Questions regarding M&P15 as first AR

[ChattanoogaPhil]

I'm thinking I'm going to miss out on any holiday deals I was targeting as I'm just not yet knowledgeable enough to choose the right first rifle.

I do know that I want quality, value, light and nimble

For someone who is willing to take the time and evaluate the different configurations and wants quality, I would suggest taking a look at BCM. They have rifles and complete uppers available in hundreds of configurations and have earned a reputation for quality.

One way to go would be to select a complete BCM upper that best suits you. Then get a stripped lower of whatever manufacturer you fancy then select the specific trigger and stock (and all the rest) that you want. I mention the trigger and stock because these are most often replaced after buying an AR. Putting together a lower requires no special tools other than a couple roll pin punches and is quite simple.

 

[email4eric]

Thanks Ed and Phil. Very much appreciate your time and insight.

I've got a lot to absorb. I think I also should get out and start handling some of these such that I can start to develop an better appreciation for what's being discussed.

I remember when the biggest decisions involved bolt vs lever action!

 

[SW_shooter]

eric,

I was in your position a couple of years ago after the school shooting out east. I had a financial limit that greatly affected my decision but I ultimately chose the M&P 15 Sport. I love it.

I did change out the handguard because I wanted to add a bipod mounted to the lower rail. A buddy gave me his stock handguard off his Windham AR. I have added a scope because all I do is target shoot and I wanted something for that alone. So, no red dot for me.

I am looking to change out the butt stock because for some (unknown to me) reason it has a "fixed" stock and I want to be able to change the position. The only other thing I'm thinking about is the trigger upgrade, but since I don't know any different (no experience with lighter or better triggers) I'm not sure I will.

Whatever you decide I bet you will enjoy it very much.

 

[email4eric]

Thanks SW Shooter -- I ended up getting the M&P15 Mid Magpul. Was at a good price for black Friday. I'm waiting for some ammo and then it will be to the range for outdoor iron sight work, fitting the furniture, and getting familiar with the rifle.

Should be fun and I think I made the right choice going with the mid length gas system and the 1/8 5R barrel. It's pretty light weight and from what I was able to discern by research, it's a very accurate barrel -- two things I was looking for.

 

[snm8510]

Thanks SW Shooter -- I ended up getting the M&P15 Mid Magpul. Was at a good price for black Friday. I'm waiting for some ammo and then it will be to the range for outdoor iron sight work, fitting the furniture, and getting familiar with the rifle.

Should be fun and I think I made the right choice going with the mid length gas system and the 1/8 5R barrel. It's pretty light weight and from what I was able to discern by research, it's a very accurate barrel -- two things I was looking for.

I love mine and have had absolutely 0 problems with it. Eats every ammo I feed it as well.

 

[Kadonny]

Thanks SW Shooter -- I ended up getting the M&P15 Mid Magpul. Was at a good price for black Friday. I'm waiting for some ammo and then it will be to the range for outdoor iron sight work, fitting the furniture, and getting familiar with the rifle.

Should be fun and I think I made the right choice going with the mid length gas system and the 1/8 5R barrel. It's pretty light weight and from what I was able to discern by research, it's a very accurate barrel -- two things I was looking for.

Very good choice on your rifle. Enjoy it.