MachIVshooter
Member
So, not that I need to build another AR, but for $31 shipped (buddy got one too, split shipping), the "puzzle piece lower" seemed like a fun project for a totally unconventional build. For those not familiar, this is the kit:
http://www.theflatspot.net/ar-15-receiver-flat.html
(not my pic)
It's a weld together kit, but it also requires some machining and tweaks, so much more advanced than it might seem on it's face. Not "weld 'n go", for sure.
Now, before ya'll judge, understand that this build is to be deliberately ugly. I'm going to do the upper as well, which will be primarily a piece of 1" ID .250 wall DOM. The receiver extension will most also likely be a permanently affixed piece of DOM with a butt plate welded to the end. Haven't decided on a handguard yet, but probably a free floated piece of steel, maybe even radiused square tube. The ideas are still rolling around in my head for now.
I used TIG for the entire process, filler only where there wasn't enough material to blend. I should have done some prep, but it welded OK in most spots as received (I didn't even degrease). Yes, I can lay a pretty decent bead, but there's a theme here, and beautiful welds would be anathema to it.
Anyway, here's my ugly beast
I did add some material to the inside of the pocket at the rear, as the kit does not positively locate the rear takedown lug and does not have adequate material for the selector detent hole
And my selector markings
http://www.theflatspot.net/ar-15-receiver-flat.html
(not my pic)
It's a weld together kit, but it also requires some machining and tweaks, so much more advanced than it might seem on it's face. Not "weld 'n go", for sure.
Now, before ya'll judge, understand that this build is to be deliberately ugly. I'm going to do the upper as well, which will be primarily a piece of 1" ID .250 wall DOM. The receiver extension will most also likely be a permanently affixed piece of DOM with a butt plate welded to the end. Haven't decided on a handguard yet, but probably a free floated piece of steel, maybe even radiused square tube. The ideas are still rolling around in my head for now.
I used TIG for the entire process, filler only where there wasn't enough material to blend. I should have done some prep, but it welded OK in most spots as received (I didn't even degrease). Yes, I can lay a pretty decent bead, but there's a theme here, and beautiful welds would be anathema to it.
Anyway, here's my ugly beast
I did add some material to the inside of the pocket at the rear, as the kit does not positively locate the rear takedown lug and does not have adequate material for the selector detent hole
And my selector markings