AR-15 Accessories

Frequently Asked Questions about AR-15 Accessories 

• What are the essential accessories to add to an AR-15 or must-have accessories for an AR-15?
  For any gun that you plan to potentially use for defensive purposes, it means a sling, light, and an optic. If you ask around, you’ll learn that essential AR-15 accessories vary based on user preferences. However, common upgrades include a high-quality optic or sight, a reliable flashlight for low-light conditions, a comfortable and adjustable stock, and a durable handguard. A quality sling for stability, a foregrip for improved control, and an upgraded charging handle can also enhance overall usability and performance.
  
  
• Can I add a suppressor to my AR-15?
  Yes, a suppressor can be added to an AR-15, but it requires compliance with local laws and regulations. Suppressors reduce sound and muzzle flash, making shooting more comfortable and less noticeable. You may need a threaded barrel and potentially other modifications for proper fit. If you are planning to run a suppressor, you should plan from the earliest stages. This means also thinking about barrel length, muzzle device, and gas system.
  
  
• Should I add a bipod to my AR-15?
  Adding a bipod can be beneficial for increased stability, especially for long-range or bench shooting. For users focused on tactical or close-range use, a bipod may add unnecessary weight. Determine your shooting style before deciding.
  
  
• What are the benefits of adding a foregrip?
  A foregrip provides additional control and stability, especially during rapid fire or tactical movement. It can reduce fatigue on the support hand and allow for a more secure grip, enhancing accuracy. They are helpful, but for some, they just get in the way. Only you can decide if one is necessary.
  
  
• Can I install a different stock on my AR-15?
  Yes, the AR-15 platform allows for various stock options, including adjustable, fixed, and collapsible stocks. Choose one based on your comfort, intended use, and ergonomic needs. You can’t go wrong with choices from Magpul and B5 Systems.
  
  
• Is a handguard necessary?
  Yes, a handguard is essential for protecting your hand from the barrel’s heat during firing and provides mounting points for accessories. Handguards come in many styles, with options for free-floating for better accuracy or drop-in for easier installation.
  
  
• What’s the purpose of a muzzle brake?
  A muzzle brake reduces recoil and muzzle rise, helping the shooter maintain better control and faster follow-up shots. It is especially helpful for high-rate firing and for users wanting a smoother shooting experience.
  
  
• Should I use iron sights or optics?
  On a modern rifle, there’s no excuse for not using an optic. Factually speaking, though, the answer depends on preference and application. Iron sights are reliable and durable, while optics (like red dots or scopes) can improve accuracy and speed. Many shooters opt for backup iron sights alongside optics for versatility.
  
  
• Can I add a laser to my AR-15?
  You could, but we would skip this idea and focus instead on a red dot or LPVO. However, adding a laser is possible and can improve aiming speed in close-range or low-light conditions. Pair it properly on the handguard and confirm it aligns well with your shooting stance.
  
  
• Are extended magazines a good accessory?
  Extended magazines provide additional ammunition capacity beyond 30 rounds, which can be beneficial in various shooting scenarios. However, they may add weight and bulk, affecting handling. Verify legality, as some regions restrict magazine capacity. The only extended magazine we currently trust is the Magpul 60-round offering. Everything else is a range toy.
  
  
• Should I add a sling to my AR-15?
  Yes, a sling is highly recommended. It allows for hands-free carry, enhances stability when shooting, and can improve tactical mobility. Two-point slings are common for their simplicity and security, while single-point slings are preferred for quick transitions between shooting positions.
  
  
• Can I attach a bayonet to my AR-15?
  It’s possible, but bayonet mounts are less common in modern applications and are usually more practical for military or historical purposes. For most civilian shooters, this accessory is unnecessary. Skip this unless you are going for some sort of retro build as a wall-hanger.
  
  
• Is a pistol grip necessary?
  Yes, a pistol grip is essential for proper ergonomics and control over the rifle and is an integral part of what makes an AR an AR – its ergonomics. That said, there are a ton of grip options around. Different styles and angles are available, so choose one that feels comfortable and fits your shooting style.
  
  
• Can I add a different trigger to my AR-15?
  Yes, upgrading the trigger can enhance accuracy and responsiveness. You can choose from single-stage or two-stage triggers with varying pull weights depending on your shooting needs. Ensure compatibility with your specific lower receiver.
  
  
• Do I need a magazine well grip?
  These exist, but it’s not something we’d necessarily recommend unless you have a pressing and specific issue. They do not come standard on ARs for a reason. However, for those who do decide to use one, a magazine well grip could arguably improve reloading speed and handling. It provides a grip area around the magazine well, which some find helpful in fast-paced shooting or tactical situations. Again, this is not something we’d add to any AR we own, and it feels a bit “Call of Duty” for our tastes. Do your research.
  
  
• Can I add a forward assist to my AR-15?
  Most AR-15s come with a forward assist, which helps in ensuring the bolt is fully seated. For those without one, adding it isn’t usually necessary unless you need absolute reliability in harsh conditions. As far as adding, it would require swapping out your upper receiver, which would mean a lot of work. Bottom line, if you want a forward assist, you probably want to plan to have one at the beginning.
  
  
• Are all AR-15 accessories interchangeable?
  Not all AR-15 accessories are interchangeable due to different manufacturers' variances in mil-spec vs. commercial-spec dimensions, calibers, and proprietary designs. As the late Will Larson often said, ARs are NOT Legos. Learn about what tolerance stacking is and why it’s a bad thing. Always verify compatibility with your specific model before purchasing.