+That One Burrito Not true. Many times people are heard breaking in and you do have 30 seconds or more to prepare for their entrance. A good sling will prevent your long arm from being taken from you in the close quarters of your home. Still think it's not worth the 5 seconds it takes to don a sling? If it's a one point sling, (which it should be for this application) it will not get caught on stuff. This is why one point slings are used by military and LE for dynamic entry (raiding your home).
The Ruger and the S&W budget ARs are getting great reviews. Let’s face it most people aren’t ever gonna put enough rounds through any rifle to shoot the barrel out. Why not save a few bucks?
Thanks for taking the time to post! When the M-16 first came out, to put it politely, it had issues, some had deadly results for our soldiers in Vietnam. There are friends of mine who will not own one, to this day, because of something that happened 50 + years ago. When my son deployed to Afghanistan as part of a Sapper Squad, he did light cleaning on his M4 after every mission (swab the bore, wipe the bolt if no shots were fired) and a full take-down, detail cleaning approximately every two weeks, or after every fire-fight. There were some missions where he was out for 6 to 7 weeks. This is a long way of saying, things have changed for the better since this weapon was first introduced. I think it's great that you take the time to share your experiences and wisdom with others. God bless!
Eatly m16 problems were most often caused because the government changed up the powder in the ammo, the rifle was designed around a specific cartridge, and that cartridge was changed, because the original proper propellent was more expensive or harder to mass produce...the sub prime powder caused malgunctions, thats the government's fault, not the guns fault....either way, substantial progress has been made in both weapon design, and smokless powder....nowadays AR platform Rifles are Very reliable
the security company I work for now, we do security work at that shopping center where hyatt is located, been there and got some truglo night sights for my glock and they installed it for me for free, great gun store and awesome knowledgeable people
I was able to build my AR with the help of sootch00's instructional videos with ease. I dont have any fancy tools or blocks or whatever. Just man powered the barrel nut etc. thing shoots like a dream. I love it.
I was at that gun store when me and the family went down to Charlotte , NC for a ACN convention 7years ago . The family went to the convention and I went gun store sight seeing . I'm pretty sure I had more fun because none of them are in ACN anymore but I'm still into guns : )
Good point about Turning your sight on. I run the holosun510c on both mine and my wife’s ar’s It has motion detection activation and it’s an excellent reflex sight with a solar source as well. MBUS polymer sights but I’ll eventually replace those with metal. Not in a rush cause the polymer are dependable.
Great information, a lot of new gun owners get there first new rifle, and think there ready to protect themselves, never giving though to some of the basics.
Sootch00= the best! A wealth of knowledge and experience, and so willing to share it! I'm building my first AR right now, and you have taught me just about everything I need to know, in order to successfully build my first Rifle. I wish you could come to MN and help me properly set the barrel and gas block, etc;).....Keep up the great work, I'll keep watching no matter what!
Good video. Good to see basics redone periodically so people getting into guns have lots of good info. It's easy to be overwhelmed just looking for some basic info.
Anderson Manufacturing makes runs of lower receivers for Colt's, which simply applies its roll-mark. I got my Anderson lower for $30 on sale, while the exact same ones from Colt's are never less than $400!
+chouyi007 same here.. fuck brands there are only a few factories that make the forged ar lower.. he even talks about it in this video..... where he says that supply could easily be cut off.. "thats why he likes billet"... because companies do have the ability to make them if they become illegal? "I like freedom" ... lol.......... silly excuse to talk people into buying guns that are 4 to 5 times over priced... Daytona Tactical- I just built a 16in 300 blk, key mod rail, Nib bcg, anderson lower. for $470... so when I see rifles that are selling for 2200- 2800??? I feel sorry for those people
Great video, another thing I tell people about building their own ar15 is that if they build it they will learn their rifle so when there is a problem they know what they are looking at not scratching their head going what the crap!
***** I heard a differing philosophy. Consider learning to drive. Should you learn on a manual transmission car? That means you have to learn to work the clutch and transmission, while you are learning to control the car, deal with traffic and navigate. Isn't it better to start with an automatic and get experience driving first, then learn a manual transmission? Likewise, when someone is new to shooting, let them use an optical sight system at first, as he or she is getting used to shooting, changing magazines, aiming, breath control etc. Then, after the new shooter is comfortable go to iron sights. Don't skip the step - require that they be used, but just do it in the reverse order. I am not an experience shooter and am not claiming this philosophy is correct. I'm presenting it as I heard it to get opinions from people with more experience than I have so I can decide for myself. I have two AR-15s to my name. One was purchased with iron sights, and the second was a lower that I built, and added a "flat top" upper. It was a "budget" build, so I put on a budget scope. I'll probably change to iron sights, because I quickly learned that cheap scopes are not suited to a carbine length AR.
excavatoree For first time shooters, I prefer leaving optics on. Either a scope or red dot depending on the firearm. They're simply easier to shoot than the typical iron sight systems. The last thing I want to do is discourage someone from getting into firearms because they aren't having fun missing targets. Once they're enjoying themselves and interested in the hobby, I then work from the ground up with iron sights. But I think it all depends on the individual, you want to tailor your teaching to best enhance their learning experience. Some people learn to drive better with an automatic, others with a manual.
Vinny Barbin How is the analogy flawed? In both cases, the novice is first assisted with some, but not all of the required activities. Then, after the novice learns some of the activities and gets them committed to memory, and becomes skilful, the assistance is removed and the additional skills can be learned. If one learns first with an optic, then learns iron sights, the result is the same - a shooter that can shoot with iron sights.
