First AR-15 (budget or save up)

BabaBlueJay

BabaBlueJay

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I am currently at 4 guns and at this point the only gap in my minimalist collection seems to be an AR-15/AK/SKS or some form of rifle in intermediate caliber.

I am still unsure if I will even get one but if I do decide to get my fifth gun I am leaning heavily towards an AR-15 due to 5.56 ammo prices compared to 7.62x39. That leaves only a few unanswered questions.

1. Do I even need an AR or would it just sit in my safe? What has been your experience is it just an expensive range toy or do you feel your AR is a critical part of your collection?

2. Do I need to shell out several thousand to have a rifle that is truly ready for anything or is a more budget friendly rifle like an M&P or Ruger good enough if a break glass in case of emergency situation arises?

3. What are some things you wish someone told you before you got your first AR? What are some things a newbie should know before diving into this?

thanks in advance!
 
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From someone with a few AR's of multiple build qualities, to someone who is looking for their first AR and doesn't quite know what they're going to do with one... I'd suggest going to a local gun store and purchasing a stripped lower. Then head over to Palmetto State's Armorys website and see what complete rifle kits they have on sale there. I have a few Palmetto State rifles and, to me, shoot as well as my $1700 Fostech rifle. Plus, building your own is super easy and you get to know the inner working on what you have. AR's can be addicting little rifles, so I'm sure your first one wont be your last
I use Aero Precision lowers, because that's what my LGS sells. I like them. People will knock Palmetto State rifles, but I've had no problems with any of them.
 
In my opinion, a high dollar AR is unnecessary unless you intend to HALO jump into a third world country and fight your way to the border. You state that you are unsure if you need an AR and if you will use it. I personally would not spend big money on a rifle under those circumstances. AR's can be found for $300.00+ that will serve you well and allow you to decide if you like that platform and wish to invest more into a nicer firearm. Stay away from polymer receivers as most fail.

If after a short while you decide you want a better rifle, park the first in the safe, give it to child, or sell it at a loss and move forward. Like a college textbook, you will not get your money back on it but what you learn from the budget price firearm exceeds your loss.
 
Would it change things if I said this would be the ONE I have for life. I will not be buying a second, I am already iffy on whether or not I would buy one because I am a minimalist. All of my guns are tools and I am not a collector, I will use this as a tool not a range toy or collector item. This would be a barbarians are at the gates, break glass in case of emergency gun. Would a 600$ gun be durable enough if there is an extreme emergency like the BLM riots? I am fine with saving for Knights Armament or Geissele or Daniel Defense if they are THAT much better in terms of reliability and durability. I just do not want to buy a PSA and find out its not up to snuff if I have to put 300 rounds through one in an hour.

If a PSA/Ruger/S&W can handle that kind of scenario I am fine with it but I do not want to find out I got a rifle that is not up to snuff if I absolutely need it to be.
 
TJm15.38 said:
From everything you've said, I suggest buying a Colt 6920 M4 Carbine. It will cost you some bucks, but you won't need another AR.

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Funny enough that is one I have looked into, although I have heard their QC took a nosedive which is why they lost the contract. They are a nice in-between of the entry level and the super high end multi-thousand dollar operator tier rifles though so they may be the goldilocks.
 
After shooting M16's for a nearly four decades, I retired and thought I should have one of my own. I like buying the original, so I bought the Colt Carbine model CR6920 used from the local gun/pawn. They were asking 999, but gave me 100 off of that. so, for about 900 I had my rifle. That was about 4 years ago, and not the first time, but I took it to the range last week with a couple hundred rounds. I have been contiplating optics for it, but after drilling the gong at 100 yards everytime I pulled the trigger with peep sights it comes with, I figure they have it handled. I guess it depends on what you want it for.
 
This is based on seeing what my employer bought and what I saw used in a slew of schools.
1. You don't have to spend LMT or similar money to get a good product. However, you have to be selective. One "name" brand (mentioned above) the bean counters bought burned out barrels and scrapped the fire control parts when exposed to our CQB training cycle. The S&W M&P15 ran right with our Colts and the QC looked a lot better. As did the warranty.

2. The "parts is parts" thing. There are parts that meet all design specs. Then, there are parts that might be off in some aspect, like finish, that doesn't meet all specs, but are suitable for the purpose. The next step down is ones that are just a smidgen off the tolerance spec. It's not significant, but it might not wear like it's supposed to. The next step is scrap. However, some enterprising scrap dealer (or the subcontractor who can't afford to actually scrap them) just might sell those parts to someone who needs ch......inexpensive parts. Not all low prices are the result of you not paying for a "name".

