The AR-15 isn’t just a great rifle; customizing one is an extremely entertaining way to express yourself and show some personality.
Today, we’re going to crack open the vault and break out some of our favorite Pew Pew Tactical staff AR-15s. (And maybe a special treat for you AR-deniers).
These firearms are as diverse as our personal preferences and priorities, so you’re going to see a little bit of everything – budget blasters, home-built Frankenrifles, and top-dollar ATF fiestas. That’s what makes the AR-15 so much fun!
Now, let’s see what each of the Pew Pew Tactical crew is working with, shall we?
Table of Contents
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Eric Hung – PPT Founder & CEO
Specs
- AR-15: DDM4 lower, Unknown stripped upper, Toolcraft NiB BCG, Rosco 11.5” Kinetic Consulting barrel, Midwest Industries Night Fighter rail, Superlative Arms adjustable gas block, Aero ambidextrous charging handle, YHM T2 Turbo (shown, now a Huxwrx Flow 556K), B5 grip and buttstock
- Optic: EOTech EXPS2-0 on a Unity Riser
- Accessories: Pew Pew Tactical sling, Steiner DBAL A3, Modlite PLHV2, Unity Tactical Axon switch, Midwest backup irons
- Modifications: Geissele SSF trigger, RDIAS, Geissele Super 42 buffer spring
My night-vision gun that I built from a mix of spare and go-to proven parts. It’s a triple-stamp AR-15 (11.5” SBR / suppressor / registered drop-in auto sear) for extra internet points.
I first built it for a night vision class with Kinetic Consulting where I had the shown YHM T2 Turbo, but found it a little too gassy. I switched it over to a Huxwrx Flow 556K which is perfect with the adjustable gas block turned to almost full bleed.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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The DBAL is an antique compared to newer gen stuff but it still works fine, especially when paired with a light and the Unity AXON switch.
I’m a fan of keeping things familiar, so I semi-cloned this build in .300 Blk for my night-vision hog-hunting rig.
Besides LARPing in classes and the occasional night shoot, I bring it out regularly for friends and family to experience full-auto shooting with the RDIAS.
Lots of fun and lots of lessons learned from the hot can (RIP pants, truck bed, sling, & gloves).
Jacki Billings, Editor-in-Chief
Specs
- AK-47: Russian IZHMASH Saiga, 7.62×39
- Optic: Irons, baby
- Modifications: ATI FDE Furniture (including folding stock), M-LOK, Muzzle Brake
When Scott asked the staff here at Pew Pew Tactical to submit our AR-15s for your viewing, I knew I wanted to buck the system.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Do I have an AR? Yes, I do. Is that what you’re going to get from me? No, it’s not.
Instead, behold my AK-47. Why? Because I don’t like AR-15s, there, I said it. Come at me, bro.
Personally, I find the AK platform a lot more interesting. Not only is it a rough and tumble rifle that you can literally throw in the dirt and it still runs; but it’s a great conversation starter in a sea of AR-15s.
This one, an IZMASH Saiga, I picked up at gun show 15 years ago. It’s 16-inch model chambered in the classic 7.62×39.
I added some ATI FDE furniture because at that time, I was heavily into M-LOK and wanted the option to mount accessories.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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I also tossed an ATI folding stock on there. I do have plans to revert it to wooden furniture in the future, though, for a more classic look.
There is a muzzle brake on it but I do not recall what make/model.
I don’t currently have an optic on it. I find irons a lot more challenging and fun at the range, so I removed the Vortex I had.
I don’t shoot it as often as I used to, mainly due to the cost of ammo these days, but when I do bring it out, it’s always a fun one!
