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As one of the most popular semi-automatic rifles sold in the US, the AR-15 is widely used for hunting, home defense, target shooting, and more. One major reason for the gun’s appeal is its adjustability. Mods and upgrades are available to enhance your rifle in numerous ways, from increased comfort to improved accuracy and much more.
How do you want to customize your AR-15?
Let’s take a look at the best AR-15 upgrades and mods, what they do, and how they can improve your shooting experience.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for AR-15 Upgrades And Mods
- OUR TOP PICK: Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope
- RUNNER-UP: FAB Defense Vertical Foregrip & Bipod
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: EOTech 510 Series 512-A65
Comparison of the Best AR-15 Upgrades and Mods
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Are AR-15 Upgrades and Mods Universal?
Generally, yes. The AR-15 is a modular rifle designed for maximum customization. It consists of two sections: an upper and lower receiver. Interestingly, only the lower receiver is considered a firearm.
This classification means a Federal Firearms License isn’t required to sell any components from the upper receiver, creating a low barrier of entry for businesses. As a consumer, you can easily find a wide range of options if you want a new barrel, scope, gas operating system, stock, and many other components that drastically change the function and design of your rifle.
Another reason why the firearm is so easy to customize is that it was originally designed for the US Military. The vast majority of AR-15s components are categorized as Mil-Spec, or military standard. All Mil-Spec components are designed for effortless interchangeability.
What to Look for When Buying AR-15 Upgrades and Mods
No matter what specific upgrade or mod you’re interested in adding to your rifle, there are a few factors you’ll want to consider.
Construction and Durability
First, you’ll want to consider the quality of construction and the types of materials used to make the mod. Look for well-established brands that use precision casting to manufacture their components. Each part should have an individual serial number to allow for quality control.
Most components are made from metal, but the specific type makes an important difference. Chrome is long-lasting and water-resistant, but the application process can impair accuracy in a barrel or muzzle. On the other hand, stainless steel isn’t quite as durable, but it’s still strong, lightweight, and affordable.
Ease of Installation
You’ll need to install your mod yourself. In most cases, you shouldn’t have much of a problem, as mods are designed for quick, intuitive installation, especially if they’re military standard. However, if you’re new to upgrading your AR-15, you’ll probably want to start with mods considered easiest to install.
The most common mods for beginners are optics, iron sights, forward grips, and flashlights. After becoming comfortable with those, most people are ready to move on to installing new triggers, trigger guards, stocks, handguards, and more. Remember, it’s practically impossible to harm your firearm by installing a mod, so don’t feel intimidated.
Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope
Purpose
Your mods don’t exist in isolation. Always consider the type of shooting you prefer and how those mods work together to assist you.
For example, mods for target shooting include optics and a muzzle brake, while upgrades for tactical use tend to favor laser scopes, a two-step trigger, and an improved charging handle. Combine your mods deliberately, so they’re all working towards a single purpose as much as possible.
Must-Have AR-15 Upgrades and Mods Review
We've rounded up a broad cross-section of useful mods you can use to improve practically every aspect of your rifle.
Best Overall:
Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most buyers recommend this scope as a clear, bright, and accurate scope. They compare it to a Nikon or Hawke scope in terms of quality, only available at a much lower price than those premium brands.
However, mounting does pose some challenges. It's a 50 mm scope, which means you have to mount it high enough to clear the bolt. Also, some buyers said it wouldn't fit on an individual mount, so it had to go onto a solid rail mount instead.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Vortex Crossfire II is a total redesign of the company's classic Crossfire scope. This new model is brighter, sturdier, and has a 50 mm objective lens with multi-coated optics. Although it doesn't have night-vision capabilities, the high contrast allows you to use it effectively during dusk and dawn.
Additionally, it's specifically designed for hunting and tactical missions in the outdoors. It's waterproof, shock-resistant, and nitrogen-purged to reduce fogginess. The one-inch tube is made from aircraft-grade aluminum and has minimal moving parts.
