How much do you customise your replicas?

[SGSS]

A thought occurred to me the other day. How much are people customising their replicas?

Looking through the photo threads or classifieds, I tend to see very similar setups. MWS + Magpul CTR/K2 + BCM handstop + Spec Precision EoTech + WADSN light. Rinse and repeat.

Not to say there's anything wrong with that, but given all the toys we play with fire the same BB and performance when tinkered with will be relatively similar, especially for close quarters, the world is your oyster.

What's the most you aim to spend on a build before things turn daft?

There's so many weird and wonderful ways you could customise your replica, especially with GBBRs. We're not properly restricted by logistics like actual soldiers, would be cool to see more people step out of their comfort zone and build some more interesting stuff!

Obvious cost of things aside, anyone else feel this way or do I sound like a Chairsofting Hipster?

 

[Pengelly]

It honestly depends on the gun. For me I first use the holy trinity when building a gun: Optic, Light, Retention (Holster, Sling, etc.) For 99% of cases these things will always improve your replica. Everything else after that is dependant on experience using the gun and finding out what bits I like or dislike. In terms of price a decent optic can run me from 150-200, a light normally runs me 100, and a holster/sling is often 50. That does sound like a lot but I prefer to use real brands where possible - the quality and warranty you get with that stuff is absolutely worth the money.

The main issue with customising stuff comes down to compatibility and price. Some brands/systems are better than others - such as Hi-Capas having a huge parts ecosystem, plus MWS compatible GBBRs now looking like they're becoming the standard for AR-15s. That said it can still be a bit of a potluck and often certain parts (particularly real steel ones) will require modification and fitting which completely ruins their resell value.

It all comes down to personal preference and lets be honest having a cool rifle makes you feel good.

 

[Punisher3990]

I personally try to keep it minimal; I'll only put PEQ boxes or torches on if I actually need them.

However, I very much intend to get a 3D printer one day and make my own parts. I absolutely love the rail Poprocket made for my Tac41, and the chances of me encountering someone with the same at the sites I frequent are astronomically low. I love having a unique look that is rare to see.

Run a P90 with an Scope or LPVO and see how many people come up and ask you about it lol