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The Advantages of Polymer: Finding the Best Polymer Lower Receiver 2023

Top 17 Polymer Lower

Our Selection of Polymer Lowers – Editor’s Choice

When it comes to choosing a polymer lower for your AR-15, there are a lot of options out there. It can be difficult to know which one is the best fit for you. That’s why we’ve put together this buyer’s guide, to help you make an informed decision.

We’ll start by answering some common questions about polymer lowers, then move on to our reviews of the top-rated products on the market.

What is a Polymer Lower?

A polymer lower is the lower receiver of an AR-15 that has been made from polymer instead of aluminum. Polymer is a type of plastic that is lightweight and durable. It is often used in the construction of firearms because it is less expensive than aluminum and other metals.

What are the Advantages of a Polymer Lower?

There are several advantages to choosing a polymer lower for your AR-15. One of the biggest benefits is that polymer lowers are typically lighter than their aluminum counterparts. This can make your rifle easier to carry, especially if you are going to be spending a lot of time outdoors with it.

Another advantage of polymer lowers is that they are often more affordable than aluminum lowers. This can be a great option for those on a budget.

What are the Disadvantages of a Polymer Lower?

There are a few disadvantages to consider when choosing a polymer lower for your AR-15. One of the biggest is that they are not as strong as aluminum lowers. This means that they may not be able to withstand the same level of abuse. Another disadvantage is that polymer lowers can be more difficult to work with. This is because they require special tools and skills to properly install them.

Now that we’ve answered some common questions about polymer lowers, let’s take a look at our reviews of the top-rated products on the market.

#1 Ke Arms – AR-15 KP-15 Stripped Polymer Lower Receiver

Ke Arms - AR-15 KP-15 Stripped Polymer Lower Receiver

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If you’re looking for a polymer lower receiver that is both affordable and high quality, the Ke Arms AR-15 KP-15 Stripped Polymer Lower Receiver is a great option to consider. This lower receiver is made from high-quality polymer and is designed to be compatible with all AR-15 parts and accessories. It features a MIL-SPEC type III hard coat anodized finish and is available in a variety of colors. The Ke Arms AR-15 KP-15 Stripped Polymer Lower Receiver is a great option for those looking for high quality, affordable polymer lower receiver.

Pros
  • Lightweight

  • Durable

  • Easy to assemble

  • Affordable

Cons
  • May not be as strong as metal lowers

#2 Ke Arms – AR-15 KP-15 Ambidextrous Polymer Complete Lower Receiver

Ke Arms – AR-15 KP-15 Ambidextrous Polymer Complete Lower Receiver

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Ke Arms – AR-15 KP-15 Ambidextrous Polymer Complete Lower Receiver is the perfect option for shooters looking for a quality polymer lower. This lower receiver is machined from a 7075 T6 forged aluminum and features beveled magwells, flared mag catches, and an ambidextrous bolt release. The KP-15 is compatible with all standard AR-15 components and magazines.

Pros
  • Machined from 7075 T6 forged aluminum

  • Beveled magwells

  • Flared mag catches

  • Ambidextrous bolt release

  • Compatible with all standard AR-15 components and magazines

Cons
  • None

The Ke Arms – AR-15 KP-15 Ambidextrous Polymer Complete Lower Receiver is a great option for shooters looking for a quality polymer lower. This lower receiver is machined from a 7075 T6 forged aluminum and features beveled magwells, flared mag catches, and an ambidextrous bolt release. The KP-15 is compatible with all standard AR-15 components and magazines.

#3 Ke Arms AR-15 KP-15 Complete Mil-Spec Polymer Lower Receiver

Ke Arms AR-15 KP-15 Complete Mil-Spec Polymer Lower Receiver

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The KE Arms AR-15 KP-15 Complete Lower Receiver is a polymer lower receiver made to Mil-Spec standards. It is compatible with all standard AR-15 parts and accessories and is perfect for those looking for an affordable, lightweight option for their next build. The lower receiver features a flared magazine well for easy reloading and an integral trigger guard for added stability. The KE Arms AR-15 KP-15 Complete Lower Receiver is the perfect choice for those looking for a high-quality, lightweight polymer lower receiver.

Pros
  • Lightweight

  • Durable

  • Affordable

  • Easy to assemble

Cons
  • None found as of yet

#4 17 Design And Manufacturing 17DM-180 Polymer Lower Receiver

17 Design And Manufacturing 17DM-180 Polymer Lower Receiver

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17 Design And Manufacturing 17DM-180 Polymer Lower Receiver is made from high-quality materials and is designed to withstand regular use. It’s also easy to assemble, so you can get up and running with it quickly. Plus, the price is unbeatable for a product of this quality. So if you’re in the market for a polymer lower receiver, the Design And Manufacturing 17DM-180 is the way to go!

