The AR-15 Assembly Guide: How to Build and Service the AR-15 Rifle by Erik Lawrence is an easy-to-use, step-by-step guide to building an AR-15-style rifle.
There are three sections in the book:
BUILDING – a complete step-by-step, illustrated guide that walks you through building your AR-15 from the individual parts.
SERVICING – covers how to clean, maintain and service your AR-15
OPERATING – marksmanship, troubleshooting and malfunction remedies
Key topics include:
Lower assembly
Upper assembly
Popular upgrades
Cleaning and lubrication
Safe operation and handling
Proper shooting techniques
Malfunctions and troubleshooting
Now available on Amazon in Kindle or paperback versions.
Sons of Liberty Gun Works Launches the OB1 Signature Rifle by Christian Craighead: A Tribute to Excellence in Craftsmanship and Service
SAN ANTONIO TEXAS – Sons of Liberty Gun Works® is proud to announce the release of the “OB1” Signature Rifle, meticulously built to the exact specifications of Christian Craighead, a highly decorated veteran of the British military. With a distinguished 28-year career, including pivotal roles in the 22nd SAS, Craighead is renowned for his bravery, particularly for his decisive actions during the terrorist siege in Nairobi, Kenya, in January 2019. Since retiring in 2020, he has made Texas his home and partnered with Sons of Liberty Gun Works to bring his vision to life.
The OB1 rifle is a true reflection of Craighead’s commitment to excellence. It features an intricate engraving of the Blackbeard Boarding Party logo—representing Craighead’s own company—melding classic pirate imagery with elements inspired by the weaponry of the Revolutionary War. This unique aesthetic is further enhanced by the rifle’s cerakote finish in Craighead’s trademarked Rhodesian Brushstroke camouflage.
Specifications of the OB1 Signature Rifle:
• 13.7? V2 5.56mm barrel with pinned/welded HUXWRX® flash hider
• 13.75? L89 MLOK Handguard with Titanium Barrel Nut and 7-sided MLOK
• A5 Length Buffer System with FCD CN5F enhanced castle nut
• Magpul® DT stock, MOE Grip and Trigger Guard, and polymer Ejection Port Cover
• Liberty 2 Stage™ Trigger (L2S) with a 4.5lb total pull weight
• 50 Degree Ambidextrous Quick Selector
• Liberty Charging Handle (ambidextrous)
• Forged 7075-T6 upper and lower receivers
• Lifetime Warranty (including normal wear)
“We are honored to collaborate with Christian Craighead to create a rifle that embodies both functionality and artistry,” said Mike Mihalski of Sons of Liberty Gun Works®. “The OB1 Signature Rifle not only reflects Christian’s remarkable career but also stands as a testament to the quality and innovation that we strive for in every product.”
Sons of Liberty Gun Works® is dedicated to producing high-performance firearms that meet the needs of modern shooters. With an unwavering focus on quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction, SOLGW™ continues to set the standard for excellence in the firearms industry.
Born in Northeast England, Christian Craighead has always taken an unorthodox route, constantly defying the odds stacked against him at every level.
At the age of sixteen, he joined the British Army, initially serving in the fearsome Parachute Regiment, and was then selected for the elite Pathfinder Platoon. Craighead’s natural “get the job done” mindset secured him a coveted spot at the pinnacle of most soldiers’ dreams: Tier 1 Special Forces.
As a senior and highly decorated member of 22 SAS, the British Army’s Special Mission Unit known for covert reconnaissance, counter-terrorism and hostage rescue, he participated in an exceptionally high number of high-risk missions and was wounded in action. This hard-earned combat experience underpins his reputation as a renowned counter-terrorism and special tactics instructor.
In 2019, Craighead single-handedly shifted the outcome of a terrorist attack in Kenya. His actions and leadership during the brutal attack are credited with saving hundreds of lives. Those unauthorized actions earned him global praise as well as an invitation and personal gratitude from the 45th President of the United States, Donald J. Trump.
After 28 years of active service, Craighead retired in 2020. He continues to conduct leadership and specialized training and is sought after for keynote speaking engagements. The goal of his work is to encourage anyone to become the necessary leader, to have the courage to make decisions, and to actively reshape the narrative instead of being the passive bystander.
Staying true to his unconventional manner, Craighead is also the author of a children’s book, The Wrong Wolf. He now resides in Texas.
SPRING, TX (Aug. 12, 2024) — WATCHTOWER Firearms, a veteran-owned firearm manufacturing company based in Spring, Texas, is pleased to announce that it now has Type 15 Complete Lowers in stock and ready to ship. These lowers are part of the company’s renowned line of custom-class Type 5, Type 10, and Type 15 AR platform rifles, as well as the Apache Double Stack 1911 pistol, suppressors, and accessories.