I just don't see the difference. Someone who learns with an optic, then learn iron sights will be the same shooter as someone who learned iron sights, then added the optic. I'm open minded, I'm willing to learn from both sides. I've heard the explanation of why it's better to use optics first, (my earlier post isn't my opinion, just what I heard from someone who believes that) but I haven't heard an explanation of why it's better to learn iron sights first. I know that it's important to know how to use them, and to practice and become proficient with iron sights. One can't just learn optics and stop. That's no good.
I kept wanting to "thumbs up" this every few minutes and kept realizing I already had. Smiled throughout the entire vid. Very very good vid and you're a great presenter!
I have an aimpoint comp m4 , when I baught it I had no immediate use for it cause I baught like 3 electronic sights at once. I turned it on and left it running in the drawer. It ran for 2 years now ( the manual reads it can run on a single AA battery for 8 years [ I will change it out after 4 years ] ) and it still is running strong. now I mounted it onto my saiga and it stays on. you dont need to turn it on and even if you need to modify the intensity the wheel is way more easy to operate than the pushbuttons. I added a frontcap ( objectiveside ) from buttlercreek and a transluminescent cap on the rear side ( setup taken form the aimpoint patrol because you see the dot and you know where it shoots even if the frontcap is still closed ) and mounted the aimpoint where I can flip it open with the thumb of my frontstockhand without altering handposition. for irons I suggest to look into the trijicon diamondback sights.
What a great Toy Store. I could spend a lot of time there. If they have a food court and some comfortable chairs, I could spend a sure nuff LOT of time there.
Basic knowledge, but some people just don't have the experience or know what information they really need. There's tons of info out there, and it can be intimidating for newbies. Glad to see you trying to help out all experience levels. However, for a defense rifle, you left out one very important item: a light.
It's a 16" barrel w/ a M4 placed gas block that is butting up against the hand guard. Not the best setup, it tends to send a bit more carbon back into the receiver. Still reliable, but you're gonna have to clean it more.
Good vid as always. A couple of suggestions: 1. Electronic hearing muffs. Will amplify sounds if someone breaks in / sneaking around and also protect your hearing. Once you light one off inside a room you will appreciate ear protection. 2. A vest with armor makes a lot of sense if things go south. You have reviewed some good choices. Looking forward to your next vid. Will
Good advice for the new/novice AR-15 owner. If I may recommend one addition to your comprehensive list it would be "take a training class from a licensed NRA instructor (or similar agency)". Stick that bullet point right in after ammo, magazines and sights. Just my opinion. Overall, excellent video, as usual. Thanks.
I think a light should be higher up on the list ! you're more likely to use the light for home defense scenario then the sling! I put being able to see what I'm shooting pretty high up on the list! keep pumping out good videos! you the MAN!!!
***** Yay the video is up! Haha. I was the guy in the green shirt that came down from Virginia. Great to finally meet you Don/Sootch! Had a great time and learned quite a few things at the seminAR. (see what I did there? Lol corny, I know.)
Sootch00, I can't believe that you were here in Charlotte, NC; and in Hyatt, my go to store. I was in there last week and would've enjoyed the opportunity to meet you. I enjoy all of your videos that I've seen so far on the tube, so keep up the good work and stay in the fight.
Great video!! I have had an AR-15 for about a year, but have done very little to it, even though it sits next to my bed for home defense. You've given me some really good suggestions. And, my company is currently moving our office from Atlanta to Charlotte, so Ill be sure to stop by Hyatt Guns. Sounds like good people there.
The only problem with building an AR-15 is that you can run into problems along the way. You learn a better way to do it which means you take what you learned from the first one and end up thinking about building a second one which is better, although I am fairly pleased with how my first one turned out. The main thing I would say is to use parts of standard dimensions. The Daniel defense RIS II is not compatible with the Vltor upper and gen 3 PMags will not work with the Gen 2 Noveske lower with the flared magazine well. The noveske barrel is also super heavy. I think I will go for a govt profile 20 inch barrel on the next build with a lighter rail.
I have enjoyed listening to your views and ideas since I subscribed last year, this video included. With so much mis information out on the web I appreciate your candor.
Great video for new AR guys. We need to be bringing in more, inexperienced citizens into the fold. With proper teaching/training, we can hold on to and expand our 2nd amendment rights.
Glad I found ya. Im J.D. from Texas via Utah. I own a Colt M4 Carbine 6920 AR-15. Love it. I shop at a great gun store in Orem called Gunnies. Take care
Great vid sootch! Really appreciate the vid. I liked your comments on the importants of optics. It changed my initial thoughts on the value of optics for a WROL home defense weapon. Greetings from WNC!!!
Ammunition... Mark on each box the date of manufacture (if know) with a Sharpie. If you don't know date of mfg, mark the date of purchase, month and year is good enough. This way you can "rotate the stock", shoot oldest ammo first. Keep ammo in metal milspec ammo cans, preferably with a desiccant pack. You can tape a tag on the can with contents info. I have some intended for cracker and cookie jars, glass with a vented metal end, turns pink when saturated, put in the oven and bake until they turn blue (dry) again.
Sootch, I love your videos, been watching them for a while now. That opening statement about your neighbor having a home invasion and had to go get his gun, and your home being broke into... I mean, if I go to a bigger city I've heard talk from guys that say, yea, they have a gun for personal protection, and there are legitimate reasons for it. Me I live in a small town. We leave our doors to our house unlocked, most people do. If I go to someones house, I knock on the door, open the door and say "hey man you home?" Can't do that in bigger cities. I don't know, it's still such a shock that people actually live that way for me. Grant it, if you come in trying to do something stupid I don't have to get my gun, it's already on me, but I don't expect anyone to do anything stupid. It's just never happened.
