So, you’ve finally bit the metaphorical bullet and you’ve decided to buy your first firearm. Congrats! Whether you’re planning to get a shiny new AR-15 or a reliable handgun, you’re probably already thinking about upgrades to make it yours. That’s great, but before you slap on the most expensive aftermarket parts you can find on Amazon, let’s talk about what’s worth your time (and money) and not worry about what might look cool on Instagram.
First Thing’s First: Know Your Use Case
Before you even think about mods, ask yourself one simple question: What will I use this gun for? Whether it’s it for home defense, hunting, range or competitive shooting, your firearm needs to fit its intended purpose before you start tricking it out. For example, a home defense AR doesn’t need a 24-inch barrel or a 12x scope. A hunting rifle might not need a 1,000-lumen tactical light. Matching your upgrades to your use case will save you money and frustration.
Red Dots vs. Magnified Scopes
Optics are one of the first things new gun owners think about upgrading, and for good reason—they can completely change how you shoot. Red dots are fantastic for quick target acquisition, especially at close range. They’re perfect for home defense or general-purpose shooting. Magnified scopes, on the other hand, are great if you’re planning to shoot at longer distances or hunt. If you’re torn between the two, ask yourself: Am I shooting at targets within 100 yards, or do I need to reach out farther? If you truly can’t decide, get yourself an LPVO.
Low-Powered Variable Optics are magnified scopes with low base magnifications, many of them starting at 1x. Scopes such as the Presidio 1-6x24 are perfect for short range engagements at base magnification while being perfectly capable of engaging targets at longer range when the magnification is dialed up.
How Your Eyes Play a Role
Did you know your eyes can influence which optic you should choose? If you’ve got astigmatism, you might notice red dots appear blurry or look like a starburst instead of a crisp circle. In that case, a magnified scope might be a better option, but if you insist on using a red dot, a magnifier may be able to help reduce the visual artifacts from your astigmatism. For shooters with glasses, keep in mind that your cheek weld (how you rest your face on the stock) might change depending on your chosen optic’s eye relief (the distance between your eye and the scope where you can see the full image clearly). Comfort matters, so don’t be afraid to test different setups.
Optics with a base magnification of 1x like red dots and LPVOs are designed to be used with both eyes open. This allows you to maintain better peripheral vision, which is especially useful for close-range shooting or for situations where you may have to engage multiple targets. Keeping both eyes open not only enhances situational awareness but also makes target acquisition faster and more natural. If you're new to shooting, practicing this technique can take some getting used to, but the benefits are well worth it.
Weight
There is some concern among some first time gun users that their rifle of choice might be too heavy for them to wield for extended periods of time. If your first gun is an AR-15, congrats—you’ve picked one of the most versatile platforms out there. Since you can have it as you like it, it’s easy to find one that’s lighter than the standard 7.5lbs the rifle comes in. A lighter AR is easier to handle, especially if you’re using it for home defense or carrying it all day while hunting.
Start with the furniture such as your buttstock, handguard, and pistol grip. If your handguard is made of aluminum for durability and heat dissipation, but you want something lighter instead, try swapping it out for a polymer variant. Polymer handguards, stocks, and grips are durable, affordable, and significantly lighter than their aluminum counterparts.
Next, consider your upper and lower receivers. Standard AR receivers are made from aluminum, but some manufacturers offer lightweight versions with thinner walls or even polymer receivers. These can cut down on overall weight while maintaining strength for most practical uses, but they’re generally less durable than their billet or forged aluminum counterparts. If you want a receiver that is both durable and lightweight, consider skeletonized receivers instead.
The BDRX-15 from F1 Firearms uses a skeletonized receiver with cutouts in the metal to reduce the rifle's weight while still maintaining structural integrity.
Barrel length is another major factor. A shorter barrel, like a 14.5" or 16" barrel, will weigh less than an 18" or 20" barrel, and shorter barrels are also easier to maneuver in tight spaces. Pair that with a lightweight profile barrel instead of a heavy bull barrel, and you can cut even more weight without compromising accuracy for most shooting distances.
Lastly, look at small details like gas blocks and buffer tubes. Low-profile gas blocks and lightweight buffer assemblies can shave off a few more ounces, adding up to a noticeable difference in overall handling. Keep in mind that every ounce you save makes your rifle more comfortable to carry and quicker to aim, which can make all the difference in any fast-paced engagement.
Suppressors
Suppressors are a fantastic upgrade, especially if you want to protect your hearing (or make shooting less intimidating for yourself, no judgment). They reduce noise and recoil, making your firearm more enjoyable to shoot. However, getting one isn’t as simple as adding it to your cart. Suppressors are regulated under the National Firearms Act (NFA), so you’ll need to go through a bit of paperwork, pay a $200 tax stamp, and wait (anywhere from days to months) for approval. But trust us, the wait is worth it.
The Bottom Line
Upgrading your first firearm can be exciting, but it’s important to prioritize practicality over aesthetics. Focus on upgrades that make your gun fit its use case better, improve its handling, or make it more enjoyable to shoot. And don’t forget—testing your setup at the range is the best way to figure out what works for you. So, get out there, try some upgrades, and most importantly, have fun. Welcome to the world of responsible gun ownership!
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