Tips for Adding Unique Accessories to Your AR-15

Posted by Frankie Chan on 17th Jan 2024

black rifle with brown accents

AR-15s are a popular firearm in America. A lot of people have them, which can be a good and bad thing. It’s great when you are looking for parts because the more popular a gun is, the easier it will be to find replacement parts. The downside is unless you make changes, your firearm is going to look just like everyone else’s.

There are some unique approaches you can take to make your AR stand out, such as hydro-dipping. But this process takes skill and practice, and not everyone can do it themselves. If you don’t know how to hydro-dip and you don’t want to pay someone else to do it, there is an easier solution that anyone can do: add some unique AR-15 accessories! Here are some must-have AR-15 accessories that are sure to make your AR stand out.

Change Up Your Grip

You’ll spend your fair share of time holding your AR-15, so as you search for unique AR-15 accessories, a new grip should be at the top of your list. The best-rated AR-15 foregrips aren’t just going to be a simple replacement for the factory version. You’ll have the freedom to choose from a variety of colors and styles. Pick one that increases your comfort while aiming and shooting, or go with something that looks cool and will make your rifle stand out.

There are three main styles of foregrips for the AR-15: vertical, angled, and handstop. Each one has unique advantages, so do some research ahead of time to make the best choice. Some states do not allow vertical grips, so be sure to check your local laws while upgrading your grip.

Swap Out the Stock

Vertical grips aren’t the only must-have AR-15 accessories you’ll want to consider upgrading for your AR-15. The stock on your AR-15 will affect both the control you have over it and its general appearance. This is another unique AR-15 accessory that can be used for function, comfort, or just looks.

You’ll have four main options when upgrading your stock: fixed, adjustable, foldable, and collapsible. Make sure you know ahead of time which one will give you the most comfort and fit your needs. There can be big differences, such as a fixed vs adjustable stock.

Find the Best Barrel

multiple lengths of an AR-15 barrel

The barrel on your AR-15 will play a huge part in its performance. If you use a poorly made barrel or a barrel that isn’t the right length, your performance is going to be impacted. You also won’t necessarily be as proud to show off your rifle as you should be. The barrel is also one of those unique AR-15 accessories that is available in multiple colors (typically black or silver) so you can make your rifle stand out a bit more.

Barrels are available in a variety of lengths:

  • 4.5”
  • 7.5”
  • 10.5”
  • 14.5”
  • 16”
  • 18”
  • 20”

They are also available in multiple calibers. AR-15s typically use .223, but there are many reasons why you might want something different, even if it’s just your personal preference. Some examples of alternative calibers you can find from Wing Tactical include:

  • .223/5.56
  • .300 Blackout
  • .350 Legend
  • 6.5 Grendel
  • 6mm ARC
  • 9mm

Find the length and caliber that fits your unique shooting situation.

Get a Top-Notch Handguard

One of the staple unique AR-15 accessories you can find is the handguard. The handguard is what protects your hands from the heat of the barrel as you fire the rifle. While that’s an important purpose, it also makes a big impact on an AR’s overall appearance.

AR handguards come in floating and drop-in styles, as well as a variety of colors and aesthetics. When you’re researching handguards, be sure to look for one that is compatible with your barrel length, gas system, and whether you need one with a rail system.

Consider Your Needs

A firearm needs to be functional more than it needs to stand out from the crowd. When choosing unique AR-15 accessories, it can be easy to get lost in finding what looks cool. Be sure to consider functionality and your shooting needs to make sure these must-have AR-15 accessories are doing more for you than simply upgrading your rifle’s aesthetics.

Need some help choosing the best accessories? Reach out to our expert team today and we’ll help you find what you need!