Pros
  • Lightweight

  • Durable

  • Easy to use

  • Compatible with a variety of calibers

Cons
  • Might be too lightweight for some shooters

#5 17 Design And Manufacturing – AR-15 Billet Polymer Lower Receiver

17 Design And Manufacturing - AR-15 Billet Polymer Lower Receiver

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The billet polymer lower receiver is a great option for those looking for an affordable, lightweight, and durable AR-15 lower receiver. It is machined from a solid block of 6061 aircraft-grade aluminum and features a matte black hard-coat anodized finish. The polymer components are injection molded from glass-filled nylon, ensuring excellent strength and durability. This lower receiver also features an integrated trigger guard and a flared magazine well for easy loading.

Pros
  • Lightweight

  • Extremely durable

  • Easy to use

Cons
  • None found

#6 Silencerco AR-15 Billet Polymer Lower Receiver

Silencerco AR-15 Billet Polymer Lower Receiver

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The Silencerco AR-15 Billet Polymer Lower Receiver is a high-quality product that offers shooters great value. It is made from a durable polymer material and features a lightweight design. This makes it perfect for use with AR-15 rifles, and it also helps to reduce recoil. The receiver has been precision machined to ensure a tight fit and smooth operation, and it comes with a lifetime warranty.

Pros
  • Lightweight

  • Robust construction

  • Aesthetically pleasing

  • Compatible with most AR parts and accessories

Cons
  • None found

#7 Ke Arms AR-15 KP-15 Stripped Polymer Lower Receivers

Ke Arms AR-15 KP-15 Stripped Polymer Lower Receivers

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Ke Arms AR-15 KP-15 Stripped Lower Receivers Polymer is the perfect choice for those who are looking for high quality, durable product. It is made of polymer which makes it lightweight and tough. It also comes with several features that make it user-friendly and easy to operate. Additionally, it comes with many safety features that make it safe to use.

Pros
  • Lightweight

  • Durable

  • Easy to install and use

  • Affordable

Cons
  • Limited color selection

#8 Ke Arms AR-15 KP-15 Complete Ambidextrous Polymer Lower Receiver

Ke Arms AR-15 KP-15 Complete Ambidextrous Polymer Lower Receiver

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The Ke Arms AR-15 KP-15 Complete Ambidextrous Polymer Lower Receiver is a great choice for anyone looking for a durable and reliable lower receiver. It is made from an impact-resistant polymer and features a flared magazine well, ambidextrous bolt release, and extended takedown pins. This lower receiver is designed for both right and left-handed shooters.

Pros
  • Ambidextrous design

  • Lightweight

  • Durable

  • Easy to use

Cons
  • None found

#9 Ke Arms AR-15 KP-15 Complete Mil-Spec Polymer Lower Receiver

Ke Arms - AR-15 KP-15 Complete Lower Receivers Mil-Spec Polymer Lower

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The Ke Arms AR-15 KP-15 Complete Mil-Spec Polymer Lower Receiver is one of the best polymers lowers on the market. It is made from high-quality materials and is designed to be tough and durable. The receiver is made from a solid block of polymer and is mil-spec dimensions. It features a flared magazine well, an integral trigger guard, and an enlarged trigger guard finger rest. The lower also has a winter trigger guard for added protection against the elements. This receiver is compatible with all standard AR-15 parts and accessories.

The Ke Arms AR-15 KP-15 Complete Mil-Spec Polymer Lower Receiver is a great choice for those looking for high quality, durable and affordable polymer lower. It is compatible with all standard AR-15 parts and accessories and is backed by a lifetime warranty.

Pros
  • Lightweight; made of polymer

  • Durable; won’t rust or corrode

  • Easy to clean

  • Affordable price

Cons
  • Not compatible with all aftermarket parts

#10 Polymer80 – AR 308 80% Lower Receiver With Jig Polymer Lower

Polymer80 - AR 308 80% Lower Receiver With Jig Polymer Lower

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Polymer80 provides shooters with an 80% lower receiver made of polymer. This makes it easier to mill and drill, decreasing the time and effort required to complete the weapon. Polymer80 lowers are available for AR-10/AR-308 rifles in both raw and finished form. The company offers a jig kit as well, which includes all the necessary drill bits and end mills.

