Grandma's Apple Pie - AR15 Receiver

Grandma's Apple Pie - AR15 Receiver Features

The Grandma's Apple Pie - AR15 Receiver is engineered to overcome the typical pitfalls of 3D-printed AR designs through thoughtful innovations. Its metal buffer tower significantly reinforces the weakest area of printable receivers, ensuring long-lasting performance under stress.

Key enhancements include:

• Removable Front Dovetail: Easily replaceable with higher-quality materials to bolster strength at the second most common break point.
• Optimized Trigger Pin Design: Secured in two sections with a different print orientation to prevent hole elongation and minimize cracking or layer separation.
• Ambidextrous Compatibility: Designed for both left- and right-handed users, paired with Super Safety readiness for enhanced functionality.

This receiver stands out by focusing on structural integrity while maintaining a more traditional semi-auto recipe, setting it apart from other AR options on the market. It's a perfect blend of innovation and reliability for serious builders.

Difficulty & Build Time

• Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced
• Estimated Build Time: 1-2 days (including printing and assembly)
• Required Experience: Familiarity with 3D printing, tuning printer settings for optimal layer adhesion, and basic firearm assembly knowledge.

Hardware and Tools Required

Required Hardware

• AR15 build kit components (available via MiddletonMade Shop or other suppliers)
• Metal buffer tower (for reinforced strength)
• High-quality material for front dovetail replacement (optional but recommended)

Recommended Tools

• 3D printer with tuned settings for layer adhesion
• Basic firearm assembly tools (punches, hammers, etc.)
• Finishing tools for post-processing printed parts (sandpaper, files)
• Cleaning supplies for ensuring proper fitment

Grandma's Apple Pie - AR15 Receiver Parts

The Grandma's Apple Pie - AR15 Receiver file includes STL components for the main lower receiver body, designed for semi-auto functionality with ambidextrous features. MiddletonMade3D recommends printing with high-strength materials to ensure durability, especially for critical stress points like the buffer tower area. Special attention should be paid to layer orientation, particularly for the trigger pin sections, to avoid elongation and cracking.

Print settings should prioritize strong layer adhesion and robust support structures, as noted in the project disclaimer. Detailed build instructions are available in the accompanying PDF guide, accessible via the provided link, to assist with assembly and finishing. This is not a beginner-level project, so ensure your printer settings are dialed in before starting.

Printer Compatibility & Settings

This design is compatible with most FDM 3D printers capable of handling detailed and structural prints, such as Ender 3, Prusa i3, or similar models. Recommended materials include PETG or ABS for their strength and heat resistance, though advanced users may opt for reinforced filaments like carbon fiber PETG for added durability. Avoid PLA due to its lower structural integrity under stress.

Print settings should include a high infill percentage (50-80%) and optimized support structures to prevent failures during printing. MiddletonMade3D emphasizes the importance of dialed-in settings for layer adhesion, as highlighted in the README. Ensure your printer is well-calibrated to handle the specific orientations required for components like the trigger pin sections.

Conclusion

The Grandma's Apple Pie - AR15 Receiver is an exceptional choice for 3D printing and firearms enthusiasts seeking a durable, innovative, and customizable AR15 lower receiver. With its reinforced design features and ambidextrous functionality, it addresses common weaknesses while offering a traditional semi-auto build experience. For best results, follow the detailed build guide, ensure your printer is tuned, and explore MiddletonMade3D’s resources for additional support or build kits.