First AR purchase

[cjb]

I've been thinking about getting into ARs for a while, then I had a chance to shoot one this weekend. I'm in. Definitely in.

What's a good one for a newbie that can shoot pretty well already? I'm in MA so my choices are limited. I'm eyeing a pre-ban Colt AR15-A2 for $1400. Too much?

I'd also like to be able to fit it for .22LR.

Any advice from AR folks would be a great help.

Thanks!

-cjb

 

[RockyMtnTactical]

It really depends on what your purpose with this AR15 is going to be.

Colt makes a quality AR15. They are not my favorite. I really like LMT and Stag Arms.

 

[cjb]

Good point. Basically something that I can use for target, but I'm sure over time I'd want to do as much with it as I could. I don't have tons of $, so I'm looking for 1 good rifle that might serve a couple of different needs.

At least thats what I am telling my wife....

 

[armed85]

If you're going to buy a 20", keep in mind that the HBAR or heavy barrel is popular because it's less expensive to manufacture, but causes the rifle to become front heavy and isn't as well balanced as the M16A2 or M16A4. The "government profile" barrel is reduced in size under the handrails and the barrel is a whole pound lighter.

16" are popular because they're handy and balance well especially with the government profile barrels. If they have the "M4" gas system, it will heat up faster than full length gas system of the M16A2 or M16A4.

A mid length gas system is somewhere between the M16 gas system and the M4 gas system. It doesn't heat up has quickly as the M4, so you might want to consider it.

A chrome lined barrel is nice to have and a common option from the manufacturer. If done correctly doesn't harm accuracy.

I own an Lewis Machine and Tool Company 16" and I love it. I paid about $1,400 including the high 8% sales tax here.

 

[Onmilo]

Nice early pre ban Colt is worth $1400.00
If it is an early SP-1 you will have other buyers wanting the rifle too, so I wouldn't wait too long to commit to the purchase.

 

[mrmeval]

The Colt will retain far more resale value than any currently produced rifle.
There are other brand named AR-15's that do retain value. If you're looking for a good rifle there are quite a few that will do well in that price range.