Bottom Line
You don't have to spend big to put an awesome scope on your AR-15. Vortex's Crossfire II is ideal for hunters and target shooters of all ability levels. It's easy to install, durable and holds up well in harsh outdoor environments.
Runner-up:
FAB Defense Vertical Foregrip & Bipod
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most buyers report an overall positive experience with all three components, with the grip singled out as especially well-made and effective. The quality of the construction is also frequently mentioned. However, one person said the mod does lengthen the gun, which makes fitting it in a standard carrying case difficult.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This three-in-one mod from FAB Defense combines a bipod, vertical foregrip, and light. You can hold the foregrip to increase control and accuracy when standing, or lay flat on the ground and use the bipod to shoot from a fixed position. No matter how you shoot, the 100-lumen white light helps increase visibility.
The aircraft-grade aluminum resists damage but remains portable. Switching between the bipod and grip is fast and simple. It fits any Picatinny rail and installs with both quick release and locking screw attachments.
Bottom Line
Why buy three separate mods when this single, durable unit helps reduce weight while increasing aiming accuracy? It allows for stable shooting when both standing and prone while also providing a portable LED light source that resists breaking. Overall, it’s an excellent multi-purpose mod useful for target shooting and hunting, with also some tactical benefits.
Best for the Money:
EOTech 510 Series 512-A65
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyer feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with many military veterans and other experienced tactical shooting professionals praising the sight’s accuracy, solid construction, and adjustability.
However, some buyers did notice some drawbacks. The sight tends to fail in freezing conditions. Plus, some users said they couldn’t use this sight and an iron sight at the same time.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Eotech’s 510 Holographic CQB Weapon sight allows for precision shooting in the short and medium range. It has a 65 MOA Ring with a single MOA dot for fast, accurate target tracking. It’s ideal for shooters of any skill level, whether you’re a professional target shooter or an amateur looking to improve your home defense capabilities.
Bottom Line
This holographic CQB scope allows for fast, accurate sighting, although it doesn’t have night vision or magnification. It’s a durable device that easily attaches to any Weaver or Picatinny standard rail. Most effective up to 50 yards, it’s a tremendous tactical upgrade for your AR-15 at an affordable price.
Best AR-15 Trigger Guard:
Magpul Industries Enhanced Trigger Guard
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers have far more praise than criticism for Magpul’s trigger guard. It’s widely considered a vast improvement over the standard mil-spec trigger guard, which has a gap often referred to as annoying. Additionally, many buyers say the aluminum construction is a major benefit because it’s lightweight and durable.
Finally, most compliments refer to how easy the guard is to use when wearing gloves. It’s ideal for cold-weather shooting, target shooting, law enforcement duties, and other situations where you want extra protection for your hands.
Why it Stands Out to Us
A trigger guard is an essential safety component, but many people don’t like the gap found in the traditional mil-spec option. Trusted manufacturer Magpul’s trigger guard is a durable, well-made option with a V-shape that allows you to fire while wearing gloves.
Additionally, it’s easy to install, even if you don’t have much experience installing upgrades. All necessary mounting hardware is included. Once installed, the trigger guard fits securely and resists scratches, rust, and other damage.
The Bottom Line
If you’re looking to replace the mil-spec trigger guard on your AR-15, the Magpul Enhanced Trigger Guard is an excellent upgrade. It’s made from long-lasting anodized aluminum with a V-shaped design to allow for gloved operation. Plus, it’s easy to install and includes all mounting gear.
Best AR-15 Muzzle Brake:
Lantac Dragon Muzzle Brake
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Lantac’s muzzle brake is generally considered an effective, well-made muzzle break. Most users find that it helps significantly reduce muzzle rise. Specifically, buyers found it helped increase target groupings and reduced recoil by up an estimated 30%.
Although many users said that the price was on the high-end compared to other brands, the overall effectiveness and precise construction made it an excellent value.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Most notably, the muzzle brake has a unique short energy pulse system. It shortens the recoil length to help you stay sighted on the target shot after shot. Energy from each shot is prevented from overlapping. It allows for improved accuracy even during full-auto fire.
