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If you've spent any amount of time building AR-15s, you quickly realize that not all handguards are created equal. While there are countless options available today, only a handful have earned a reputation for combining durability, precision machining, outstanding ergonomics, and proven performance. For me, one handguard continues to stand above the rest—the Geissele MK14 Super Modular Rail in DDC, which I picked up from Brownells. After using it on multiple builds and spending plenty of time behind the rifle, it has become one of my all-time favorite AR handguards.

One of the reasons I originally chose the MK14 was Geissele's reputation. Bill Geissele built his company around precision, reliability, and products designed to withstand hard use. That philosophy doesn't just apply to their legendary triggers—it extends throughout their entire product lineup. From charging handles to scope mounts and handguards, Geissele has consistently earned the trust of military units, law enforcement, competitive shooters, and civilian enthusiasts alike.

The first thing that grabs your attention when opening the box is the DDC (Desert Dirt Color) finish. Unlike a standard flat tan anodizing, Geissele's DDC has its own unique personality. Depending on the lighting, it can appear bronze, gold, flat dark earth, or somewhere in between. No two pieces are exactly alike, which gives every rifle a unique appearance. It's one of those finishes that photographs well but looks even better in person. Whether paired with a black receiver set or incorporated into a full FDE build, the DDC finish gives the rifle a premium, custom appearance without being flashy.

Of course, looks only go so far. What really makes the MK14 stand out is its engineering. The handguard features a slim, lightweight profile that feels incredibly comfortable in the hand. Modern shooting techniques encourage shooters to extend their support hand farther out on the rifle, and the MK14's narrow circumference makes that natural and comfortable even during extended range sessions. It's easy to maintain a solid grip whether shooting from standing, kneeling, or supported positions.

Weight is another area where the MK14 excels. Geissele managed to remove unnecessary material without sacrificing rigidity. The result is a free-float handguard that feels remarkably lightweight while remaining exceptionally strong. On a rifle that may spend long days at the range or be carried through the woods, every ounce matters. The MK14 helps keep the front end balanced without compromising durability.

One feature I particularly appreciate is the M-LOK attachment system. Rather than covering the handguard with bulky Picatinny rails, the MK14 uses M-LOK slots positioned exactly where most shooters need them. This keeps the rifle streamlined while allowing accessories like weapon lights, bipods, sling mounts, and hand stops to be installed only where necessary. It creates a cleaner, lighter, and more ergonomic setup than older quad-rail designs.

Installation is another reason the MK14 continues to receive praise. Geissele's proprietary barrel nut system provides an exceptionally solid mounting platform. Once properly installed and torqued, the handguard locks securely into place with virtually no movement. That rigidity is especially important when using lasers, aiming devices, or accessories that demand repeatable alignment. It inspires confidence that everything will remain exactly where it belongs regardless of how hard the rifle is used.

Heat management has also impressed me over the years. During long strings of fire, every aluminum handguard eventually warms up, but the MK14's design does an excellent job of dissipating heat while maintaining structural integrity. Combined with a quality pair of shooting gloves, it's more than capable of handling extended training sessions.

One of my favorite aspects of the MK14 is its versatility. I've used it on everything from general-purpose carbines to more specialized builds, and it never feels out of place. Whether paired with a red dot for close-range shooting or a low-power variable optic for reaching farther distances, the handguard complements virtually any configuration. It works equally well on a lightweight defensive rifle or a precision-oriented setup.

The machining quality is another area where Geissele continues to set itself apart. Every edge is clean, every M-LOK slot is precisely cut, and the anodizing is uniform throughout. The attention to detail is immediately apparent the first time you handle it. Nothing feels rough, unfinished, or rushed. It's exactly what you'd expect from a company known for producing premium components.

Brownells made adding the MK14 to my build an easy decision. I've relied on Brownells for countless firearm parts, tools, and accessories over the years, and they continue to be one of my first stops whenever I'm planning a new AR project. Knowing I could purchase a genuine Geissele handguard from a trusted retailer gave me complete confidence in the build from the very beginning.

After years of use, countless range trips, and several rifle projects, my opinion hasn't changed. The Geissele MK14 DDC remains one of the finest AR-15 handguards I've ever used. It combines lightweight construction, exceptional strength, outstanding ergonomics, beautiful machining, and one of the most recognizable finishes in the AR world. While there are certainly many quality handguards on the market today, few manage to balance performance, durability, and aesthetics as successfully as the MK14.

