AR-15 LOWER LAB
Stripped forged lowers, 7075 billet receivers, and 80% lowers — gauged to +/-0.0005″ on critical dimensions. Built in Phoenix by a machinist who used to do aerospace work.
Why mil-spec actually matters
Most lower receivers are “mil-spec compatible.” That phrase is doing a lot of work. Here’s what we actually verify on every receiver that leaves the shop.
7075-T6 forged or billet
6061 is 23% weaker. Some sellers use 6061 because the raw stock is $40 cheaper per receiver. We use 7075-T6 only.
Type III hard-coat anodizing
0.0020–0.0025″ thickness, MIL-A-8625 Class 1. We test thickness on every batch. We keep the QC sheets if you ask for them.
+/-0.0005″ tolerance
Trigger pocket, hammer pocket, FCG holes, takedown pin holes. Each batch is gauged on a Brown & Sharpe CMM. A loose pocket gives you a wobbly trigger forever.
In stock now: stripped forged lowers
Ships from Phoenix within 3-5 business days. FFL transfer on us if your dealer’s license is on file.
What we cut, by the numbers
Our three product lines, side by side. If you want a build that lasts decades, the differences below are the difference.
| Spec | Forged Lower | Billet Lower | 80% Lower |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alloy | 7075-T6 forged | 7075-T6 billet stock | 7075-T6 forged or billet |
| Anodizing | Type III hard, .002″ | Type III hard, .002″+ | Raw (you anodize after milling) |
| Trigger pocket tolerance | ±0.0005″ | ±0.0003″ | N/A — you cut it |
| FFL required | Yes — ship to dealer | Yes — ship to dealer | No — ship to your door |
| Lead time | 3–5 business days | 10–14 business days | 1–2 business days |
| Price range | $59–$249 | $289–$449 | $49–$289 |
Built by a machinist
I’m Jake Morrison. Before AR-15 Lower Lab I spent fourteen years machining aerospace parts in Mesa — the kind of work where a half-thousandth tolerance gets a part scrapped and a thousandth gets a contract canceled.
When I started shooting NRA High Power in 2016, I started buying lowers, and I started noticing how many of them came out of factories that wouldn’t pass an aerospace audit. So I opened the shop.
How FFL transfer works
First-time builder? The whole transfer process takes you about 15 minutes of email + a trip to your local dealer. Here’s the order of operations.
Place order
Pick your receiver. Use your real billing address. Pay at checkout — we don’t run the card until the FFL is on file.
Email your FFL
Call any local gun shop and ask “do you do transfers.” Email us their FFL license (front page, PDF or photo). Subject: your order number.
We ship
Within 5 business days. UPS Ground, insured, signature required. Tracking goes to the email on the order.
You pick up
Your dealer calls you when it lands. Bring ID, fill out the 4473, pay their transfer fee ($25–$50 typical), walk out.
What builders are saying
A selection of verified customer reviews from the last 18 months. We don’t filter the critical ones out.
Picked up a forged lower from Lower Lab and couldn’t be happier. The anodizing is flawless, and the FCG pocket fit was perfect. Smooth transaction and fast shipping.
Got an 80% lower here. Machining was clean, but the takedown pin holes were a bit tight. Still, great quality for the price.
Their billet lower is top-notch. The finish is smooth, and the receiver feels solid. Highly recommend if you’re looking for precision.
Ordered a forged lower and it arrived in good shape. Only gripe was the packaging—it could’ve been sturdier. Otherwise, great product.
The billet lower I bought exceeded my expectations. The anodizing is perfect, and the FCG pocket fit was seamless. Highly recommend Lower Lab.
My 80% lower was decent, but the machining had some minor imperfections. Still functional, but expected better for the price.
Love the forged lower I got from them. Smooth finish, tight tolerances, and quick shipping. Will definitely buy from them again.
Billet lower arrived on time and looked great. The FCG pocket fit was a little snug, but nothing a bit of fine-tuning couldn’t fix.
Their 80% lower was exactly what I needed. Clean machining and the takedown pin holes were spot on. Great service too.
Forged lower was solid, but shipping took longer than expected. Still, the quality of the receiver made it worth the wait.
Billet lower from Lower Lab is superb. The finish is immaculate, and the FCG pocket fit was perfect. Highly impressed.
Ordered an 80% lower and it arrived without issues. The machining was clean, though the takedown pin holes were slightly rough. Still a good buy.
Common questions
If your question isn’t here, call the shop at (602) 555-0188 weekdays 9–5 Mountain Time.
What is the FFL transfer process when buying an AR-15 lower receiver?
After purchasing, you must provide your local FFL dealer's information. We ship the lower receiver to your FFL, where you complete the background check and paperwork to take possession.
Do I need an FFL to buy an AR-15 lower receiver?
Yes, AR-15 lower receivers are regulated firearms and must be transferred through an FFL dealer with a background check.
Can I pick up my AR-15 lower receiver directly from AR-15 Lower Lab?
No, all lower receivers must be shipped to an FFL dealer for transfer, as required by federal law.
Can you ship AR-15 lower receivers to New Jersey?
No, New Jersey has strict firearm laws, and we do not ship AR-15 lower receivers to NJ residents.
Do you ship AR-15 lower receivers to California?
Yes, but the lower receiver must comply with California's specific regulations, such as being featureless or having a fixed magazine.
Are 80% lower receivers legal to purchase?
Yes, 80% lower receivers are unregulated and do not require an FFL transfer or background check, but you must complete the machining yourself.
Can I build a firearm with an 80% lower receiver?
Yes, but it must be for personal use only, and you cannot manufacture it for resale without proper licensing.
What is MIL-A-8625 Type III anodizing?
MIL-A-8625 Type III is a hardcoat anodizing process that provides superior corrosion resistance and durability for AR-15 lower receivers.
What is the difference between Type II and Type III anodizing?
Type II anodizing is thinner and offers basic corrosion resistance, while Type III is thicker, harder, and more durable for harsh environments.
What is the difference between forged and billet AR-15 lower receivers?
Forged lowers are made from compressed aluminum and are stronger, while billet lowers are machined from a solid block and offer more customization options.
Are forged lowers better than billet lowers?
Forged lowers are generally stronger due to the manufacturing process, but billet lowers allow for more intricate designs and features.
What tolerances do you ensure during manufacturing?
We adhere to strict industry standards, ensuring tight tolerances for precise fit and function of all AR-15 lower receivers.
How do you ensure quality control?
Each lower receiver undergoes rigorous inspection for dimensions, finish, and functionality before shipping.
What is your shipping policy for AR-15 lower receivers?
We ship to FFL dealers only. Shipping costs and times vary based on location and carrier.
What is your return policy for AR-15 lower receivers?
All sales are final due to federal regulations. If there is a manufacturing defect, we will replace the lower receiver.