damaging an expensive gun,,

If there was more ammo around, I am positive that I would own WAY more of these things,,,

What flip up sights are you using?
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  #74  
Old 09-20-2021, 05:26 PM
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TIPS for the new AR owner:

1. Cleaning. My main range AR is a 22 year old Bushmaster. I go years in between cleanings, and that includes some dirty eastern-bloc steelcase ammo. I do clean all defensive firearms after shooting them, but if you told me I'd be in the LA Riots in the next 30 seconds and had to grab the old AR, I wouldn't hesitate.

2. But ARs do like lots of oil. Stay away from the snake oils and grease. I use Breakfree LP on the bolt and lugs, and CLP everywhere else. If you oil properly you can go thousands of rounds between cleanings.

3. Buy magazines. The best ones are the Colt/Okay/NHMTG USGI type, and Pmags. D&H also works well.
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  #75  
Old 09-20-2021, 08:28 PM
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I had a Colt and an Olympic Arms AR-15 decades ago and I thought they were OK but not great and I sold them and made a big profit. Then I built a couple when the parts were really cheap and accessories were cheap and they're more accurate than the early ones and I really started appreciating them. I would tell the OP to just start shooting it and enjoying it.

Where is the “correct” place on the top rail to put the red dot?, wherever is comfortable for me? I’m taking a lesson soon but wanted to make sure I wasn’t going in like a fool. Thanks!
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  #76  
Old 09-20-2021, 08:39 PM
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Where is the “correct” place on the top rail to put the red dot?, wherever is comfortable for me? I’m taking a lesson soon but wanted to make sure I wasn’t going in like a fool. Thanks!
Mount it s far forward on the upper as it will go. Don't mount it directly above the ejection port or on the handguard!


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  #77  
Old 09-20-2021, 08:52 PM
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Mount it s far forward on the upper as it will go. Don't mount it directly above the ejection port or on the handguard!



Thank you very much, this is helpful. I think I’ve changed it a dozen times trying our different positions. Thanks!
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  #78  
Old 09-21-2021, 06:38 PM
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Where is the “correct” place on the top rail to put the red dot?, wherever is comfortable for me? I’m taking a lesson soon but wanted to make sure I wasn’t going in like a fool. Thanks!
I've read a lot articles and seen plenty of videos on Red Dot placement, IMO it's pretty much personal preference (Because everyone has a different opinion).

Some of the take aways I found were:
1: Don't mount it on the handrail
Handrails are not that secure, they flex, move in someway or you might take it off to clean. All those can cause you to lose your zero. (Of course it also add more weight to the front also)

2: Mounting it farther away gives you more peripheral vision, but it's slower to acquire the dot.

3: Mounting it closer gives you less peripheral vision, but it's faster to acquire the dot.

4: Put a drop of loctite on the screw so it don't work loose.

5: As for mounting above the ejection port.

Plenty of articles and videos I've seen show it being done and don't show any problems with doing it. I personally haven't seen any problem with doing it.


(One caveat might be if your using a 45 degree offset (Canted) mount. )

Last edited by BigAL2021; 09-21-2021 at 06:40 PM.
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Old 09-22-2021, 02:30 PM
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5: As for mounting above the ejection port.

Plenty of articles and videos I've seen show it being done and don't show any problems with doing it. I personally haven't seen any problem with doing it.


(One caveat might be if your using a 45 degree offset (Canted) mount. )
I have. On more than several occasions while instructing carbine classes. It's not so much the optic itself that can cause the issue, it's usually the protruding mounting screw/thumb nut/throw lever. IF you want to mount your optic directly above the EP, just make sure any protruding mount parts are switched to the opposite side of the EP. I have witnessed plenty of times where the ejected brass hits the mount, whether it's a QD lever, or a thumb type fastener, and kicks the empty brass right back into the EP causing a stoppage that requires an immediate/emergency action technique to clear the stoppage and get the rifle back up and running. It may not happen often but why take the chance when it can be an easily eliminated factor?
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Old 09-23-2021, 08:44 PM
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You did good. Welcome from the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Get out and send some rounds down range. Give us a feed back on how it goes.

