Stainless Receiver Set???

[Skans]

Is anyone currently manufacturing an all stainless steel AR receiver set? I understand all of the "impracticality" associated with stainless steel receivers, i.e. heavier, harder to machine, no real advantage, not the wear-items on an AR, etc.

But, I would like to build a generational rifle - i.e. one that can be passed down through family members for many generations. Unique, with a different look and feel. One where it could someday be the "last AR standing".

Ok, if no Stainless Steel options (someone used to make one), how about Titanium?

[10-96]

You might reach out to Turnbull Restorations about their color case hardened AR receivers- if that style trips your trigger... The walnut furniture looks nice too.

[Skans]

Originally Posted by 10-96

You might reach out to Turnbull Restorations about their color case hardened AR receivers- if that style trips your trigger... The walnut furniture looks nice too.

Turnbull is way out of my league on this. I was hopping to find just a simple, stainless steel receiver set. How much could this cost to manufacture? I can't imagine that I'm the only one out there that would like to have something like this.

[TX Nimrod]

While it is as strong as some steels, the common 7075 receiver alloy is much easier to machine - SS is well known to be very challenging to machine. I imagine that all existing machining equipment is set up with tooling appropriate for milling aluminum. If the same equipment could be used, the cost of the high-wear cutters would not be insignificant. Add in the much more costly steel, new forging equipment, the increased time to machine and finish, the higher weight, and no matter how many shooters may want a SS receiver (a tiny fraction of the entire market) I just can’t see it happening at a “reasonable” cost. Perhaps I’m wrong.




.

[Skans]

Originally Posted by Stressor

Why are you opposed to aluminum?

Actually you should buy a 3d printer.

I am not fundamentally opposed to aluminum. In fact, I have AR's with aluminum receivers. Over time, however, aluminum deteriorates. The coating/finish wears off and then the receiver(s) are prone to oxidation. I have seen this on well used AR's and particularly an older M16.

Now, I am quite sure my AR's will last my lifetime and well beyond that - a testament to how far technology has come with Aluminum. Still, if I wanted to have one special AR, one which meant to be used and which will last for generations, I would want it made out of Stainless Steel. There may come a time, in the not too distant future, where laws will prohibit us from having multiple AR's. So, if I had to choose one, I would choose the one built to last for countless generations looking and working every bit as good as when it was manufactured.

Think about this - What would a 1st Gen Colt SAA manufactured in 1898 be like today if it was made out of modern 904L Stainless Steel? Scratched up a bit, but likely still perfect in just about every way.



Chiefs Special - allegedly the 1st all stainless gun to be manufactured, starting 1965


Stainless Steel AC556's

[Ricklin]

I like the idea of something different, stainless does not trip my trigger for an AR, and I have stainless guns. In fact I'm as non-traditional as one can be in that regard, I have a stainless Remington NMA by Pietta.
I really like the thought of case colored receiver U+L with wood furniture, yes it will be heavy.
Do not automatically discard Turnbull, yes it's huge money to commission them to restore a gun. What would you expect from the best? Turnbull parts and component prices are in line with others when you factor in that top quality is assured.
I like Turnbull, Turnbull has been known to show up at auctions and outing those that would try to sell their work as original.

[Skans]

I like Turnbull too. I have a 1911 manufactured in 1913 which was supposedly (told by the Seller) a Turnbull restoration. If Turnbull didn't do it, I sure would like to know who else does work that good! I do know the 1911 came out of a collection where the guns were all tagged and inventoried - kept the tag on this particular gun.

[smee78]

I understand what you're doing and think it's a neat idea. I would hope someone out there makes them, never looked though.

[Shadow9mm]

If i had to guess id say you will probably have to commission it as a full custom.

[Ricklin]

You guys have me intrigued. I owned and sold my Colt AR unfired, I have a weird relationship with that particular pattern, all the way back to the Air Force and the M-16.
I do really like the idea of case color and walnut for an AR rifle....hmmm. Perhaps if and when I get bored with PCP.

[Hellcat1]

Not case colored, but here's a pic of one of my ARs that I had put walnut furniture on at one point. I've gone back to more traditional furniture since, however. The walnut made the gun a bit too heavy for my tastes, and I definitely prefer having an adjustable stock back on again. If anyone is interested, I'd be happy to part with the walnut at a very reasonable price.




Frank