If you're planning your next AR-15 build and want a handguard that will likely outlast the rifle itself, the Geissele MK14 deserves a place near the top of your list. It isn't simply another accessory—it's one of those rare components that elevates the entire rifle. For me, it has earned its reputation as one of my all-time favorites, and every time I shoulder a rifle wearing that distinctive DDC rail, I'm reminded exactly why.

Some years ago I wanted to start trying out a new concealed carry pistol. Having been mostly stuff with just a couple of different EDC pistols in prior years, I was wanting something totally new. Now I had stayed away from the Sig Sauer P365 series mainly because of the earlier versions having some firing pin issues among some other failures. I’ve tried to shy away from new models of any firearm until things can get worked out. It didn’t take sig Sauer too long to iron out some of the early issues and then start to come out with a variety of different variants of the P365 series of pistols. Sig Sauer started to experiment with larger frame sizes as well as more capacity, longer slides with and without build in compensators. Even the triggers have changed a decent bit from the original. Once it was time for me to pick up my first Sig P365 pistol I ended up going with the Sig Sauer P365XL Spectre Comp in FDE from Brownells. At the time this particular model was offered in black or FDE.

Once I picked it up from Brownells I as super impressed and started my review and reliability process in order to determine whether or not it would be a good fit for my EDC rotation. Remarkably it went well past 1,000 rounds without any detailed cleaning and with a variety of ammo types and no malfunctions. In my opinion, this is the standard for a concealed carry type of pistol before it should be carried. Others have different testing standards, but this has been mine and has served me very, very well over the years. Safe to say that this P365 Spectre Comp truly surprised me but not long after it was discontinued.

Because I was so impressed with this pistol, I ended up picking up my wife the Rose variant from Brownells. The rose variant was a collaboration with Lena Miculek and meant to be for women to encourage them t get into self defense and firearms training. Such and awesome collaboration and my wife even had the opportunity to attend a short class with Lena some time ago. Sadly Lena Miculek and sig Sauer have since parts ways which I believe has somewhat tarnished the Rose name within the Sig world, but the pistol itself which is essentially a P365XL Comp much like the Spectre comp version is such an awesome pistol!

So back to the P365 series of pistols from Sig Sauer. Are these still one of my favorite defensive pistols on the market? Well absolutely! Sig Sauer is continuing to change and introduce new variants on this pistol. And while I do appreciate having many options available through Brownells form y new P365 variant, it sometimes causes my head to spin at just how many sku numbers Sig comes out with on these each and every years it seems. The Fuse versions are probably the latest model and these are now pretty much a full sized pistol. What variant will Sig introduce next? Well just wait a couple of months and there’s bound to be a new version or two or even three.

There are certain firearms that earn a permanent place in a collection, not because they're the newest or most expensive, but because they're simply enjoyable every time you take them to the range. For me, the Century Arms MKE AP5, purchased from Brownells several years ago, falls squarely into that category. It's unfortunate that Brownells no longer carries these. Inspired by the legendary Heckler & Koch MP5, the AP5 delivers the classic roller-delayed shooting experience that has made the platform famous around the world while remaining accessible to enthusiasts who have always wanted an MP5-style firearm.

When Brownells first began offering the AP5, it immediately caught my attention. Like many shooters, I had admired the MP5 platform for years. Its reputation for smooth recoil, exceptional reliability, and iconic styling has been cemented through decades of military, law enforcement, and pop culture appearances. While an original HK MP5 remains a dream firearm for many collectors, the Turkish-manufactured AP5 provides an authentic alternative at a much more attainable price.

One of the biggest reasons the AP5 has developed such a loyal following is its heritage. Manufactured by MKE (Makina ve Kimya Endüstrisi) in Turkey, the AP5 is produced on machinery originally licensed from Heckler & Koch. That lineage gives shooters confidence that they're getting a firearm that closely follows the original MP5 design rather than simply resembling it externally. The attention to detail is evident from the moment you pick it up.

What immediately stands out is the roller-delayed blowback operating system. Unlike the simple direct blowback designs found on many pistol-caliber carbines, the AP5 cycles with a remarkably smooth recoil impulse. Shooting 9mm through the platform feels soft, controlled, and incredibly enjoyable. Rapid follow-up shots are effortless, and the rifle remains extremely flat during strings of fire. It's one of those designs that truly has to be experienced to appreciate.

