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I have an aero precision stripped lower that I am building up right now. I am trying to decide what brand I should look at for uppers or full build kits to complete it. From the looking I have done it is most likely between PSA and BCA. So if anyone has any advice on which to pick or other suggestions, I am all ears. I am looking to make a cheaper gun but not a piece of shit gun. I was also looking at Ceratac, if anyone has had any experience w. them. I've dealt with their customer service just to ask questions and they were very helpful but they're extremely cheap so I get worried. So any help would be appreciated. Sorry for the wall of text.

TL/DR: I'm building an AR15 and need to buy a cheap(yet somewhat reliable) brand complete upper receiver, any suggestions, advice, warnings, or otherwise relevant information is welcomed and will be appreciated.

I have an aero precision stripped lower that I am building up right now. I am trying to decide what brand I should look at for uppers or full build kits to complete it. From the looking I have done it is most likely between PSA and BCA. So if anyone has any advice on which to pick or other suggestions, I am all ears. I am looking to make a cheaper gun but not a piece of shit gun. I was also looking at Ceratac, if anyone has had any experience w. them. I've dealt with their customer service just to ask questions and they were very helpful but they're extremely cheap so I get worried. So any help would be appreciated. Sorry for the wall of text. TL/DR: I'm building an AR15 and need to buy a cheap(yet somewhat reliable) brand complete upper receiver, any suggestions, advice, warnings, or otherwise relevant information is welcomed and will be appreciated.

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[–] • 0 pt

If you wanted to switch from DI to piston you would have to change so many things it would be easier to buy a second upper. It's not hard to change the lower with the fire control group and stock to a different upper. I don't have a piston AR so I'm speculating but most parts would probably have to be changed on an upper assembly to convert. I think the barrel and bolt could be kept but the upper receiver, bolt carrier, and gas block would probably be different. Just switching the gas block is enough trouble to keep me from wanting to do it. You'd have to really love your barrel to try the swap.

Again, watch for a sale and pick up a second upper if you really have to have a piston gun. Putting it on your lower is less than a minute.

Handguns: Although I prefer more expensive models, I have heard many opinions about things on the market in your price range. Probably the best report on cheap ones is on the Canik. I have heard their lower priced models are solid. You might also look at the better condition Star model BM that is being imported. They are used Spanish military/police guns. https://www.guns.com/news/review/star-model-bm-a-colt-1911-for-the-cash-strapped

There are some ragged Stars out there. Make sure you get one that is in VG or Exc condition. I suspect you can find one for around $300. Don't get one of the ones that are obviously worn on the outside. They are out of stock at the importer so look for one at gun shops or a trustworthy seller online.

Lots of folks were free with advice for me when I was just getting started shooting. I hope I've been of help to you.

[–] • 0 pt

Thanks again man. All good to know. Last question. The side charging upper. You think that is an issue? Or have any thoughts on that. I was gonna go w. ambidextrous but have found some cheap uppers (I think their cheap), complete upper for 230$ from BCA but its side charging. Btw is that a decent price?. And I've been looking at the Stars. Never heard of them before. I'm not opposed to buying used. They seem pretty legit. Thanks again

[–] • 0 pt

The Star BM in VG+ condition is a good value if under $250. It's a 9mm which is sufficient for most social encounters. https://www.jgsales.com/star-bm,-9mm-luger,-compact-semi-auto-pistol,-vg,-blued,-used.-p-85501.html

BCA stuff is pretty inexpensive. IDK about the side charger. I'm not familiar with them. I use an ambi rear charger. Some people like the side because it interacts less with a scope. Go for the Wylde chamber, then it's pretty much what's in stock and what you feel you'll be OK using. Really, almost anything that isn't cross handed (left handed for RH user) will work fine.

If you enjoy shooting your first AR, there will be an upgrade in your future.

[–] • 0 pt

Really appreciate it man. Probably seemed like some stupid/obvious questions, but ya helped me out quite a bit. So thanks again. I may hit you up again if I get stuck when I'm assembling it. lol. Take care and be well man. I'm sure I'll see you on here in the future.