The Ultimate Guide to Building Custom Firearms: Glock, 1911, AR-15, and More

Building your own firearm is a rewarding and customizable experience, allowing you to craft a piece that fits your preferences, needs, and shooting style. At Route 66 Guns & Ammo, we’re dedicated to helping firearm enthusiasts in Barstow, Hesperia, Apple Valley, Phelan, and Victorville find everything they need to build their own custom firearms. Conveniently located halfway between Las Vegas and Los Angeles, our store carries a wide range of parts, accessories, and tools to make your custom build a success.

In this guide, we’ll cover the essentials for building some of the most popular custom firearms, including Glocks, AR-15s, and 1911s. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned builder, our tips on selecting frames, customizing slides, and using jigs will ensure you’re set up for success.

Building a Custom Glock

Glocks are among the most popular firearms for custom builds due to their simplicity, reliability, and the abundance of available aftermarket parts. Here’s what you’ll need and some considerations for a Glock build:

1. Choosing the Right Frame

Start with the frame, the foundation of your Glock. We offer a selection of Polymer 80 frames that are compatible with various Glock models, including Glock 19 and Glock 17 options. These frames allow for enhanced grip customization, color selection, and control.

2. Custom Slides for Function and Style

Adding a custom slide not only enhances the aesthetics but can also improve the functionality of your Glock. Choose from lightweight or optic-ready slides, designed for smoother operation and compatibility with red-dot sights. We carry slides for different Glock models and can help you choose the right one based on your shooting style.

3. Accessories and Kits for Finishing Touches

Complete your build with key accessories like enhanced sights, magazine extensions, and upgraded trigger systems. A high-quality trigger improves firing consistency and accuracy, while extended magazines give you more rounds per mag for practice or competition.

Tools Needed:

        •        Glock slide tools

        •        Glock frame completion kits

        •        Custom sights installation tool

With the right parts and accessories, building a Glock is straightforward, even for beginners. Our team at Route 66 Guns & Ammo is ready to guide you through the process and help you find each part you need for a reliable, personalized Glock.

Assembling a Custom AR-15

The AR-15 is one of the most versatile rifles on the market, making it a popular choice for custom builds. With the AR-15 platform, you can personalize everything from the barrel length to the trigger and optics, creating a firearm tailored to your preferences.

1. Selecting an AR-15 Lower and Upper Receiver

The lower receiver houses critical components like the trigger, magazine, and safety controls. Opt for a billet or forged lower, depending on your preference for durability and weight. The upper receiver should match the intended use of your AR-15, whether that’s for home defense, range shooting, or tactical applications.

2. Adding the Perfect Trigger System

Single-stage triggers are common for their simplicity, while two-stage triggers are often preferred by precision shooters who value accuracy. Route 66 Guns & Ammo carries a range of trigger options, and our team can assist you in selecting one that suits your needs.

3. Additional Accessories

Consider adding custom furniture like handguards, stocks, and grips. Muzzle devices, such as compensators and flash hiders, can also enhance the AR-15’s performance.

Tools Needed:

        •        Barrel nut wrench

        •        Pin punches for installation

With so many options available, an AR-15 build is highly customizable. By selecting the right components and accessories, you’ll have a rifle that’s perfectly suited to your needs.

Building a Custom 1911

The 1911 is a classic choice for those who appreciate traditional craftsmanship and the timeless appeal of a semi-automatic handgun. While building a 1911 is more involved than assembling a Glock or AR-15, the end result is a highly personalized and unique firearm.

1. Selecting Your 1911 Frame

Choose from various frame options, such as a Stealth Arms Platypus frame or traditional frames, depending on your preference. The frame material—such as steel or aluminum—can impact the weight and feel of the gun, making this a critical choice.

2. Custom Slides and Barrels

Custom slides are available in different finishes and designs. Pair the slide with a high-quality barrel to ensure smooth operation and consistent accuracy. We also carry barrels in various calibers to suit your shooting needs.

3. Performance Parts and Enhancements

The 1911 offers plenty of room for customization. Upgraded triggers, grips, and safeties improve both aesthetics and functionality. We offer a selection of performance parts designed to enhance precision and control.

Tools Needed:

        •        Gunsmithing screwdrivers

        •        Frame and slide fitting tools

        •        1911-specific jigs for assembly

Building a 1911 takes patience and precision, but the result is a one-of-a-kind firearm with unmatched craftsmanship. Stop by Route 66 Guns & Ammo for expert guidance and all the parts you need for a successful build.

Safety Tips for Custom Builds

Building firearms requires a focus on safety. Here are some essential tips:

        •        Work with Quality Parts: Ensure that every part you use meets safety and quality standards.

        •        Use Proper Tools: Investing in the right tools reduces the risk of accidents and improves build quality.

        •        Follow Manufacturer Instructions: Adhere to all guidelines provided by parts manufacturers for safe assembly.

        •        Inspect Your Work: After assembly, inspect each component to ensure everything is secure and functional before using the firearm.

Why Choose Route 66 Guns & Ammo?

Located halfway between Las Vegas and Los Angeles, Route 66 Guns & Ammo is the premier destination for firearm parts, accessories, and expert guidance. Serving Barstow, Hesperia, Apple Valley, Phelan, and Victorville, our team is dedicated to helping you build a custom firearm that meets your specifications. With an extensive selection of parts for Glock, AR-15, and 1911 builds, we are here to ensure you have a smooth and rewarding experience.

Whether you’re new to firearm building or an experienced enthusiast, Route 66 Guns & Ammo has everything you need to bring your vision to life. Visit us today to start building your custom firearm!