Sean Curtis – Content Producer & Lead Review Analyst
Specs
- AR-15: Geissele Super Duty LE (SDLE)
- Optic: Vortex Razor HD Gen II 1-6×24
- Accessories: Blue Force Gear Vickers Combat Application sling, NeoMag Sentry strap, Cloud Defensive Rein 2.0, Railscales, Strike Industries Link Anchor hand stop
- Modifications: Geissele Super Duty grip, Geissele Super Charging Handle
Geissele is a well-known name in the firearms world, synonymous with quality as much as with higher pricing. And while the Super Duty rifle is one of the top-tier offerings available today, the Super Duty LE (law enforcement) came first.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Back in 2019, I was still in law enforcement and writing for PoliceOne. There was a building furor of interest when Geissele, who had only previously made accessories, was crafting a full rifle.
Called the Super Duty, the rifle promised to include all the innovations the Pennsylvanian manufacturer had come to be known for. In an interesting twist, the company released the Super Duty LE first.
Because Bill Geissele is a supporter of law enforcement, he created this version of the Super Duty and offered it up to qualified officers for a mere $750! It’s surprising, given that a standard Super Duty sells for around $2,000.
Starting at the rear, Geissele included the Magpul CTR stock on a 7075 Mil Spec buffer tube. Inside, the Super 42 braided spring system keeps things running smoothly and quietly.
The upper and lower are both forged 7075 T6 aluminum. The BCG is made from 158 Carpenter steel, which is high-pressure tested and magnetic particle inspected.
ALG Defense (a subsidiary of Geissele) provided the ACT, or Advanced Combat Trigger. This isn’t a “go fast” trigger, but a “be sure” trigger, and it works great.
Geissele included their Posi-Lock fire selector, which can’t be forced into an intermediate position. Forward of that, the Maritime Bolt Catch is a nice, large target for dropping that bolt after reloads.
The V2 rail is also provided by ALG Defense and runs the full length. Geissele included a chrome-lined M4-quality barrel with a custom-length gas tube, considered mid-length-plus, making the gun very easy to control.
The SDLE came with some bombproof Geissele irons, but I removed them in favor of an LPVO. In the original review, I fired a three-shot group with practice ammo while lying on hot asphalt.
Using only the magazine as a base, I shot prone and still managed a 0.85-inch group using a Vortex Strike Eagle. I’ve since added a few improvements.
First up was the Vortex Razor HD Gen II 1-6×24, which is still very impressive to me for all its capabilities. I had a Cloud Defensive Owl originally installed, but later upgraded to a Rein 2.0.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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I ultimately swapped out the mil-spec charging handle for a Geissele Super and the A2 grip for a Super Duty grip.
This is a great general-purpose rifle that’s been easy to shoot and has provided perfect reliability over the years I’ve owned it. I believe the program is still active, but I can’t find where officers can even still purchase these rifles anymore, so it may be sliding into the collector’s item category.
Jonny Villanueva – Videographer & Social Media Manager
Specs
- AR-15: Daniel Defense MK18 RIS II URG, LaRue Tactical lower
- Optic: Trijicon ACOG 4×32 ECOS, Trijicon RMR
- Accessories: HUXWRX Flow 556K, SureFire M340DFT, Samson Short VFG
- Modifications: Magpul furniture and ESK safety selector
The MK18 holds peak aesthetics in my eyes, a standout design some say sits right between modern and retro. After all, who doesn’t love the blocky CQBR look with that iconic brown cheese grater of a rail?
The rifle we’ve seen from GWOT photos and in many films and video games became the inspiration behind this build’s journey, which began by snagging a Daniel Defense MK18 RIS II URG. Spoiler alert: this is NOT clone-correct.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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I had originally planned to build a standard lower that would visually represent the MK18 more closely, but LaRue Tactical ran a sale on their complete lowers for an absolute steal of $200, a deal I could not refuse.
With the quality components of the lower and the MBT-2S trigger already being a personal favorite, pairing the two halves was a no-brainer. Thus, this sacrilegious “Daniel LaRue” mashup of a rifle — something that would likely cause Marty Daniel and Mark LaRue to flip tables across their offices — was born.
Originally outfitted with an EOTech EXPS3 and G45 magnifier, I decided to give the Trijicon ACOG with a top-mounted RMR (TA31-D BAC ECOS) a try.
