AR-15 Weight Calculator and Optimization Tool
Plan a lightweight AR-15 build. Enter your current parts, set a target weight, and get suggestions for lighter alternatives with exact weight savings and prices.
pencil barrel, carbon handguard, lightweight BCG, red dot, minimalist stock
government barrel, M-LOK handguard, standard BCG, red dot
mid-weight barrel, LPVO, light, sling
Enter your current build
Set a target weight
Lighter alternatives
Up to 3 lighter options per category from the parts database, with exact savings.
Typical category weights
Reference ranges from published manufacturer specifications. Use these as a rough guide when you do not have a specific part in mind.
| Category | Light build | Standard | Heavy or duty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lower receiver | 6.5 oz polymer | 8.5 oz forged | 10 oz billet |
| Upper receiver | 6 oz stripped forged | 8 oz assembled | 10 oz+ billet |
| Barrel 16 inch | 18 oz pencil | 24 oz government | 32 oz+ bull |
| Handguard 15 inch | 7 oz carbon fiber | 10 oz aluminum | 14 oz+ quad rail |
| Bolt carrier group | 8.5 oz lightweight | 11.5 oz standard | 11.5 oz full mass |
| Stock | 3 oz minimalist | 7 oz MOE SL-K | 12 oz+ fixed A2 |
| Grip | 1.5 oz minimalist | 3 oz MOE | 4 oz+ ergo |
| Muzzle device | 1.5 oz flash hider | 2.5 oz brake | 4 oz+ suppressor mount |
| Buffer and spring | 4 oz carbine | 5 oz H buffer | 6 oz+ H2 or H3 |
| Optic | 3 oz red dot | 16 oz LPVO 1 to 6x | 24 oz+ scope |
| Sling | 2 oz minimalist | 4 oz padded | 6 oz heavy duty |
| Loaded magazine | 7 oz 20 round | 11 oz 30 round | 14 oz 40 round |
Weights are approximate and sourced from manufacturer specifications. Actual weight may vary. Weigh your specific components for precise data.
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