AR-type Rifle

Carolina River Rat

Carolina River Rat

Joined
Oct 29, 2008
Messages
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Looking at getting an AR-type rifle, but I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed by the sheer number of the damn things out there. I want a basic rifle to which I can add bells and whistles as funding permits. What's a good, but not outrageously expensive, basic one to start with?
 
Carolina River Rat said:
Looking at getting an AR-type rifle, but I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed by the sheer number of the damn things out there. I want a basic rifle to which I can add bells and whistles as funding permits. What's a good, but not outrageously expensive, basic one to start with?
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most of your top name AR's are good basics to start out on. G'boro has lots of gun shops and pawn shops. if you want cheaper, build one yourself..
 
check CDNN online and download their catalog - they'll ship to FFL.
same thing with J&G.
should be able to find an a3 or m-4 style rifle with collapsing stock under $800.
(saw some at latest gun show out my way starting at $600)
if you want a brand name, the DPMS sportical is pretty basic and ready to mod to your heart's content.
 
I like Rock River Arms as a basic starter rifle. Mine have been wonderful. I also like Armalite and Older Bushmaster. I say older because mine are about 10 years old and I have no idea what kind of quality they are turning out these days. I've heard some things about them changing up a little. But have no idea if it's true.
 
If I may suggest a format, I love the Bushmaster Dissipator configuration. I think many manufacturers are making them now. It's got a 16" heavy barrel (Which I like) but it has full length handguards so it still has the rifle length sight radius. Best of both worlds IMHO. I like the flat top with tele-stock personally. Here is a stock pic to go on...
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Can't go wrong with most known mfgs.

Modding is where the fun (and money) starts.......

What you need to decide first is, flattop or handle receiver?
 
Whatca goin' use it for?

Will make a big difference, IMHO. If you want a beater truck rifle try CMMG Bargain Bin specials at <$600..if you want to compete in Service Rifle matches buy one that meets those specs.

I'm old and need a scope so flattops or EOP for me...if you're young with great eyes a carry handle model might work.

EBRD - Evil Black Rifle Disease- can get expensive, YMMV.
 
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My next "AR" type, black rifle is going to be something in one of the larger calibers. I currently have, and love my SIG 556 in .223/5.56, but I'm looking for something with a bit more punch... .308, 7.62 etc.
 
My little brother just "shopped" ARs and ended up with Ruger's new gas piston AR. He's happy with it (I think its a bit front heavy with the 4 sided rails, but I think you can get it for less without them). I have a few year old CMMG gas piston model that I'm real happy with, but it was more than his Ruger.

Gas pistons are getting more popular for a reason, so do yourself a favor and don't rule them out!
 
If you are willing to put one together you can customize it and/or save a few bucks.

Del-ton or Bravo Company are good places for complete kits or uppers
 
I have a Bushmaster which I modified into a comp gun for DCM shooting. Very good gun. My fun fighting gun is a Wilson UT tactical which is pricey though, but shoots as accurately as a bolt gun. I would say for your situation, the Bushmaster would be one good choice. I have heard a lot of good things about DPMS as well, but never owned one.
 
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