I have built several AR 15 & AR 10 platforms from both 80% and stripped factory lowers, with great success so far. There have been the expected screw-ups, especially with the first 80% attempt. Since then, things have gone smoothly, and quality keeps getting better.
For this next project, however, I'm looking for some advice. I have a dedicated 9mm 80% lower to build out. Although my jig would not accommodate the 9mm lower, I have ordered one that will. Machining the lower is not my problem. I'm looking beyond that. For those of you that have built dedicated 9mm AR's, please help me select parts that will work properly. The upper is already built, and It has a 11" barrel.
As far as parts go, I have a standard AR 15 lower parts kit to use, which should be 99% compatible as near as I can figure. The buffer tube, spring, and buffer have me questioning what I should order. I would like to use a standard carbine tube if possible. I believe that I will need a very heavy buffer, as the upper is of blowback design. I also believe that the buffer needs to be heavier depending on the ammo used. Heavy bullets in +P rounds would require more weight, correct ?
Next, I believe that there is no last round bolt hold open feature. At least, I don't see any. Is there anything special I should do to the bolt catch to make it easier to apply manually ?
Your thoughts and suggestions are appreciated. I don't really want to wind up with a giant box of spare parts via the trial and error method.
For this next project, however, I'm looking for some advice. I have a dedicated 9mm 80% lower to build out. Although my jig would not accommodate the 9mm lower, I have ordered one that will. Machining the lower is not my problem. I'm looking beyond that. For those of you that have built dedicated 9mm AR's, please help me select parts that will work properly. The upper is already built, and It has a 11" barrel.
As far as parts go, I have a standard AR 15 lower parts kit to use, which should be 99% compatible as near as I can figure. The buffer tube, spring, and buffer have me questioning what I should order. I would like to use a standard carbine tube if possible. I believe that I will need a very heavy buffer, as the upper is of blowback design. I also believe that the buffer needs to be heavier depending on the ammo used. Heavy bullets in +P rounds would require more weight, correct ?
Next, I believe that there is no last round bolt hold open feature. At least, I don't see any. Is there anything special I should do to the bolt catch to make it easier to apply manually ?
Your thoughts and suggestions are appreciated. I don't really want to wind up with a giant box of spare parts via the trial and error method.
