Do you hunt small game like pheasants? What about big game like elk? Or maybe you just love nailing those empty cans at the shooting range!
Whatever your hobby is, if you’re the owner of an AR-15, you’re a lucky person. If you initially bought just the gun, you’re probably now dying for an upgrade: a sight, a muzzle brake, a gas block, the possibilities are almost endless.
Or, maybe you’re building your own and want to make it as modern, strong, and cool as possible. You’ve come to the right place!
If you want to make your AR-15 rifle stand out from the rest, keep reading. Here are the 15 seriously sweet AR-15 upgrades that you should consider buying in 2020.
1. 2A Armament T3 Compensator
The 2A Armament T3 Compensator is a fantastic muzzle brake available in 2020. A muzzle brake is a device you put on the barrel of your gun to lessen the recoil when you fire.
Violent kick-back can mess with the accuracy of your shot, so an AR-15 muzzle brake is a smart investment. Since a good muzzle brake can reduce muzzle rise, it can also improve your control.
This one earned a five star rating from users. Best news is that you generally won’t have to spend more than $55 dollars for a great one.
2. 2A Armament T3 Titanium Compensator
Want the same features and benefits of the 2A Armament T3 Compensator but made of titanium? Then today is your lucky day!
This great muzzle brake also comes in titanium — a lustrous silver color and one of the strongest metals on earth. Because of its incredible strength, the titanium compensator is more expensive: usually more than $100.
But all of you AR fanatics know that you tend to get what you pay for. Investing in quality material can totally be worth your money long-term.
3. Precision Armament M4-72 Severe Duty
Don’t want that nasty recoil to throw off your aim? This brake is for you.
Tested by gun enthusiasts time and time again, this brake doesn’t let your muzzle budge. Its efficacy is unmatched.
The only con: it’s super, super loud. So this won’t be your cup of tea if you’re trying to be quiet. Most AR users are used to loud sounds, though.
4. ALG Defense ACT Trigger
“Mil-Spec” stands for “military specification.” It’s a government certification applied to firearms that have been evaluated on military standards. Most importantly, on part testing.
The ALG Defense Trigger ACT is a light trigger that feels noticeably sleeker than your average trigger. Its trigger pull weight is an impressive six pounds but its still effective, sophisticated, and reliable.
5. Timney Calvin Elite
Is the ALG Defense’s six pounds still too heavy for you? Want a trigger that’s light as a feather? Fortunately, the trusty Timney brand is known for their triggers and they have a mega-light one.
There’s no lighter trigger than the Timney Calvin Elite. Only 1.5 pounds!
This is a great choice for competition shooters. The low split time is unparalleled so it can give you the fastest shooting. They’re not cheap–usually around $250–but they’re the best.
6. Geissele Two Stage Trigger
Here’s another one for you competition shooters! This trigger is two stage instead of one. This is probably the best known brand for competition shooting.
It’s non-adjustable but it’s precise and controlled. Don’t be daunted because it’s two stage: there are plenty of G2S installation videos and tutorials online.
You can find the Geissele Two Stage Trigger in the enhanced edition (more expensive) and the more budget-friendly edition. Both are reliable and have consistently good reviews.
7. Magpul MOE Handguard (Drop-In)
If you’re an AR-15 owner, you’ve surely heard of Magpul. Magpul is a very well-known name in the assault rifle world.
Handguards are either drop-in or free floating. Drop in is when you put a delta ring on the receiver of your firearm.
This drop-in handguard is the best bang for you buck. It’s definitely the most affordable option at ~$35.
8. STNGR VYPR (Free Floating)
The STNGR VYPR handguard is free floating, rather than drop-in. Free floating means there’s no delta ring on the receiver. That means it doesn’t touch the barrel, so your chances of accuracy skyrocket.
This model can be adjusted for your arm length. It’s also sleek, dark, and well-fitted.
And, still better: if you’re looking for the most budget-friendly option (that’s still super sweet), go with the STNGR VYPR. It won’t break the bank but will still look great next to your other accessories.