Thank you Lkabug! I finally took her to the range and had a lesson. While my shoulder is a bit soar, it isn’t bothersome while shooting. Very manageable recoil. I was able to keep a tight grouping at 25 yards just working on fundamentals with an instructor today. I have a great appreciation for those who handle rifles with proficiency and frequency. I am really happy with this purchase. She ran flawless. I lubed the bolt before firing and cleaned her a few months ago. She fired right up. I’m very much looking forward to going back and making some more refinements. Only fired 60 rounds in mags of 5 during my instruction. Great intro to these rifles.
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Old 09-23-2021, 09:31 PM
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Originally Posted by BigAL2021 View Post
I've read a lot articles and seen plenty of videos on Red Dot placement, IMO it's pretty much personal preference (Because everyone has a different opinion).

Some of the take aways I found were:
1: Don't mount it on the handrail
Handrails are not that secure, they flex, move in someway or you might take it off to clean. All those can cause you to lose your zero. (Of course it also add more weight to the front also)

2: Mounting it farther away gives you more peripheral vision, but it's slower to acquire the dot.

3: Mounting it closer gives you less peripheral vision, but it's faster to acquire the dot.

4: Put a drop of loctite on the screw so it don't work loose.

5: As for mounting above the ejection port.

Plenty of articles and videos I've seen show it being done and don't show any problems with doing it. I personally haven't seen any problem with doing it.


(One caveat might be if your using a 45 degree offset (Canted) mount. )

Does anyone know if the Crimson Trace that comes on the Sport II (CT105)? lose its “zero” when you change the battery?
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Old 09-23-2021, 10:29 PM
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Does anyone know if the Crimson Trace that comes on the Sport II (CT105)? lose its “zero” when you change the battery?
Replacing the battery will not effect the zero.
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Old 09-23-2021, 10:41 PM
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Replacing the battery will not effect the zero.

Awesome, thank you. Went to the range today and it took a while to work correctly so I figure it was time to replace. Bought it used so I don’t know when it was changed. Thanks again
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  #84  
Old 09-24-2021, 01:00 AM
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@78Fleetwood

I've been following this thread from the beginning. I totally understand your excitement

Glad you're enjoying it. I bought the same Sport II you did except new from a sporting goods store and without the optic. It's CHANGED quite a bit since then though.

The Sport II is pretty much milspec as far as the geometry goes so the possibilities are endless. I see people asking all over the web: "will_________work with my Sport II?"

99% of the time, assuming the part is for a 556/223 AR, the answer is yes. What fun

Last edited by Tiribulus; 09-24-2021 at 01:02 AM.
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Old 09-24-2021, 07:38 AM
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@78Fleetwood

I've been following this thread from the beginning. I totally understand your excitement

Glad you're enjoying it. I bought the same Sport II you did except new from a sporting goods store and without the optic. It's CHANGED quite a bit since then though.

The Sport II is pretty much milspec as far as the geometry goes so the possibilities are endless. I see people asking all over the web: "will_________work with my Sport II?"

99% of the time, assuming the part is for a 556/223 AR, the answer is yes. What fun

Thanks, very good to know, and thanks for joining the chat! I changed out the handguard and grip and added a better hand hold under the fore grip for a more comfortable position. May change the stock at the recommendation of the instructor. Are those hard to remove and change?
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Old 09-24-2021, 05:08 PM
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Thanks, very good to know, and thanks for joining the chat! I changed out the handguard and grip and added a better hand hold under the fore grip for a more comfortable position. May change the stock at the recommendation of the instructor. Are those hard to remove and change?
The 6 position stock is a piece of cake to change. Just pull DOWN on the release lever under the stock and pull it straight off the back of the receiver extension (aka: buffer tube). If you do replace the stock (I'm partial to the B5 SOPMOD Bravo stock), just make sure that it is for MilSpec and not Commercial receiver extension.

B5 SYSTEMS AR-15 SOPMOD BRAVO STOCK COLLAPSIBLE MIL-SPEC | Brownells
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Old 09-24-2021, 06:11 PM
78Fleetwood 78Fleetwood is offline
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The 6 position stock is a piece of cake to change. Just pull DOWN on the release lever under the stock and pull it straight off the back of the receiver extension (aka: buffer tube). If you do replace the stock (I'm partial to the B5 SOPMOD Bravo stock), just make sure that it is for MilSpec and not Commercial receiver extension.

B5 SYSTEMS AR-15 SOPMOD BRAVO STOCK COLLAPSIBLE MIL-SPEC | Brownells

Awesome, thank you for the suggestion!
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Old 09-24-2021, 06:13 PM
AlHunt AlHunt is offline
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If you do replace the stock (I'm partial to the B5 SOPMOD Bravo stock), just make sure that it is for MilSpec and not Commercial receiver extension.
I'm curious why you're partial to that stock over any other piece of plastic that will keep your shoulder off the buffer tube.

