The AR-15 is the civilian legal version of the M4 — a weapon used by many U.S. military units, including the elite operators who belong to SOCOM (Special Operations Command). Since the introduction of the M4 in 1994, Navy SEAL teams, including SEAL Team 6 (DEVGRU) assault teams, have taken these rifles on operations across the globe. While the M4 is reserved for military and government use, you can set up your AR-15 to create a close replica of the weapon used by our nation's best military forces.
At Wing Tactical, we carry everything you need to set up your AR-15 like a Navy SEAL. Explore our parts selection or contact our team of experienced shooters, who can help you outfit your gun.
Creating a Special Operations Rifle Setup
Today, there's no shortage of ways to customize an AR-15. From stocks and grips to red dots and lasers, there are endless aftermarket accessory options.
Since these rifles are modular, you can add parts and accessories for a configuration that works best for you, just like Spec-Ops operators. If you want to set up your AR-15 like a Navy SEAL, you have many ways to do so — plenty of add-ons provide improved function and a clear field of view, which are crucial to a Navy SEAL AR-15 setup.
As noted by one of our experts at Wing Tactical, “We sell a variety of accessories you can combine to give your firearm the same look and feel as an AR-15 used by a Navy SEAL, with aftermarket parts that customize your upper and lower receivers to create your ideal Special Operations setup.” Below, we explain how to upgrade your AR-15 components to achieve a Special Operations rifle setup.
Remember that ownership laws for AR-15s and their components vary by state, and for some accessories, you will need to apply for a Class III Tax Stamp from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms for permission to own.
Setting Up the Upper Receiver
Starting with the upper receiver, the easiest way to set up your AR-15 like a Navy SEAL is to buy a stripped upper receiver you can customize from the start, but if you already have your rifle, you can still swap most of your parts for the build you want. The upper receiver contains multiple components, including:
- The barrel: Shorter barrels allow for better control in close-quarters combat. Without a Class III tax stamp, the lowest length you can go is 14.5 inches, and only if your muzzle brake brings the total length to 16 inches (measured from the bolt face) and has been pinned and welded in place for a permanent installation. You can go as low as 10.5 inches if you have the right paperwork.
- The bolt carrier group: If you want a Navy SEAL AR-15 setup, you have to remember that the SEALS put lots of rounds through their weapons in some of the most punishing climates. If you want the same performance under fire, upgrade your bolt carrier group and components. A heavier steel BCG increases gun cycle times and reduces stress on the brass, allowing it to handle a variety of ammunition with minimal adjustments.
- The charging handle: Standard charging handles are great for range use. In an active environment, you need an enhanced one you can quickly access — even with gloves on — to clear a jam or seat a fresh round. If you want a Navy SEAL AR-15 setup, you’ll want to consider an extended latch with a larger surface area to make it easier to engage the charging handle. An ambidextrous handle also has a larger surface area, allowing you to charge the rifle with either hand.
- Sight and optics: Like many Special Operations rifle setups, if your AR-15 has a detachable carrying handle or you are building out an entirely new upper, be sure to include the right optics and a backup set of iron sights you can switch to if needed. Many Navy SEAL AR-15 setups have a backup sight that helps ensure you're ready for anything by allowing you to continue placing accurate shots even when your optic has been compromised.
- Rails and attachments: With a compatible handguard, you can attach accessories, including forward grips to minimize recoil, flashlights for illumination, other attachments, and your choice of rail covers.
Setting Up the Lower Receiver
To balance out your upper, you will want to modify your lower receiver with improvements similar to those used in Navy SEAL AR-15 setups. Upgrades you can install on your AR include:
- Pistol grips: Upgrade to an ergonomic pistol grip for faster trigger acquisition and improved control. Aftermarket pistol grips can lessen fatigue and make your AR-15 easier to handle. They allow you to get into your shooting stance faster and line up your shot to make more rapid, accurate follow-up shots.
- Collapsible stocks: Switch to a collapsible stock to reduce the weapon's profile and compensate for gear. You can adjust the length of a collapsible stock to match your gear, giving you better mobility for maneuvering in tight spaces. Collapsible stocks come in various styles and configurations, so you'll be able to find one that perfectly reflects a Navy SEAL AR-15 setup.
- Trigger groups: Install a new trigger group for reduced pull weight and a faster reset. With a two-stage adjustable trigger, you can set the pull weights of each stage to your preference for a predictable shot. When you use a single-stage trigger, the mechanism engages as soon as you provide the required pull weight, making the pull fast and crisp for maximum accuracy.
Adding Accessories
Whether you have a short-barreled personal defense weapon (PDW), a long-barrel AR-15 for target shooting, or another custom configuration, the right accessories are necessary to complete your AR-15 setup like a Navy SEAL. Adding accessories can offer a variety of advantages, including improved performance, handling, and weapons retention. To give your AR-15 the same look and versatility as a Special Operations rifle setup, consider adding:
- A bipod or monopod
- Upgraded magazines
- A sling and sling adapter
- Lights and lasers
Get the Parts and Accessories You Need to Set Your AR-15 Up Like the SEALs
To set your AR-15 up like a SEAL, visit Wing Tactical and choose from a wide selection of upgrades you can use to create the perfect build. At Wing Tactical, we are veteran-founded, and we are shooters, too — we only sell products we would use ourselves. For help putting together your build, please message us online.