Another key feature is the ultra-fast attenuation of gasses. All muzzle blasts redirect gasses from the barrel to help reduce recoil. However, Lantac’s brake redirects those gasses exceptionally fast, helping the barrel stay flat after every shot.
Bottom Line
If you’re mainly interested in reducing muzzle recoil, the Lantac Dragon Muzzle is a reliable and well-designed option for your AR-15. It redirects blast gasses and distributes energy to shorten and minimize recoil. You’ll likely notice increased control and grouping ability, although the muzzle isn’t designed to reduce noise or flash.
Best AR-15 Trigger:
Fostech Outdoors EO
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
There’s no other trigger quite like the FosTech Echo, and the general consensus among buyers is that the good far outweighs the bar. However, many buyers do remark that installation is a bit complicated, as this isn’t a Mil-Spec trigger. You’ll need to follow installation instructions carefully, and don’t be afraid to reach out to a smithy if you need professional help.
Why it Stands Out to Us
FosTech’s unique Echo has a three-setting system that helps make it one of the safest trigger mods available. You can choose between: Safe, where the gun won’t fire at all; Semi-Automatic, where the gun fires when the trigger is pulled; and Echo, where the gun fires on both the trigger pull and release.
Additionally, it’s made from a lightweight stainless steel alloy with a trigger pull weight that ranges between 4.5 and 5 pounds. The pull is quick, crisp, and responsive. It’s enhanced by FosTech’s partnership with Hiperfire, which enhances the hammer strike.
Bottom Line
Overall, ForTech’s Outdoors EO is a top-of-the-line binary trigger for your AR-15. Its unique design allows for two types of fast, reliable firing. Although installation is a bit more intricate than a traditional Mil-Spec trigger, once installed it’s a smooth upgrade that requires only a minimal application of pressure to fire.
Best AR-15 Charging Handle:
Strike Industries SR ARCH-EL
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Many buyers say this charging handle is a terrific value. It’s well-made, functions without issue, and is easy to grip even in wet weather. However, not all buyers were equally impressed with the handle at first. At first, pulling it back to cycle is often difficult. Fortunately, many people with this complaint found oiling and cycling eventually led to normal function.
Why it Stands Out to Us
While the Mil-Spec charging handle gets the job done, you’ll likely want to upgrade if you frequently shoot tactically or in the outdoors. The Strike Industries SR ARCH-EL is durable and rugged with an ergonomic design that's easy to grip so you can eject spent shells, clear a stoppage, or ready the rifle for firing.
It’s made from T-6 7075 aluminum with a hard-anodized finish. Strong enough to withstand rough treatment but remains lightweight and won’t wear down your firearm even after frequent use.
Bottom Line
A military standard charging handle is fine for casual shooting, but you’ll want the SR ARCH-EL for tactical shooting. It combines ergonomic design with an aluminum construction to allow for confident grasping resulting in reliable firing and shell ejection.
Best AR-15 Handguard:
Aero Precision Atlas AR-15
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most buyers are happy with this handguard. The ergonomics and quality of the construction are near-universally praised. Additionally, the handguard’s lightweight is another benefit that’s frequently mentioned.
A small number of buyers do have issues with the length of the item. In some cases, the handguard is 13” instead of the 12” detailed in the specs. A few buyers couldn’t attach the handguard properly because it extended past the barrel.
Why it Stands Out to Us
A handguard is necessary to protect your hands while still allowing you to hold and aim your rifle. Unfortunately, handguards can add unnecessary weight to the barrel. Aero Precision’s Atlas handguard stands out from the competition because it only has front and rear Picatinny rails. By eliminating the center top-rail connection, the handguard ends up substantially lighter than many other handguards.
Additionally, it’s easy to hold onto thanks to indexed grooves. The aluminum construction shields your hands from heat and other dangers while remaining rust and corrosion-resistant.
Bottom Line
Shooters looking for a handguard that won’t weigh down their weapon will find lots to like about the Atlas. Its unique attachment method gives you heat protection without sacrificing firing accuracy. Plus, the grooved, ergonomic design remains easy-to-grip even in adverse outdoor conditions.