“As is the case with all our products, the Type 15 Complete Lowers we offer are built with nothing but the finest parts available, meticulously machined and assembled,” said WATCHTOWER Firearms CEO Jason Colosky. “We know many of our customers like to build their own rifles, and these lowers allow them to add their own uppers to what is arguably the finest lower available on the market today.”
The Type 15 lower is loaded with factory upgrades, ensuring top-notch performance. It is manufactured from solid 7075-T6 billet aluminum, guaranteeing precise fitment and enhancing its resilience against dust and debris. Notable features include a WATCHTOWER ambidextrous black 90-degree safety selector, WATCHTOWER takedown pin and pivot pin, properly staked end plate and castle nut, Hiperfire EDT2 Heavy Gunner Trigger, H2 buffer with carbine action spring, 6 Position Mil-Spec buffer tube, B5 Systems Bravo stock, and B5 Systems P-23 grip. Customers can choose from four finish options – black anodized, FDE, OD Green, or Wolf Gray cerakote. Additionally, the Type 15 Complete Lower comes with WATCHTOWER’s industry-leading lifetime warranty.
“At WATCHTOWER Firearms, our products are designed and delivered by men and women who have dedicated their boots-on-the-ground lives to crushing oppression and preserving our American way of life,” said Colosky, a second-generation U.S. Marine who served as a Recon Marine throughout Southwest Asia and Southeast Africa. “Hunting, competition, or home defense, who better to build your next rifle than those who understand the vitality of life or how important your shots may one day be? That’s the WATCHTOWER team. We’re proud that all our rifles, pistols, and components are entirely American-sourced, precision-machined, built, and tested.”
The WATCHTOWER Firearms Type 15 Complete Lower is available at an MSRP of $659.99. Customers are encouraged to place their orders today, with shipping promised within 1-2 weeks, while supplies last. For more information or to order, please visit www.watchtowerfirearms.com.
Posted in Black Rifle, Press Release | Comments Off on WATCHTOWER Firearms’ Type 15 Complete Lowers Are In Stock and Ready to Ship
The ultimate all-in-one tactical solution combines four popular calibers into a single, versatile system, providing unmatched adaptability and performance for any situation.
Hermon, Maine (June 2024) – Hydra Weaponry, Maine’s largest firearms employer, designers, and manufacturers of the truly modular MARCK-15 Hydra® Weapon System, is proud to announce the launch of the HYDRA® Survival Package (4 Caliber Kit), the ultimate all-in-one tactical case for firearm enthusiasts and professionals. This innovative package combines four popular calibers into a single, versatile system, providing unmatched adaptability and performance for any situation.
The HYDRA Survival Package includes:
•9mm Hydra Rifle: Utilizes your choice of Colt Style 9mm SMG or MP5 magazines, ensuring compatibility and reliability.
•Hydra 5.56 Conversion Kit: Features a 16-inch 5.56 Barrel, complete Hydra Modified Bolt Carrier Group, Hydra D-Fender D-Ring for enhanced reliability, and an AR Mag Well.
•Hydra 7.62 x 39 Conversion Kit: Comes with a 16-inch 7.62 x 39 Barrel, Hydra Enhanced 7.62 x 39 Bolt and Firing Pin (EAK) installed in the Hydra Modified Bolt Carrier, Hydra D-Fender D-Ring for enhanced reliability, and an AK47 Mag Well.
•.300 Blackout Barrel Assembly: A complete 16-inch .300 Blackout Barrel assembly, ready for immediate use.
All magazines for each caliber are included in this comprehensive package, ensuring you have everything you need right out of the box.
Each component of the HDYRA Survival Package is meticulously test-fired before packaging, guaranteeing top-notch performance. The rifle is equipped with full-length and carbine-length rails and is compatible with Mlok, Keymod, and Picatinny rail inserts for maximum customization. Weighing 20 lbs. and measuring 30 x 15 x 5 inches, the tactical case is designed for portability and durability. MSRP $3,499.99 – $3,639.99.
An FFL (Federal Firearms License) is necessary for purchase. All federal and state rules apply. California, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York residents must select state-compliant options.
For more information about Hydra Weaponry’s product offerings, please visit www.hydraweaponry.com or contact our customer service team at admin@hydraweaponry.com or 855-493-7221.
Posted in Black Rifle, Press Release | Comments Off on Introducing the HYDRA Survival Package (4 Caliber Kit)
Based on customer requests, Hydra Weaponry introduces the Hydra 10; a powerful and highly accurate .308 rifle with caliber conversion barrels available soon.
Hermon, Maine (March 2024) – Hydra Weaponry, Maine’s largest firearms employer, designers, and manufacturers of the truly modular MARCK-15 Hydra® Weapon System, unveil the Hydra 10, a .308 with the hard-hitting performance expected of this leading American AR-rifle manufacturer.
