Armalite AR-10(T) vs. DPMS (Panther Arms) LR-.308

[grizz]

A few months ago I purchased an Armalite AR-10(T). The rifle came with a nice one piece scope mount ($100 value), and I mounted a Nikon 4.5-14x MilDot scope and Harris bipod. I've been very impressed with the rifle thusfar. The barrel isn't even close to being broken in and I'm getting 5 inch groups with cheap factory ammo at ranges of 300-400 yards without much effort.

My question is do you think the DPMS LR-.308 is a performance equal of the AR-10(T) for long range accuracy AND reliability. The Armalite was $1900 new and the DPMS is only about $1000. I'm considering selling my AR to my brother and getting a DPMS LR-308 because I could use some extra cash. The DPMS (as far as I know) doesn't come with a scope mount, or match-grade trigger, so I think it would be about $1200 for one w/ those 2 options. Also, I'd probably go with the cryo treated barrel. I'm only interested in AR type rifles set up for long range sniping. Thanks for the help.

 

[MiniZ]

That is a tough call to make. I personally would not mess with getting rid of a rifle that you know is doing what you want it to do. But, I do understand the money thing.

A couple of points to ponder: The Armalite is the standard for AR style .308s. It has been around the longest, and is a proven perfomer. The DPMS may be a great rifle, but it is still a little green, so to speak.

Another issue is magazines. AR10 mags are relatively easy to find, and in relative terms, are inexpensive now that the ban is gone(not as inexpensive as FAL mags, but that is an entirely different subject). IIRC, the DPMS uses SR25 style mags, and I don't know if DPMS is making new 20 round mags yet. If they are, then probably no big deal. But if they are not, then mag price/availability could be an issue.

 

[bobhaverford]

I'd sell the Armalite and get the DPMS. Mine is on its way. Considered both and came down on the DPMS side because of cost, quality and reliability.

 

[MechAg94]

Gun Tests magazine liked the DPMS in their testing (for what that's worth to you). They did recommend the trigger upgrade though.

 

[MartinS]

I don't have either. So no first hand knowledge and no dog in the pit. Just this bit: when you've got something that works for you, try as hard as you can not to fix it..

 

[Nando Aqui]

Almost two years ago, I had my FFL dealer/gun shop order a DPMS Panther .308 from Clark Custom Guns with Williams Set Trigger. They gave me a discount, and the Panther w/the WST cost me $1150 w/tax, S&H, etc.

Had problems with the polymer magazines early on, and got tired of waiting for DPMS, so I bought two SR25 magazines, and didn't have any more problems. Then, about a year ago, DPMS started making the steel, 20-rd magazines, I got two of them, and they work fine as well.

My DPMS shoots as well as my Remington 700PSS with my handloads. Best 4-round groups at 100 yards have been around 3/8", and the normal groups are around 5/8" shooting from a bipod at the front and my shoulder for stock support.

Alex