Best AR-15 Rifle Laser Sight:
Crimson Trace LiNQ
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers overwhelmingly love the innovative two-in-one design. Instead of dealing with multiple devices and a nest of cords, the Crimson Trace LiNQ gives you a laser and a light in one durable, compact package.
Additionally, buyers like the quality of both. The flashlight is a bright 300 lumens while the green laser is easy to sight and use. Although a few buyers had difficulty adjusting the unit, people overwhelmingly found it easy to install.
Why it Stands Out to Us
You won’t find many other devices that combine both a light and a laser so effortlessly. It’s convenient, reduces total weight on your barrel, and allows you to both shoot and see in practically any lighting conditions.
To activate the lights, you squeeze the handgrips, so you can control the unit without having to reach forward to the top of the barrel. Four lighting options are available: Laser, Light, Laser and Light, and Laser and Strobe.
Bottom Line
Increase visibility and improve accuracy without weighing down the barrel with this unique laser/light combo from Crimson Trace. With a durable, water-resistant aluminum housing, you can use it both indoors and out for tactical and target shooting.
Best AR-15 Stock:
FAB Defense AR-15/M4 Stock
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Many users find this a decided improvement over the standard Mil-Spec stock. They compliment the quality of the materials, adjustable cheek pad, and built-in storage case. However, a few users had concerns about the length of the stock, with one buyer saying when the stock was at its shortest, it blocked the operation of the charging handle.
Why it Stands Out to Us
If you're looking to improve the comfort of your rifle, replacing your existing stock with this option from FAB Defense is an effective and affordable solution. It gives you more control over your rifle while also reducing any shoulder pain due to kickback when firing. Because it's adjustable, it's an excellent option for shorter, small-frame shooters who struggle to control an AR-15 with a standard stock.
Bottom Line
FAB Defense’s upgrade is an adjustable stock that’s widely considered superior to the standard Mil-Spec stock found on many AR-15s. It allows you to brace your rifle for support when firing. Beyond improved accuracy, the rubber butt pad is comfortable and helps minimize the impact of the recoil against your body.
Types of AR-15 Upgrades and Mods
As mentioned earlier, you can upgrade your rifle in practically unlimited ways. Let’s take a closer look at the most popular upgrades, and what features to consider when selecting each one.
Trigger Guard
A trigger guard is a simple, but important, safety feature. It’s a metal loop that surrounds the trigger. You lay your finger against it to help prevent accidental firing.
Unfortunately, many shooters dislike the Mil-Spec trigger guard for the AR-15. It has a gap that makes it uncomfortable to use. Most people upgrade to a trigger guard that protects the whole trigger.
Additionally, you might want to upgrade to a larger trigger guard if you like to wear gloves when you shoot. A guard made for use with gloves is safer than simply removing the guard altogether.
Muzzle Brake
You can attach one of three different types of muzzle devices to your AR-15: a flash suppressor, muzzle brake, or compensator. The muzzle brake is designed to reduce recoil, allowing for flatter shooting and more precise bullet groupings.
Unlike a flash suppressor, a muzzle brake doesn’t limit flash visibility, which can impair your vision when shooting in low-light conditions. It also doesn’t reduce noise. However, of the three options, a muzzle brake improves accuracy the most.
Trigger
Pulling the trigger of your AR-15 makes an internal spring swing forward, where it strikes a firing pin and fires a round. You have a few different options, depending on how fast you want to shoot and how much pressure you want to apply. The most common type is the single or one-stage Mil-Spec trigger.
While it’s a reliable trigger, if you want a faster option, you’ll want a double or two-stage trigger. It has a much more direct connection to the hammer, requiring far less pressure to fire.
Charging Handle
The charging handle is a simple handle that allows you to move the bolt into the ready position, which is how you prepare the rifle for use. Also known as the cocking handle or the bolt handle, it cycles a new round into position or manually clears a jam.