Sootch: Just want to give you a 👍 on your talk. I even learn something myself! I might have to go with a billet lower next time. Thanks for posting your talk for those of us that live so far away and couldn't make it. 🇺🇸🔫
Wow Sootch, I did not know that Hyatt Guns was in Charlotte, NC.. I go into Charlotte to use the VA facility on Tyvola Road. I will have to see how close Hyatts is to that location and maybe pay them a visit. I will call them to see if they have an AR-15A1 upper receiver for a price I can afford.
About the piston AR’s also, they are bad for having carrier tilt issues. I shelled out $1,800 for a Ruger SSR .556 piston model when they first came out. Only to find out after 100 rounds my bolt carrier was already starting to wear away at the lower portion of my buffer tube. If you want a piston gun that has no issues with the piston system buy an AK. Great video sooch00!
Hey sootch00 is that a PSA AR15 In your opening. I have a PSA top end on my S&W lower I put it together fit and finish was perfect price was right. The first thing I purchased was rear iron Sight, it came with a front sight. I have ammo and magazines. On slings I alway sling while at the range even picking up brass reason the is because it’s been a range for 60 years. If someone leaves the gate unlocked anyone can drive in and we have had assaults near our range. On triggers I use the grip screws creep adjust it works.
Good vid, I got plenty out of it, is very much community service...thank you much and greatly appreciated. In these uncertain times and corvin 19 settings...what good is stocking up and prepping without defense and protection.
You should do a video at Trop Gun Shop. It's 32,000 square feet. It has an indoor range, cigar lounge, VIP Club, gym, training class room, and a every gun you could imagine.
I will never use an ar15 in my house for home defense WITHOUT hearing protection. I had a negligent discharge in a small room with my AR a couple weeks ago and it seriously fucked up my hearing. It was seriously the loudest thing I've ever heard by a long shot. If you are planning using an ar for home defense, be sure to keep some hearing protection near by.
+Foreezybeezy1 That's great advice which is usually overlooked in presentations like this. I, myself, am guilty of forgetting this caveat; I won't in the future. It goes without saying that for home defense, one would need electronic hearing protection that would allow the homeowner to hear noises an intruder would be making. Grabbing the electric earmuffs, getting them switched on, and then grabbing the rifle takes time. I think that where very rapid response is needed, it's hard to beat a Glock with a Streamlight. Ideally, you'd want muffs for that gun, as well, but your ears would probably survive if you didn't have time to put them.
electronic ear pro is recommended nearby regardless. If you hear a bump in the night and you can put your electronic ears on, it actually amplifies the sounds around you, and you can identify if there is infact an intruder.
+Foreezybeezy1 Maybe you need a safety training course... Do you not CLEAR the rifle?? safe the rifle?? I mean WTF.. I spent 22 years in the military and own MANY guns... NEVER have I had a "negligent discharge" especially in a fuking room...
+AJB.223 Thank you for having the courage to be honest and sharing something embarrassing in the hopes that someone might learn from it. You had to realize that all knowing internet assholes would be all over you so, thanks. Yes, a great amount of air is spent extolling the virtue of carbines for self defense. what few will tell you is how mind numbingly loud they are indoors. keep Wolf ears (or a more modern version) near the rifle, they amplify low level sounds while cancelling out some of the muzzle blast. Commandos use suppressed weapons for a few reasons, not the least of which is the preservation of their own hearing in CQB.
unintended discharges happen to anybody. even Mr survival pepper on video. mine happen with a ar 15 as well. my brother chambered it last. and I guess he pussie footed the charging handle and the extractor didn't catch the round. I cleared it. Nothing came out. pulled the trigger facing the ground.... BOOM. I learned to rack it multiple times hard after that
I love your videos Sootch00. I hippie one day we'll meet and I can shake your hand because over the long time I've sub to your both your channels I've learned a shitload. Keep doing what you do and we'll keep watching and learning brother.
Funny I bought some steel plate body armor around the time this video came out without even realizing that body armor is in trouble. Looks like I'll be investing in some AR500 soon. It sucks as a younger guy trying to prep for all this crap when your budget is so low D:
GI Josh just remember some things will be readly available in the after math. ..im on a budget as well and i regally check up on my friend and neighbors to see what they have and dont have.i dont tell them why i just do a inventory of what they have .if there is something no one has i buy that.i buy the caliber gun they shoot so i can have more ammo.i dont expect most of them to survive anyway. they take preping lightly .and most of the stuff they have would not keep them alive long. but with what i have and them i will be good and on budget.i know where to get things i need without speeding lots..and it saves me room as well
Know your target and what lies behind it. ARs, in my opinion, are the worst for home defense because your rounds are going through your target, through the wall, and into the next room or two rooms. This is increased with the fact that most people are using FMJ which is designed to go through targets, again, endagering your family. If you are outside of your home then I could understand the use of a long gun to protect your property or animals. Good video with great basic knowledge for first time buyers.
Very informative video for someone that JUST walked in to the world of ARs. I am in no way an expert in personal or home defense, but the seminar seemed to stray away from the basics of home defense gear and leaned more towards what would be nice upgrades to your rifle at the range. A weapon light for target acquisition at night/early morning should be more of a priority. like you said: your neighbor had their house broken in at 6:00.
+Humberto Garza more important than anything, make sure a new rifle is reliable before putting it to use as a home defense weapon or start packing on upgrades, accessories, and furniture
For home defense you need the pump action 12 gauge shotgun accessory option which is readily available for under $300. Another option is the .45 ACP side firearm which again is readily available for a nominal fee. Both of these accessories are a simple point and shoot operation that requires little more effort then common sense and discretion. .
