What to Look for When Buying an AR-15

By Chris Eger

If you know that you want an AR-15 but don’t know what to look for, or what all the terms mean, it can get confusing. (Photo: Chris Eger/Guns.com)
Over the past 60 years, the AR-15 has become “America’s rifle” and grown exponentially in popularity. Here is how to pick a good one.
Purpose
First, as the AR platform is perhaps one of the most modular firearms in history, these guns are available in formats to appeal to a wide array of users. Choose a gun that fits your needs. If you are looking for a hunting arm, there are several ARs built specifically to fit that market in calibers such as 6.5 Grendel, 6mm ARC, and .300 Blackout. For those looking for a target shooter, heavy-barreled guns with 20-inch barrels abound. A good general-purpose sporter? Look for something more like a $600 entry-level S&W M&P15 or Ruger AR 556 with a 16-inch barrel and M4-style stock. Some people collect PEZ dispensers and pay more than that. Want something more compact? AR pistols can fit that bill.
Brands
The AR-15 first hit the consumer market in the U.S. over 50 years ago, as witnessed by this 1963 Colt ad. (Photo: Chris Eger/Guns.com)
One top thing to avoid

Source: Guns.com