Lower Review

  I recently purchased a few lowers to start some AR15 builds. I purchased one Spike's Tactical (ST) and two Loki Weapon Systems (LWS) lowers. I also purchased Spike's Nickle Boron Battle Triggers, KNS anti-roll pins, buffer tubes, buffer springs, Spike's ST-T2 buffers, Magpul BAD lever, Magpul MIAD grip, Magpul AFG2, and a Magpul UBR stock.

Spike's Tactical Logo

Loki Weapon Systems Logo

Loki Weapon System Lowers

Spike's Tactical Lower

  I must say I have been equally impressed with both brands so far. The finish on the Spikes lower was flawless as was the finish on the two Loki lowers. I did damage the finish on all of the lowers during assembly, however, the affected areas are not noticeable. They were very small and I quickly repaired the damaged finish with a quick application of Birchwood Casey's Aluminum Black. One of the buffer tubes had a scratch on it out of the package. I was able to repair that tube as well. Gotta love that Aluminum Black.

  As you can see in the pictures the AR15s are not yet complete. I have a Kie's Nickle Boron bolt and a Spike's FN made 16" Mid-Length 5.56 NATO caliber barrel to go on the first of the complete builds. I plan to use Aero Precision (AP) uppers for all the builds that require one. I have read good things about them and there are rumors that AP makes all of Spike's upper and lower receivers. I have read other reviews from users that have used the AP upper with a ST lower and were very impressed with the fit and finish of the parts.

  I have not fully decided on the stocks for the two Loki lowers just yet. I do like the Magpul UBR. Aside from the extra weight of the UBR, the stock is very solid in feel and function. I read an article about a drop test done on the UBR and they stated they dropped it 3 feet over 200 times with an 8 pound AR mockup attached. The UBR did not break or show signs of damage that would hinder the function of the stock. It took a 10 foot drop to break it. No word on how many times it was dropped from 10 feet. Although I would not repeat the test on my own AR15 I do respect the findings. From the feel of the stock I can say I believe the article. So, if weight is not an issue, I would go with the UBR. However, I want my builds to differ slightly.

  I plan to build at least one piston system AR15. I have not decided if they will all be piston. I want to build one chambered for 6.8 SPC ammunition. The 6.8 SPC will probably be on the Spike's lower due to the heavier and more solid feel of the UBR stock. The Loki lowers may be 5.56 and 5.7 respectively. I like the look and function of the AR57 upper and the fact that it comes complete. It looks just different enough that I think I would like to try it.

  The AR15 is a very adaptive platform, with the change of the barrel, bolt, and magazine, you can fire a very wide range of calibers. If you change out the barrel, bolt carrier group, and magazine you can fire 22LR. So, from the ultra cheap ammo to the ultra expensive ammo, you have your choice. You can build an AR15 as a pistol, a short barreled rifle, or just a rifle with a 16 inch barrel or longer. Whatever your desire, the AR15 can satisfy.

  So, please remember to be safe and as always, keep it down range.