Over the years I've owned this AP5, it has continued to prove why the MP5 platform remains so highly respected. Reliability has been excellent with quality factory ammunition. Once properly broken in, the firearm has run consistently across a variety of loads, making range days far more enjoyable than troubleshooting malfunctions. Like many roller-delayed firearms, the AP5 benefits from a short break-in period, after which it settles into the dependable performance the platform is known for.

Ergonomically, the AP5 feels wonderfully compact. Even by today's standards, the controls remain intuitive and the balance is outstanding. The charging handle, oversized cocking tube, and unmistakable "HK slap" are part of the experience that makes shooting the AP5 so satisfying. It's difficult not to smile after locking the bolt to the rear and sending it home with that signature slap before firing the first round.

Accuracy has also exceeded my expectations. Although the AP5 was never intended to be a precision rifle, it consistently produces excellent groups at typical PCC distances. Whether shooting steel plates, paper targets, or running simple drills, the platform demonstrates why it became such a successful submachine gun design. The combination of low recoil and excellent mechanical accuracy allows shooters of all experience levels to perform well behind it.

Another reason I continue to appreciate the AP5 is the tremendous aftermarket support that has developed around the platform. Stocks, braces, optics mounts, handguards, trigger components, and countless accessories are available, allowing owners to configure the firearm to match their individual preferences. Whether someone prefers a traditional MP5 appearance or a more modern setup with optics and weapon lights, the AP5 provides an excellent foundation for customization.

Of course, one of the platform's biggest strengths is its suppressor compatibility. The 9mm cartridge performs exceptionally well when suppressed, and the roller-delayed operating system helps create a shooting experience that is both comfortable and incredibly enjoyable. Pairing the AP5 with the Rugged Obsidian or CMMG Zeroed 36K suppressor transforms an already smooth firearm into one of the most pleasant range guns you can own. Reduced recoil, softer report, and outstanding controllability make it difficult to put down once you start shooting.

Looking back, purchasing the AP5 from Brownells was one of those decisions I have never regretted. Brownells has long been one of my preferred sources for firearms, parts, and accessories because of their excellent customer service and wide selection of products. Having a trusted retailer behind a purchase always adds confidence, especially when investing in a firearm intended to remain in the collection for years.

The firearms market has changed considerably since I bought my AP5. Numerous pistol-caliber carbines have entered the market featuring modern controls, modular chassis systems, and AR-style ergonomics. Yet despite all those advancements, the MP5 design continues to hold its own. There's something about the combination of classic styling, smooth roller-delayed operation, and proven reliability that newer designs simply can't replicate.

The Century Arms MKE AP5 isn't just another PCC—it represents one of the most iconic firearm designs ever created. It offers history, outstanding shootability, and a unique operating system that continues to impress decades after its original introduction. For anyone who has always wanted the MP5 experience without paying collector-level prices, the AP5 remains one of the best options available.

Years after bringing it home from Brownells, I still find myself reaching for the AP5 whenever I want an enjoyable day at the range. It's reliable, accurate, exceptionally smooth, and endlessly fun to shoot. Some firearms eventually become safe queens, while others become trusted favorites. The MKE AP5 has unquestionably earned its place in the latter category, and I expect it will continue to do so for many years to come.

When it comes to building an AR-15, there are endless combinations of parts that can be assembled to fit a specific purpose. Some rifles are designed for long-range precision, while others prioritize lightweight handling or defensive use. For me, this 10.5-inch .300 Blackout build was all about creating a compact, reliable, and suppressor-ready platform that excels both on the range and in the field. By carefully selecting premium components—many sourced from Brownells—this rifle has become one of my favorite AR builds to date.

Every great build starts with the barrel, and I chose the Faxon Firearms 10.5-inch Match Series barrel chambered in .300 Blackout. Faxon has earned an excellent reputation for producing barrels that combine outstanding accuracy with dependable reliability. The 10.5-inch length is almost ideal for the .300 Blackout cartridge, allowing both supersonic and subsonic ammunition to perform efficiently while keeping the overall package extremely compact. Whether shooting steel at the range or running suppressed, the barrel consistently delivers excellent accuracy and dependable cycling.