Polymer80’s AR-10/AR-308 80% Polymer Lower Receiver is made from a lightweight, yet durable polymer material. The lower is easy to mill and drill, and it accepts all standard AR-15 parts and accessories. The kit includes a jig and all the necessary drill bits and end mills. Polymer80 provides a lifetime warranty on all of its products.

Pros
  • Polymer80 is a well-known company that produces high-quality products.

  • This lower is made from polymer, which makes it much lighter than traditional aluminum lowers.

  • The engraving is clean and precise.

Cons
  • One potential downside of this lower receiver is that it is not compatible with all AR-15 parts.

  • Another potential downside is that polymer lowers may not be as durable as aluminum lowers.

Overall, the Polymer80 – AR 308 80% Polymer Lower Receiver is a high-quality product from a well-known company. It is made from polymer, which makes it much lighter than traditional aluminum lowers. The engraving is clean and precise. However, one potential downside of this lower receiver is that it is not compatible with all AR-15 parts. Another potential downside is that polymer lowers may not be as durable as aluminum lowers.

#11 Polymer80 – AR-15 80% Polymer Rl556v3 Lower Receiver

Polymer80 – AR-15 80% Polymer Rl556v3 Lower Receiver

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Polymer80 is excited to announce the release of their newest product, the AR-15 80% Polymer Rl556v3 Lower Receiver. This innovative new design is made of polymer, making it incredibly lightweight and durable. It has been precision machined to mil-spec requirements, ensuring a perfect fit and reliable performance. The AR-15 80% Polymer Rl556v3 Lower Receiver also features an integrated trigger guard and a flared magwell for easy magazine changes.

Polymer80 is committed to providing high-quality products, and the AR-15 80% Polymer Rl556v3 Lower Receiver is no exception. This lower receiver is sure to provide you with many years of reliable service.

Pros
  • Lightweight

  • Durable

  • Easy to assemble

  • Compatible with standard AR-15 parts and accessories

Cons
  • May not be as strong as a forged aluminum receiver

#12 Polymer80 AR-15 80% Polymer Lower Receiver & Jig Kit

Polymer80 AR-15 80% Polymer Lower Receiver & Jig Kit

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Polymer80’s AR-15 80% Polymer Lower Receiver & Jig Kit is the perfect way to start your build. This kit includes a polymer lower receiver, jig, and all of the necessary tooling to finish the receiver. The polymer construction makes this lower incredibly durable, and it is compatible with most mil-spec components. It also features a flared magwell and an integral trigger guard. The included jig makes finishing this lower receiver easy, and the whole process can be completed in just a few hours. This is an excellent option for anyone looking to build their AR-15.

Pros
  • Polymer construction makes it lightweight and durable

  • Easy to complete with the included jig kit

Cons
  • Some users have reported that the fit and finish of the lower is not as good as they would like

If you are looking for a lightweight and durable lower receiver, then the Polymer80 AR-15 80% Polymer Lower Receiver & Jig Kit is a great option.

#13 Hybrid-80 AR-15 Liberator 80% Polymer Reinforced Lower Receiver

Hybrid-80 AR-15 Liberator 80% Polymer Reinforced Lower Receiver

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The Hybrid-80 AR-15 Liberator 80% Polymer Reinforced Lower Receiver is the perfect way to build your custom AR-15 from scratch. This receiver is made of polymer for extra strength and has been reinforced with metal inserts in critical areas to ensure a lifetime of reliable performance. It is compatible with all standard AR-15 parts and magazines and comes with everything you need to complete your build, including a jig and drill bits. With easy-to-follow instructions, anyone can complete this receiver in just a few hours.

If you’re looking for a high-quality polymer lower receiver that’s easy to work with and built to last, the Hybrid-80 AR-15 Liberator is a perfect choice.

Pros
  • Lightweight

  • Durable

  • Easy to Assemble

Cons
  • May not be compatible with all AR-15 parts

#14 James Madison Tactical AR-15 80% Polymer Gen2 Lower Receiver

James Madison Tactical AR-15 80% Polymer Gen2 Lower Receiver

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The James Madison Tactical AR-15 80% Polymer Gen2 Lower Receiver is a great choice for your next build. Made of polymer, it’s strong and lightweight, and it features a flared magazine well for fast reloading. The receiver is also pre-drilled and marked for easy installation of your choice of the fire control group.

Pros
  • Polymer construction makes it lightweight

  • Compatible with other AR-15 parts

  • Easy to assemble

Cons
  • Not as many aftermarket parts available

James Madison Tactical AR-15 80% Polymer Gen2 Lower Receiver is a great choice for those looking for a lightweight and easy assemble lower receiver. However, it should be noted that polymer construction may not be as durable as metal lowers.

