OK. Time to open up a big can of worms.
A friend feels the need to buy an AR-15. But just like the rest of us, he wants the best value. I’ve already gave him my recommendation, but I won’t state it just yet, save that it’s a flat top (for optics options) and chambered in 5.56.
Have at it.
[asbestos undies mode = on]
I know nothing about them except I would have never in my life thought I would EVER bought an “assault rifle” being just a hunter and handgunman.
I bought the S&W because it was the “best one” my crappy monopoly of a gun shop had and to this day I regret not buying the Colt.
Does he want a piston AR-15 or is he willing to go with DGI?
Hard to go wrong with a Stag, Rock River or Spikes Tactical.
If he wants to roll his own, just order everything from Bravo Co. and build it yerself.
Honestly?
I think any mil spec AR is going to suffice.
I’m certainly no expert, but this is the 2nd AR I acquired.
http://www.dpmsinc.com/store/products/?prod=5632
I’m pretty happy with it for about 625 at my local gun shop.
I missed the Greenville Tx gunshow.
Actually its still running through tonight.
There was some ol boy there from Campbell Tx selling AR 15s for $649
I was curious about those.
I'd add to that a railed front gas block to accept his choice of folding BUIS, and a 16" barrel with mid-length gas system. That seems to be the AR's "sweet spot" with regard to size vs. reliable function. DGI works fine, though I have an Adams Arms piston kit on a mid-length carbine. Works great with no sign of bolt carrier "tilt".
Rifling twist depends on what he's likely to feed it. As for brand, it's mostly a pricing game at this point. No real junk out there, at least not in the "basic" category, new in the box. Just beware of the home-builts on the used rifle rack.
Ha! I just signed up for the liberty safe WITH free delivery.
Late chiming in as usual.
Can’t recommend as to “best buy” between brands/models. Just wanted to affirm as to choice of flattop.
Out of nostalgia I purchased mine with sighted gas block and removeable carry handle. Wish I’d gone with flattop and fold-down BUIS instead. Leaner & less bulky is the way to go.
I bought a Bushmaster Carbon 15 Ultra-light, Saturday. Without a magazine it weighs in at just over five pounds. With folding sights, a laser and magazine, I can shoot it one-handed, off-hand! It feels like a Toys ‘R’ Us thing but it shoots great! Ran a few mags of 556 steel core 62 grain Lake City through it. Not one hiccup of any kind. Gonna put my bore sight on it this week and zero it, then add an optic of some sort. Really like the PMAG magazines I bought to feed it with.