I have a few different ARs with different buttstocks and just don't see any difference. There are some differences in sling attachments, looks, etc. But once it's on my shoulder, I can't tell which one is on there.

60 bucks for a piece of plastic is a lot of money.
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Old 09-24-2021, 06:41 PM
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The 6 position stock is a piece of cake to change. Just pull DOWN on the release lever under the stock and pull it straight off the back of the receiver extension (aka: buffer tube). If you do replace the stock (I'm partial to the B5 SOPMOD Bravo stock), just make sure that it is for MilSpec and not Commercial receiver extension.

B5 SYSTEMS AR-15 SOPMOD BRAVO STOCK COLLAPSIBLE MIL-SPEC | Brownells
I have another AR-15 lower that had a collapsible stock. To make it California-compliant before attaching it to a lower, I had to fix the stock. Unfortunately, I removed the pin that holds the release lever screw head in place (that turned out to be unnecessary). Now, I can't get the pin back in. Any tips?
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Old 09-24-2021, 10:15 PM
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I'm curious why you're partial to that stock over any other piece of plastic that will keep your shoulder off the buffer tube.

I have a few different ARs with different buttstocks and just don't see any difference. There are some differences in sling attachments, looks, etc. But once it's on my shoulder, I can't tell which one is on there.

60 bucks for a piece of plastic is a lot of money.
Well, it's a bit more than just '"a...piece of plastic". But that's your take on it. Other than QD sling attachments, appearance, etc., the B5, is a well made, solid, tough as nails stock. But the main difference is it's designed with cheek welds on either side of the stock, which I prefer for faster, consistent cheek welds. They especially help when running optics. Plus, it has storage compartments for extra batteries, firing pin, etc. as a bonus. There's a few other companies that make similar stocks as the B5, like MagPul. I just happen to perfer the B5.

MagPul MOE on Left - B5 SOPMOD on Right


B5 SOPMOD


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I have another AR-15 lower that had a collapsible stock. To make it California-compliant before attaching it to a lower, I had to fix the stock. Unfortunately, I removed the pin that holds the release lever screw head in place (that turned out to be unnecessary). Now, I can't get the pin back in. Any tips?
It's just a roll pin, right? You might have to use something like a wooden dowel to push & hold that spring loaded shaft down from the inside of the stock so you can pound the roll pin back in.
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Old 09-26-2021, 08:33 AM
78Fleetwood 78Fleetwood is offline
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The 6 position stock is a piece of cake to change. Just pull DOWN on the release lever under the stock and pull it straight off the back of the receiver extension (aka: buffer tube). If you do replace the stock (I'm partial to the B5 SOPMOD Bravo stock), just make sure that it is for MilSpec and not Commercial receiver extension.

B5 SYSTEMS AR-15 SOPMOD BRAVO STOCK COLLAPSIBLE MIL-SPEC | Brownells

My stock stock has no rubber pad so maybe that will be more comfortable. I’ll have to give one with a rubber end a try. Another question: I was asked by my instructor if my AR was going to be for defense. I think the answer is “yes”, but what does that mean? What setup do I need? I have a red dot and that’s it…do I need a light or a laser? I have the stock crimson trace red dot (Sport II OR, 2019 model) and will say I noticed I was straining after a while when looking through it during my lesson. Are there easier dots to see through? Do I need a magnifier? Thanks for your thoughts!
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Old 09-26-2021, 12:24 PM
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First time fired my Sport II was surprised by the sound of bolt and spring...
Can you explain that more (newbie here)? Thanks
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Old 09-26-2021, 12:27 PM
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...It's just a roll pin, right? You might have to use something like a wooden dowel to push & hold that spring loaded shaft down from the inside of the stock so you can pound the roll pin back in.
I left the spring loaded shaft alone and it's fine. The only problem now is that the threaded knob that attaches to the threaded shaft can get loose, the roll pin not being there to secure it. I'm afraid of damaging something by using too much (dead blow) hammer force. I put Loctite blue on the threads and let it sit for 24 hours as a temporary or semi-permanent fix, but ideally I'd like to get that pin back in.
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Old 09-26-2021, 12:30 PM
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Well, it's a bit more than just '"a...piece of plastic"...
I read that an advantage of rifles and shotguns with wood stocks is that the butt stocks are effective as bludgeon weapons if one runs out of ammo (James Reeves demo'd in a YouTube video that I now can't find). In such a pinch, are there AR15 butt stocks that could serve that purpose?
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Old 09-26-2021, 01:21 PM
Oldsalt66 Oldsalt66 is offline
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I read that an advantage of rifles and shotguns with wood stocks is that the butt stocks are effective as bludgeon weapons if one runs out of ammo (James Reeves demo'd in a YouTube video that I now can't find). In such a pinch, are there AR15 butt stocks that could serve that purpose?
Yes there are, the old school A2 stocks.

