The Comprehensive Guide to Purchasing the Best AR-15 Rifles

The AR-15 is one of the most popular and versatile rifles available to gun enthusiasts and professionals alike. Whether for recreational shooting, hunting, or home defense, the AR-15's modular design allows for extensive customization to fit any user's needs.

AR-15 style rifles can be used as assault weapons (Law Enforcement & Military), hunting rifles, or target shooting rifles. Gun owners across America have made it the most popular rifle to shoot. This guide will walk you through the key components and considerations for purchasing the best AR-15 rifle.

If you prefer to fire from the shoulder, then you'll enjoy browsing through DEGuns' impressive selection of assault rifles. Our collection of AR-15 Rifles for sale includes: .223 Remington rifles, 5.56x45mm NATO rifles, and .300 AAC Blackout assault rifles. Before purchasing your next assault rifle, learn the basics so you can choose the best gun for your purpose.

Understanding the Basics of the AR-15

The AR-15 is a lightweight, air-cooled, magazine-fed, gas-operated, shoulder-fired rifle. Originally designed by ArmaLite, it has evolved significantly since its inception, with many manufacturers offering various models and configurations.

Key Components of the AR 15 Rifle

1. Upper and Lower Receivers

- The AR-15 rifle is comprised of two main parts: the upper and lower receivers.

- The upper receiver houses the barrel, bolt carrier group (BCG), and charging handle. It's essential to choose an upper receiver that is made from high-quality materials such as forged aluminum for durability.

- The lower receiver includes the fire control group, magazine well, and buttstock attachment point. When selecting a lower receiver, consider forged or billet aluminum for strength and longevity.

2. Barrel

- The barrel length and type significantly affect the rifle's performance. Common lengths are 16, 18, and 20 inches.

- Barrel material is typically chrome-moly steel or stainless steel. Chrome-moly barrels are durable and affordable, while stainless steel barrels offer superior accuracy.

- Twist rate (e.g., 1:7, 1:8, 1:9) is crucial for stabilizing bullets. A 1:7 twist rate is optimal for heavier bullets (62-77 grains), while 1:9 is suitable for lighter bullets (40-55 grains).

3. Bolt Carrier Group (BCG)

- The BCG is the heart of the AR-15, responsible for cycling rounds and ensuring reliability for semi automatic rifles.

- High-quality BCGs are made from Carpenter 158 steel or 9310 steel and should be magnetic particle inspected (MPI) for flaws.

- Look for BCGs with a properly staked gas key to prevent loosening during operation.

4. Rail Systems and Handguards

- Handguards come in different styles: drop-in, free-floating, and quad-rail.

- Drop-in handguards are easy to install and affordable but may not be as stable as free-floating types.

- Free-floating handguards do not contact the barrel, allowing for better accuracy. They are available in KeyMod, M-LOK, and Picatinny rail systems for attaching accessories.

- Quad-rails provide multiple mounting points but can be heavier and bulkier.

5. Buttstocks

- Buttstocks affect comfort and control. There are two main types: fixed and adjustable.

- Fixed stocks offer simplicity and robustness but lack versatility.

- Adjustable stocks (collapsible or folding) provide length of pull adjustments, making the rifle adaptable to various shooting positions and body types.

- Popular options include the Magpul MOE, B5 Systems Bravo, and the Luth-AR MBA.

6. Triggers

- Triggers play a significant role in accuracy and shooting experience. Options range from mil-spec triggers to precision aftermarket models.

- Mil-spec triggers are reliable and cost-effective but may have a heavier pull.

- Single-stage triggers provide a consistent pull, while two-stage triggers offer a lighter first stage followed by a crisp second stage for precision shooting.

- Renowned triggers include the Geissele SSA-E, Timney AR-15, and CMC drop-in triggers.

7. Magazines

- Magazines are crucial for reliable feeding and come in various capacities, typically 10, 20, or 30 rounds.

- Polymer magazines, such as Magpul PMAGs, are lightweight and durable. Steel magazines offer robustness but may be heavier.

