Top Accessories for AR-15 Builds: Jigs, Lowers, and Triggers

Make it stand out

This article will discuss a few of the major upgrades you may be looking to make on your rifle.

The AR-15 platform is one of the most customizable firearms, offering endless options for personalization and performance upgrades. From choosing the right lower receiver to enhancing your build with custom triggers, each component can significantly impact your AR-15’s functionality and shooting experience. At Route 66 Guns & Ammo, located halfway between Las Vegas and Los Angeles, we serve the communities of Barstow, Hesperia, Apple Valley, Phelan, and Victorville with a wide range of AR-15 parts and accessories, ensuring you have everything you need to create a custom AR-15 tailored to your style.

In this guide, we’ll cover the top accessories for AR-15 builds, including jigs, lowers, and triggers, and provide tips on choosing the right components to elevate your firearm.

Why Customize Your AR-15?

The AR-15’s modular design allows shooters to build a firearm suited to their specific preferences, from precision shooting to tactical applications. Customizing an AR-15 is not only about aesthetics; it’s about enhancing performance, control, and comfort.

Whether you’re building from scratch or upgrading an existing firearm, understanding the importance of each component will help you make informed choices. Below, we’ll explore some essential accessories for creating a custom AR-15 that meets your needs.

1. Lower Receivers: The Foundation of Your AR-15 Build

The lower receiver is the core component of any AR-15 build, housing critical parts such as the trigger, magazine catch, and buffer system. Selecting the right lower receiver is the foundation for a reliable and customized firearm.

Types of Lowers

        •        80 Percent Lowers: An 80 percent lower is an unfinished receiver that requires additional machining to become functional. These lowers provide greater control over the final product, allowing you to fully personalize your AR-15.

        •        Stripped Lowers: Stripped lowers are fully manufactured and ready for assembly, making them ideal for those who want a quicker build process. They don’t require additional milling, so you can jump straight to assembling your parts.

        •        Complete Lowers: Complete lowers come fully assembled with all necessary components, allowing you to attach the upper receiver and be ready to shoot. These are great for beginners or those who want a straightforward build.

Material Considerations

Lowers are typically made from aluminum or polymer, each offering distinct benefits:

        •        Aluminum: Known for its strength and durability, aluminum lowers are common in AR-15 builds. They provide excellent stability but may add a bit more weight to the firearm.

        •        Polymer: Lighter than aluminum, polymer lowers are an ideal choice for shooters looking to reduce overall firearm weight. Polymer can also be more affordable, but it may lack the same level of durability as aluminum.

At Route 66 Guns & Ammo, we offer a variety of lower receivers, to suit your preferences and intended use. Our team can help you choose the right lower for your custom AR-15 build.

2. Jigs: Precision and Control for 80 Percent Builds

If you’re working with an 80 percent lower, a jig is essential for completing the milling and drilling steps with precision. Jigs act as guides, ensuring that cuts and drill points are correctly aligned, leading to a reliable and safe final product.

Types of Jigs

        •        Router Jigs: Router jigs are compatible with hand routers and are popular among DIY builders for their ease of use and accuracy. These jigs include templates and drill bits, making it easy to achieve professional-level results.

        •        Drill Press Jigs: If you have a drill press, this type of jig offers excellent precision. Drill press jigs are often made of steel or aluminum, adding stability for consistent milling and drilling.

Choosing the Right Jig

The right jig for you depends on your available tools and experience level. Router jigs are ideal for beginners, while drill press jigs may appeal to those with more experience in firearm building. Make sure the jig you choose is compatible with your lower receiver.

At Route 66 Guns & Ammo, we provide a selection of high-quality jigs to assist in your 80 percent lower builds. Our team is here to answer questions and offer guidance to help you achieve a precise and professional finish.

3. Triggers: Enhancing Control and Responsiveness

The trigger is one of the most impactful components in an AR-15 build, as it directly affects control, responsiveness, and accuracy. Upgrading your trigger can improve your shooting experience by providing a smoother, crisper break and faster reset.

