Hunting Gear: AR-15 Lower & Upper Receivers
Although words “AR-15” and “hunting” aren’t always used in the same sentence, you can by all means use your AR for legitimately taking game, for example, wild pigs (a.k.a. feral pigs, boars or hogs) which are rather plentiful, especially in the United States. The right shot placement is crucial when hunting; you need something that will result in a quick kill and the minimal meat damage. But, the accessories, such as interchangeable upper receiver, are what make an AR so versatile (Grendel 6.5, 300 AAC Blackout, .50 Beowulf, .450 Bushmaster and .458 SOCOM Upper receiver are worth mentioning).
AR rifles might appear overwhelming to newbies, because of many fancy terms and so many parts, not to mention the accessories. Once you get the basic understanding, you’ll be able to see what goes where and how to customize your own rifle: perfect for you needs, especially if you’re using it for hunting.
The foundation of an AR is its lower receiver; it houses the magazine catch, hammer and trigger, while attaching to the pistol grip and stock. While you can buy barrels, magazines, stocks and uppers of an AR right off the shelf without a question, when purchasing a lower, you’ll need to go through the common steps of buying a firearm. Although it’s basically just a handle without the other parts, lower receiver is considered a firearm and it has a serial number.
An important piece of the puzzle that truly defines any AR is its upper receiver (and barrel). It determines at what distance your AR is the most accurate and the ammunition you’ll use. If you’re into building your own rifle, buy stripped upper receiver, not the barreled one.
