When building your own AR-15 or AR-10, one of the first decisions you’ll face is whether to go with an anodized or raw 80% lower. Both options have their advantages, but which one is best for your build?
In this guide, we’ll break down the pros and cons of anodized vs. raw 80% lowers, helping you choose the right receiver for your next DIY firearm project.
What Is an 80 Lower?
An 80% lower receiver is an unfinished AR-15 or AR-10 lower receiver that is not legally classified as a firearm. It lacks the necessary machining to be operational, meaning it can be purchased without an FFL or background check in most states.
Two main finish options exist for 80% lowers:
- Anodized – A protective coating is applied to enhance durability. Here at American Made Tactical we use anodized hard coating to finish our lowers.
- Raw (Unfinished) – No coating; pure aluminum finish for customization. This allows for custom paint of all kinds to be used.
Each type has its own advantages and trade-offs, depending on durability, aesthetics, and customization needs.
Anodized 80% Lower: Pros & Cons
What Is an Anodized 80% Lower?
American Made Tactical anodized 80% lower receivers have been treated with Type III Hardcoat Anodizing, a process that electrically bonds a hardened finish to the aluminum surface. This improves durability and corrosion resistance while giving the lower a sleek, matte black finish.
✅ Pros of Anodized 80% Lowers:
- Superior Durability – Hardcoat anodizing protects against wear, corrosion, and scratches.
- No Additional Finishing Required – Ready to use after machining.
- Professional Look – Sleek matte black finish matches most AR-15 parts.
- Increased Longevity – Coating prevents oxidation and metal degradation over time.
❌ Cons of Anodized 80% Lowers:
- More Expensive – Costs slightly more than raw aluminum lowers.
- Difficult to Customize – Harder to paint or engrave due to the anodized coating.
- Surface Can Be Scratched – While durable, extreme wear can still damage the coating.
Raw (Unfinished) 80% Lower: Pros & Cons
What Is a Raw 80% Lower?
A raw 80% lower receiver is exactly as it sounds—unfinished aluminum with no protective coating. It comes in its natural metallic color and is perfect for custom coatings, engravings, or cerakote applications.
✅ Pros of Raw 80% Lowers:
- Fully Customizable – Easy to paint, anodize, or cerakote to match your build.
- Budget-Friendly – Typically costs less than anodized lowers.
- Easier to Engrave – Great for custom logos, serial numbers, or artwork.
- No Coating to Damage – Won’t show scratches in the same way anodized lowers might.
❌ Cons of Raw 80% Lowers:
- Prone to Corrosion – Aluminum naturally oxidizes without a protective coating, so we recommend a paint job!
- Requires Additional Finishing – Should be painted, cerakoted, or anodized for long-term protection.
- More Maintenance Needed – Uncoated aluminum is more susceptible to wear and environmental damage.
Anodized vs. Raw 80% Lower: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Anodized 80% Lower | Raw 80% Lower |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | ✅ High | ❌ Low (Needs coating) |
| Corrosion Resistance | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Customization | ❌ Harder to paint | ✅ Easy to paint/anodize |
| Cost | ❌ Slightly more expensive | ✅ More budget-friendly |
Final Thoughts
Both anodized and raw 80% lowers have their benefits, depending on your goals, budget, and customization plans. If you want a low-maintenance, durable, ready-to-use receiver, an anodized lower is the best choice. However, if you prefer full creative control over your build, a raw lower gives you unlimited customization options.
For the best results, consider pairing your 80% lower with a high-quality anodized upper. Check out our AR-15 Stripped Upper – Anodized to complete your build!
🔥 Shop Anodized & Raw 80% Lowers Today!
