Whats better overall: M4 or AR15

[mobplaya2569]

whats better and brand?

 

[mc5aw]

The AR market is HUGE, with as many companies (possibly more) making AR platform rifles as companies making 1911 platform pistols. The overall price range is enormous, so it's tough to say which is "better" or make a recommendation without an idea of $. For a grand +/-? Bushmaster makes a nice rifle. The A3 and MOE models are very good; reliable, cost effective, etc. I've heard that the Bushys pre-move to Ilion, NY are better than post-move, but I can't say one way or another. DPMS is a bit lower end from Bushmaster (although both are owned by Cerberus, which also owns Remington and Marlin). Colt is the standard, but tough to find. The hot-rodded ARs can get VERY pricey, so depending on budget, they may not even be in the discussion.

A big factor is personal preference. Do you want a telescoping stock or fixed? Rails for stuff? Flat top or iron sight? Carbine M4 style or traditional AR?

 

[427mach1]

^^ What he said. They are like lego models for grown-ups. Most everyone's legos fit (most) everyone else's legos. You can spend until your wallet is empty! I just purchased an ArmaLite and the store had literally hundreds in stock; Bushmaster, Colt, ArmaLite, S&W, DPMS, etc. Most are "mil-spec" which doesn't mean they are all fantastic, just that they are made to the same basic blueprints and requirements.

 

[Bat Guano]

Suggest you educate yourself. That doesn't mean the Internet. There are probably more lies told about ARs on the Errornet than about sex in a high school locker room. Walt Kulek's "AR-15 Complete Owner's Guide" is one good start.

What you intend to do with one will determine what best suits your "needs".

When in doubt, go Colt. Good quality, known performance, excellent resale value. Current prices are not that much more than the "just as good as" ARs and no surprises. NOT tough to find--I just bought one a few days ago.

 

[Badkarma 1]

Won't retread what's already been said as its all good. I will say that I prefer the longer AR for general purpose as it possess a better balance and well, everybody has a M4 or clone there of!
Don't get me wrong the short version is handy, but 5.56/.223 was designed to run out of a 20 inch tube, althought the A2 is overly heavy in my opinion. The older A1 or lightweight carbine is the bees knees!
Just don't go hanging every contraption out there on it, please! Dale

 

[Ivan the Butcher]

My oldest son was 82nd Abn. main job was Javlin rocketeer he used a M-4, Second son was USMC, main job was computer nerd, he used a M-16A3. When they got out they each wanted what they were trained on. As the years went by they bought what would serve their needs/wants. The oldest gave up on AR's and went with Rem. 700 PPS 308 sniper rifle for long range, #2 went with a Stag left handed M-4 clone, citing the use of hands for other things while armed. They were both very familiar with the shot comings of what they were trained on. By the way, they both have 1911's for up close and personal.

 

[Kanewpadle]

I'm not sure about Bushmaster anymore since they were bought out. Now being made in Remingtons plant.

I highly suggest Windham Weaponry or Rock River Arms.

But as others have said. Do your homework.