Anderson Manufacturing Lower Parts Kit Review

Let’s Talk About Anderson Manufacturing Lower Parts Kit

Building an AR-15 from the ground up can be a rewarding experience. It allows you to customize every aspect of your rifle to perfectly suit your needs. The Anderson Manufacturing Lower Parts Kit promises to provide all the necessary components to complete the lower receiver assembly, excluding the fire control group. This kit aims to offer a convenient and affordable solution for builders, but does it deliver on that promise?

I was looking for a reliable and budget-friendly lower parts kit to complete a dedicated .22LR AR build. I’d heard mixed reviews about the Anderson Manufacturing kit, but the price point was attractive, and I wanted to see for myself if it was a viable option.

Upon opening the kit, I was initially impressed by the completeness of the package. All the advertised parts were present and accounted for. The parts appeared to be of decent quality. I did notice that the A2-style pistol grip felt a bit slick.

Compared to other lower parts kits I’ve used, such as those from Aero Precision or CMMG, the Anderson Manufacturing kit seemed more basic. Kits from those manufacturers offer more enhanced options, like ambidextrous safeties or improved trigger guards. I chose the Anderson Manufacturing kit because I was prioritizing affordability for this particular build.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The kit seemed complete, but I knew the real test would be in the installation and performance. The inclusion of non-Anderson Manufacturing hammer and trigger was a surprise, and source of slight concern given the user feedback.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Anderson Manufacturing Lower Parts Kit to the Test

First Use Experience

I installed the Anderson Manufacturing Lower Parts Kit in a standard mil-spec lower receiver during an afternoon build session in my workshop. The process was straightforward, and all the parts fit without any major issues. I performed the installation using standard AR-15 armorer’s tools.

I tested the completed lower receiver at an indoor shooting range, paired with a .22LR upper receiver. The initial performance was functional, but the trigger pull was noticeably heavy and gritty.

There was mention of hammer pin issues by another buyer. I did not experience it directly. However, the supplied trigger and hammer resulted in the 5 lb trigger pull that was mentioned by the previous buyer. This was a surprise, and it wasn’t a positive one.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several range sessions totaling around 500 rounds, the Anderson Manufacturing Lower Parts Kit has held up adequately, but the trigger pull remains a significant drawback. The other components, such as the bolt catch, magazine release, and safety selector, have functioned reliably.

There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the parts. I clean and lubricate the lower receiver after each range session using standard CLP.

Compared to my other AR-15s with upgraded triggers, the Anderson Manufacturing Lower Parts Kit’s trigger is noticeably inferior. It performs its required job, but leaves a lot to be desired.

Breaking Down the Features of Anderson Manufacturing Lower Parts Kit

Specifications

• The Anderson Manufacturing Lower Parts Kit includes the following components: Bolt Catch, Bolt Catch Plunger, Bolt Catch Roll Pin, Bolt Catch Spring, Buffer Retainer, Buffer Retainer Spring, Disconnect, Disconnect Spring, Traditional Hammer (Black in Color), Hammer Pin, Hammer Spring, Magazine Catch, Magazine Catch Button, Magazine Catch Spring, Pistol Grip (A2 style), Pistol Grip Lock Washer, Pistol Grip Screw, Pivot Pin, Pivot Pin Detent, Pivot Pin Detent Spring, Selector, Selector Detent, Selector Detent Spring, Takedown Pin, Takedown Pin Detent, Takedown Pin Detent Spring, Traditional Trigger (Black in Color), Trigger Guard, Trigger Guard Roll Pin, Trigger Pin, and Trigger Spring. These components are essential for assembling a functional AR-15 lower receiver.
• The kit is designed for AR-15 platforms chambered in various calibers. Its compatibility with mil-spec lower receivers makes it a versatile option for different builds. The lack of specification regarding the trigger pull weight is a critical omission, as this significantly impacts the shooting experience.

Performance & Functionality

• The Anderson Manufacturing Lower Parts Kit functions adequately in its primary role. It allows you to complete the assembly of an AR-15 lower receiver.
• The heavy trigger pull is a significant weakness, impacting accuracy and overall shooting enjoyment. A better trigger would greatly enhance the kit’s performance.
• The kit meets the basic expectations for a lower parts kit, but does not exceed them due to the subpar trigger.

Design & Ergonomics

• The build quality of the individual components is acceptable for the price point. The A2-style pistol grip is functional but lacks the ergonomic features of more modern grips.
• The kit is relatively user-friendly for anyone familiar with AR-15 assembly. No specialized tools are required beyond standard armorer’s tools.

Durability & Maintenance

• The parts appear to be durable enough for typical range use. Long-term durability remains to be seen.
• The kit is easy to maintain. Regular cleaning and lubrication are sufficient to keep the parts functioning properly.

Accessories and Customization Options

• The Anderson Manufacturing Lower Parts Kit does not include any additional accessories beyond the listed components.
• The kit is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket AR-15 parts and accessories, allowing for extensive customization. Upgrading the trigger is a common and recommended modification. The A2 pistol grip may also be a good upgrade decision.

Pros and Cons of Anderson Manufacturing Lower Parts Kit

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Anderson Manufacturing Lower Parts Kit?

• The Anderson Manufacturing Lower Parts Kit is perfect for budget-conscious AR-15 builders who are willing to upgrade the trigger. It is also suitable for those building a basic AR-15 for plinking or recreational shooting where pinpoint accuracy is not paramount.
• Those seeking a high-performance trigger or enhanced ergonomic features should skip this product.
• A must-have modification is an upgraded trigger. Consider a drop-in trigger pack or a high-quality aftermarket trigger group. Replacing the A2 pistol grip with a more ergonomic option is also recommended.

Conclusion on Anderson Manufacturing Lower Parts Kit

The Anderson Manufacturing Lower Parts Kit offers a budget-friendly way to complete the lower receiver assembly of an AR-15. It is a complete kit that’s easy to install and compatible with aftermarket accessories. However, the heavy trigger pull is a significant drawback.

The price is justified for a basic lower parts kit. But, factor in the cost of upgrading the trigger for optimal performance.

I would recommend the Anderson Manufacturing Lower Parts Kit with reservations. It’s a viable option for budget builds, but be prepared to invest in a better trigger. If you’re seeking a high-performance AR-15, consider a higher-end lower parts kit with an upgraded trigger from the start. Consider this kit as a starting point for future upgrades, and build it slowly over time as an ongoing project.