I’m not expert so please make your own assessment but there is a lot of people talking about over penetration of 5.56 vs handgun and shotguns. I urge you to look at the different tests. They all seem to penetrate about the same. The slower heavier bullets it’s handguns seem to push through dry way just as well. I’ve seen some of the super light super fast 223 rounds break up a little quicker than most everything else.... just a word from the other side of the fence, check it out for yourself.
I'm so jealous! You are so great guys, with great guns, and you're making so good community! And I can only see this guns on pictures and TH-cam videos, because in my country carrying guns is allowed only to police and military stuff on duty.
AR-15 for home defense! 16" tops. 10.5 is better! For home defense indoors, 10.5 barrel. If you intend to use it in and out, 16" barrel, one gun for both. Red dot is good and a light that is momentary remote activated by a presure switch. 20 round mags should do the job unless you would rather use 30's. No more than that is necessary unless you would like some iron sights. In that case a good set of diamond sights such as Troy would work well. DC GUNSMITH, FFL, Vietnam Veteran.
Great discussion! What would you recommend for storage? If you keep your rifle within reach for home defense purposes, you run the risk of the rifle falling into the wrong hands (i.e. children finding the rifle and something bad happening), but if you keep it locked up in a safe, it's not as accessible at the drop of a hat. What's the best move?
MARTHA! I told you to stay in the house! That Sootch feller is crawling around outside his shed with that scary black rifle again! LOL!!! -- Good stuff Sir!
I need to get a better trigger on my Windham Weaponry MPC. It's not really good for faster shooting. I didn't realize it till I bought an AK with a Tapco G2 trigger . I think it will make the gun more fun to shoot. I love that AK trigger.
Great video, but there's one problem I have with it: the light. The way I figure it chances are I know the inside of my house a lot better than any run of the mill criminal does, so why in the world would I want to give away my position - and the element of surprise - before I locate and prioritize the threat(s)? A lot of guys like light shows of all kinds, but if somebody's in my house and doesn't belong there, I figure he's playing on MY turf and I have home field advantage.
Mr.sootch00 I have almost all the parts to complete my AR project the only thing i need really is a few (10/30 mags) yes i know it sucks for me I'm in southern Cali but i am also looking into a light what size and minimum lumens do you recommend and thank you for all the informative videos you do
I have found the biggest things needed for a good, reliable, accurate rifle are a quality barrel, a quality BCG, a quality magazine and balance/tune your buffer spring & weight with your gas system. Those things are the guts of the rifle. The rest is just icing. You don't need a high $ lower or even upper. Those just hold the barrel & stuff so as long as they are in spec it doesn't matter if they are Spikes, Bushmaster, CMMG, LWRC etc. Yea, fancy ones are nice but any forged, mil spec lower will work just fine. Any stock will work, any handguard will work. Anyways, point being, you don't need to spend a fortune to build a quality AR. Start with a quality base rifle & add the extras as you need, want, or can afford to.
I am new on the ar world I bought a new ruger ar 556 I like it. My brother have a s&w 15 magpul he tells me to change the buffer that comes with the gun to a spike tactical st-t2 because is heavier and better for recoil I was hoping you can give me advice about it. Thanks for the assistance always great to watch your videos.
I was hoping he was going to go into the best AR round for home defense. I hear about over penetration and would like to hear about specific ammo to minimize penetration.
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1. Reliable Magazines
2. Flash Light
3. Red Dot for Intermediate distance and under. ( 250 yards and under) and back up sights
4. Sling
Agreed, but why the sling? If I were you i would be nervous of it getting it caught on a door nob.
Brian Frey 1. Can't take a rifle away from me if I am wearing my single point. 2. A sling for a rifle is like a holster for a pistol
***** I always have my sling on my loaded rifle
+That One Burrito Not true. Many times people are heard breaking in and you do have 30 seconds or more to prepare for their entrance. A good sling will prevent your long arm from being taken from you in the close quarters of your home. Still think it's not worth the 5 seconds it takes to don a sling? If it's a one point sling, (which it should be for this application) it will not get caught on stuff. This is why one point slings are used by military and LE for dynamic entry (raiding your home).
that's about it there
Being on a very tight budget, I bought the Ruger AR 556. It has top quality barrel, bolt and pretty good receiver. Very nice!
The Ruger and the S&W budget ARs are getting great reviews. Let’s face it most people aren’t ever gonna put enough rounds through any rifle to shoot the barrel out. Why not save a few bucks?
My dream is to go through a gun shop like this and just go to town picking out accessories and gear.. You're a natural teacher...
Thanks for taking the time to post! When the M-16 first came out, to put it politely, it had issues, some had deadly results for our soldiers in Vietnam. There are friends of mine who will not own one, to this day, because of something that happened 50 + years ago.
When my son deployed to Afghanistan as part of a Sapper Squad, he did light cleaning on his M4 after every mission (swab the bore, wipe the bolt if no shots were fired) and a full take-down, detail cleaning approximately every two weeks, or after every fire-fight. There were some missions where he was out for 6 to 7 weeks. This is a long way of saying, things have changed for the better since this weapon was first introduced.
I think it's great that you take the time to share your experiences and wisdom with others. God bless!
Eatly m16 problems were most often caused because the government changed up the powder in the ammo, the rifle was designed around a specific cartridge, and that cartridge was changed, because the original proper propellent was more expensive or harder to mass produce...the sub prime powder caused malgunctions, thats the government's fault, not the guns fault....either way, substantial progress has been made in both weapon design, and smokless powder....nowadays AR platform Rifles are Very reliable
You are spot on about building your own being an addictive past time
Thank you still applicable 5 years later in 2020. Especially, during these uncertain times !
the security company I work for now, we do security work at that shopping center where hyatt is located, been there and got some truglo night sights for my glock and they installed it for me for free, great gun store and awesome knowledgeable people
Nice video. I agree, building a rifle is the best way to understand how it functions and it's just plain fun. Thanks for sharing!!