#15 Brownells – BRN-7 Stripped Polymer Lower Receiver

Brownells – BRN-7 Stripped Polymer Lower Receiver

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The BRN-7 Stripped Polymer Lower Receiver is a polymer lower receiver compatible with all standard AR-15 components and parts. It features durable, lightweight construction with a textured grip for easy handling. This polymer lower receiver is perfect for those looking to build their AR-15 rifle or upgrade their existing firearm with a polymer lower. Brownells also offers a variety of other polymer lowers, so be sure to check out their selection before making your final decision.

Pros
  • Polymer construction makes it lightweight

  • Aesthetically pleasing design

  • Priced affordably

  • Easy to install

  • Suitable for a variety of calibers

Cons
  • Some have reported that the lower is not compatible with all grips and that it can be difficult to find one that fits perfectly.

  • There have also been some reports of the trigger guard breaking easily.

#16 Brownells – BRN-10 Polymer Lower Receiver

Brownells – BRN-10 Polymer Lower Receiver

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The Brownells BRN-10 Polymer Lower Receiver is a low-cost, high-quality alternative to aluminum receivers. It is made of tough polymer that can stand up to repeated use and abuse. The receiver has been designed specifically for the AR-15 platform, so it fits perfectly and functions flawlessly. It includes all of the features you would expect from a lower receiver, such as a magazine release and bolt catch. The BRN-10 Polymer Lower Receiver is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a durable, reliable, and affordable polymer lower receiver.

Pros
  • Lightweight

  • Durable

  • Affordable

Cons
  • None found

#17 Hybrid-80 AR-15 Liberator 80% Reinforced Polymer Lower

Hybrid-80 AR-15 Liberator 80% Reinforced Polymer Lower

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The Hybrid-80 AR-15 Liberator 80% Polymer Reinforced Lower Receiver is a great choice for those looking for a polymer lower receiver. It has been reinforced with polymer to make it extra sturdy, and it comes in black or flat dark earth to match your firearm. It is easy to assemble and compatible with standard AR-15 parts.

Pros
  • Lightweight

  • Durable

  • Affordable

  • Easy to install and use

Cons
  • None found as of yet

Polymer Lowers FAQ

Are polymer lowers reliable?

This is a common question with regards to firearms and their parts. In general, polymer lowers are just as reliable as any other lower receiver material, such as aluminum or steel. The main difference lies in the manufacturing process and the overall durability of the finished product.

Polymer lowers are typically made through a process called injection molding. This process creates a lower receiver that is very consistent in dimensions and quality from one to the next. Injection molding also allows for a lower receiver to be made with a variety of different colors and finishes.

Aluminum and steel lower are typically made through a process called machining. Machined lowers can offer a tighter tolerance than injection molded lowers, but they also tend to be more expensive. Machined lowers also typically require more time to complete.

When it comes to durability, aluminum and steel are generally considered to be stronger than polymer. The polymer tends to flex under stress, which can eventually lead to cracking or breaking. Aluminum and steel are also less susceptible to scratches and other cosmetic damage.

So, which is the better material for a lower receiver?

Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. Each type of lower has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. It is up to the individual to decide which one is right for them.

How many times can you use a Polymer80 jig?

You can use a Polymer80 jig multiple times. However, we recommend replacing the jig after 3-4 uses to ensure optimal results. Additionally, it is important to note that you will need to purchase a new completion kit each time you build a Polymer80 lower.

Which is better polymer or aluminum?

The debate between polymer and aluminum as the best material for a lower receiver is a longstanding one. Some shooters swear by the durability and weight savings of an aluminum lower, while others prefer the flexibility and ease of customization that polymer provides. Ultimately, the choice between these two materials will come down to personal preference.

Who makes polymer AR lowers?

There are a few different companies that make polymer AR lowers, but the two most popular are probably Polymer80 and Anderson Manufacturing. Both of these companies have a good reputation for making high-quality products, so you really can’t go wrong with either one.

Conclusion

Polymer lowers have become very popular in the firearms industry recently. This is due, in part, to their many advantages over traditional metal lowers. In this article, we’ve highlighted some of the best polymer lowers on the market and give you a buyer’s guide to help you choose the right one for your needs. We’ve also answered some common questions about polymer lowers and provided some useful tips.

So, if you’re looking for a high-quality polymer lower, be sure to check out the products we’ve listed above. You can’t go wrong with any of them. And, if you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comments section below. We’ll be happy to help.

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AmmoFire Team

AmmoFire - Ammo Review Team

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