Dirty Bird BakersfieldAR Parts and Accesories, AR-15, Deer Hunting, Hunting
Top Picks from Dirty Bird Industries for the 2025 Hunting Season
Jul
Table of Contents
For this year’s hunting season, a rifle built from parts from Dirty Bird Industries just might be what you need, especially if this is your first time building a tool you need to depend on. The bottom line is that as the 2025 hunting season approaches, the choice of firearm is more critical than ever. Traditionally dominated by bolt-action rifles and shotguns, the hunting landscape is evolving, and the AR platform is stepping into the spotlight. With its modularity, reliability, and adaptability, an AR rifle makes a compelling case for hunters seeking precision and versatility in the field.
Among the brands leading this shift, Dirty Bird Industries stands out as a top choice for building or upgrading your next hunting rig. Based in Bakersfield, California, with warehousing in Raleigh, North Carolina, and a Cerakote-certified facility in Youngsville, North Carolina, this company combines American craftsmanship with innovative design, making it the go-to source for hunters preparing for the season.
This blog dives into why an AR for hunting makes sense in 2025, explores key Dirty Bird Industries components to consider, and highlights tailored builds for your next hunt.
Why an AR for Hunting in 2025?
The AR platform’s reputation has long been tied to tactical and competitive shooting, but its practicality for hunting is undeniable. In 2025, with advancements in barrel technology, optics compatibility, and lightweight materials, it offers hunters a customizable tool that rivals traditional firearms.
For deer, hogs, and even larger game, the ability to swap calibers, adjust configurations, and mount suppressors or advanced optics aligns perfectly with the diverse challenges of the hunt. The modularity allows you to tailor your rifle to specific game, terrain, and conditions, whether you’re stalking through dense brush or taking long-range shots across open fields.
Dirty Bird Industries enhances this appeal with its commitment to quality. Their components are machined from premium materials, ensuring durability and precision under the rigors of hunting. With a focus on mil-spec standards and in-house gunsmithing, they deliver parts that perform reliably season after season.
For hunters building their next rifle, Dirty Bird Industries offers a foundation of excellence, supported by their North Carolina warehousing for quick access to parts and Cerakote services in Youngsville for custom finishes that withstand the elements.
Building for 5.56/.300 Blackout: Lightweight and Versatile
For hunters targeting smaller game like hogs or varmints, or those preferring a lightweight setup for mobility, 5.56 NATO and .300 Blackout are ideal calibers. These rounds offer a balance of manageable recoil, effective range, and suppressor compatibility, making them perfect for the 2025 hunting season.
Off-the-Shelf Lower: Dirty Bird AR-15 MCF Complete Lower Receiver
For those seeking a ready-to-go base, the Dirty Bird Industries AR-15 MCF Complete Lower Receiver in black is an excellent choice. This lower comes fully assembled with an enhanced fire control group featuring honed sear engagement surfaces for a smooth trigger pull and clean break. Machined from 7075-T6 aluminum forgings, it’s designed for multi-caliber use, accommodating 5.56 and .300 Blackout with ease.
The inclusion of a spring-loaded plunger reduces upper-to-lower slop, ensuring a tight fit for accuracy in the field. Pair this with your preferred upper, and you’re ready to hunt without the hassle of a full build.
Build-Your-Own Lower: Dirty Bird Industries AR-15 Multi-Cal Forged Lower Receiver
If you prefer a custom approach, start with the Dirty Bird Industries AR-15 Multi-Cal Forged Lower Receiver. Crafted from top-tier 7075 aluminum, this stripped lower is precision-machined to mil-spec standards, offering a blank canvas for your build. Its multi-caliber compatibility supports 5.56 and .300 Blackout, allowing you to select components that match your hunting style.
Whether you’re adding a match-grade trigger or a specific stock, this lower’s quality forging and hard-coat anodizing ensure longevity, making it a smart investment for a personalized hunting rifle.
Bolt Upgrade: Dirty Bird Industries Enhanced Bolt Carrier Group
The heart of any AR build is the bolt carrier group (BCG), and the Dirty Bird Industries Enhanced Bolt Carrier Group for .223/5.56 is a standout. Machined from 8620 steel with a 9310 steel bolt, this BCG is shot-peened and magnetic particle inspected for reliability. Its enhanced surface finish reduces friction, improving longevity and performance—critical for repeated shots during a hunt. Compatible with .300 Blackout with the right barrel, this BCG ensures flawless operation.