Admittedly, this may not be the most optimal setup for a 10.3’’ barrel for a variety of reasons, but the optical clarity and crisp green reticle are unmatched compared to the former. My astigmatism is pretty severe, but looking through an ACOG feels like seeing the range with a new set of eyes. The RMR is great for close to mid‑range targets, and the 4×32 magnification of the ACOG is a godsend for my poor vision when stretching out to 100–200 yards.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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My biggest gripe is the eye-relief, but that issue quickly fades after a few range sessions. On top of that, it just looks sweet.
An infamous characteristic of the MK18 is its over-gassed nature. We won’t dive into that conversation in detail, but this simple fact ultimately led to the addition of the HUXWRX Flow 556K. This suppressor features a flow-through design which aids in reducing back pressure and directing more gas forward, rather than exhausting out from the ejection port/charging handle and towards your face.
While it doesn’t completely eliminate the issue, it definitely cuts down those nasty, toxic clouds that leave a terrible taste lingering for hours after your range session. It also makes for a much more pleasant shooting experience, especially when mounted to an MK18 upper receiver.
I outfit all my rifles with weapon-mounted lights, not only because they help complete the overall build, but also because of their usefulness in potential low-light situations. That said, this rifle rocks a SureFire M340DFT-PRO paired with a Modlite Systems ModButton Lite switch.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Lastly, I opted for Magpul furniture with an SL‑S stock, K2 grip, ESK safety selector, and ladder rail covers, with the exception of a Samson MFG short vertical grip.
Now, is this rifle outdated by today’s standards? Sure, one could reasonably make that argument given the plethora of newer systems with improved operation and ergonomics. That said, this rifle hasn’t suffered a single failure in the couple thousand rounds I’ve put through it so far.
It’s also an absolute blast to shoot, and when you combine that with solid reliability, it’s a winner in my book.
Wyatt Sloan – Editor & Senior Review Analyst
Specs
- AR-15: PWS MK116 MOD 2-M
- Optic: Trijicon VCOG 1-8×28 SCO
- Accessories: Holosun RAID
- Modifications: Geissele SSA-E X trigger, Dead Air KeyMo three-prong flash hider, Arisaka Defense M-LOK handstop, Magpul QD sling mount
While I have over a dozen ARs for different purposes, I wanted to showcase one of my general all-purpose builds.
When I was building this rifle, I wanted three things: accuracy, reliability, and ease of suppression. All signs pointed me toward Primary Weapons Systems, and more specifically, their MK116 MOD 2-M.
PWS rifles operate using a long-stroke piston. This gives a smoother recoil impulse compared to short-stroke piston guns while also being much easier to suppress than direct-impingement guns. These rifles feature an adjustable gas block that is easily accessible through the top of the handguard.
The build quality is premium, and the MOD 2-M has a fully ambidextrous lower with an awesome ratchet-lock buffer tube. PWS also guarantees 1 MOA or better accuracy on all of their rifles when using match ammo — something that very few AR manufacturers have the guts to do.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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I chose the Trijicon VCOG 1-8×28 SCO as my optic because I wanted something as rugged as the rifle itself that could also reach out and make use of that accuracy potential while still retaining a true 1x for CQB. The glass on this scope is crystal clear, and the integrated LaRue QD mount for it rocks.
While the stock trigger is better than a mil-spec trigger, it isn’t great. I went with a sweet two-stage Geissele SSA-E X for a smooth and light (but not too light) trigger pull.
On the handguard, I am running an Arisaka Defense hand stop that I use to index my hand placement for the pressure switch on my Holosun RAID weapon light. I like this hand stop because it is low-profile and very out of the way. I hate when large grips interfere with prone, bench rest, or other supported shooting positions.
One of the only annoying things about the MK116 is that it didn’t come with integrated QD sling mounts on the handguard. I remedied this by tossing a Magpul QD sling mount on the left side just in front of the receiver. While it isn’t pictured, I run a Blue Force Gear Vickers Padded 221 Sling (this sling is the GOAT for me).