I was able to build my AR with the help of sootch00's instructional videos with ease. I dont have any fancy tools or blocks or whatever. Just man powered the barrel nut etc. thing shoots like a dream. I love it.
I was at that gun store when me and the family went down to Charlotte , NC for a ACN convention 7years ago . The family went to the convention and I went gun store sight seeing . I'm pretty sure I had more fun because none of them are in ACN anymore but I'm still into guns : )
Good point about Turning your sight on. I run the holosun510c on both mine and my wife’s ar’s It has motion detection activation and it’s an excellent reflex sight with a solar source as well. MBUS polymer sights but I’ll eventually replace those with metal. Not in a rush cause the polymer are dependable.
Thanks. Very interesting and informative. I'm thinking about acquiring my first AR-15.
Great information, a lot of new gun owners get there first new rifle, and think there ready to protect themselves, never giving though to some of the basics.
Sootch00= the best! A wealth of knowledge and experience, and so willing to share it! I'm building my first AR right now, and you have taught me just about everything I need to know, in order to successfully build my first Rifle. I wish you could come to MN and help me properly set the barrel and gas block, etc;).....Keep up the great work, I'll keep watching no matter what!
Good video. Good to see basics redone periodically so people getting into guns have lots of good info. It's easy to be overwhelmed just looking for some basic info.
Anderson Manufacturing makes runs of lower receivers for Colt's, which simply applies its roll-mark. I got my Anderson lower for $30 on sale, while the exact same ones from Colt's are never less than $400!
+chouyi007
same here.. fuck brands
there are only a few factories that make the forged ar lower.. he even talks about it in this video..... where he says that supply could easily be cut off.. "thats why he likes billet"... because companies do have the ability to make them if they become illegal? "I like freedom" ... lol.......... silly excuse to talk people into buying guns that are 4 to 5 times over priced... Daytona Tactical- I just built a 16in 300 blk, key mod rail, Nib bcg, anderson lower. for $470... so when I see rifles that are selling for 2200- 2800??? I feel sorry for those people
1.Ammunition/ Mags
2. Iron sights
3. Weapon mounted light
4. Red Dot ( optional)
5. Sling
Great video, another thing I tell people about building their own ar15 is that if they build it they will learn their rifle so when there is a problem they know what they are looking at not scratching their head going what the crap!
Using your iron sights should be the first thing you learn to do while shooting your rifle. ACOGs and other optics do break.
As I said, Irons first.
***** I heard a differing philosophy. Consider learning to drive. Should you learn on a manual transmission car? That means you have to learn to work the clutch and transmission, while you are learning to control the car, deal with traffic and navigate. Isn't it better to start with an automatic and get experience driving first, then learn a manual transmission?
Likewise, when someone is new to shooting, let them use an optical sight system at first, as he or she is getting used to shooting, changing magazines, aiming, breath control etc. Then, after the new shooter is comfortable go to iron sights. Don't skip the step - require that they be used, but just do it in the reverse order.
I am not an experience shooter and am not claiming this philosophy is correct. I'm presenting it as I heard it to get opinions from people with more experience than I have so I can decide for myself. I have two AR-15s to my name. One was purchased with iron sights, and the second was a lower that I built, and added a "flat top" upper. It was a "budget" build, so I put on a budget scope. I'll probably change to iron sights, because I quickly learned that cheap scopes are not suited to a carbine length AR.
excavatoree For first time shooters, I prefer leaving optics on. Either a scope or red dot depending on the firearm. They're simply easier to shoot than the typical iron sight systems. The last thing I want to do is discourage someone from getting into firearms because they aren't having fun missing targets.
Once they're enjoying themselves and interested in the hobby, I then work from the ground up with iron sights. But I think it all depends on the individual, you want to tailor your teaching to best enhance their learning experience. Some people learn to drive better with an automatic, others with a manual.
Vinny Barbin
How is the analogy flawed? In both cases, the novice is first assisted with some, but not all of the required activities. Then, after the novice learns some of the activities and gets them committed to memory, and becomes skilful, the assistance is removed and the additional skills can be learned.
If one learns first with an optic, then learns iron sights, the result is the same - a shooter that can shoot with iron sights.
I just don't see the difference. Someone who learns with an optic, then learn iron sights will be the same shooter as someone who learned iron sights, then added the optic.
I'm open minded, I'm willing to learn from both sides. I've heard the explanation of why it's better to use optics first, (my earlier post isn't my opinion, just what I heard from someone who believes that) but I haven't heard an explanation of why it's better to learn iron sights first.
I know that it's important to know how to use them, and to practice and become proficient with iron sights. One can't just learn optics and stop. That's no good.
I kept wanting to "thumbs up" this every few minutes and kept realizing I already had. Smiled throughout the entire vid. Very very good vid and you're a great presenter!
I have an aimpoint comp m4 , when I baught it I had no immediate use for it cause I baught like 3 electronic sights at once. I turned it on and left it running in the drawer. It ran for 2 years now ( the manual reads it can run on a single AA battery for 8 years [ I will change it out after 4 years ] ) and it still is running strong. now I mounted it onto my saiga and it stays on. you dont need to turn it on and even if you need to modify the intensity the wheel is way more easy to operate than the pushbuttons. I added a frontcap ( objectiveside ) from buttlercreek and a transluminescent cap on the rear side ( setup taken form the aimpoint patrol because you see the dot and you know where it shoots even if the frontcap is still closed ) and mounted the aimpoint where I can flip it open with the thumb of my frontstockhand without altering handposition. for irons I suggest to look into the trijicon diamondback sights.
