Book Review: The Competitive AR15 Builders Guide by Glen Zediker

by
posted on November 9, 2017
ar15buildersguide-book.jpg

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 [email protected]. He’s always looking for ideas on what to publish next.

Latest

1967 National Matches 6
1967 National Matches 6

Sen. Edward Kennedy Leads Effort To Derail Competition: 1967 National Matches

The 1967 National Matches almost didn’t occur, due to anti-firearm legislators spearheading efforts to curb the use of guns by sportsmen and others.

Taylor’s & Company Introduces TC73 9 mm Lever-Action Rifle

Taylor’s & Company new TC73 lever-action rifle chambered in 9 mm Luger is the first firearm manufactured by the company completely in the USA with 100% USA made parts.

Review: Wojtek Race Pistol

Wojtek pairs a Volquartsen Mamba-X LLV optics-ready competition upper with a Tandemkross 22/45 Cthulhu lower for a powerhouse rimfire pistol.

Magpul Adds Range Bags To DAKA Product Lineup

New from Magpul are small and large DAKA range bags with plenty of organization options for your firearms and gear.

2025 Progressive-Position Pistol Junior Nationals Coming In August

The Progressive-Position Pistol Program has a new governing body—the Scholastic Shooting Sports Foundation. This year’s PPP national championship will be held in Missouri this summer.

Remington’s New Low Decibel .410 Shotshells Offer Reduced Recoil And Noise

Whether for recreational shooting, retriever training or close-range targets, Remington’s Low Decibel option is a solid choice.

Interests



Get the best of Shooting Sports USA delivered to your inbox.