Based on customer demands, the Hydra 10 is built upon years of research, development, and real-world testing. It combines advanced engineering with user-centric features to deliver a rifle platform that excels in any scenario. From long-range precision shooting to tactical applications, the Hydra 10 offers unmatched adaptability and performance.
Key features of the Hydra 10 include:
• Modular Design: The Hydra 10 features a modular architecture that allows for easy customization and adaptation to suit individual preferences and mission requirements. The Hydra 10 is the base model for future caliber configurations. All that will be required to change calibers will be a barrel and bolt exchange. Stay tuned for new calibers in the near future.
• .308 Caliber Precision: Engineered to deliver exceptional accuracy and ballistic performance, the Hydra 10 is chambered in the renowned .308 Winchester caliber. Whether hunting larger game or used as a tactical weapon for professional use, users can rely on the Hydra 10 to deliver decisive results with every shot.
• Robust Construction: Crafted from premium materials and subjected to rigorous quality control standards, the Hydra 10 is built to withstand the harshest conditions and the most demanding missions. The Hydra 10 is built on a BLK Systems stock and pistol grip, with a Quick-Change Barrel Upper Receiver (QCB-D), and runs on a standard SR-25 magazine with a DPMS pattern.
• Advanced Features: Equipped with advanced features such as a crisp trigger, ergonomic controls, and a smooth cycling action, the Hydra 10 ensures optimal performance and shooter comfort. Additionally, compatibility with a wide range of accessories and optics further enhances the Hydra 10’s versatility and effectiveness in the field.
“We are proud to introduce the Hydra 10, a rifle platform that embodies our commitment to innovation, quality, and performance,” said Mack Gwinn III, CEO at Hydra Weaponry. “The Hydra 10 represents a new standard of excellence in the world of .308 caliber rifles.”
The Hydra 10 is available in 16” and 18” length barrels, and in black or coyote tan, with an MSRP of $2,349.00.
For more information on Hydra Weaponry, visit the new website at www.hydraweaponry.com.
MARYVILLE, TN., (2/27/2024) – Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. (NASDAQ Global Select: SWBI), a leader in firearm manufacturing and design, announces today the release of the new M&P15 Sport III rifle.
Designed to perform under various conditions, the Smith & Wesson Sport Series is as versatile as it is reliable. Building on the proven Sport II platform, the next iteration comes equipped with enhancements to increase performance while being offered at a lower price. The Sport III is a gas-operated semi-auto MSR chambered in 5.56 NATO/223 REM, and is offered in 30+1 and 10+1 capacities. Upgrades to this platform include a 16-inch Armornite® coated barrel with a threaded muzzle, 5R rifling, and a 1:8-inch twist that allows for a wider variety of ammo to be used. The barrel, housed in a free-floating 15-inch M-LOK® handguard with a full-length Picatinny-style rail, offers more options to accessorize than previous generations. The Sport III utilizes a mid-length gas system to help mitigate felt recoil when shooting and it also ships with a 6-position adjustable stock, polymer grip, bolt forward assist, and chromed firing pin.
If you’re looking for your first rifle, or just want to expand the collection, the M&P15 Sport III is a reliable platform for a great price. The new M&P15 Sport III rifle has an MSRP of $799 and is available now at authorized dealers.
SPRING, TX (Jan. 30, 2024) — A combination of billet precision and military heritage, the WATCHTOWER SPEC OPS Type 15 Rifle offers an unmatched combination of high quality and value in an AR-15-type platform available to both the civilian and law enforcement markets.
The SPEC OPS TYPE 15 features a receiver set machined to the tightest tolerances from high-grade 7075-T6511 billet aluminum to secure a wobble-free fitment and to prevent dust and debris from entering. Assembled with an ambidextrous charging handle and WATCHTOWER’s patented safety selector to satisfy the need for more dexterity, this allows more surface area to manipulate the mechanics of the firearm. The SPEC OPS Type 15 also features an upgraded fire control group with Hiperfire’s EDT2 Heavy Gunner trigger, a single-stage semi-auto LE/SWAT AR upgrade, and WATCHTOWER’s proprietary Tru-Black PVD coated 5.56 NATO M16 profile MPI tested Durabolt BCG, the company’s most robust, durable, and easy-to-clean coating. You can choose between a 16-inch 5.56 NATO cold hammer forged or a .223 Wylde stainless steel barrel with a 1:8 rifling twist, both with a mid-length gas system. Surrounding the barrel is the 13.7-inch S7M free-floating handguard with M-LOK attachment slots at five positions, 4 QD points, and a full-length 1913 Picatinny rail. WATCHTOWER’s Flat Face compensating muzzle brake is incorporated at the end of the barrel, a device to mitigate recoil and finished in a Tru-black PVD coating. This rifle also comes with B5 B5-reinforced polymer pistol grip and buttstock.