Example: I once saw PSA advertise "thick plated barrels". The extra barrel plate was claimed to even further extend life. I used to live a couple miles from a plating concern. Correct plating was measured in ten thousandths. If the plate was thicker, either someone messed up setting the timer or someone was trying to get out of spec barrels back into spec. No thanks.

2A. The if it ain't mil-spec it ain't feces thing. The AR was designed in the early/mid 1950s by an aircraft/aircraft parts manufacturer. Many of the QC standards (which the military copied) are based on that mindset, the advanced for the time design, material quality of the day and production capabilities. Things are a lot different now. If it makes you happy, fine.

3. You want a hard chrome finish chamber & barrel. The $40 or so is much cheaper than a new barrel, the plating greatly extends barrel life. Per the USAMTU, the other barrel finish treatments DON'T stand up to rapid fire like hard chrome.

ETA: 3A. A mid length gas system is the way to go on carbines, less violent operation and lower pressures in the gas system. My personal preference is forged uppers & lowers.

4. Take a good hard look at Rock River Arms. I saw of lot of their stuff work fine in hard use.
 
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BabaBlueJay said:
I am currently at 4 guns and at this point the only gap in my minimalist collection seems to be an AR-15/AK/SKS or some form of rifle in intermediate caliber.

I am still unsure if I will even get one but if I do decide to get my fifth gun I am leaning heavily towards an AR-15 due to 5.56 ammo prices compared to 7.62x39. That leaves only a few unanswered questions.

1. Do I even need an AR or would it just sit in my safe? What has been your experience is it just an expensive range toy or do you feel your AR is a critical part of your collection?

2. Do I need to shell out several thousand to have a rifle that is truly ready for anything or is a more budget friendly rifle like an M&P or Ruger good enough if a break glass in case of emergency situation arises?

3. What are some things you wish someone told you before you got your first AR? What are some things a newbie should know before diving into this?

thanks in advance!
Click to expand...
I have 3 PSA rifles. They all go bang every time. Not sure what else you want from a firearm? And I buy the blemish models from PSA and the uppers and lowers separately to save even more money. Like I said, they all go bang and are as accurate as I will ever need.
 
You could mention what your 4 firearm are and do you live around other people like an apartment or a home in a developed area or a home on some acerage . It could make a difference in what you might buy depending on where you live .

I have shoot a fair number of different Ar15's over the years from lower priced to some rather expensive AR-15's . A AR15 can be a good defensive firearm or a very good 500 yard range rifle but cost will be rather different . If all you want is a defensive AR and range plinker then buy a PSA carbine that can cost you under 500 dollars . Buy some extra mags and a case of m193 and get to know your AR . They have a number of models some of sale with and with out sights options !

https://palmettostatearmory.com/ar-15/rifles.html?caliber_multi_v2=5.56x45mm
 
BabaBlueJay said:
Funny enough that is one I have looked into, although I have heard their QC took a nosedive which is why they lost the contract. They are a nice in-between of the entry level and the super high end multi-thousand dollar operator tier rifles though so they may be the goldilocks.
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An AR-15 is a pragmatic buy. Unless you are a collector or a competition shooter, I would stick to tried and true arms produced by companies with military contracts. The most cost effective option is a current production Colt, especially the M4 variations or M16A4. FN is a good choice, too, but expect to pay about $400 more than for the Colt. With either make, you can be assured they are MILSPEC and have rifling twists that will stabilize the range of bullet weights.

Whatever you decide, I would encourage you to keep the weapon as light as possible. Light weight is one of the greatest advantages of the AR platform. I appreciate the modularity and ability to mount an array of scopes, lights, lasers, etc. But I actually prefer an old-fashioned stripped rifle, especially as I get older. They are just handier, in any barrel length. Good luck.
 
BabaBlueJay said:
I am currently at 4 guns and at this point the only gap in my minimalist collection seems to be an AR-15/AK/SKS or some form of rifle in intermediate caliber.

I am still unsure if I will even get one but if I do decide to get my fifth gun I am leaning heavily towards an AR-15 due to 5.56 ammo prices compared to 7.62x39. That leaves only a few unanswered questions.

1. Do I even need an AR or would it just sit in my safe? What has been your experience is it just an expensive range toy or do you feel your AR is a critical part of your collection?

2. Do I need to shell out several thousand to have a rifle that is truly ready for anything or is a more budget friendly rifle like an M&P or Ruger good enough if a break glass in case of emergency situation arises?