In Texas, we call that a PAWN STORE. Just kiddin Sootch we love your work.
I'm gonna stop in and check them out next week on my way back from Florida.
What a great Toy Store. I could spend a lot of time there. If they have a food court and some comfortable chairs, I could spend a sure nuff LOT of time there.
Basic knowledge, but some people just don't have the experience or know what information they really need. There's tons of info out there, and it can be intimidating for newbies. Glad to see you trying to help out all experience levels. However, for a defense rifle, you left out one very important item: a light.
Great video, especially for someone like me who got a lower and is looking build from the ground up!
Good info for your new AR15 owner. It can quickly become overwhelming and addicting. Always best to keep it simple. Cheers
Anybody else realize there is no gas tube on the AR sootch it holding
At the beginning of the vid
Spencer Stewart Colt Tactical 22 : )
It's so tactical you can't see it...
I noticed that...
It's a 16" barrel w/ a M4 placed gas block that is butting up against the hand guard. Not the best setup, it tends to send a bit more carbon back into the receiver. Still reliable, but you're gonna have to clean it more.
Great video as usual.
You make great videos, yourself, Mrgunsngear!
Good vid as always. A couple of suggestions:
1. Electronic hearing muffs. Will amplify sounds if someone breaks in / sneaking around and also protect your hearing. Once you light one off inside a room you will appreciate ear protection.
2. A vest with armor makes a lot of sense if things go south. You have reviewed some good choices.
Looking forward to your next vid.
Will
I have both a red dot and a great pair of iron sights installed on my AR15.
Good advice for the new/novice AR-15 owner. If I may recommend one addition to your comprehensive list it would be "take a training class from a licensed NRA instructor (or similar agency)". Stick that bullet point right in after ammo, magazines and sights. Just my opinion. Overall, excellent video, as usual. Thanks.
Agreed. Training is important.
I think a light should be higher up on the list ! you're more likely to use the light for home defense scenario then the sling! I put being able to see what I'm shooting pretty high up on the list! keep pumping out good videos! you the MAN!!!
***** Yay the video is up! Haha. I was the guy in the green shirt that came down from Virginia. Great to finally meet you Don/Sootch! Had a great time and learned quite a few things at the seminAR. (see what I did there? Lol corny, I know.)
Sootch00, I can't believe that you were here in Charlotte, NC; and in Hyatt, my go to store. I was in there last week and would've enjoyed the opportunity to meet you. I enjoy all of your videos that I've seen so far on the tube, so keep up the good work and stay in the fight.
This would be good to do for first-time pistol and shotgun owns. Good info
Great video!! I have had an AR-15 for about a year, but have done very little to it, even though it sits next to my bed for home defense. You've given me some really good suggestions. And, my company is currently moving our office from Atlanta to Charlotte, so Ill be sure to stop by Hyatt Guns. Sounds like good people there.
The only problem with building an AR-15 is that you can run into problems along the way. You learn a better way to do it which means you take what you learned from the first one and end up thinking about building a second one which is better, although I am fairly pleased with how my first one turned out. The main thing I would say is to use parts of standard dimensions. The Daniel defense RIS II is not compatible with the Vltor upper and gen 3 PMags will not work with the Gen 2 Noveske lower with the flared magazine well. The noveske barrel is also super heavy. I think I will go for a govt profile 20 inch barrel on the next build with a lighter rail.
I have enjoyed listening to your views and ideas since I subscribed last year, this video included. With so much mis information out on the web I appreciate your candor.
Thanks for another excellent AR-15 video. I'm building my first and I enjoy the in-depth info you always provide.
1. Iron sights. ( If they don't come with the rifle)
2. Flashlight.
3.Optic .( preferably a red Dot)
4. Sling.
5. A bunch of Pmags/GI Mags.
Great info on the AR15, wished I could of seen the training class. I would also like to tell you how much I enjoy watching your ballistic gel videos.
Great video for new AR guys. We need to be bringing in more, inexperienced citizens into the fold. With proper teaching/training, we can hold on to and expand our 2nd amendment rights.
great points about billet vs forged receivers.
Glad I found ya. Im J.D. from Texas via Utah. I own a Colt M4 Carbine 6920 AR-15. Love it. I shop at a great gun store in Orem called Gunnies. Take care
My furniture on my gun in the future:
Sight- Aimpoint T-1 or Magpul MBUS sights
Fore grip- Magpul AFG
Mounted light- Surefire
6 mags
1000 rds
I bought my 300blk AR at this shop. Amazing gun shop, good people!!!
Great vid sootch! Really appreciate the vid. I liked your comments on the importants of optics. It changed my initial thoughts on the value of optics for a WROL home defense weapon. Greetings from WNC!!!
Thank you for all the Info New Build person!
I live 5 mins from hyatts. Love watching your videos. Wish I could have been there.
Ammunition... Mark on each box the date of manufacture (if know) with a Sharpie. If you don't know date of mfg, mark the date of purchase, month and year is good enough. This way you can "rotate the stock", shoot oldest ammo first. Keep ammo in metal milspec ammo cans, preferably with a desiccant pack. You can tape a tag on the can with contents info. I have some intended for cracker and cookie jars, glass with a vented metal end, turns pink when saturated, put in the oven and bake until they turn blue (dry) again.
