Are you ready to build an AR-15? The parts are only half the battle. When it comes to building your AR, it’s about know-how, guided information, and high-quality tools. But what tools do you need? Where do you get them? We list the most important pieces, from an AR wrench to a full punch set.

Whether you’re a beginner or you’ve been assembling ARs for years, there are a few things you need to know. And if building an AR-15 from parts isn’t your thing, Obsidian Arms has the guides, tools, and tips you need to become a new DIY expert.

Let’s take a look at the minimum tools needed to build an AR-15, what works and what doesn’t, and a few tips to ensure that your build is competent and safe.

What Tools Are Needed to Build an AR-15?

As a platform, the AR-15 is a firearm with unique customization capability. There are thousands of options for parts, which makes it a fun gun to build and shoot.

Obsidian Arms’ AR-15 tool list is the preferred resource when building your AR-15 from the ground up or if you’re swapping out existing parts for newer customization. Here’s a quick summary of tools you’ll want in your toolbox for any AR-15 build.

Note: Receiver-specific items, such as vise blocks or reaction rods, may not be compatible with AR-15 and AR-10/LR-308 builds. Make sure you get the right size for your platform, such as armorer’s wrenches that include AR-15 and AR-10 barrel nut sizes.

Complete AR-15 Armorer’s Punch Set, 12-piece

Made in the USA, this professional set of twelve punches and tools is perfect for DIY starters and longtime AR-15 owners. The 4140 alloy steel is heat-treated for durability and finished with QPQ rust-prevention coating.

Obsidian Arms’ AR-15 armorer’s full punch set has been crafted after years of feedback from customers, armorers, and professionals. This set includes all the specialty tools necessary to assemble and disassemble an AR-15, including upper, lower, and subcomponents, in a high-quality canvas roll-up pouch for easy storage.

AR-15 Upper Receiver Vise Block

The AR-15 Upper Receiver Vise Block is made in the USA and fits all standard AR-15 components. Includes locking pins.

Every discerning DIY rifle builder needs a high-density vise block for their bench. This specialty item is made without fear of crushing, marking, or scratching the finish on your firearm, and is easy to secure.

AR-15/AR-10 Bolt Assembly/Disassembly Tool

Made in the USA and includes a limited lifetime warranty. Professional AR-15/AR-10 Bolt Assembly/Disassembly Tool and punches that work with numerous AR-15 and AR-10 models. Works with single ejector and many double ejector bolts

AR-15 Building Station

You can build your AR at the kitchen table, though it’s not ideal. Realistically, you may not have a surface area that can take the scuff and scratches from assembling an AR-15.

If you’re looking to get serious, it’s time to upgrade to a dedicated building station, preferably in a shed, barn, or shop.

Workbench

You can build your own bench or purchase one from your favorite hardware store, but you need a clean and clear surface to place tools and parts during the assembly process.

AR-15 Maintenance Mat

An AR-15 maintenance mat is an important upgrade for your assembly area. These padded mats protect your work surface and your rifle, ensuring you don’t damage the finish. They often have a diagram of the AR-15 printed on them so you can see what part goes where.

Parts Tray

Miniature parts, including detent springs, pins, and screws, may disappear during your build and assembly. Magnetic parts trays keep everything organized, preventing these tiny parts from falling away and becoming lost in the room.

Good Lighting

An important tool no AR-15 DIY assembler can do without: good lighting makes a huge difference. We recommend a swing-arm LED lamp or personal headlamp so you can easily see into tight spaces, such as buffer tube threads or trigger pockets.

AR-15 Torque Wrench

Torque wrenches are your magic wand when building an AR-15. These tools allow you to attach your barrel nut to the upper receiver. High-quality barrel and castle nut components are essential for safe AR-15 customization. Don’t purchase low-quality torque wrenches or skip this tool entirely—it’s necessary for your builder’s toolbox.

Standard torque specs:

Barrel nut: 30-80 ft-lbs (check your handguard manufacturer’s specs)
Castle nut: 35-40 ft-lbs
Muzzle device: 15-20 ft-lbs (with rocksett or crush washer)
Scope ring screws: 15-25 in-lbs (check manufacturer specs)
Pistol grip screw: 40-45 in-lbs

Professional Armorer’s Wrench

The Professional Armorer’s Wrench from Midwest Industries is designed to work with 5.56 and 7.62 AR platform rifle components. This ¾-inch wrench works with many popular suppressor mounts, with a small hammer head and handle-printed torque specs. Made in the USA and constructed from 4140 heat-treated steel.

Why is it Important to Have Good Tools?

Investing in high-quality gunsmithing tools ensures precision, safety, and durability during your rifle builds and customization. Poorly made tools cause errors, can damage your firearm, and even become safety hazards. Obsidian Arms offers top-notch tools that ensure every aspect of your build meets the highest standards.

Good tools are their own investment. They simplify complex tasks, last longer, and make efforts less time-consuming. Whether you’re a hobbyist or an experienced gunsmith, high-quality tools will give you the confidence you need to make intricate adjustments to your firearm.

Summary of Tools to Build an AR-15

Here is our list of necessary tools for your AR-15 build.

  • Vise
  • Lower Vise Block
  • Reaction Rod
  • Upper Vise Block
  • Armorers Wrench
  • Torque Wrench
  • Punch Set
  • Roll Pin Holders
  • Pivot Pin Tool
  • Trigger Guard Tool
  • Hammer/Mallet
  • Hex/Allen Wrench Set
  • Star Wrench Set
  • Screwdriver Set
  • Maintenance Mat
  • Complete Armorer’s Kit

Conclusion

Building and customizing rifles requires precision, safety, and the right tools. Investing in high-quality tools and parts from Obsidian Arms ensures that your project is efficient and meets the highest standards of firearm craftsmanship. Whether you’re a professional or a DIY enthusiast, our tools prioritize durability and reliability. Take the right approach and ensure your firearm performs again and again.