Top Aftermarket Parts Worth Installing

Upgrading your firearm is one of the most rewarding parts of gun ownership. Whether you’re improving accuracy, comfort, or overall performance, the right aftermarket parts can turn a good gun into a great one. But with thousands of options on the market, where should you start?

Here’s a breakdown of the best gun upgrades that deliver real results for your money — based on what professional gunsmiths see day in and day out.

1. Triggers — The Heart of Accuracy

If you want to instantly feel the difference in your shooting, start with the trigger. Factory triggers are often heavy, gritty, or inconsistent. A quality aftermarket trigger provides a clean, predictable break that helps eliminate human error.

Why It Matters

Every shot begins and ends with the trigger press. A smoother, lighter pull means less sight movement and tighter groups.

Popular Upgrades

• Drop-in AR triggers (e.g., Timney, Geissele, Rise Armament) for crisp single-stage or smooth two-stage breaks.

• Glock connectors and trigger kits for shorter resets and reduced pull weight.

• Precision rifle triggers like TriggerTech or Jewell for fine-tuned competition accuracy.

Pro Tip

A lighter trigger isn’t always better. Defensive and duty firearms still need safe, deliberate pull weights. A gunsmith can help balance smoothness with safety.

2. Barrels — The Foundation of Precision

Even the best shooter can’t overcome an inconsistent barrel. A precision barrel upgrade is one of the most effective ways to improve group size, velocity consistency, and reliability.

Why It Matters

The barrel determines how consistently the bullet leaves the firearm. Higher-quality materials and tighter tolerances reduce shot dispersion and make cleaning easier.

Popular Upgrades

• Match-grade AR barrels (Ballistic Advantage, Faxon, Wilson Combat) for tighter tolerances and superior harmonics.

• Threaded barrels for handguns, allowing suppressor or compensator use.

• Fluted barrels, which reduce weight while maintaining rigidity.

Pro Tip

The best barrel upgrade pairs with proper fitting, headspacing, and crown work. Professional installation ensures accuracy and safety.

3. Stocks and Grips — Comfort Meets Control

A firearm that fits you properly is not just more comfortable — it’s more accurate. Stock upgrades improve ergonomics, balance, and recoil management.

Why It Matters

Proper stock fit means better sight alignment, faster target acquisition, and more enjoyable shooting sessions.

Popular Upgrades

• Adjustable rifle stocks (Magpul PRS, Luth-AR) for customizable length of pull and cheek height.

• Aftermarket pistol grips that improve texture and angle for better control.

• Chassis systems for bolt-action rifles, allowing modular upgrades and stability improvements.

Pro Tip

Fit the gun to you, not the other way around. Small adjustments in grip angle or stock length can dramatically improve your shooting comfort.

Bonus: A Few More Worth Mentioning

If you’ve already tackled the “big three,” consider these supporting upgrades to round out your setup:

• Compensators and muzzle brakes to reduce recoil and muzzle rise.

• Upgraded sights or optics mounts for faster, more reliable target acquisition.

• Recoil spring and buffer upgrades to fine-tune cycling in semi-auto platforms.

• Cerakote finishes for added protection and a personal touch.

These smaller details often complete the build and enhance performance across the board.

Why Professional Installation Matters

While many upgrades can be installed at home, certain parts — especially triggers and barrels — require precision fitting and testing. Improper installation can lead to unsafe conditions or poor reliability.

At JT Arms, we don’t just install parts — we tune them to your firearm’s exact setup. That means no guesswork, no misalignment, and no wasted money on parts that don’t deliver.

Final Thoughts

Upgrading your firearm is about more than looks — it’s about performance, reliability, and confidence. Whether you’re tuning your AR for precision shooting, upgrading your Glock for smoother carry performance, or just customizing a favorite rifle, the right aftermarket parts make all the difference.

Start with the essentials — trigger, barrel, and stock — and build from there.

👉 Looking to upgrade your firearm? Contact JT Arms for expert advice and professional installation of today’s best gun upgrades. We’ll help you transform your firearm into a custom-fit, high-performance machine.