Rounding things out is a Dead Air KeyMo 3-prong flash hider that I use to mount my Nomad 30 suppressor. I went with a flash hider because I am not a fan of the concussion and debris kick-up you get from muzzle brakes when shooting unsuppressed.
I have always found PWS rifles to sound really good at the shooter’s ear when you are running a suppressor. Even with the .30-cal endcap on my Nomad, this gun sounds amazing.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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While the two-pound VCOG definitely makes this one of my heavier all-purpose builds, it is still a very manageable and capable gun. I can achieve MOA accuracy with the right ammo, which allows me to confidently engage small targets out to 500 yards on a gun that I can still run pretty fast in close quarters.
Scott Murdock – Editor & Senior Review Analyst
Specs
- AR-15: PSA PA-15 lower, BCM Recce-16 MCMR upper
- Optic: Trijicon ACOG TA31
- Accessories: Agilite Re-Flex3D sling
- Modifications: Radian extended bolt catch, high-performance spray paint
I’ve had this AR-15 for many years, and it’s slowly evolved into the all-purpose carbine you see today. This is probably its final form because anything more specialized is going to warrant a separate build. (Tell me what you think that should be in the comments!)
I do want to add a Modlite PLHv2-18650 after doing my AR-15 flashlight test, though. Time and money, folks, time and money.
When I started piecing it together, price was a factor, and I wanted to use complete uppers and lowers to minimize the number of manufacturers that had to play nicely for it to be reliable.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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That led me to a Palmetto State Armory PA-15 lower with Magpul furniture, and a Bravo Company Manufacturing Recce-16 MCMR upper. That combination did a good job of maximizing my money, and I’ve been quite happy with how it performs.
Sure, I get Gucci envy from time to time, but not enough to justify dropping four figures on a new AR-15.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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The only modification I’ve made to this rifle is replacing the original bolt catch when the spring got gummed up and caused the original one to get damaged. I replaced it with a Radian ExtendedBolt Catch to take advantage of gross motor skills during speed reloads.
That camo pattern is the result of three spray paint colors and some foliage from my yard. I think painting rifles is a fun way to add some personal expression. Make it functional or flashy – you decide!
After a string of optics – and even a brief stint with carry-handle iron sights for old time’s sake – I finally got to bolt up my personal all-time favorite AR-15 optic, the Trijicon ACOG.
This one uses a 4×32 optical system with fiber-optic illumination, just like the old Marine Corps RCO. It’s nearly identical to the ones I used back in the day, so there’s a lot of familiarity and sentimental attachment there. The ACOG has its quirks, but it’s extremely effective if you know how to use it.
I recently did some testing with the very nifty Agilite Re-Flex3D sling, and it’s getting some extra mileage right now.
I like the way the small QD mounts that come with it fit my Magpul stock, and the mechanism the Re-Flex3D uses to lengthen and shorten is super smooth and fast.
I run our Pew Pew tactical sling, too, but mine is Multicam Black, so it’s on a black PCC because style matters.
The final product is a strange amalgamation of budget and premium components, but it manages to work well. I’ve shot this carbine out to 600 yards on 10-inch gongs, and could squeeze it into a home-defense role if I really had to (hey, it’s no worse for CQB than an M16A4 or a SAW).
This isn’t the perfect AR-15 for any specific job, but it’s well-rounded enough to give me confidence whenever I step out the door. To me, that’s what the AR-15 platform is all about.
Final Thoughts
This is a pretty neat spread of Pew Pew Tactical staff AR-15s! Hopefully, it gave you some inspiration for your own setup.
The beauty of this platform is that you can make it whatever you want it to be. Need a suppressed pistol in .300 Blk for home defense? Go right ahead. Want to stretch your limits with a precision build and a box of 6mm ARC? Help yourself.
Whatever you build, just remember to show it some love in the comments so we can all admire it – and maybe build a clone for ourselves.
What does your favorite AR-15 look like? Show it some love in the comments. Thinking about building something new? Find everything you need to know in our AR-15 Definitive Resource!