Complete Upper: Dirty Bird Industries 16″ Recce V2 5.56 M-Lok Upper Assembly
For a ready-to-mount upper, the Dirty Bird Industries 16″ Recce V2 5.56 M-Lok Upper Assembly is a top pick. Featuring a 16-inch barrel with a 1:7 twist, this upper balances accuracy and maneuverability, ideal for mid-range hunting shots. The M-Lok handguard provides ample mounting options for optics or lights, enhancing versatility in low-light conditions.
Stepping Up to .308 Win and 6mm ARC: Power for Bigger Game
For larger game like deer or hogs, the AR-10 platform shines with .308 Winchester and the emerging 6mm ARC caliber. These rounds deliver the power and range needed for ethical harvests, and Dirty Bird offers components to build or assemble a rifle suited for these challenges.
Lower Foundation: Dirty Bird AR-10 Multi-Cal Ambidextrous Stripped Lower Receiver
Begin your AR-10 build with the Dirty Bird AR-10 Multi-Cal Ambidextrous Stripped Lower Receiver. Machined from 7075-T6 aluminum, this lower features an ambidextrous bolt release for enhanced control, a practical improvement for hunters in dynamic environments.
Upper Base: Dirty Bird AR-10 Billet Stripped Upper Receiver
Pair the lower with the Dirty Bird AR-10 Billet Stripped Upper Receiver for a solid upper foundation. Crafted from billet aluminum, this upper offers superior strength and precision over forged alternatives. Its design accommodates .308 Win and 6mm ARC barrels, providing a versatile platform for your build.
Handguard Option: Dirty Bird AR-10 SMRS Handguard Slim M-Lok Rail System
Enhance your AR-10 with the Dirty Bird AR-10 SMRS Handguard Slim M-Lok Rail System. This lightweight, ergonomic handguard offers a slim profile for comfortable handling during extended hunts.
Complete Upper Option: Dirty Bird 16″ Tactical Government .308 Win Complete Upper
For a ready-to-go solution, the Dirty Bird 16″ Tactical Government .308 Win Stainless Mid-Length M-Lok Complete Upper is a hunter’s dream. Featuring a 16-inch stainless steel barrel with a mid-length gas system, it delivers smooth operation and improved shot follow-up.
Alternative Complete Upper: Dirty Bird 18″ SPR 6mm ARC Complete Upper
For those exploring 6mm ARC, the Dirty Bird 18″ SPR 6mm ARC Stainless Rifle M-Lok Complete Upper is a game-changer. This upper features an 18-inch stainless steel barrel optimized for the 6mm ARC cartridge, known for its flat trajectory and long-range potential.
Specialized Lower: Dirty Bird AR-15 6.8 SPC Billet Lower Receiver
For hunters targeting hogs and deer with a unique caliber, the Dirty Bird AR-15 6.8 SPC Billet Lower Receiver is a perfect fit. Machined from billet aluminum, this lower is designed specifically for 6.8 SPC, offering increased stopping power over 5.56.
The Builder’s Set: A Closer Look for Hunting
For hunters new to AR builds or seeking a comprehensive starting point, the DB-15 Builder’s Set is a standout option. This set includes a mil-spec upper and lower receiver set, paired with the SMRS (Slim M-Lok Rail System) handguard for versatility. The set’s affordability and reliability make it an excellent foundation for a hunting rifle.
The appeal lies in its customization potential, sourced from top manufacturers and free of sub-par forgings or blemishes. With quick shipping from North Carolina, this set is a practical choice for 2025 preparations.
Building Tips for the Hunt
When assembling your rifle, consider your hunting environment. For lighter calibers, a 16-inch barrel offers a good balance of weight and range, while a suppressor-compatible option enhances stealth for hog hunts. Add a quality optic—such as a low-power variable scope—for quick target acquisition. For larger game, a longer barrel suits open-country hunting, paired with a bipod for stability.
Conclusion
As hunting evolves in 2025, the AR platform’s versatility makes it a smart choice, and Dirty Bird Industries provides the components to build or assemble a rifle tailored to your needs. Whether you opt for a lightweight setup or a powerful build for larger game, their offerings deliver quality and customization. Start your build today, and head into the season with a rifle built for success.