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If you read the previous post about home protection, then you might want to know about some of the modifications you can do that are affordable and fast.
You should already know how versatile and reliable an AR-15 is, but maybe you still have a stock model and want to improve the overall platform.
Whether you want to improve accuracy or add some personal touches, making changes to your AR-15 is easier than ever.
Today, we will cover four pain-free ideas for modifying your AR firearm.
All the following can be done by yourself, but if you aren’t comfortable working on a firearm, go to an experienced gunsmith to complete the following modifications.
Pain-Free Modifications
Let’s get started with my ideas for modifying your AR-15.
I want to make this clear. The AR platform has a ton of different ways you can go.
This post will cover the four basic mods that anyone can do. Additionally, there are many different ways you can go afterward.
You will also see many links to the MSR Arms website. This is where I order my AR parts, and the links are provided to help you know what is being discussed in each section.
Each modification had to follow a few criteria to make this fun and to keep these budget-friendly.
- Low cost
- High-quality components
- Easy to complete (minimal if any tools required)
- Low weight (remember, the more you add, the more you carry)
I hope sharing this information will help you get started on your journey.
The affordability depends on what you decide to purchase. I made the following simple modifications to my S&W M&P15 Sport for under $200!
Let’s get into the top four suggestions for your AR modifications!
If you wonder who this guy is and if I’m qualified, the short answer is yes, and I know ARs. I have trained with them a lot in my law enforcement carrier. And remember, the modifications I’m referring to here, in my opinion, are not only easy to complete but a necessity.
Picatinny Rail
This is not in any order, but you need one if your AR doesn’t have a Picatinny rail.
The one I suggest is a quad rail forend. This means there are four Picatinny rails, one on each side of the forend.
You will see from the photo above that you have many options once you get this on your weapon. As with everything you discover, you have many options in this arena.
This is the optimal place to add lights, grips, and even bipods. The list goes on, but spending your money on a quad rail is the main point (you can thank me later).
Check out MSR’s selection on AR rails.
The one I chose is lighter and costs a bit more, but it was worth it. If you want to know more, come back as I will write about the Picatinny rail I chose.
Quality Sling
To put this simply, everyone should have a sling.
Think about it this way. You have a holster for your handgun, right?
So what do you do with your AR if you need your hands free, what if you are transitioning to another weapon or need to handcuff someone?
You have a sling!
For many ARs, your weapon will come with one (just like mine did). But there are some options you might want to consider, such as having a single attachment point sling that is easier to use and more comfortable.
This is also an option you can skip for now, but remember that it’s something you should have. Click the image above, or the link below, to find out some slings MSR has.
Comfortable Foregrip
I remember being at Shot Show In Las Vegas in 2019. All the different things you can do with an AR platform memorized me.
There was one company that changed everything for me. It was the foregrip pictured that changed everything.
I liked this grip so much, and I got them approved by my department. My Chief was so impressed he ordered one for himself!
So, this is an area that is a personal preference. But I genuinely don’t think you can go wrong with what I’m currently using and like.
More options at MSR’s selection on foregrips.
Tactical Light
I added this one because it’s something easily forgotten.
Having a light on your weapon will help you to identify threats in the dark. And, since you will be using this for home protection, is a MUST!
There are many options, but there is one light I have found that works great.
Not only that, but it’s even the same weapon-mounted light that I use for my service weapon.
The nice thing is that I only have to remember one lighting system, and it’s the same for all my guns. Might be something you want to consider as well.
There are many options (do you see a common theme here), but finding one that works for you is critical.
Check out MSR’s selection of tactical lights.
Is There Anything Else To Add?
As you can see, getting carried away with your AR platform is easy. You will see what I mean if you make your way to MSR Arms.
Here is my request to you, send me a photo of what your AR-15 looked like and what it looks like now! It’s always fun to see how others decide to customize their ARs.
As you can see, having a few practical options that won’t break the bank is a good starting point. Then you can build from there.
Before I conclude, I have a request from you!
What Modifications Have You Done (or Want to Do) To Your AR?
Let me know in the comments below!
Bonus points if you include a completed picture below.
I usually take AR15 and LPVO scope to hunt. Anyway, the scope is really nice. https://www.cvlife.com/products/cvlife-1-6×24-lpvo-scope-with-cantilever-mount
By the way, rifle scope or dot sight, which one is more suitable for AR15 to hunt?
https://www.cvlife.com/blogs/news/red-dot-sights-vs-rifle-scope-what-s-the-best-for-ar-16
Hey Russ, I generally don’t discuss hunting on this blog. But, because you asked, I will quickly share my thought. I assume that you are hunting small game (there is some controversy, that I’m sure you are aware, with hunting larger game with the AR platform). With that said, personally, if you are ‘using’ the AR for short distance, say around 50 yards, I have grown to like the red dot. Anything further out and you would be better off with a scope.