3. What are some things you wish someone told you before you got your first AR? What are some things a newbie should know before diving into this?

thanks in advance!
Click to expand...
IMHO, I would NOT spend a ton of money on this. I would also NOT go dirt cheap. I would also NOT build one. Buy a nice S&W Sport II or Sport III for $600-700 each. They have lifetime warranties and have great reviews. My first AR was an actual M16A1 but I was in the Army back then, way back. My first AR was the Sport II and to this day, almost 10 years later, it has never failed me. Never. I like it so much that I bought a second one for my wife about 3 years ago and it was even cheaper than the first one I bought. And it came with a low profile gas block and red-dot. Both now have scopes now since neither of us can see like we did in our 20's. Mine has a 10-40X and her's has an 6-24X. We nail tiny targets at up to 400 yards with serious accuracy. I even make my own ammo for them.
 
BabaBlueJay said:
I am currently at 4 guns and at this point the only gap in my minimalist collection seems to be an AR-15/AK/SKS or some form of rifle in intermediate caliber.

I am still unsure if I will even get one but if I do decide to get my fifth gun I am leaning heavily towards an AR-15 due to 5.56 ammo prices compared to 7.62x39. That leaves only a few unanswered questions.

1. Do I even need an AR or would it just sit in my safe? What has been your experience is it just an expensive range toy or do you feel your AR is a critical part of your collection?

2. Do I need to shell out several thousand to have a rifle that is truly ready for anything or is a more budget friendly rifle like an M&P or Ruger good enough if a break glass in case of emergency situation arises?

3. What are some things you wish someone told you before you got your first AR? What are some things a newbie should know before diving into this?

thanks in advance!
Click to expand...
Someone famous once said, "Some have a gun collection and others just have a collection of guns".
The choice is yours.
I love my AR's btw...
648-A1419-6-EF2-4-EB5-856-A-F2-CEA7-B739-D0-L0-001.jpg
 
I'd go S&W M&P15 as most expensive option. But there are cheaper ones as mentioned. My son's M&P has served him well for 13 yrs. He's diligent about cleaning and caring for it because he shoots it ALOT.
 
if it is your one and only……spend a bit more and get what you really want. I have colts mainly but also a few other name brands like LMS, Geissele, Troy and Alexander Arms. Not that I shoot them as much as I like but the fondle and admire factor on a slow evening is a joy to an old man.
 

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As a long time user, the first one issued to me was roll marked XM16E1, had a chrome bolt and a three prong flash suppressor, I'd suggest a 16 inch carbine with a good red dot. 1-9 twist is a good compromise. You can shoot M193 and the most of heavier bullets as well. Chrome bore and chamber are a plus, the difference in accuracy is more theoretical than practical. An entry level PSA will be around 500 bucks while a Colt 6920 would be double that. A Chinesium red dot might go for 30 bucks while an Aimpoint Comp4 will cost as much as the rifle. A Sig Romeo 5 is about a quarter of that. If I couldn't afford a GOOD optic, I'd get the carry handle. Even with a good optic, I'd keep a carry handle just in case. Being able to use iron sights effectively will always be useful. Airsoft quality optics are only a waste of time and money.
 
My $.02 may not be worth anything, but there are some good suggestions above. I've owned high end AR's, low end and have built a plethora of them over the years. I have some experience in their usage. If one shops around, one can find a decent AR to fulfill a wide range of scenarios. I've posted my S&W M&P15OR in a few threads now and will share it again here. I picked it up for $450 and I think it was a police trade in. Didn't look to have ever been fired. There was no wear marks that I could find after getting it home and disassembling it. I of course, did upgrade some external parts to suite my fancy. This rifle will probably out last me the way I shoot and will definitely cover any situation I might find myself in. YMMV. OP, I wish you the best in your journey and hope it is a positive learning experience. (y)

When I got it...

20250717_150707.webp

As it looks now...

20250823_133126.webp
 
BabaBlueJay said:
I am currently at 4 guns and at this point the only gap in my minimalist collection seems to be an AR-15/AK/SKS or some form of rifle in intermediate caliber.

I am still unsure if I will even get one but if I do decide to get my fifth gun I am leaning heavily towards an AR-15 due to 5.56 ammo prices compared to 7.62x39. That leaves only a few unanswered questions.

1. Do I even need an AR or would it just sit in my safe? What has been your experience is it just an expensive range toy or do you feel your AR is a critical part of your collection?

2. Do I need to shell out several thousand to have a rifle that is truly ready for anything or is a more budget friendly rifle like an M&P or Ruger good enough if a break glass in case of emergency situation arises?

