Our ability to modify and add on to the AR-15 is an almost endless. From sights to lasers there seems to be a spot for everything. Before we break out the credit card, let’s look at some of the most common and sensible accessories on the market.

The AR-15 is one of the most modular firearms to ever exist.  Our ability to modify and add on to this great gun is an almost endless.  From sights to lasers there seems to be a spot for everything. Before we break out the credit card however and hit the internet, let’s look at some of the most common and sensible accessories on the market.

While your new AR will come with a stock, it may be a very simple and entry level style.  Many shooters opt for an aftermarket stock that fits them better.  These can range from fixed old school style stocks to modern lightweight collapsible stock with storage compartments.  Of all of the style available I encourage the use of a collapsible stock.  It provides you the ability to adjust your length of pull should you put on a heavy jacket or even a tactical vest.

Another great accessory is optics.  While iron sights are good, optics are better.  They allow us to me more accurate when used correctly.  As with all accessories they range in style and price.  A solid performer and a reasonable price are red dot style optics.  These work well at distances I find a majority of new shooters working at.  There are also a number of manufacturers in this space which keeps prices competitive!

The handguard of the rifle is another area I see many people change after they get their rifle.  Some rifles come with plane Jane plastic handguards which limit our ability to add items in the front of the gun.  There tends to be two major schools on the area with one using “key mod” style holes for accessories and the second using “M-LOK” style attachment slots.  The choice is yours as there are adapters for both readily available on the market.  If I were forced to choose one, I would lean towards M-LOK because of experience.  I have found it to be very stable.

Lights are next on the list.  Like the rest of the accessory market, the tactical or weapon light market is full of options.  Many companies make great options and prices have become very customer friendly over the years.  General guidelines I use for lights is that they range between 300 and 600 lumens and are LED.  You can choose a light with a pressure switch or a toggle switch depending on your needs and desires.  For the longest time these lights were run with lithium 123A style batteries but advancements in LED design have allowed more and more to use common AA or AAA batteries.  I am a fan of this simply because of availability and cost.  On a side note.  If you do choose a light with 123A batteries, visit the Surefire website for what I believe is the best price on these sometimes-expensive necessities.

These are just a few of the most common accessories.  There is everything from lasers to levels available for your gun.  I encourage you to decide if it is something you will really use on the gun or is it just more for dress.  Regardless, enjoy accessorizing your new rifle!