Surrounding the barrel is a Brownells free-float handguard, which provides a lightweight yet rigid platform for accessories while allowing the barrel to remain free-floated for maximum accuracy. Brownells has long been known for offering quality components that balance performance and affordability, and this handguard fits that reputation perfectly. The slim profile feels comfortable in the hand while providing plenty of M-LOK attachment points for accessories without adding unnecessary bulk.

One of the standout components inside the rifle is the Geissele SSA-E X trigger. Anyone who has spent time shooting factory AR triggers immediately notices the difference after installing a Geissele. The SSA-E X offers a smooth two-stage pull with a crisp, predictable break that makes precision shooting feel effortless. Whether shooting slow, carefully aimed groups or engaging multiple targets quickly, the trigger inspires confidence and significantly enhances the overall shooting experience. It has become one of my favorite upgrades on any AR platform.

Since this rifle was designed as a compact pistol configuration, I selected the SB Tactical SBA5 brace. The SBA5 provides excellent stability and a comfortable cheek weld while maintaining the compact handling characteristics that make short-barreled AR platforms so enjoyable. Combined with the rifle's lightweight build, it creates a package that is easy to maneuver in confined spaces while remaining comfortable during extended range sessions.

Optics are another critical part of any build, and I chose the SIG Sauer Romeo5 Gen II Green Dot. The green dot reticle is incredibly easy to acquire in a variety of lighting conditions and works exceptionally well on a fast-handling rifle like this. The optic offers excellent battery life, dependable durability, and a simple interface that allows me to focus on shooting rather than adjusting settings. For a rifle intended primarily for short- to medium-range use, it's an outstanding match.

Ergonomics can dramatically influence how a rifle handles, which is why I installed the Die Free Co. Kung Fu Grip. Its more vertical grip angle feels natural on a compact AR, especially when shooting with the brace collapsed or from unconventional positions. The grip provides excellent control and reduces wrist fatigue during long shooting sessions.

Complementing the grip is the Die Free Co. Tiger Claw Hand Stop, which offers a consistent indexing point for my support hand while improving overall control of the rifle. On shorter handguards, a quality hand stop becomes even more valuable by helping maintain proper hand placement while also adding an additional layer of safety during rapid shooting.

Even though the Romeo5 serves as the primary aiming solution, I always like having backup iron sights. For that role, I installed Magpul MBUS 3 flip-up sights. The latest generation of MBUS sights is slimmer, lighter, and lower profile than previous versions while maintaining the rugged durability Magpul is known for. They fold neatly out of the way until needed, providing peace of mind should the optic ever fail.

Of course, no modern .300 Blackout build feels complete without a suppressor, and this rifle wears the Rugged Suppressors Alaskan 360. The Alaskan 360 is a versatile suppressor that performs exceptionally well on the .300 Blackout platform. Shooting subsonic ammunition through this setup creates an incredibly enjoyable experience, reducing blast and recoil while allowing the cartridge to perform exactly as it was intended. Even with supersonic loads, the suppressor significantly improves shooter comfort and overall controllability.

One of the things I appreciate most about this build is how well every component works together. There isn't a single part that feels like an afterthought. From the smooth break of the Geissele trigger to the comfortable ergonomics of the Die Free Co. furniture, the dependable Romeo5 optic, and the quiet performance of the Rugged suppressor, every upgrade serves a purpose.

Building an AR from carefully selected parts also creates a deeper appreciation for the platform. Rather than simply purchasing a complete rifle off the shelf, every decision reflects how the rifle will actually be used. Brownells made sourcing many of these premium components simple, allowing me to assemble exactly the rifle I envisioned without compromise.

This 10.5-inch .300 Blackout has quickly become one of the most enjoyable firearms in my collection. It's compact enough to maneuver easily, accurate enough to inspire confidence, and exceptionally smooth when paired with the Alaskan 360 suppressor. Whether ringing steel, shooting recreationally, or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon at the range with subsonic ammunition, this Brownells-based build demonstrates why the .300 Blackout platform continues to be one of the most versatile and rewarding AR configurations available today.