“The SPEC OPS Type 15 rifle has been designed for those who enjoy shooting a best-in-class AR-15 platform that honors our military heritage,” said WATCHTOWER CEO Jason Colosky, a former Recon Marine serving throughout Southwest Asia and Southeast Africa. “You can choose between 5.56 NATO or .223 Wylde. It’s a fast-handling rifle designed to perform flawlessly under extreme conditions.”
WATCHTOWER SPEC OPS Type 15 Rifle SPECIFICATIONS
Receiver: TYPE 15 7075-T651 billet aluminum
Handguard: 13.7-inch S7M free-floating handguard
Barrel: .223 Wylde match grade 1:8 rifling, black nitride finish
Muzzle Device: WATCHTOWER 5.56 NATO Flat Face, Tru-black PVD finish
Bolt Carrier Group: 5.56 NATO Durabolt, Tru-black PVD finish
Trigger: Hiperfire EDT2 Heavy Gunner
Safety Selector: WATCHTOWER ambidextrous, black finish
Charging Handle: WATCHTOWER ambidextrous
Grip: B5 Systems Type 23 P-grip
Stock: B5 Systems Bravo stock
Weight: 7 lbs.
Finishes: Black type III anodized or select from three Cerakote colors: FDE, OD Green and Wolf Grey
The suggested retail price for the.223 Wylde configuration is $1349, while the MSRP for the 5.56 NATO configuration is $1599. Available finishes include Black type III anodized, or you can select from three Cerakote colors: FDE, OD Green, and Wolf Grey.
WATCHTOWER Firearms is a veteran-owned firearm manufacturing company known for innovative design in its custom precision firearms that proudly manufactures its entire product line solely in America. The company offers a lifetime manufacturer product warranty on all firearms to protect our customers against any manufacturing defects. If your firearm does have evidence of such defects, WATCHTOWER Firearms will accommodate fixing, repairing, or replacing your product. To learn more about WATCHTOWER and the company’s unique vision for the firearms industry, visit www.watchtowerfirearms.com.
Bandera TX – January 17, 2024 – Jesse Warren, an armorer at Sons of Liberty Gun Works, and former Army Medic has a lot to be thankful for. This Warriors Heart Alumni is showing his appreciation to the organization who helped fund his service K9, by designing and building a one-of-a-kind Sons of Liberty / Frontline Healing Foundation M4 rifle.
Set to be featured in the Sons of Liberty booth (#31203) at the 2024 SHOT Show and auctioned as part of the renowned Crye Precision SHOT Show Auction, this custom M4-89 13.7″ rifle was personally designed to show Warren’s appreciation to the organizations who played a role in his recovery.
“I am incredibly fortunate to work for a company, in Sons, who not only blessed off on the build of this rifle, but who supported my recovery and time at Warriors Heart,” stated Warren. “When I went to the leadership team, and expressed my need for help, the response was more than I could have ever hoped for.”
Sons of Liberty not only gave Warren their support, but they also promised him that his bench would remain untouched while away. A promise kept, one that the company could have easily overlooked, due to the company’s high demand.
Chambered in 5.56mm NATO, the completely custom-built features the logos of Warriors Heart and Warriors Heart K9 – two organizations Warren acknowledges for aiding in his recovery and placement of his service dog.
Fashioned with a 1:7 twist barrel, with 6 grove rifling, bolt carrier group is a Carpenter 158 bolt, 8620 carrier. The Upper and Lower Receivers are a 7075-T6 Aluminum forging with a hard coat Type 3/Class II anodized finish.
The handguard is an M89 Drivelock rail, 6061 aluminum, steel barrel nut, with a continuous 1913 Picatinny rail at 12 o’clock. The ambidextrous Liberty Charging Handle features the Warriors Heart motto, “Strength Through Healing,” a reminder that we are never alone in our battles.
The Crye Precision auction began to give back to the organizations who provide treatment and care for the men and women who continue to put themselves into harm’s way, to ensure our safety and freedoms. The one-of-a-kind rifle will be among other donations from companies across the firearms and defense industries, with all proceeds raised, going directly to Frontline Healing Foundation, the largest donor towards individuals seeking treatment at Warriors Heart.
“This initiative is incredibly humbling to us,” stated Jordyn Jureczki, CEO of Frontline Healing Foundation. “We do everything we can to raise funds to subsidize the cost of treatment and care for our nations Warriors. This rifle is beautiful, and the heart behind its build is unparalleled.”
The Frontline Healing / Sons of Liberty M4 will be open for bids during the 2024 Crye Precision, held online during SHOT Show.