3. What are some things you wish someone told you before you got your first AR? What are some things a newbie should know before diving into this?

thanks in advance!
Click to expand...
In my admittedly Jaded opinion - I'd buy an AK FIRST (7.62X39) with proper care & stewardship it can be very accurate. Where it truely shines is: Durability - It will function under adverse conditions & will never be Finicky about ammo, dirt, water.
It was designed for conscripts, & primitive operators to use, & it will gratify you with good care, & will last generations. I have owned a folding Romanian SAR-1 AK for over 20 years with never a hiccup. I have fitted it with a Ukranian military 4X scope for my old eyes. I had lengthened the sighting radius by using a U.S. made rear peep sight kit. It is very accuracte & should last forever. IF you shop around, you will find some new good quality, Polish made AKs starting about $600.
I like the caliber, & gas operated action that cancels most recoil. I never wanted an AR - still don't want one.
I also own a Romanian 7.62X54R PSL Rifle (AK version of SVD sniper) BIG FAN !
Hope that helps, C.
 

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Would it change things if I said this would be the ONE I have for life.
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Not really. ARs are as ubiquitous in America as you can get, it's called "America's Rifle" for a reason, and if you're not going to shoot it competitively, you'll probably never wear any part of it out. Learn how to use it, how to take it apart/clean it, practice with it here and there, and you'll be good to go.

A $600 Palmetto State Armory AR will be perfect for you but there are so many quality ARs out there you'll just have fun making the decision.

My third AR was a Stag 15 and it never came out of it's case so I finally sold it back to my FFL for $500 just to get it out of the way.

1756835003267.webp

Excellent company, and they had a recent sale, and the company itself is out of stock on everything!
 
As a Service Rifle competitor, my first 3 AT's were a Rock River National Match A2, the old Rock River NMA2 upper on a lower with pur club logo and a Rock River build kit. ( I bought a new upper for matches at 3500 rounds for the first rifle.) Then I built a scoped flat top when CMP added 1 to 4.5 power scopes. When I started shooting 3 Gun, briefly due to get local matches. I went with a PSA upper with some lower kit on a $40 Bushmaster lower. For a newer AR shooter there isn't much difference, for me the PSA is over 1 MOA and the Rock River is under 1MOA from a sand bag. The PSA was about $400, the Rock River was over$1000. Bottom line, buy for your use. Both will hit out to 300 yards.
 
BabaBlueJay said:
Would it change things if I said this would be the ONE I have for life. I will not be buying a second, I am already iffy on whether or not I would buy one because I am a minimalist. All of my guns are tools and I am not a collector, I will use this as a tool not a range toy or collector item. This would be a barbarians are at the gates, break glass in case of emergency gun. Would a 600$ gun be durable enough if there is an extreme emergency like the BLM riots? I am fine with saving for Knights Armament or Geissele or Daniel Defense if they are THAT much better in terms of reliability and durability. I just do not want to buy a PSA and find out its not up to snuff if I have to put 300 rounds through one in an hour.

If a PSA/Ruger/S&W can handle that kind of scenario I am fine with it but I do not want to find out I got a rifle that is not up to snuff if I absolutely need it to be.
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There are many videos on youtube of PSA being put through torture tests and they pass with very high marks, but so do a lot of AR's. Boils down to what you want to spend, really.
 
My boy and his Marine Gunnery Sergeant buddy, both bought Colt 6920s, while the Marine was TDY, locally.
At 300 yds, with the OEM sights, the Marine only missed the target, three times, over a few years of shooting.
He got my boy to hit consistently at 200, and taught him to clean them, to almost White Glove. 🥳
Grip made in '79, for my long gone SP1. Other side is Gaboon Ebony.
Still in use.
Put a Volquartsen SSP in one of our 6920s.

If you buy anything but a Colt, you can never say to a new shooter,
"Let's take a Pony out of the stable, and shoot it." 🎯

IMG_4130.webp
 
WolvesFan said:
There are many videos on youtube of PSA being put through torture tests and they pass with very high marks, but so do a lot of AR's. Boils down to what you want to spend, really.
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Even though I recommended the Colt M4, I can certainly say good things about PSA. I put together my 20" rifle in parts; bought the lower on sale and searched for a good deal on the rifle-length upper. I installed a premium PSA nickel-boron bolt carrier group paired with a standard PSA charging handle. The only thing in it that is not PSA is the BCM PNT enhanced milspec trigger group. This rifle is super reliable with decent accuracy. With a 1 in 7" twist nitride barrel, it shoots all bullet weights well. I've put every kind of ammo through it including Russian steel-cased and it has never malfunctioned. This was a $700 rifle.

AR15A4.1.webp
 
TJm15.38 said:
From everything you've said, I suggest buying a Colt 6920 M4 Carbine. It will cost you some bucks, but you won't need another AR.

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After trying a few a friend / dealer talked me into one of these. Put a good scope on it and for about 20 years I've never needed another 5.56. It has served as a truck gun and is accurate and has never failed. I'm not an AR enthusiast but they are a very useful platform.
 
Second the concept of staying away from home built guns. There are a lot of them out there these days built from someone from receiver up. Many work fine, some dont - and there's no warranty …
 
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