Sootch, I love your videos, been watching them for a while now. That opening statement about your neighbor having a home invasion and had to go get his gun, and your home being broke into... I mean, if I go to a bigger city I've heard talk from guys that say, yea, they have a gun for personal protection, and there are legitimate reasons for it. Me I live in a small town. We leave our doors to our house unlocked, most people do. If I go to someones house, I knock on the door, open the door and say "hey man you home?" Can't do that in bigger cities. I don't know, it's still such a shock that people actually live that way for me. Grant it, if you come in trying to do something stupid I don't have to get my gun, it's already on me, but I don't expect anyone to do anything stupid. It's just never happened.
Sootch: Just want to give you a 👍 on your talk. I even learn something myself! I might have to go with a billet lower next time. Thanks for posting your talk for those of us that live so far away and couldn't make it. 🇺🇸🔫
Again, excellent video. Appreciate the video. Learning alot about this rifle.
great video... Great looking AR with the longer barrel cover.....
Wow Sootch, I did not know that Hyatt Guns was in Charlotte, NC.. I go into Charlotte to use the VA facility
on Tyvola Road. I will have to see how close Hyatts is to that location and maybe pay them a visit.
I will call them to see if they have an AR-15A1 upper receiver for a price I can afford.
It would be so fun to meet Sootch in person. You make my favorite firearm videos.
Sootch, fyi the boresnake fits perfectly inside the moe+ pistol grip you described. Also the Geissele SSA-e trigger is fantastic.
About the piston AR’s also, they are bad for having carrier tilt issues. I shelled out $1,800 for a Ruger SSR .556 piston model when they first came out. Only to find out after 100 rounds my bolt carrier was already starting to wear away at the lower portion of my buffer tube. If you want a piston gun that has no issues with the piston system buy an AK. Great video sooch00!
Hey sootch00 is that a PSA AR15 In your opening. I have a PSA top end on my S&W lower I put it together fit and finish was perfect price was right. The first thing I purchased was rear iron Sight, it came with a front sight. I have ammo and magazines. On slings I alway sling while at the range even picking up brass reason the is because it’s been a range for 60 years. If someone leaves the gate unlocked anyone can drive in and we have had assaults near our range. On triggers I use the grip screws creep adjust it works.
Good vid, I got plenty out of it, is very much community service...thank you much and greatly appreciated. In these uncertain times and corvin 19 settings...what good is stocking up and prepping without defense and protection.
Excellent video and speech. Thank you Sootch.
Informative! Any chance that an updated video for 2018 may be in order?
Larry and his crew are great folks! If you need help, that is the place to go!
You should do a video at Trop Gun Shop. It's 32,000 square feet. It has an indoor range, cigar lounge, VIP Club, gym, training class room, and a every gun you could imagine.
I will never use an ar15 in my house for home defense WITHOUT hearing protection. I had a negligent discharge in a small room with my AR a couple weeks ago and it seriously fucked up my hearing. It was seriously the loudest thing I've ever heard by a long shot. If you are planning using an ar for home defense, be sure to keep some hearing protection near by.
+Foreezybeezy1
That's great advice which is usually overlooked in presentations like this. I, myself, am guilty of forgetting this caveat; I won't in the future. It goes without saying that for home defense, one would need electronic hearing protection that would allow the homeowner to hear noises an intruder would be making. Grabbing the electric earmuffs, getting them switched on, and then grabbing the rifle takes time. I think that where very rapid response is needed, it's hard to beat a Glock with a Streamlight. Ideally, you'd want muffs for that gun, as well, but your ears would probably survive if you didn't have time to put them.
electronic ear pro is recommended nearby regardless. If you hear a bump in the night and you can put your electronic ears on, it actually amplifies the sounds around you, and you can identify if there is infact an intruder.
+Foreezybeezy1 Maybe you need a safety training course... Do you not CLEAR the rifle?? safe the rifle?? I mean WTF.. I spent 22 years in the military and own MANY guns... NEVER have I had a "negligent discharge" especially in a fuking room...
+AJB.223 Thank you for having the courage to be honest and sharing something embarrassing in the hopes that someone might learn from it. You had to realize that all knowing internet assholes would be all over you so, thanks. Yes, a great amount of air is spent extolling the virtue of carbines for self defense. what few will tell you is how mind numbingly loud they are indoors. keep Wolf ears (or a more modern version) near the rifle, they amplify low level sounds while cancelling out some of the muzzle blast. Commandos use suppressed weapons for a few reasons, not the least of which is the preservation of their own hearing in CQB.
unintended discharges happen to anybody. even Mr survival pepper on video. mine happen with a ar 15 as well. my brother chambered it last. and I guess he pussie footed the charging handle and the extractor didn't catch the round. I cleared it. Nothing came out. pulled the trigger facing the ground.... BOOM. I learned to rack it multiple times hard after that
If you have time go visit Fuquay Gun in Fuquay-Varina, NC. They have an amazing inventory of guns and accessories and are very helpful
I love your videos Sootch00. I hippie one day we'll meet and I can shake your hand because over the long time I've sub to your both your channels I've learned a shitload. Keep doing what you do and we'll keep watching and learning brother.
Funny I bought some steel plate body armor around the time this video came out without even realizing that body armor is in trouble. Looks like I'll be investing in some AR500 soon. It sucks as a younger guy trying to prep for all this crap when your budget is so low D:
GI Josh just remember some things will be readly available in the after math. ..im on a budget as well and i regally check up on my friend and neighbors to see what they have and dont have.i dont tell them why i just do a inventory of what they have .if there is something no one has i buy that.i buy the caliber gun they shoot so i can have more ammo.i dont expect most of them to survive anyway. they take preping lightly .and most of the stuff they have would not keep them alive long. but with what i have and them i will be good and on budget.i know where to get things i need without speeding lots..and it saves me room as well
Hyatt’s is just down the road from where I perform in Charlotte! Great video!
