Where Do I Start?

Where do I start when looking to build out my pistol or rifle? It can be overwhelming trying to determine where to start with all the aftermarket parts available.

Function:

This is always my first priority. There's nothing more aggravating on the range than a malfunctioning gun.

We have all been there as blood pressure rises, faces turn red, and new words are invented. We are supposed to be having fun, right?

Function issues also make it much more difficult to maintain the fundamentals of controlled breathing and smoooth trigger pulls. How can we see what accuracy our firearm is capable of.

It's next to impossible, so I always like to start with the function first.

Often addressing this area is also the least expensive of the aftermarket options, as it may just be a spring, extractor, or firing pin needed. Typically it's much easier to address any functioning issue prior to making too many other changes to the firearm. Starting here eliminates trying to figure out which part you may have installed that is the culprit.

Lastly, eliminating malfunctions also creates a safer shooting environment on the range.

Trigger:

If you have tried to shoot a one-hole group while battling a long, heavy, inconsistent trigger pull, you understand how hard that can be. It's difficult to know what accuracy your barrel is capable of when you aren't sure when the trigger will let off or, even worse, you're pulled off target trying to squeeze a trigger that feels like the safety is still on safe.

Working with a clean, crisp, repeatable trigger can make your practice more effective. It allows you to focus on technique more so than wondering when the trigger may break.

Stock/Barrel:

These are listed together simply because if you upgrade the barrel, you may need to replace the stock simultaneously to accommodate the barrel diameter.

You can have a perfectly running firearm and the perfect trigger, but if the barrel isn't up to par, you will never realize the firearm's full potential.

Accuracy is usually the first concern regarding barrels, and for obvious reasons, but I also recommend making sure the barrel you choose fits the application.

For example, a 3.25 lb match bull barrel may be a little more accurate from a bench, but if you are shooting off-hand most of the time and the rifle is too heavy and doesn't balance properly, you are worse off than a lighter-weight barrel that may give up a little on the bench.

The good news is there is no right or wrong way to approach your next build.

I look at the minimum effective dose to achieve my results.