There are custom firearms built for competition, some built for defensive carry, and others created simply because they look impressive. Then there are projects that mean something far beyond performance. This custom .45 ACP Government Model 1911 falls into that final category—a firearm built not only as a functional masterpiece but also as a lasting tribute to my years of service in the United States Navy. Every component was carefully selected, every detail thoughtfully executed, and every cut made with purpose. The result is a timeless 1911 that blends traditional styling with modern craftsmanship while honoring a lifetime of military service.

Like many quality custom builds, this project started with premium components sourced through Brownells. For decades, Brownells has been the trusted supplier for professional gunsmiths and firearm enthusiasts looking to build pistols that perform as well as they look. Rather than beginning with a factory pistol, this build started from the ground up using a Caspian frame and slide, giving the project an exceptional foundation known throughout the custom 1911 community for its quality machining and precise tolerances.

Bringing all of those parts together was Dave at Defensive Creations in Alliance, Ohio. Dave's craftsmanship is evident from the first moment you pick up the pistol. Nothing feels rushed or mass-produced. Every surface blends seamlessly into the next, creating a pistol that feels like it was machined from a single piece of steel rather than assembled from individual components. The slide-to-frame fit is exceptionally smooth with virtually no unnecessary movement while maintaining the reliability expected from a hard-use 1911.

One of the first details that immediately stands out is the beautifully executed traditional blued finish. In today's world of Cerakote colors and modern coatings, there is still something incredibly elegant about a deep polished blue finish. It captures the classic appearance of the original Government Model while showcasing the crisp machining lines throughout the pistol. The finish complements the pistol perfectly and gives it the timeless appearance that many collectors and 1911 enthusiasts appreciate.

Another feature that demonstrates the attention to detail is the custom front strap checkering. Precision-cut checkering dramatically improves grip without becoming overly aggressive. Whether shooting slow-fire groups or running rapid strings at the range, the additional traction helps keep the pistol planted in the hand. It's one of those custom touches that immediately separates a hand-built 1911 from a production firearm.

Accuracy was also a major priority during the build. At the heart of the pistol sits a precision-fit KART .45 ACP barrel, one of the most respected names in match-grade 1911 barrels. KART barrels have long been trusted by custom pistolsmiths because of their outstanding consistency, lockup, and accuracy potential. Combined with Dave's careful fitting, the barrel gives this pistol the mechanical precision expected from a true custom 1911.

The sighting system stays true to the pistol's classic appearance while adding a practical enhancement. A gold bead front sight provides an elegant look that immediately catches available light, making it easier to acquire than a traditional black front sight without sacrificing the classic styling of the pistol. Paired with the clean rear sight, it offers an excellent sight picture whether shooting paper targets or steel.

Perhaps the most meaningful features of this build are the personalized details that commemorate my Navy service. The beautifully crafted U.S. Navy grip panels immediately identify the purpose behind the pistol. Rather than serving as decorative accessories, they transform the firearm into a personal tribute. Every time the pistol is picked up, the grips serve as a reminder of my years spent serving the country.

Complementing the grips is a custom serial number created specifically to commemorate that Navy career. While invisible to most observers unless pointed out, the serial number becomes one of the most personal elements of the build. It's a permanent reminder that this pistol represents far more than another custom firearm—it represents a chapter of life and service that deserves to be remembered for generations.

Looking closely at the completed pistol, it's easy to appreciate the countless hours that went into every aspect of the build. The clean blending around the grip safety, the perfectly fitted thumb safety, the crisp trigger, the polished feed ramp, and the flawless barrel fit all demonstrate the level of craftsmanship that simply cannot be duplicated on a production line. This isn't just parts assembled together; it's a pistol built by someone who truly understands the 1911 platform.

While the pistol certainly has collector appeal, it was never intended to be a safe queen. Like John Browning originally intended, this Government Model was built to be fired, appreciated, and enjoyed. Chambered in .45 ACP, it delivers the familiar recoil impulse and satisfying performance that has made the cartridge legendary for well over a century.

Projects like this remind us why the 1911 platform continues to inspire shooters more than 100 years after its introduction. Its endless customization possibilities allow each pistol to tell a unique story. In this case, that story is one of craftsmanship, tradition, and service to the nation.

Thanks to quality components from Brownells, a solid Caspian frame and slide, a match-grade KART barrel, elegant finishing touches like the gold bead front sight and custom front strap checkering, and the expert craftsmanship of Dave at Defensive Creations in Alliance, Ohio, this custom 1911 became far more than just another firearm. It became a lasting tribute to my Navy career, preserving memories and honoring service in a way that can be appreciated every time the slide is racked and another round is sent downrange.

