AR-15 research and purchase.....

[JRG]

I have finally decided to enter the AR-15 arena and purchase one. This being my initial rifle purchase, I am seeking out the wisdom of this group.

I would like to keep this purchase under $1000. This would primarily be a range toy, home defense gun. I don't go hunting ever, however, I would like a scope or red dot or some such on it.

I don't necessarily want one with all the bells and whistles, but also do not want one that is so cheap that some parts need to be replaced to make it function properly.

I am not skilled enough to build my own so am concentrating on completely built guns only.

Any brands stand out? Any brands to stay away from? Sorry for all the questions, but I want to do this right.

Joe

[Pawpaw]

IMO, what you're asking for is way too open-ended. There are far too many options out there for anyone to give you any solid advice.

Why don't you go to various gun stores. Look at & handle as many rifles as you can. Take note of the make and model of any that interest you and come back here to post those.

With more specific questions, someone here will be able to give you more solid input.

Besides, you get to go out & handle guns. Where's the downside?

[flechero]

Your desires are well-timed. My friend at the LGS says that AR's are plentiful and the prices are falling!

Good shopping!

[ninjabread]

If you have no particular preferences going in, I suggest a Smith & Wesson M&P 15 Sport with a Primary Arms Micro Dot.

There are a lot of lesser known AR brands of comparable quality at slightly lower prices, but there is something to be said for a factory warranty from a large manufacturer, especially if you don't want to tinker. The optics from Primary Arms are solid mid range gear. You can splurge for an ACOG or go cheap with a $20 RDS on eBay or Amazon, but for somebody with no preconcieved notions, the Primary Arms Micro Dot at $90 is a good place to start. There are a multitude of other options but these are solid choices that won't break your budget, and leave some money for PMAGs and ammo.

[cmgee67]

Palmetto state armory. I built and AR in 223 and an AR 9 pistol from them. Exceptional quality and I've never had one hiccup or issue. They have been 100% reliable. Also the S&W M&p 15 are decent as well. All options I have mentions are well under 1000$ and leaves you plenty of room to do whatever.

[bblhd672]

If you have no particular preferences going in, I suggest a Smith & Wesson M&P 15 Sport with a Primary Arms Micro Dot.

There are a lot of lesser known AR brands of comparable quality at slightly lower prices, but there is something to be said for a factory warranty from a large manufacturer, especially if you don't want to tinker. The optics from Primary Arms are solid mid range gear. You can splurge for an ACOG or go cheap with a $20 RDS on eBay or Amazon, but for somebody with no preconcieved notions, the Primary Arms Micro Dot at $90 is a good place to start. There are a multitude of other options but these are solid choices that won't break your budget, and leave some money for PMAGs and ammo.

The S&W M&P Sport 2 is my entry into AR platform- very satisfied. I paid $599 last June/July- you can get it for $525 now
http://grabagun.com/smith-and-wesson-mp ... mm-16.html

[Lynyrd]

Man, AR's are kind of like buying cars. The options are unlimited. For under $1,000 you can get a basic gun in a LOT of brand names. After you buy it, then the choices start and they are only limited by your pocket book. Look at Stag, Bushmaster, S&W, DPMR, and if you want a tight one look at Rock River. My favorite is Stag. Best features and quality for the money IMHO. But, whatever you look at, don't settle for one without a forward assist and a dust cover.

It's a disease. One ain't enough. And the customizations are endless.

[Odiferous]

I think it's pretty unlikely you'd have function isses with a complete rifle, unless you're talking short barrels or other chamberings (we're all assuming you're after 5.56/.223).

It doesn't seem like replacing stuff and buying accessories often has much to do with the original purchase as much as what you want the gun to be. If you need a nice trigger, you won't be happy with stock. If you need rail-mount bottle openers and iphone mounts, you'll spend a lot of time on ebay. And probably want stock in Magpul.

And I'll second Primary Arms--both for value optics and as a retailer. Good prices, frequent sales, and outstanding customer service.

...don't settle for one without a forward assist...

Not wanting to start the forward assist religious debate, but just thought your phrasing was interesting. I usually see the lack of a FA called a feature (often costing more) rather than something to settle for.

[Pawpaw]

Forward assist = jam enhancer

[Acronym Esq]

I have finally decided to enter the AR-15 arena and purchase one.
I would like to keep this purchase under $1000. This would primarily be a range toy, home defense gun. I don't go hunting ever, however, I would like a scope or red dot or some such on it.

I did the same thing the middle of last year. I selected the Windham Weaponry SRC and paid about $800 at Cabela's. My wife liked the dirty girl pink cammo, so that pretty much makes me a vegetarian too. It has functioned fine. It's really loud.

I got a $20 red/green dot sight from Amazon. The red diode dies after about 10 shots, but comes back on after a couple more shots. I strongly recommend against it.

I got some cheap metal flip up back up sights from Amazon. I don't have enough experience with them to comment.

I got several different mags for it. My favorite is the 20 round Lancer. It's clear, and the size is compatible with bench shooting.

I got a $30 soft side guitar case called a "gig bag" from Guitar Center to use as a disguise case. The very first time I used it, one of my nosy neighbors approached me in the drive way asking me about what type of music I played on my guitar. Worked as intended.

I've had a little trouble finding a place to shoot. The range I like requires frangible ammo (expensive). Most of the ranges around me are only 25 yards (I'd prefer 50). One of the two 50-100 yd ranges near me allows only one bullet to be *loaded* at a time.

I haven't gotten $1k of fun out of it yet. YMMV.

Acronym 2/8/2017 8:56 PM

[Lynyrd]

Forward assist = jam enhancer

I couldn't disagree more. But to each his own.

[Lynyrd]

...don't settle for one without a forward assist...

Not wanting to start the forward assist religious debate, but just thought your phrasing was interesting. I usually see the lack of a FA called a feature (often costing more) rather than something to settle for.

There is a reason for the forward assist. I have needed it, and wouldn't want to be without it.

[flowrie]

I also wanted an AR15 for range and home.
Purchased a DPMS for $495 from Buds, free shipping, $10 transfer fee at local shop.
Then put a red dot on it.
Shoots great.
Sky is the limit price wise, just depends on what you want or need to do.

[C-dub]

Don't do it. You won't be able to stop once that first one is in the stable. Not kidding.

Ah, you're going to do it anyway. There are many good choices and within any price point one isn't likely to blow any of the others out of the water quality wise. It's addictive. Good luck!