Types of Triggers

        •        Single-Stage Triggers: Single-stage triggers have a consistent pull weight throughout and break immediately when the required pressure is reached. They are known for their simplicity and are popular for tactical and self-defense use.

        •        Two-Stage Triggers: Two-stage triggers have a “take-up” phase where the trigger is pulled lightly until it reaches a clear stopping point, followed by additional pressure to fire. These triggers provide more control and are favored by precision shooters.

        •        Drop-In Triggers: Drop-in triggers come as self-contained units and are easy to install, making them perfect for DIY builders who want a quick upgrade. They’re available in both single-stage and two-stage options.

Choosing the Right Trigger for Your Build

The right trigger depends on your intended use:

        •        Tactical and Defense: For fast, reliable response, single-stage triggers are typically preferred.

        •        Precision and Competition: Two-stage triggers provide better control, making them ideal for precision shooters and competitive use.

At Route 66 Guns & Ammo, we carry a variety of AR-15 triggers to suit different shooting styles. Our staff can help you choose the best trigger to enhance your AR-15’s performance and match your specific needs.

4. Stocks and Grips: Improving Comfort and Stability

Comfort is essential for an enjoyable shooting experience, especially during long-range or extended shooting sessions. Upgrading your AR-15’s stock and grip can improve handling, accuracy, and control.

Popular Stock Options

        •        Adjustable (Collapsible) Stocks: These stocks allow you to adjust the length, providing a customized fit for different shooting positions. Adjustable stocks are great for tactical and versatile use.

        •        Fixed Stocks: Fixed stocks offer solid stability and are ideal for shooters who prioritize precision and accuracy over adaptability.

Grip Upgrades

AR-15 grips are available in various textures and ergonomic designs. Consider grips with enhanced stippling or finger grooves for better control and comfort, especially if you’ll be using your AR-15 for tactical or competition shooting.

5. Muzzle Devices: Controlling Recoil and Muzzle Rise

Adding a muzzle device can significantly reduce recoil, muzzle rise, and noise. Common options include:

        •        Flash Hiders: Flash hiders minimize muzzle flash, making it easier to see after firing, especially in low-light conditions.

        •        Muzzle Brakes: Muzzle brakes reduce recoil and help keep the barrel aligned with the target, making them ideal for quick follow-up shots.

        •        Compensators: Compensators are designed to reduce muzzle rise, improving control during rapid fire.

At Route 66 Guns & Ammo, we stock various muzzle devices to help you control recoil and improve shooting accuracy. Choosing the right muzzle device can make a noticeable difference in your shooting performance, especially with higher-caliber builds.

Additional Accessories for AR-15 Builds

In addition to lowers, jigs, and triggers, several other accessories can enhance your AR-15 build, including:

        •        Handguards: Choose from free-floating or drop-in handguards to suit your shooting style and preferred accessories, such as grips, lights, or lasers.

        •        Buffer Systems: Upgrading the buffer system can help smooth recoil and cycling, leading to better control and reliability.

        •        Charging Handles: An upgraded charging handle allows for smoother and easier cycling, especially when using optics.

Each of these accessories contributes to a more efficient and enjoyable shooting experience, making them valuable additions to any custom AR-15.

Visit Route 66 Guns & Ammo for Your AR-15 Parts and Accessories

Building or upgrading an AR-15 requires high-quality parts, expert guidance, and a range of options to choose from. At Route 66 Guns & Ammo, we serve the communities of Barstow, Hesperia, Apple Valley, Phelan, and Victorville, providing everything you need to create a customized AR-15 that fits your needs. Located halfway between Las Vegas and Los Angeles, our store offers a comprehensive selection of lowers, jigs, triggers, stocks, and grips, along with knowledgeable staff ready to assist.

Visit us at Route 66 Guns & Ammo to explore our full range of AR-15 parts and accessories, and start building a firearm that’s truly yours. Our team is here to ensure your AR-15 build meets all your performance and style expectations.