Thread: AR Build, where to start

IMO, you need to spend the big money to get a decent piston gun - H&K, LWRC, POF, PWS. Piston conversions and cheaper piston guns do not have a good reputation for longevity. I have witnessed it first hand. I saw a brand new Ruger SR556 shit the bed in the first 20 rounds. I cannot remember which part of the gas system broke, but it was fatal. Also, a piston will really limit the options you have for handguards.