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That was a good choice. Hard to go wrong there for a first AR

Lot of recommendations for newer manufacturers in the AR space listed here. PSA, Springfield, Ruger, etc. Not to say they aren't good/great guns or even reputable companies that should be considered but most have only been in ARs for a few years or so... Personally, for a first AR I'd probably go with any of the many companies who have been doing it for a while... Smith and Colt are hard to argue against for a first gun that'll not disappoint and be reliable. Both have options in that price range. DPMS, Rock River, Stag, etc are also good priced options. Plenty of others who have been in the AR game forever also that can be great options but if he wants a standard setup any of the above have you covered.