Many people upgrade their charging handle if they shoot tactically or outdoors. You’ll want a handle with an ergonomic grip, so you can operate it in wet conditions. Additionally, it should be durable and light. Most are made from either aluminum or stainless steel.
Handguard
The handguard protects your hands from heat when holding the barrel of the rifle. Most handguards are made from either polymer or aluminum. You can add additional attachments to the handguard, such as a forward grip, a laser, or a flashlight.
Handguards have two types: drop-in and free-floating. A drop-in handguard wraps around the barrel. While they’re the most affordable option, they can impact accuracy, because they touch the barrel directly. Competitive shooters and others in need of the highest accuracy levels will want a free-floating handguard, which connects without touching the barrel directly.
Rifle Laser Sight
Laser sights allow for fast, accurate targeting, especially at short to medium ranges. It’s ideal for tactical or home defense purposes because even an inexperienced shooter can aim with confidence and precision. Although specifics vary, most sights have a range of about 50 feet.
When selecting a laser, look for durability and adjustability. You also want easy-to-reach controls. Some of the best laser sights have pressure switches near the rear of the rifle, so you don’t have to reach up to the front to activate them.
Stock
AR-15s have two main types of stocks: Fixed and adjustable. While a fixed stock isn't as versatile, they’re also the most durable of the two options because they don’t have moving parts.
Adjustable stocks give you more flexibility. They’re a good idea if you share the gun with other family members or if you wear different clothing throughout the year when shooting (a T-shirt versus a winter coat, for instance). Note that most AR-15s are sold with an adjustable stock, so switching to a fixed stock often requires buying a mod.
Perks of Upgrading Your AR-15
Adding modifications to your AR-15 has a variety of practical purposes (and some reasons that are just for fun). Here’s a rundown of the benefits of upgrading:
Increased Accuracy
Upgrades help increase your ability to hit the target. Popular mods to increase accuracy include optics and iron sights, or ideally both. Also, a muzzle brake helps keep the gun level. Mods that boost aiming precision don’t just work on a single round. They also help increase your ability to group shots.
Improved Personal Defense Capability
The AR-15 is a popular home defense weapon because it can easily fit the needs of any shooter. A stock, laser scope, and front grip can help even a novice shooter aim and shoot in a confined space. With the right mods, the AR-15 is an excellent personal protection option for women, seniors, and anyone with a smaller frame.
Additional Safety
Mods also help prevent dangerous accidents. You can add trigger mods that lock the trigger in place to prevent accidental misfires. Plus, mods such as handguards protect your hands from burns, while flash suppressors can help minimize loud noise and flashing.
FAB Defense AR-15/M4 Stock
Conclusion
It’s easy to customize and improve your AR-15. The best AR-15 upgrades and mods increase aiming capability, lower recoil, improve grip, and perform a variety of other functions. Plus, adding mods is usually simple and fast, even if you’re new to rifle modification.
No matter whether you want to hunt, shoot targets, or protect yourself, you can use mods to improve comfort, performance, and safety.
People Also Ask
Let’s answer some common questions people have about the best AR-15 upgrades and mods.
Can You Modify an AR-15?
Absolutely! Designed as a modular rifle with military standard components, practically every aspect of the AR-15 can be changed and upgraded. Popular modifications include new triggers, handguards, muzzle devices, lasers, and trigger guards.
Is an AR-15 Good For Home Defense?
Many people are surprised to learn how effective AR-15s are for home defense. They’re capable of delivering reliable stopping power and precise control for indoor environments, even against multiple intruders. Upgrades such as a laser sight, front grip, and lightweight stock are often recommended when modding your weapon for home defense.
What is the Best Bang For My Buck When it Comes to Upgrading?
Determine the type of shooting you prefer, and then choose mods to improve performance in that specific area. For target shooting, optics, a muzzle brake, and a handguard can help improve performance. A two-stage trigger, charging handle, and laser sight can help with home defense capabilities.
Almost all shooters prefer to upgrade the AR-15's trigger guard, to avoid that unwanted gap in the Mil-Spec model.