AR-15 Accessory Buyers Guide

We receive a lot of requests asking what the best modifications are that can be made to the AR15/M16 series rifles. The forums and all the basement commandos will tell you that "tacticool" gear is absolutely essential if you are to have any chance of surviving a prolonged firefight against a superior unknown force. However, we will usually advise people to keep it simple; you don't need all that uber-fancy gear.

Anything that makes the operation of your weapon smoother and reduces malfunctions is generally good. With that in mind, we have put together a short list of quality products that are proven to increase your weapon's performance and increase your ability to operate it fast and effectively.

1) Topping the list is the Magpul B.A.D. lever. This ingenious product allows right-handed shooters to manipulate the bolt release with their trigger finger. This allows the bolt to be released or engaged while maintaining a one-handed firing grip on the weapon. Possibly the best innovation to the AR platform in years.

2) The second and third products on our list work in conjunction with the B.A.D. lever. The BCM Gunfighter charging handle is designed to redirect force off the roll pin, which is the weak point of the AR charging handle. It is designed so that as it is pulled to the rear, it pulls straight back on the handle instead of at an angle, giving it a much smoother operation. Actuation of the handle can easily be done by pinching the lever with the thumb and forefinger of the left hand or with the heel of the left hand.

3) The Badger Ordnance Tac Latch is a reshaped and extended enhancement to the standard AR15/M16 charging handle. While not a complete redesign like the Gunfighter, the Tac Latch can be added to any standard AR15 charging handle and allows for thumb and forefinger manipulation. The large "paddle" also allows for "slap" clearing or charging the weapon with the heel of the hand, eliminating the need to bring the weapon away from the shoulder for loading or clearing. While the BCM Gunfighter is the better of the two choices, the Badger Ordnance Tac Latch is a fine product that has seen wide use and deserves to make the list. Both options make use while wearing gloves a snap.

4) The ATI A2-style removable carry handle makes the list on utilitarian principles. Since everyone now buys flattop variants of the M4/AR15 and runs some type of battery-powered red dot optic, we thought it prudent to suggest a product that will keep on working long after your batteries have died. The standard carry handle sights are efficient and durable. The handle quick-detaches via two thumb screws and also has the mounting hole for a standard A2 scope.

5) Midwest Industries two-piece drop-in rail systema is an excellent option for those that want an aluminum quad-rail handguard but don't want to pay the price of a case of SS 109's. This rail system allows for the mounting of optics, lights, lasers, and foregrips using the standard 1913 picatinny system. We are always a little hesitant when someone wants to add a quad rail to their weapon as there is a tendency to overload it with gizmos and widgets in an attempt to become a better shooter. While we recommend this product, please resist the urge to cover every inch with doodads. If you must cover the exposed rails, try the next product on our list.

6) Magpul XT rail covers will allow you to cover the exposed sections of rail with a soft, rubbery material without having to remove your accessories.

7) For our seventh suggestion we actually have a two-way tie: a stock for rifles and a stock for carbines. For rifles, the Magpul PRS stock is our one diversion from the "keep it simple" premise because this stock is one solid piece of gear. For those using a standard fixed A1/A2 stock, there is no better replacement. Adjustable for both height of the cheek riser and length of pull by simply rotating the knobs with click detents and locking function, PRS incorporates a bottom picatinny rail for monopod attachment.

For carbines, we suggest the Magpul MOE® stock. This budget-priced collapsible stock offers lightweight strength and performance. Offered for both Mil-spec and commercial-size buffer tubes, the MOE offers a latch inside the center of the stock body; this reduces the chances of it coming out of adjustment, versus conventional collapsible stocks.

8) Quality magazines are essential to keeping your carbine or rifle feeding properly. These 30-round polymer magazines from Sig Sauer® come as a 2-pack with a connector that allows you to hook them together side-by-side for a total of 60 rounds . They can also be used independently.

9) Our other choice for magazines is the venerable P-Mag. Quickly becoming the industry standard for durability and function, the P-Mag holds 30 rounds, functions flawlessly, and is nearly indestructible when compared to other magazines, especially aluminum and steel ones. This version includes a snap-on bust cover and side window for viewing remaining rounds in the magazine.

10) People are always inquiring about reasonably priced CR123A batteries for the various tactical lights and lasers that are available. With local stores charging a fortune for a 2-pack, we offer a 12-pack of Streamlight® CR123A lithium batteries for an incredible price. Much like ammo, it is tough to say you have too many batteries. If your house is anything like our shop, every time we grab a light the batteries need changing. Be prepared; stock up now, before you need them.

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