A2-style AR-15

[Slater]

I'm looking at eventually getting a Plain-Jane A2 type AR-15 for target plinking/range practice. In my neck of the woods the two brands that are msot often encountered at gun stores, gun shows, etc. are Bushmaster and DPMS.

As far as the stock A2 type guns, Bushy has a chromed barrel and DPMS doesn't (although I think one can be special ordered). DPMS has a Teflon-coated exterior and comes with two mags vs Bushy's single mag.

Any other differences that would warrant the selection of one over the other?

 

[K3]

You could always build one. The only thing you need to get from an FFL is the lower receiver, and I've seen stripped lowers go for $100. The rest of it you can order online.

 

[DoubleTapDrew]

Both are good brands. I think Bushmaster is more popular. I prefer chrome lined barrels myself. I wouldn't even factor in magazines into the decision, USGI mags will set you back a paltry $12 each.
Make sure it's chambered for 5.56 if you want to shoot 5.56 ammo so you aren't limited to .223. Most AR's are (except for "varmint" types).

 

[Matt-J2]

What sort of difference does the chrome lining make?

Looking at getting the same thing, an A2 style AR-15(I was in the Army a few years ago, in the rear of course, and grew to like the A2. Figured now would likely be a good time to put one on ye olde lay-away). The Scheels here carries DPMS. Not sure what Gander carries as I don't like to shop there much. Might have better luck in Green Bay, but if DPMS is good stuff I'll just stay in town, and by some ammo with the savings in gas.

 

[Magnum88C]

When I bought my DPMS A2 a few years ago, they said all of their military-style models (i.e. not their target rifles) were chrome lined and chambered for 5.56mm.

Mine was both, but I also ordered it special to get a 1:8 twist rate, so I don't know if the standard models have those features or not, just that mine does.

 

[Rshooter]

If you go to a gun show knowing what you want or find a dealer willing to do a transfer you can save some money and have some fun doing this yourself. You can buy a lower and build it yourself if so inclined or buy an assembled lower and then purchase an upper. That will also open up a larger range of manufacturers.

Case in point. I used a Double Star receiver. Mainly since they are a local company and I have better access to service if I need it. I have been very happy with their product though. I purchased the lower receiver at a local gun show and built it up myself. I then purchased a complete A2 upper, this can be purchased through the mail if you wish since it is not a gun.

As far as twist most manufacturers are using 1:9. This will stabilize a 55 grain bullet and a 62 grain bullet nicely. You can go 16 or 20 inches, a standard A2 is 20 inches though. Chrome or chrome molly depends on your preference. Chrome molly actually is a little more accurate and chrome is a little more resistant to the elements but we are not tramping through the jungle here. Most people go chrome which is $50 more unless they are competitively shooting.

I have included a few websites that I know of where you can pull some information. DPMS has a special on 20 round straight mags.

http://www.dpmsinc.com/ - dpms
http://www.jtdistributing.com/index.html - double star
http://www.del-ton.com/ - sells kits (DPMS / STAG)
http://www.coldwarshooters.net/ - sells all lowers

 

[556A2]

Get the Bushmaster if you are going to buy an "Off the rack" AR-15. They are built better overall compared to DPMS. Plus you can order the correct 1/7 Government profile barrel found on a M16A2.

However, you will be better off buying a lower receiver and then order the upper. You will save more money, and get the exact configuration you want. Also, I would recommend getting a A4 upper if you think you will have ANY desire to put a scope on it.

 

[libertyguns9]

If it really is just for range plinking, I say build it my man. It's not hard and actually kind of fun. You can then buy a completed upper assembly kit from someone like Del-Ton who I've used lots and have had great results. I've used Double Star lowers, Stag and DPMS. All with great results. If you even want to try ultra cheap, check out Essential Arms and their forged lowers: http://www.essentialarms.com/forged lower receiver.htm

Haven't personally tried them, but I would if I didn't keep getting such steals on my other lowers.