For those of us who carry every day, simplicity, comfort, and reliability matter more than chasing the latest trends. While the concealed carry market is packed with micro-compacts offering higher capacities and optics-ready slides, there’s still something to be said for a proven setup that has earned its place over years of dependable use. My everyday carry revolves around the Kahr PM9, carried in a Galco pocket holster and loaded with Hornady Critical Duty 124-grain +P ammunition from Brownells. It’s a lightweight, practical combination that fits my lifestyle while remaining discreet enough to carry almost anywhere appropriate and legal.

The Kahr PM9 has been around for years, but it continues to prove why it has such a loyal following. Its slim profile, smooth double-action-only trigger, and compact dimensions make it one of the easiest 9mm pistols to carry comfortably. Unlike many modern micro-compacts that prioritize magazine capacity, the PM9 focuses on being incredibly thin and lightweight. That translates into less printing, better comfort throughout long days, and a pistol that’s easy to forget you’re carrying until you need it. The trigger is exceptionally smooth, and although it has a longer pull than striker-fired competitors, many shooters appreciate the added margin of safety when carrying without an external manual safety.

One of the biggest advantages of this setup is the Galco pocket holster. Pocket carry isn’t the answer for everyone, but when done correctly with a quality holster, it can be one of the most comfortable and convenient methods of concealed carry. The Galco holster keeps the pistol properly oriented inside the pocket, helps break up the outline of the firearm to reduce printing, and is designed to stay in the pocket during the draw thanks to its textured exterior and hook design. It also completely covers the trigger guard, an essential feature for safe pocket carry. Galco’s premium leather construction provides durability while remaining comfortable enough for everyday use. (Brownells Deutschland⁠)

Another reason I continue to enjoy this setup is how naturally it fits into everyday life. Whether I’m running errands, spending time outdoors, or making a quick trip into town, the PM9 disappears into a front pocket without requiring a heavy gun belt or an oversized cover garment. Having a firearm that’s genuinely comfortable to carry increases the likelihood that you’ll actually carry it consistently. After all, the best carry gun is the one that’s with you when you need it.

For defensive ammunition, I rely on Hornady Critical Duty 124-grain +P, purchased from Brownells. Before trusting any defensive load, it’s important to verify reliable function in your individual firearm by testing it at the range. Reliability should always come first, regardless of brand or bullet design. Once you’ve confirmed dependable operation, carrying quality defensive ammunition can provide confidence in your everyday carry setup. As with any defensive pistol, routine maintenance and periodic replacement of carry ammunition are good habits that help keep your equipment ready.

What I appreciate most about this combination isn’t flashy features or cutting-edge technology—it’s consistency. The PM9 has a reputation for being easy to conceal, the Galco pocket holster makes carrying comfortable and discreet, and quality defensive ammunition rounds out a setup that has served many concealed carriers well over the years. There are certainly newer options available today with larger magazine capacities and optics compatibility, but there’s value in a firearm that simply works and carries comfortably day after day.

Everyday carry is ultimately a personal decision. The “perfect” setup doesn’t exist because everyone’s needs, clothing, environment, and preferences are different. What matters is finding a reliable firearm, pairing it with a quality holster that safely protects the trigger, and practicing regularly so that drawing, shooting, and handling become second nature. For me, the Kahr PM9, Galco pocket holster, and dependable defensive ammunition from Brownells continue to check all the boxes. It’s lightweight, comfortable, discreet, and easy to carry consistently—qualities that are hard to overlook when building an everyday carry system that you can trust.

I put this build together quite a while ago but it has evolved a little bit every so often over the last few years. Started out as a Brownells C7 carry handle upper receiver. Originally it had a “faux” dissipator barrel but once the Brownells cold hammer forged variety came in stock, I picked on up. The trigger was just your run of the mill mil spec variety as well. Eventually down the road I swapped that out for a Geissele Brownells exclusive G2S trigger which made a world of difference, but more on that later. Knowing that I always planned on running it suppressed I had to figure out the best way to better regulate the gas with the barrel setup. I ended up picking up an adjustable bolt carrier gas key from Brownells to replace the key on the original; Brownells carrier assembly. Lower parts kit was a Geissele lower parts kit one of their basic varieties as well. 

