Build a lightweight competition-ready AR-15 with Caleb from Brownells in this full rifle build walkthrough. In this video, Caleb assembles a .223/5.56 AR-15 designed for practical competition shooting, tactical games, Gunfighter Gauntlet, and fast-moving rifle stages. The focus is on reducing weight without sacrificing reliability, durability, or performance.
This AR-15 build features a Brownells pencil barrel, Midwest Industries lightweight handguard, Magpul furniture and controls, a Rise Armament trigger, adjustable gas system, LPVO setup, and a full breakdown of lower and upper receiver assembly. Caleb also covers setup tips for left-handed shooters, proper accessory placement, M-LOK installation, castle nut staking, gas block alignment, and competition-focused ergonomics.
Whether you’re building your first AR-15 or refining a lightweight competition rifle setup, this video walks through every major step while explaining component choices and practical setup considerations.
Approximate Chapters
00:00 Intro and Competition AR Build Overview
01:47 Lower Receiver Setup and Tools
02:19 Installing the Magazine Catch
05:59 Rise Armament Trigger Installation
08:36 Installing the Ambidextrous Safety Selector
13:22 Grip Installation and Selector Setup
15:32 Trigger Guard Installation
19:41 Buffer Tube and Rear Assembly
22:24 Staking the Castle Nut
23:50 A5 Buffer System and Stock Setup
25:55 Upper Receiver and Barrel Installation
27:03 Installing the Dust Cover
27:59 Brownells Pencil Barrel Overview
29:25 Midwest Industries Lightweight Handguard
31:35 Adjustable Gas Block Installation
34:26 Handguard Alignment and Torque
36:05 Installing the Muzzle Device
37:13 Bolt Carrier Group and Charging Handle
39:12 Full Rifle Function Check
39:45 Mounting the LPVO
40:41 Competition Accessories and M-LOK Setup
43:40 Barricade Stop Placement Tips
46:01 Sling Mount Installation
47:04 Final Thoughts on the Competition AR Build
Products Featured
Brownells Pencil Barrel 14.5″
Midwest Industries Lightweight Handguard
Trijicon Credo LPVO
Rise Armament RA-100 Trigger
Magpul Furniture and Accessories
Faxon Adjustable Gas Block
KAK K-Spec Bolt Carrier Group
Bravo Company Mod 3 Flash Hider
Great video I learned a few things however the muted General Alarm background noise has to go it drove me crazy I thought it was coming from my TV!!
I wish I had as much serenity and zen as you. So calm. Like the Mr. Rogers of guns lol.
skipping the range was wack, how do we know it shoots well?
That's a Magpul PRS stock…
real question is how did you get your hands on an Aero lower 👀
Why not use the dry lube on the bcg?
I just got every hop up V Seven has with their light weight receivers. It’s a dream gun now.
Phase 5 EBRv3 >>>>>> Magpul B.A.D. Lever
The apron would be drippy.
What buffer weight were you running in that setup? Awesome builds, as always! 🔥
2:04 immediately the front takedown pin is inside? Failure of a video.
Midwest makes such good stuff.
Good stuff. Enjoyed. 👍🏻
Question regarding my next build, I want a 338ARC, what is the best barrel length? I don't care that it has to be SBR. Also what about buffer weight? Should I use an adjustable gas block? Thanks
Great video. Well done
Scarf up Zediker's books! Zediker publishing.
They'd be a good addition to Brownell's library.
get that apron back on!