Book Review: The Competitive AR15 Builders Guide by Glen Zediker

This is how Glen introduces his multiple shooting books in print, as well as others that are in progress.

“Unlike other ‘how-to’ publications, Zediker Publishing’s books don’t stop at the basics. These are engineered for shooters looking to reach the top. Sure, a beginner will benefit from reading what I have to offer, but my material goes in depth to reveal the true determinants of championship-winning performance.”

Zediker has done just that in his book The Competitive AR15 Builders Guide ($35). In addition to his entertaining writing style (you’re not likely to fall asleep reading one of his books), Zediker is relentless when it comes to stuffing his books to the brim with helpful information, like the last page of this book. Depicted on page 272 are properly scaled diagrams of 19 pin and spring sizes. If you find a stray pin on the floor, for example, and wonder where it came from, simply place it on the appropriate diagram to trace it’s origin back to the ejector, trigger guard or bolt catch. We’ve never seen anything like that before and it’s another example of Zediker’s determination to provide the best for shooters, rather than simply meet an arbitrary deadline.

If you’re thinking this book would only be useful to those planning to build an entire rifle, consider these included topics: Two pages of sources for competitive shooting accessories for an AR; barrel break-in wisdom; how and why to check cartridge headspace; improving the reliability of your magazines (in any gun, not just an AR); the pros and cons of a flash suppressor; detailed instructions for installing and adjusting a Geissele two-stage trigger; and tapping (threading) the front sight post hole to lock the post against any movement.

We lost count, but there are probably more than 800 clear, close-up photos in support of the detailed explanations in this guide. In Zediker’s typical “better is better” approach, the book includes an entire chapter (the first of 11) on tool selection, adhesives and lubricants. Keep in mind that Zediker is writing from experience, having competed since the age of seven and earned an NRA High Master classification card for high power rifle, the hard way—with an AR-15.

He has also been in the publishing business for 20 years and writes with a unique style that is anything but cliché. English majors may wince at the occasional invented grammar, but we found this approach to be effective and engaging for topics where the reader may think they already know enough to gloss over an otherwise important topic.

Contact Zediker Publishing at www.zediker.com or email glen@zediker.com. He’s always looking for ideas on what to publish next.