At some point when Brownells brought back the Colt retro 4X optics, I snagged one of those to throw on top. It’s actually a pretty good optic with Japanese glass. I’ve had it out as far as 300 yards and it does quite well at those kinds of ranges despite the heavy basic cross hair type of reticle. You can still use the iron sights with the scope mounted up on top of the carry handle, but it’s a bit on the difficult side of things. Good thing though is it’s a quick procedure to remove the Colt 4x scope and it can be done easily in the field with the latching mechanism. Out on the end of the Dissipator build, I typically run a rugged suppressors Razor 5.56 suppressor. This is a great quality can that is meant for hard use and does a particularly nice job of taming the sound and recoil. 

So what’s the latest with the Dissipator build? After a lot of thought I wanted to get into the FRT game but not lose my Geissele trigger. I opted to try out the AS Designs Arc Fire V2 with their special plate for Geissele triggers. The rear portion of the Geissele trigger has to be modified in order to accept the Arc fire safety selector and this was the part I was most worried about. If you take too much material off, you can end up with a relatively pricey paper weight. I could’ve just used the included trigger, but really wanted my Geissele. So after making the modifications needed after some trial and error, I was able to get everything assembled and function tested. Next up was some range time! Oh man does it run so so good with the newly installed FRT on the Geissele G2S trigger! I can run it in semi no problem but once switching over to FRT mode, it’s game on. Super smooth shooting but without a ton of recoil as the Dissipator’s rifle length gas system helps to minimize that. 

What’s next for my Dissipator build? Well who really knows to be honest. I had thought I was done, but then I wasn’t. It’s one of those classic looking builds that just keeps on calling me. So much fun! What retro or clone build do I plan on next? Well who knows but I know Brownells has what I need to get started.

I get asked this question quite regularly. Which Geissele is my favorite out of my full builds and mostly Geissele builds? It’s a question I honestly avoid for a variety of reasons. If I happen to think back at my very first Geissele “build” it actually wasn’t much of a build at all but rather a totally complete Geissele rifle from Brownells. Yes I did add my own touches, but for the most part it’s as it came from Brownells sans the optic setup which happens to be a Riton X3 tactic LPVO, the Cloud defensive Rein micro and the Rugged flash hider out on the end. I did recently swap out the original Geissele grip for one of their newer more vertical style of grips. What makes this particular rifle somewhat unique is the OD green anodized finish coupled with DDC or tan furniture. The other unique item from Geissele that’s no longer available is the DDC flip up Geissele back up sights. Geissele stopped making these a couple 2 to 3 years back and folk constantly are looking for these sights. This rifle has always been one heck of a rifle and I will some day pass it down to one of my children so that they too can enjoy it.

The second Geissele rifle that I have is a 10.3” DDC SBR build. This rifle un-like my Brownells exclusive Geissele rifle is truly a “build” in the classical sense. The majority of the parts were sourced over at Brownells such as the upper receiver, lower parts kit and SSA-E X bow trigger assembly. While the upper receiver did come complete, I had to build the lower half and opted for a Law Tactical side folding mechanism since this was going to be a shorty once finished. This rifle has a heck of a lot of rounds through it and it’s Eotech EXPS3-0 holographic optic. I’ve kept a Rugged Razor 5.56 can exclusively on this setup and it does a great job of toning down the sound albeit being a bit on the gassy side of things. An H3 buffer helps to slow things down however. Despite having a 1X optic I’ve shot this rig out to 300 yards and it does surprisingly good. 

The last build is also more of a build and that’s my 11.5” URGI clone ice build. I picked up the upper receiver complete from Brownells but had to build out the lower and add the proper accessories. This build was definitely more stringent since I was attempting to “clone” a military setup using similar optics and suppressors. An Aimpoint T2 on a unity riser and a scout light and suppressor made by Surefire. This build screams operator even though I’m far from anything of the like. This build is something super special since I am former military and truly appreciate the tools that our military gets the opportunity to use to defend our freedoms. 

So which build is my absolute favorite? Every time I run down the pros and cons of each and what emotion attach me to them, I’m still at a loss. It Ould be kinda like picking a favorite child or parent or something along those lines. It’s truly a hard choice. I guess