AR-155.56 NATO
AR-15 5.56 Barrel Length Guide
Quickly compare 11.5" through 20" configurations with velocity, range, and OAL visuals to match your mission.
Updated with suppressor notes and gas system tips.
Build AR configurations that actually work.
Mission-driven. Data-backed. Field-tested.
Our assistant pairs your intent with a vetted catalog and reference guides. Understand the tradeoffs before you buy parts, compare configurations, and document what actually works in the field.
127
Platforms mapped
2,400+
Components
Live
Ballistics data
DDM4 V7
Home Defense
Duty Use
Score: 87.3
Added Components
• Vortex Viper
• Modlite PLHv2
Capability Analysis
Platform + Components
Platform
Current
AI Assistant● Active
Why choose this toolkit
Whether you're building a suppressed CQB blaster or a precision SPR, pair the configurator with our growing repository of mission-focused knowledge.
Intent-driven builder
Capture mission and environment to filter platforms and surface compatibility notes powered by the guided assistant.
Logbook & range diary
Track range sessions, maintenance intervals, and guided drills with live timers that keep you honest under the clock.
Curated catalog
Reference components with verified tagging, compatibility families, and capability scoring so you can assemble reliable stacks.
Guides that matter
Supplement decisions with quick visualizations and callouts for ballistics, ergonomics, and legal considerations.
Latest guides
Fast references that translate platform theory into range results.
Read guide
AR-15Buying guide
AR-15 Brand Comparison Ladder
Contrast PSA, Aero, BCM, DD, LMT, KAC, Geissele, Sig Sauer, Smith & Wesson, and Noveske across price tiers, QC, and mission fit.
Breaks down value tiers, support policies, and upgrade paths.
AR-15Components
Muzzle Device Selection Guide
Compare flash hiders, compensators, brakes, and hybrids with decision matrices for mission-driven device selection.
Performance metrics and use-case recommendations included.
AR-15Gas tuning
AR Gas System & Buffer Tuning
Match barrel length, gas system, buffer weight, and springs for reliable cycling suppressed and unsuppressed.
Includes dwell time cheatsheets and troubleshooting flows.
OpticsAR-15
AR Optic Selection Matrix
Compare LPVOs, red dots, prisms, and magnifier setups with mission-driven recommendations and weight data.
Decision tables for home, patrol, Recce, and night use.
NVGAR-15
Night Vision Compatibility Checklist
IR lasers, passive aiming, and optic height considerations with NVG setup recommendations for AR platforms.
Covers mount heights, IR devices, and training requirements.
SuppressedAR-15
Suppressor Compatibility Basics
Prep hosts, manage backpressure, and track POI shift to keep suppressed ARs reliable across calibers.
Mount selection and over-gassing mitigations explained.
AR-15Components
Lower Receiver Parts Quality Guide
Review triggers, springs, buffers, and small-part kits by tier with upgrade priorities for reliability.
Includes round-count driven replacement schedules.
AR-15Buying guide
AR-15 Beginner Mistakes to Avoid
Learn from common first-build errors: cheap parts quality, red/blue anodized parts, short 5.56 barrels, skeletonized components, and over-engineered solutions.
Covers PSA tier minimum, barrel length safety, and reliability traps.
AR-15Builds
Mission-Focused AR Build Playbooks
Component recipes and rationale for Home Defense, Patrol, Recce/SPR, PCC crossover, and minimalist truck builds.
Each playbook lists parts, accessories, and training notes.
AR-15Maintenance
AR Maintenance & Armorer Schedule
Use round-count checkpoints to inspect bolts, gas rings, springs, and barrels with printable log templates.
Add-on worksheets keep fleet rifles mission ready.