Top Accessories to Complete Your AR Build from an 80 Lower Receiver

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Building an AR-15 or AR-10 from an 80 lower receiver is just the beginning of creating a firearm tailored to your needs. Once you’ve completed the lower and assembled the core components, the next step is to accessorize your build to maximize its performance, functionality, and style.

In this article, we’ll explore the top accessories to complete your AR build, covering everything from optics and lights to grips and stocks. Whether you’re customizing for home defense, competition, or hunting, these accessories will take your firearm to the next level.

1. Optics and Sights

An optic is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make to your AR build. The right sight can enhance accuracy, speed, and target acquisition.

Top Optics for Your AR Build:

  • Red Dot Sights: Ideal for quick target acquisition at close to mid-range distances.
    • Popular Models: Aimpoint PRO, Holosun HS510C.
  • Magnified Scopes: Perfect for long-range shooting and precision.
    • Popular Models: Vortex Crossfire II, Leupold VX-Freedom.
  • Holographic Sights: Provide a clear reticle with minimal parallax for fast shooting.
    • Popular Models: EOTech EXPS3.

Pro Tip: Consider pairing a red dot sight with a magnifier for versatility in both close and long-range scenarios.

2. Weapon-Mounted Lights

For home defense or low-light environments, a weapon-mounted light is essential. It ensures you can identify your target and surroundings before firing.

Features to Look For:

  • High Lumens: A bright light (500+ lumens) can illuminate dark spaces and disorient attackers.
  • Durability: Waterproof and shockproof construction for reliability in tough conditions.
  • Switch Options: Choose between pressure switches or tail caps for easy activation.

Popular Options:

  • Streamlight ProTac Rail Mount HL-X.
  • SureFire M600 Scout Light.

3. Laser Sights

Lasers are a great addition for quick target acquisition, especially in close quarters or tactical situations.

Types of Lasers:

  • Red Lasers: Visible in low-light conditions, ideal for indoor use.
  • Green Lasers: Brighter and more visible in daylight, perfect for outdoor use.

Popular Options:

  • Crimson Trace CMR-206 (red laser).
  • Holosun LS117G (green laser).

Pro Tip: Combine a laser with a weapon-mounted light for maximum versatility.

4. Grips and Handguards

The grip and handguard of your AR play a huge role in comfort, control, and performance.

Grips:

  • Ergonomic Grips: Designed for extended shooting sessions, offering superior comfort.
    • Example: Magpul MOE+ Grip.
  • Vertical and Angled Grips: Improve control and reduce fatigue during rapid fire.
    • Example: BCM Gunfighter Vertical Grip.

Handguards:

  • M-LOK: Lightweight and versatile, allowing for easy attachment of accessories.
  • KeyMod: Similar to M-LOK but with a different attachment system.
  • Picatinny: Classic rail system for mounting optics and other accessories.

Popular Handguards:

  • Midwest Industries M-LOK Handguard.
  • Aero Precision Enhanced KeyMod Handguard.

5. Stocks

The stock determines how your AR fits and feels, impacting both accuracy and comfort.

Stock Options:

  • Adjustable Stocks: Allow you to change the length of pull to fit different shooters or scenarios.
    • Example: Magpul CTR Stock.
  • Fixed Stocks: Provide stability for long-range shooting.
    • Example: A2 Rifle Stock.
  • Minimalist Stocks: Lightweight and streamlined for a sleek, tactical look.
    • Example: Mission First Tactical Minimalist Stock.

Pro Tip: Match your stock to your intended use—adjustable for versatility, fixed for precision.

6. Muzzle Devices

A muzzle device can drastically improve your shooting experience by reducing recoil, flash, or muzzle rise.

Types of Muzzle Devices:

  • Flash Hiders: Minimize visible muzzle flash, ideal for low-light environments.
    • Example: A2 Flash Hider.
  • Compensators: Reduce muzzle rise for faster follow-up shots.
    • Example: VG6 Precision Epsilon 556.
  • Muzzle Brakes: Mitigate recoil, improving control for larger calibers.
    • Example: SureFire SOCOM Muzzle Brake.

Pro Tip: Some muzzle devices are hybrid designs that combine flash suppression with recoil reduction.

7. Sling and Sling Mounts

A sling is essential for carrying your AR and improving maneuverability.

Sling Types:

  • Single-Point Slings: Offer quick transitions but can lack stability.
  • Two-Point Slings: Provide better stability and adjustability for different shooting positions.
  • Three-Point Slings: Secure but can be bulky and complicated.

Popular Options:

  • Magpul MS4 Dual QD Sling.
  • Blue Force Gear Vickers Sling.

8. Bipods

If you’re building your AR for precision or long-range shooting, a bipod can provide the stability you need.

Features to Consider:

  • Adjustable Legs: For uneven terrain.
  • Lightweight Design: Keeps your firearm maneuverable.

Popular Options:

  • Harris Engineering S-BR Bipod.
  • Magpul Bipod for M-LOK.

9. Upgraded Triggers

The trigger is one of the most noticeable upgrades you can make. A better trigger improves accuracy, speed, and overall shooting experience.

Trigger Options:

  • Single-Stage: Crisp, consistent break, ideal for rapid shooting.
    • Example: ALG Defense ACT Trigger.
  • Two-Stage: Provides a lighter, more precise trigger pull for long-range shooting.
    • Example: Geissele SSA-E Trigger.
  • Drop-In: Easy to install with minimal adjustments.
    • Example: CMC Triggers Drop-In Single-Stage Trigger.

10. Magazines

High-quality magazines are crucial for reliable feeding and performance.

Magazine Features to Look For:

  • Durability: Polymer or steel construction for long-lasting performance.
  • Capacity: Standard 30-round magazines are common, but choose based on your needs.

Popular Options:

  • Magpul PMAG 30 Gen M3.
  • Lancer L5 Advanced Warfighter Magazine.

Final Thoughts

Building an AR-15 or AR-10 from an 80% lower receiver gives you the flexibility to create a firearm tailored to your needs, and the right accessories will take your build to the next level. From optics and lights to grips and triggers, every upgrade enhances performance, comfort, and functionality.

Ready to accessorize your AR build? Check out Thunder Guns for premium 80% lowers, accessories, and all the components you need to complete your custom firearm. Happy building!