26 Leave a Reply
fancier than mine
Slick AR Scott.
Thanks! Not fancy, but it works well.
BCM is really the best.
Yeah Jackie, why do you like AKs more than ARs?
why do you like AKs more than ARs?
Small problem with BCM is they won't sell to MA. Tried to order a barrel from them. Not a problem for several other companies though. Also, I could get around it by ordering from others like Primary Arms and others, if I wanted. I and had ordered a Bravo Company Mfg Upper Receiver Assembly- Mk2 previously from Optics Planet before I realized they were not quite as pro 2A as I thought. But true to their lack of character they never shipped any to OP and it looks like they kept them all in house to make complete uppers and rifles. So as of now I choose companies that will do the right thing.
Love Jacki's reply!!
I enjoyed the article, even the AK guy providing some comic relief. No need to get too serious talking about what we love! Nice to see the setups you all built and use.
That's what I'm here for, lol. Thanks for reading!
What ARs you use… and you list AKs. See why up you lose credibility? No, I’m certain you don’t — and don’t care that you do.
The meandering flow of the article seems less about what stock-equipped rifles are out there and more an exercise in marketing. I’ll bet this assemblage didn’t come without swapping parts to determine what worked and what didn’t.
I asked two Spec Ops unit commanders (a retired Special Forces Colonel and a retired Navy Cmdr) what rifles they utilized: whatever the brands were, the ARs were “pretty much stock” and “simply equipped.” In other words, their rifles didn’t have very complex component lists and weren’t equipped with 10 pounds of bling you like selling. A simple rule of engineering: the more complex the components, the higher the likelihood of critical failure — at the worst possible time.
Chris, my man, it was a little sarcasm. We enjoy a little humor now and again. I invite you to lighten up and stop taking things so seriously. You're going to stroke out, my dude.
I bet you're super fun at parties.
The heaviest "bling" item in this article is the Trijicon VCOG SCO, which is the Squad Common Optic that the Marine Corps adopted in 2020. Seems to work for them.
Chill dude, don't take everything too seriously
I enjoyed this article. I own around 10 ARs with the most expensive being a DD. Have Colt, BCM, AERO, PSA, IWI, and Radical. Don't feel the need to change or add much to them. Maybe a red dot and upgraded charging handle. Dig the AK guy bucking the system. Have a handful of them as well. I usually mount a red dot on them as I never have been able to pick up the sights well.
Glad you liked it! I always enjoy learning about what other people shoot and why they picked what they did.
My first prize goes to the dude with the BCM, Bravo Company makes seriously good guns for seriously good prices for what you get. And then …… anything Trijicon is a winner too !
Thanks as always for a great and informative article.
Prize accepted! Thanks for reading and having excellent taste.
How about this.... I'm disabled ( and a veteran -SCI/D)'only the left side of my body works...all my ARs are built to be shot with one hand and shoulder They're light (including optics) slightly over 4 lbs I use polymer cased ammo. My point is the AR platform is the ultimate American dream IT'S INCLUSIVE AND ADAPTABLE
That's great to hear, Keith. I love that we can adapt this platform to suit so many different goals. Keep on rockin!
Y'all must make one heck of a lot more money than I do.... I stopped reading the details. Beyond my pay grade.
Check out our recent article on budget AR-15s - there are some fantastic rifles out there for very affordable prices. One of them even shares PSA's $120 lower with my setup.
I get that. Many of these were cobbled together over time. Mine was $750 (unheard of now) but don't assume we all shop at Whole Foods.
AK: Um, don't remember which one this was. Oh, and I think this was an airsoft thing.
This is why we don't take you seriously. You suck. If you're trying to do a review, REVIEW THE DAMNED THING. Don't take your idiot kid brother along for the ride.
Ben, thanks for commenting. This wasn't a review, per se, just a fun article showcasing some of our guns. Our reviews are held to different standards and I invite you to take a look at some of them to see the difference. Thanks for reading!