But rifles and shotguns with wooden stocks generally don’t hold 30 rounds of ammunition.

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Old 09-26-2021, 06:11 PM
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My stock stock has no rubber pad so maybe that will be more comfortable. I’ll have to give one with a rubber end a try. Another question: I was asked by my instructor if my AR was going to be for defense. I think the answer is “yes”, but what does that mean? What setup do I need? I have a red dot and that’s it…do I need a light or a laser? I have the stock crimson trace red dot (Sport II OR, 2019 model) and will say I noticed I was straining after a while when looking through it during my lesson. Are there easier dots to see through? Do I need a magnifier? Thanks for your thoughts!
I would at least consider a light with a combination momentary/sustained pressure switch of some type. Maybe you might want to try something by EoTech for an optic?

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Can you explain that more (newbie here)? Thanks
The buffer & spring make a 'twang' noise when firing. It's just the nature of the beast. Lightly lubing the buffer spring and the inside of the receiver extension can quiet it somewhat if it really bothers you.

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I left the spring loaded shaft alone and it's fine. The only problem now is that the threaded knob that attaches to the threaded shaft can get loose, the roll pin not being there to secure it. I'm afraid of damaging something by using too much (dead blow) hammer force. I put Loctite blue on the threads and let it sit for 24 hours as a temporary or semi-permanent fix, but ideally I'd like to get that pin back in.
Well however you decide to try to remedy it, just make sure you remove the stock so you don't inadvertently damage the receiver extension.

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I read that an advantage of rifles and shotguns with wood stocks is that the butt stocks are effective as bludgeon weapons if one runs out of ammo (James Reeves demo'd in a YouTube video that I now can't find). In such a pinch, are there AR15 butt stocks that could serve that purpose?
Ah yes, the ol' butt-stroke. Well you'd still run the risk damaging the receiver extension more than you would the stock. Don't over-think it. Transition to your sidearm.
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Old 09-30-2021, 12:39 AM
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My stock stock has no rubber pad so maybe that will be more comfortable. I’ll have to give one with a rubber end a try.
The one that comes on it is pretty standard for entry level ARs. It works, but you can grab a much better one for like 30 bucks. Mine is a Magpul CTR because I like that it has the lock that eliminates most of the wobble. Much more comfortable too. The model down from that is pretty much the same thing without the lock.

Whatever stock you get, just make sure it's mil-spec size and not commercial.
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Another question: I was asked by my instructor if my AR was going to be for defense. I think the answer is “yes”, but what does that mean?
It means be prepared to have your ears blown out if you fire it inside a house without ear-pro.

Depending on where you live, an AR might not be the very best choice for home defense. I live in the Detroit area with houses on top of one another. A miss under stress with a 556/223 around here has the realistic chance of killing somebody I did not intend to shoot. Of course in an urban area, any round can do that, but a 45acp from a 4.6 in. barrel will have less chance than a 556/223 from a 16 in. barrel.

Also, being in court in a self defense case in Wayne County with a hotshot anti 2A prosecutor holding up my terrifying black "assault rifle" to a liberal jury does not inspire a lot of confidence in me.

It may be completely different where you live.
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What setup do I need? I have a red dot and that’s it…do I need a light or a laser?
My opinion only. A light is probably a good idea like the other fella said. Streamlight makes some good ones that, while not dirt cheap, are also not preposterously expensive either.

A laser from across a room MIGHT be helpful with quick target acquisition. It's also another expense and would have to be trained for. Personally I wouldn't favor a laser, but YMMV.
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I have the stock crimson trace red dot (Sport II OR, 2019 model) and will say I noticed I was straining after a while when looking through it during my lesson. Are there easier dots to see through?
I would want to know if this is a problem with lower end red dots or if maybe your eyes just don't like red dots past a certain amount of time. Maybe a bit of both? Not sure how to find out without being able to try different sights.

