I like my AR-15s. I like them a lot, and that means hours spent maintaining and improving them. My standard tools work fine for most of my gunsmithing, but sometimes it’s nice to have a dedicated AR-15 tool kit with a few extra special pieces that make the job that much easier.
Top Pick
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NC Star Essential Gun Smith Tool Kit |
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$68
 
Shop NowClick to read my review |
Best Budget Pick
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GGD 15PCS Gunsmithing Tool Set |
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$42
 
Shop NowClick to read my review |
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Weaver Deluxe Gunsmith Tool Kit |
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$68
Shop NowClick to read my review |
These are some of the essential tools that I think every gun owner should have, whether you’re a newbie or an expert. However, there are occasions where more advanced equipment is required. Below, are a handful of fantastic kits that each fit with a certain level of technical skill.
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NC Star Essential Gun Smith Tool Kit
Materials – The NC Star Essential Complete Armorer’s Gunsmith Tool Kit is a combination of both Ultimate Arms and NcStar tooling products. The NC Star Schematics Bench Mat is a 36-inch long black mat, with a diagram of an AR-15 with all parts and components listed. It has a rubber backing. Therefore, it stays put and withstands fluids and dirt.
The NC Star tool kit includes a mallet with nylon and brass ends, a screw and hex driver, a plier, a wide variety of punches that come in both brass and polymer, as well as a multitude of hex and Philips head bits. All of the tools lie securely in a soft, zippered case with a carrying handle.
Performance – This tool kit is a step above the Weaver option in a few ways. While the Weaver set is a good deal for the money, this option includes a large variety of screw bits. In addition, the carrying case is far more functional and less likely to become a problem in the future. We also like the hammer in this one because it uses nylon instead of plastic – it’s less likely to break. We also love the Ultimate Arms Gear schematic mat. Not only is it a useful reference, but it creates a portable workspace. It also makes a great permanent feature for your workbench.
What we say – The NC Star Essential Gunsmith Tool Kit is a little on the pricier side. But despite its high price, it boasts high-quality materials and a handy rubber mat work surface.
- Ultimate Arms AR-15 bench mat with diagram
- NcStar tooling kit with variety of basic tools
- Mallet with brass and nylon ends
- NcStar case not made of protective material and too bulky
GGD 15PCS Gunsmithing Tool Set
Materials – The GGD 15PCS Gunsmithing Tool Set is constructed of high-quality alloy steel, and all of the punches in the set are long-lasting and durable. In the Wheeler Hammer and Punch Set, you’ll find a polymer/brass combination hammer, eight precision brass punches, four steel punches, and two plastic punches. It’s ideal for driving pins, drifting sights, and working on your workbench or at the shooting range. There’s also a handy carry case that keeps all the components safe and secure, allowing portability.
Performance – This is a basic essential kit that includes an AR-15-specific tool that you can use for a rifle build, tackle repairs or handle maintenance without breaking the bank. Not only that, but you can also use it to assist you in solving a variety of problems and scenarios to meet your various needs, so it’s very convenient to use.
In addition, this kit is also suitable for jewelers, watchmakers, engineers, carpenters, and other professionals, as well as novice entry-level tool hobbyists. It’s also excellent for fixing machinery, vehicles, woodwork, and crafts. This toolset is heat-treated, drop forged, hardened, and knurled steel to offer extreme durability, workability, and overall performance. And it goes through standard testing to ensure its quality.
What we say – The GGD 15PCS Gunsmithing Tool Set will cost you only $42 online. Despite its low price, it remains a high-quality buy.
- Made with high-quality alloy steel
- Excellent wear resistance and toughness
- Good for a beginners
- Affordable
- No multi-tool
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Weaver Deluxe Gunsmith Tool Kit
Materials – The Weaver Deluxe Gunsmith Tool Kit is an 88-piece tooling set, composed of essentials for basic AR-15 rifle maintenance. It’s also an excellent tool to use for general tasks, such as replacing triggers, uninstalling factory stocks, and installing accessories. Included are a set of punches in different sizes, a screwdriver with a mix of bits, and a hammer. Additionally, the hammer has both brass and plastic head for making precise adjustments. The punches are also made of all steel. All of the components are housed in a plastic casing, which closes with two simple plastic clips. While it is not designed specifically for an AR-15, it boasts a universal fit.
Performance – The Weaver Deluxe Gunsmith Tool Kit is another outstanding essential. It would work well with both beginners and the seasoned AR-15 owner. However, keep in mind that the kit is only equipped for general maintenance and installations. Its universal design means that you can use it with any gun. It is also a great way to get the most value from this product. However, this usually means you’ll come across a firearm that certain bits or punches won’t quite work with it. Our only complaint is that we are not fans of the carrying case. It’s plastic and seems like it could easily fall open, get scratched up, or break. You could always purchase a better carrying case in the future.
What we say – The Weaver Deluxe Gunsmith Tool Kit costs just under $70 online. The price for an 88-piece toolset is pretty awesome, and you should get a lot of use out of a universal system.
- 88 pieces of punches, bit, screw driver, and hammer
- Universal function
- Hammer with brass and plastic ends
- Plastic case can fall apart
- Not designed specifically for AR-15
Our Favorite AR-15 Tool Kits
Our best budget pick is the GGD 15PCS Gunsmithing Tool Set. For a price of a little over $40, it has the qualities you need for an AR-15 tool kit. It features a brass/ steel combination of materials and comes in a handy component case that keeps your tools secure.
But if you want to spend a few more $$ the top pick for the best AR-15 Tool Kit is the NC Star Essential Tool Kit. Whether you know you’re AR-15 like the back of your hand, or you’re installing a scope for the very first time, this is a fantastic kit to aid you in the process. All of the essential tools are there, and they’re all made with a variety of materials that should last for many years down the road. At less than $100, this is a good deal for just the right amount of high-quality tools.
What do you say about our top list? Do you have a favorite one? Let us know in the comments below!
