Now, let’s talk a bit about the AR-15 machining jig. Well, this is one handy piece of equipment if you’re into building your own rifle or tinkering around with these things. Let me explain it to ya in a simple way so that anyone could understand.
So, what is this AR-15 jig? It’s like a helper tool kit. Ya know how when you wanna make something right, you need a mold or something to guide ya? That’s what a jig does for an AR-15. It’s got metal or plastic plates, some bolts, and usually comes with drill bits and mill bits. These bits and pieces fit together in a way that helps you drill and shape the metal parts of the gun right where you need ’em to be.
Now, they make different kinds of jigs depending on the type of firearm you’re workin’ with. If you’re makin’ an AR rifle or pistol, they got specific jigs for those. For the AR-15, though, that’s probably the most common jig folks are buyin’ these days. People like it ’cause it’s straightforward and pretty easy to use once ya get the hang of it.
The Elite Builder Patriot 80% Lower Jig is a good example. This one’s been a favorite among folks who are into buildin’ AR-15s and AR-9s, mostly because it’s sturdy and reliable. It even works with the AR-10 and some other models now, too! They’ve added a few new plates and adjustments so it’s compatible with more types, like the LR-308 and .308. With this jig, you get some steel plates and precision tools that make it easier to make sure everything’s aligned and fitted just right.
Another popular one out there is what they call the Ultimate Jig for the AR-10 and AR-15. This one’s been made with lots of feedback from folks who’ve used jigs for years. It’s like they listened to all the complaints and suggestions to come up with something better. This Ultimate Jig is known for helping you get that 80% lower receiver set up just right. With a jig like this, it’s easier to get things done properly, even if it’s your first time trying something like this.
Now, what do they mean by “80% lower” anyway? Well, that’s basically the part of the rifle that isn’t quite complete yet—it’s about 80% finished. You gotta use the jig to do the last 20%, which includes drilling the holes and shaping the parts, so everything fits together. With the jig in place, you can finish the lower receiver yourself. The jigs for AR-15 usually come with all the needed bits, like drill bits and end mills, to get the job done. Some folks say it can take between 15 minutes to an hour, dependin’ on how experienced ya are with this kinda work.
These jigs usually fit both forged and billet AR-15 80% lower receivers. What that means is, whether the metal part was shaped by hammering (forged) or cut from a solid piece (billet), you can still use the same jig. And the good ones out there, like the ones from 80% Arms, are made to match the military specifications, so when ya finish up, it’s as close as it gets to a store-bought receiver.
One of the neat things about the newer jigs is they got a new technique called an indexing technique. Basically, this means they use the buffer tube mount to center the receiver, which makes it more precise. Before, some jigs would rely on the sides for centering, which wasn’t as accurate. This helps keep things steady while you’re working, so ya don’t mess up the drill holes.
When you’re lookin’ to buy a jig, ya gotta check what kind of bits it includes, ’cause not all jigs come with everything you need. Some only give ya the plates, while others come as a complete kit with all the bits. You’ll want those high-speed drill bits and end mills for metal, that’s for sure. Also, make sure the jig fits your lower receiver, ’cause if ya get the wrong one, it won’t work right.
At the end of the day, if you’re lookin’ to finish an AR-15 or even an AR-10 receiver yourself, a good jig is what you need. It saves time and makes sure ya get things done accurately. And once ya start workin’ with one, you’ll see why so many folks swear by ‘em.
Tags: [AR-15 Jig, 80% Lower, Machining Jig, AR-10, Elite Builder, AR15 Receivers]