The other fella mentioned Eotech and Aimpoint I think it was. Those are definitely first rate pieces, but they will also cost most of and maybe more than what you paid for the rifle itself.
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Do I need a magnifier?
Not for home defense. A magnifier increases the practical range of a red dot. Any home defense scenario defensible in court will not be at a distance greater than any decent red dot is easily capable of.

There's nothing wrong with having different sights for different applications too. A magnifier or scope will buy you a couple hundred more yards than a red dot alone. With good mounts you can switch them back and forth without losing zero.

Last edited by Tiribulus; 09-30-2021 at 01:06 AM.
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Old 09-30-2021, 08:17 AM
78Fleetwood 78Fleetwood is offline
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The one that comes on it is pretty standard for entry level ARs. It works, but you can grab a much better one for like 30 bucks. Mine is a Magpul CTR because I like that it has the lock that eliminates most of the wobble. Much more comfortable too. The model down from that is pretty much the same thing without the lock.

Whatever stock you get, just make sure it's mil-spec size and not commercial.


It means be prepared to have your ears blown out if you fire it inside a house without ear-pro.

Depending on where you live, an AR might not be the very best choice for home defense. I live in the Detroit area with houses on top of one another. A miss under stress with a 556/223 around here has the realistic chance of killing somebody I did not intend to shoot. Of course in an urban area, any round can do that, but a 45acp from a 4.6 in. barrel will have less chance than a 556/223 from a 16 in. barrel.

Also, being in court in a self defense case in Wayne County with a hotshot anti 2A prosecutor holding up my terrifying black "assault rifle" to a liberal jury does not inspire a lot of confidence in me.

It may be completely different where you live.

My opinion only. A light is probably a good idea like the other fella said. Streamlight makes some good ones that, while not dirt cheap, are also not preposterously expensive either.

A laser from across a room MIGHT be helpful with quick target acquisition. It's also another expense and would have to be trained for. Personally I wouldn't favor a laser, but YMMV.


I would want to know if this is a problem with lower end red dots or if maybe your eyes just don't like red dots past a certain amount of time. Maybe a bit of both? Not sure how to find out without being able to try different sights.

The other fella mentioned Eotech and Aimpoint I think it was. Those are definitely first rate pieces, but they will also cost most of and maybe more than what you paid for the rifle itself.

Not for home defense. A magnifier increases the practical range of a red dot. Any home defense scenario defensible in court will not be at a distance greater than any decent red dot is easily capable of.

There's nothing wrong with having different sights for different applications too. A magnifier or scope will buy you a couple hundred more yards than a red dot alone. With good mounts you can switch them back and forth without losing zero.

Thank you for recapping all my questions, this was really insightful to read. I may rethink the defensive AR given my suburban lifestyle but an AR pistol (9mm) might fit the bill! Thanks again, a lot to ponder and digest.
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Old 09-30-2021, 09:12 AM
firefighterjohn firefighterjohn is offline
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Thank you for recapping all my questions, this was really insightful to read. I may rethink the defensive AR given my suburban lifestyle but an AR pistol (9mm) might fit the bill! Thanks again, a lot to ponder and digest.
You've got some great advice to help make your defensive gun decision. Regardless, you need a light on your gun to identify whether or not that bump in the night is a REAL threat or not. The sad stories of someone mistakenly shooting a family member that stumbled in late or just up and around is truly tragic . The cost of the light is well worth that dreaded mistake you'd have to live with the rest of your life.

You should also add a sling. A sling is to a rifle what a holster is to a pistol. Plus, a slinged rifle can't be ripped away and used against you.

Both of these points were driven home by my instructor of the defensive carbine class I took last October. That brings up another point...get some good relevant training on defensive use....it will truly open your eyes!
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Old 09-30-2021, 10:59 AM
78Fleetwood 78Fleetwood is offline
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You've got some great advice to help make your defensive gun decision. Regardless, you need a light on your gun to identify whether or not that bump in the night is a REAL threat or not. The sad stories of someone mistakenly shooting a family member that stumbled in late or just up and around is truly tragic . The cost of the light is well worth that dreaded mistake you'd have to live with the rest of your life.

You should also add a sling. A sling is to a rifle what a holster is to a pistol. Plus, a slinged rifle can't be ripped away and used against you.

Both of these points were driven home by my instructor of the defensive carbine class I took last October. That brings up another point...get some good relevant training on defensive use....it will truly open your eyes!

Thank you very much for your comments. I do have a sling on it already, but a great perspective and one I had not contemplated.
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