About AR-15 Guns
The "AR" in "AR-15" stands for "ArmaLite rifle," named after the company that developed the original AR-15 design in the 1950s. Despite the name, the AR-15 is not an "assault rifle" - it is a semi-automatic rifle, meaning it fires one round per trigger pull, unlike fully automatic assault rifles.
The AR-15 is among the most popular and widely owned rifles in the United States. Its modular design and customizability have made it a favorite among recreational shooters, hunters, and self-defense enthusiasts. While the AR-15 has been the subject of much debate and controversy, it remains a legal and commonly owned firearm in most parts of the country.
To buy an AR-15, you'll need to pass a federal background check, just like you would for any other rifle purchase in the United States. The process involves filling out a Form 4473 and waiting for the check to clear. Depending on your location, there may also be additional state or local requirements.
The standard AR-15 chambering is 5.56x45mm NATO. However, some models are also available in other calibers, like .223 Remington, 300 Blackout, 6.5 Grendel, and 6.8 SPC.
What are the AR-15 Configuration Options?
AR-15s are highly customizable, allowing owners to configure them with a wide variety of components and accessories. Popular options include:
Barrels: Lengths can vary from 10 inches to 24 inches or more, with different profiles and contours.
Handguards: Free-floating or non-free-floating in a range of materials and styles.
Triggers: Both stock and aftermarket triggers offer varying degrees of weight and crispness.
Sights: Iron sights, red dot optics, and magnified scopes can all be mounted.
Buttstocks: Fixed, collapsible, or folding stocks provide different levels of adjustability.
Grips: Vertical foregrips, angled foregrips, and pistol grips offer customized hand positioning.
Lower receivers: AR-15 lower receivers can be made from aluminum, polymer, or other materials.
Popular Models
Some of the most popular AR-15 rifle models include:
Colt M4 Carbine: The military version of the AR-15, with a 14.5-inch barrel and a reputation for reliability and accuracy. This model is widely used by law enforcement and the military.
Smith & Wesson M&P15 Sport II: A budget-friendly, no-frills AR-15 for new shooters. It features a 16-inch barrel, a six-position adjustable stock, and basic iron sights, making it a great entry-level option.
Daniel Defense DDM4 V7: A high-end, highly customizable AR-15 with a premium price tag. It boasts a free-floating handguard, a cold-hammer-forged barrel, and a variety of customization options to suit the needs of discerning shooters.
Ruger AR-556: A reliable, affordable AR-15 with a 16-inch barrel. Ruger is known for its quality and attention to detail, making this model a popular choice for those on a budget.
Aero Precision M4E1: An AR-15 with an integrated trigger guard and other thoughtful design features, such as a threaded barrel and a flared magazine well. This model is known for its exceptional accuracy and reliability.
How Much Do AR-15 Rifles Cost?
The cost of an AR-15 can vary widely depending on the brand, features, and customization level. Entry-level AR-15s can cost around $500 to $800, while high-end, fully kitted-out models can cost $2,000 or more. The average price for a quality, mid-range AR-15 is typically in the $800 to $1,200 range.