9. PSA Mil-Spec BCG
BCG stands for “bolt carrier groups.” A BCG comes with your rifle when you buy it. But you can always upgrade it for your individual needs!
BCGs come in all shapes, sizes, styles, and prices. Are you not a flashy or high maintenance person when it comes to your AR accessories? Do you just want something that works and works well?
Check out the PSA Mil-Spec BCG. It gets the job done. Plus, it’s totally affordable.
If you’re adding to your AR on a budget, go with this one. You know you can’t go wrong because it’s mil-spec!
10. BCM Gunfighter Charging Handle
This brand and model is also a well-known go-to amongst charging handles. A good charging handle has great balance, feels sturdy, and is easy to use.
The BCM Gunfighter hits all those nails on the head! There’s a reason it’s considered an old faithful. You can find them for around $50 at most stores.
Don’t be tempted to buy cheap for your charging handle. This model is the cheapest you’ll want to go if you still want something effective.
11. Radian Raptor Charging Handle
The Radian Raptor is slightly more expensive than the BCM Gunfighter. But that’s because it has a unique and important feature: it’s ambidextrous! Don’t worry about having to switch hands during use or getting a certain kind.
You’ll especially love the ambidextrous feature if you’re a lefty. It’s black, sturdy, and well-tested. You’ll find that the ambidextrous controls are worth the extra money.
12. Faxon Firearms 16″ Gunner
When it comes to barrels, you need to get something exactly right for your firearm. Faxon Firearms are a trustworthy brand, well-known for delivering specific barrel sizes and fits.
They don’t outsource their manufacturing to ensure accuracy and quality. The Faxon 16″ Gunner is a good price, good size, good look, and good performance: the best of all worlds!
Make sure to check your gun’s specifications, though, before buying. This model is 5.56 NATO, mid-length.
13. BSF Barrels .223 Wylde Carbon Fiber 1/8 Twist
The BSF Barrels .223 Wylde Carbon Fiber 1/8 Twist is definitely the best value for money! Who wouldn’t want a carbon fiber barrel? Talk about quality and strength!
The main barrel is silver, the twist is a dark charcoal. It doesn’t taper, it looks strong and steady.
This is a very popular model — many stores sell out of it and it frequently gets a five star rating. Trust your fellow AR users and go with what’s trusted, right?
14. Superlative Arms Adjustable Gas Block
A gas block is a part that fits over the small hole at the top of your barrel. The gas inside from your barrel from each shot has to go somewhere, right? It comes out through the hole, then down the gas tube of the gas block.
The beauty of the Superlative Arms Adjustable Gas Block? It’s adjustable.
Plus, this model is even more convenient: you don’t have to remove your handguard in order to adjust the gas block. If you’ve ever had a gas block without that feature, you know how imperative it is!
You can find this in-store for around $90. Super worth the money.
15. Primary Arms Silver Series 1-6×24 SFP
The Primary Arms 1-6×24 is well-known as an astonishingly well-rounded scope. The glass is high quality, so it’s especially clear. That increases your accuracy and overall view.
This model also has the ACSS reticle, an impressive technological feat by Primary Arms. You can use it for short and long range shooting at the same time! It may sound complex, but the “how” is actually pretty easy to understand.
On top of being the best scope that you can ask for technologically, it’s also nature-proof. It won’t break in water, fog, or from shock. So no more worrying about your scope when you go out into the elements!
The Best AR-15 Upgrades of 2020 are No Longer a Secret
Whether you take your hounds out to bird, your buddies out to spot wild boar, or your kids over to the shooting range, an AR-15 is pretty much the coolest thing you can own. It’s 2020, so of course AR upgrades are better than ever.
Now, the best AR-15 upgrades are no longer a secret or just “insider” knowledge. Pimp out your latest AR purchase with a muzzle brake, a trigger, a handguard, or a game-changing scope. And be sure to check out our other articles about lifestyle here.
To read more on topics like this, check out the lifestyle category.
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