AR15.BUILD Tools
Planning Estimators
Use these tools for broad planning context. Outputs are estimate ranges, not exact performance predictions or safety guarantees.
All Tools
Barrel Velocity Estimator
Estimate likely muzzle velocity ranges by caliber family and barrel-length bucket.
Open toolSound / Hearing Risk Estimator
Estimate likely peak impulse-noise ranges and view conservative hearing-risk guidance.
Open toolGas System / Buffer Tuning Assistant
Get a conservative starting-point recommendation for buffer weight and spring setup with troubleshooting steps.
Open toolBallistic Zero / Holdover Calculator
Estimate hold values (MOA, MIL, and inches) with near/far zero context and a quick distance table.
Open toolRelated Guides
How barrel length changes behavior
Choosing a Barrel: Length, Profile, and Twist Rate
A neutral guide to how barrel length affects velocity and handling, how profile changes weight and heat management, and how twist rate stabilizes different bullet weights.
Muzzle blast and device tradeoffs
Muzzle Devices: Flash Hiders, Compensators, and Brakes
A neutral overview of how flash hiders, compensators, and brakes work, what each is designed to do, and the tradeoffs in recoil, flash, and concussion.
Suppressor-host setup fundamentals
Muzzle Device Selection for Suppressor Hosts
An examination of muzzle device options for suppressed AR-15s, covering thread pitch standards, mount systems, alignment considerations, and the tradeoffs between direct-thread, QD, and taper-mount interfaces.
Gas-system timing and recoil context
Understanding AR-15 Gas Systems
A neutral explanation of gas system length tradeoffs, port pressures, and how these design decisions affect reliability, recoil, and parts wear.