- Consider magazines with anti-tilt followers and robust springs for consistent performance.

AR-15 Enhancements and Rifle Accessories

1. Optics and Sights

- Optics enhance accuracy and target acquisition. Red dot sights, holographic sights, and magnified scopes are popular choices.

- Red dot sights like the Aimpoint PRO and EOTech XPS2 offer rapid target acquisition for close to mid-range shooting.

- Magnified scopes like the Vortex Viper PST and Leupold VX-3i are ideal for long-range precision.

- Backup iron sights (BUIS) ensure reliability if your optic fails.

2. Muzzle Devices

- Muzzle devices include flash hiders, compensators, and muzzle brakes.

- flash hiders reduce muzzle flash, while compensators and muzzle brakes mitigate recoil and muzzle rise, improving control.

- The A2 birdcage flash hider is a standard option, while the VG6 Precision Gamma is a popular compensator.

3. Gas System

- The gas system affects the rifle's reliability and smoothness of operation. Options include carbine, mid-length, and rifle-length systems.

- Carbine-length systems offer increased reliability in shorter barrels but may have more recoil.

- Mid-length systems provide a balance of reliability and recoil reduction, ideal for 16-inch barrels.

- Rifle-length systems offer the smoothest operation with reduced recoil, suitable for 18-20 inch barrels.

4. Charging Handles

- Charging handles come in various designs, including ambidextrous options for ease of use.

- Popular models include the Radian Raptor and the BCM Gunfighter, which offer enhanced ergonomics and durability.

5. Slings

- A good sling is essential for carrying and stabilizing your rifle. Options include single-point, two-point, and three-point slings.

- Two-point slings like the Blue Force Gear Vickers Combat Sling provide versatility and stability.

- Single-point slings offer ease of movement but may lack stability.

6. Grips

- Grips affect comfort and control. Ergonomic designs with finger grooves and texturing are preferred.

- The Magpul MOE and Hogue Overmolded grips are popular for their comfort and control.

AR-15 Brands to Consider

When purchasing an AR-15, it's important to consider reputable brands known for quality and reliability. Some top manufacturers include:

- Colt: Known for their military-grade rifles, Colt offers durable and reliable AR-15s.

- Smith & Wesson: The M&P15 series is renowned for its affordability and performance.

- Daniel Defense: Offers high-quality, precision-built rifles with excellent customer support.

- Aero Precision: Known for their upper and lower receivers, Aero Precision provides excellent modularity.

- Bravo Company Manufacturing (BCM): Offers rugged and reliable rifles favored by professionals.

Final Thoughts

Purchasing the best AR-15 rifle involves careful consideration of various components and features. The modular nature of the AR-15 allows you to tailor the rifle to your specific needs, whether it's for competition, hunting, or self-defense. By understanding the key components and making informed decisions, you can build or buy an AR-15 that offers optimal performance, reliability, and comfort.

Remember to also consider local laws and regulations regarding AR-15 ownership and customization. Proper training and responsible use are paramount to ensure safety and enjoyment of your AR-15 rifle. With the right combination of parts and accessories, you can create a highly effective and enjoyable firearm tailored to your personal preferences.

So grab that 300 Blackout AR 15 rifle you've been imagining hog hunting with. Browse our wide selection of AR-15 rifles for sale. We stock semi-automatic modern sporting rifles for home defense, law enforcement, and competition shooting.

Pair your gun with the right AR15 M4 components to build an AR15 to your shooting needs. From mini AR pistols to full size assault rifles, DEGuns has an AR-15 for you.

Buy Assault Rifles Online

DEGuns.net sells AR 15 guns, assault rifles, and hunting rifles. These semi auto firearms are from top manufacturers such as Ruger, Sig Sauer, Smith & Wesson, Daniel Defense, and Springfield Armory.

There are a number of youth AR15 rifles for sale available on our site as well. We specially design all our popular rifles for young shooters who are beginning to learn how to handle firearms.

Buying rifles online is not only more convenient but also typically more affordable than buying in-store. We also carry a number of used AR-15 rifles for sale in our online store.