I would also recommend to use the iron sights prior to using a red dot.
Man how time flies and the info is still relevant
Well done! I would love to hear your personal opinion on the price and value of various manufacturers of AR rifles and ammo.
Know your target and what lies behind it. ARs, in my opinion, are the worst for home defense because your rounds are going through your target, through the wall, and into the next room or two rooms. This is increased with the fact that most people are using FMJ which is designed to go through targets, again, endagering your family. If you are outside of your home then I could understand the use of a long gun to protect your property or animals. Good video with great basic knowledge for first time buyers.
Very informative video for someone that JUST walked in to the world of ARs. I am in no way an expert in personal or home defense, but the seminar seemed to stray away from the basics of home defense gear and leaned more towards what would be nice upgrades to your rifle at the range. A weapon light for target acquisition at night/early morning should be more of a priority. like you said: your neighbor had their house broken in at 6:00.
+Humberto Garza more important than anything, make sure a new rifle is reliable before putting it to use as a home defense weapon or start packing on upgrades, accessories, and furniture
For home defense you need the pump action 12 gauge shotgun accessory option which is readily available for under $300. Another option is the .45 ACP side firearm which again is readily available for a nominal fee. Both of these accessories are a simple point and shoot operation that requires little more effort then common sense and discretion. .
Good basic class. I use EOtech. Love it.
I’m not expert so please make your own assessment but there is a lot of people talking about over penetration of 5.56 vs handgun and shotguns. I urge you to look at the different tests. They all seem to penetrate about the same. The slower heavier bullets it’s handguns seem to push through dry way just as well. I’ve seen some of the super light super fast 223 rounds break up a little quicker than most everything else.... just a word from the other side of the fence, check it out for yourself.
I'm so jealous! You are so great guys, with great guns, and you're making so good community! And I can only see this guns on pictures and TH-cam videos, because in my country carrying guns is allowed only to police and military stuff on duty.
AR-15 for home defense! 16" tops. 10.5 is better! For home defense indoors, 10.5 barrel. If you intend to use it in and out, 16" barrel, one gun for both. Red dot is good and a light that is momentary remote activated by a presure switch. 20 round mags should do the job unless you would rather use 30's. No more than that is necessary unless you would like some iron sights. In that case a good set of diamond sights such as Troy would work well. DC GUNSMITH, FFL, Vietnam Veteran.
Thanks for all your great videos!
Great discussion! What would you recommend for storage? If you keep your rifle within reach for home defense purposes, you run the risk of the rifle falling into the wrong hands (i.e. children finding the rifle and something bad happening), but if you keep it locked up in a safe, it's not as accessible at the drop of a hat. What's the best move?
Great video Sootch!!!
you did a great job explaining everything. thank you
MARTHA! I told you to stay in the house! That Sootch feller is crawling around outside his shed with that scary black rifle again! LOL!!! -- Good stuff Sir!
It was great meeting you on the Carnival cruise back in Sept. Would love to shoot with you one day!
I need to get a better trigger on my Windham Weaponry MPC. It's not really good for faster shooting. I didn't realize it till I bought an AK with a Tapco G2 trigger . I think it will make the gun more fun to shoot. I love that AK trigger.
Geissele makes hella-great 2 stage triggers, but you're gonna pay for them.
Very cool video, Sootch.
Love your videos!!! Ten thumbs up Sootch
Great video, but there's one problem I have with it: the light. The way I figure it chances are I know the inside of my house a lot better than any run of the mill criminal does, so why in the world would I want to give away my position - and the element of surprise - before I locate and prioritize the threat(s)? A lot of guys like light shows of all kinds, but if somebody's in my house and doesn't belong there, I figure he's playing on MY turf and I have home field advantage.
Mr.sootch00
I have almost all the parts to complete my AR project the only thing i need really is a few (10/30 mags) yes i know it sucks for me I'm in southern Cali but i am also looking into a light what size and minimum lumens do you recommend
and thank you for all the informative videos you do
I love the look of a bayonet on an AR-15. (you may run out of ammo) What's your thoughts? And if you like them, which one? The M7 or the M9?
I have found the biggest things needed for a good, reliable, accurate rifle are a quality barrel, a quality BCG, a quality magazine and balance/tune your buffer spring & weight with your gas system. Those things are the guts of the rifle. The rest is just icing. You don't need a high $ lower or even upper. Those just hold the barrel & stuff so as long as they are in spec it doesn't matter if they are Spikes, Bushmaster, CMMG, LWRC etc. Yea, fancy ones are nice but any forged, mil spec lower will work just fine. Any stock will work, any handguard will work.
Anyways, point being, you don't need to spend a fortune to build a quality AR. Start with a quality base rifle & add the extras as you need, want, or can afford to.
Aren't guns just plain addicting, period, Sootch? ARs are not the only ones, though building them does help the addiction, for sure.
Very informative as always, thanks
man ammo flies when your having fun !!
I need some more
I am new on the ar world I bought a new ruger ar 556 I like it. My brother have a s&w 15 magpul he tells me to change the buffer that comes with the gun to a spike tactical st-t2 because is heavier and better for recoil I was hoping you can give me advice about it. Thanks for the assistance always great to watch your videos.
Great video, thank you my friend 👍👍👍👍👍
I was hoping he was going to go into the best AR round for home defense. I hear about over penetration and would like to hear about specific ammo to minimize penetration.
+thowdy www.nwlink.com/~josephk/ar15_penetration_tests.html
great vid! i think flashlight needs to be way up on the list though for home defense