The Prepper Insider is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
AR-15s are some of the most versatile firearms on the market. Due to the vast array of customization and compatibility options, it can be challenging to determine which of these weapons is best for you.
Below, you'll learn more about what an AR-15 is and how to choose one for your collection.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Best AR-15 Models
- BEST AR-15 FOR THE MONEY: BROWNELLS - BRN-16A1® RIFLE 5.56MM 20IN BLACK
- BEST ENTRY LEVEL AR-15: DPMS - 5.56 ORACLE A3 16" RIFLE
- BEST AR-15 UNDER $700: SMITH & WESSON - M&P15 SPORT
Comparison of the Best AR-15 Models
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
|---|---|---|
 |
| View Latest Price → |
 |
| View Latest Price → |
 |
| View Latest Price → |
 |
| View Latest Price → |
 |
| View Latest Price → |
What is an AR-15?
The AR-15 is one of the most popular modern sporting rifles around the world. Contrary to popular belief, the "AR" does not stand for "automatic rifle" or "assault rifle," but "ArmaLite rifle." This name comes from the original manufacturer, the Fairchild Engine and Airplane Corporation's ArmaLite Division, which emerged in 1954.
The AR-15 was one of many innovative, ergonomic designs based on model 10 that preceded it. It was a lighter model, with 5.56 mm ammo, as opposed to 7.62 mm.
Nowadays, the AR-15 is still distinguished by its incomparably lightweight yet durable 7075-T6 aluminum receiver, highly customizable modular, straight-line design, front and rear adjustments for windage and elevation, and compatibility with a vast array of after-market gear.
Variations of the AR-15 caliber include:
.223 Remington
.45 ACP
6.5 mm Grendel
.338 Lapua
6.8 mm Remington SPC
And many more
How to Choose an AR-15
To ease the process of selecting your new firearm, the details you must consider when shopping for your brand-new firearm are described below.
Legality
If you plan on buying the upper and lower assemblies separately (often the cheaper option), know that shipping the upper assembly does not require a Federal Firearms License (FFL) since this specific component is unregulated.
For the lower assembly, the easiest way to purchase this is to buy it in its complete configuration, have it shipped to your gunshop, and transfer it from there.
Upper Assembly
Your two main options when buying this portion of your gun are as follows:
Clamped-on plastic handles
Free-floating rails, attachable to the upper receiver
The plastic alternative attaches to the front sight post and a rear ring, whereas the free-floating rail attaches only to the upper receiver, without ever making contact with the barrel.
Free-floating rails are best for longer shots and have more points for gear attachments.
Barrel Length
Longer barrels are great for more muzzle velocity and greater accuracy in distance shooting. The best lengths for these advantages include:
18"
20"
24"
If you're buying your first AR-15 or are only buying one, a 16" is the best multifunctional option. It has the same advantages as the above lengths, yet better maneuverability.
Review of the Best AR-15 Models
For specific examples of which AR-15s may best suit your needs, see the models below.
Best AR-15 for the Money:
Brownells - Brn-16a1® Rifle 5.56mm 20in Black
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
The triangular fore-end is widely appreciated in bench shooting, and needless to say, history buffs are loving this firearm. (It's also great for shooting while standing.)
Why it Stands Out to Us
This firearm is a breathtaking tribute to U.S. history, specifically from the Vietnam era. It's a classic, accurate representation of the original '67 M16A1. It boasts a chromed bore and chamber, and a 1:12 twist rate, maintaining power and accuracy over speed. Further, this rifle has a relatively large 20-round magazine and is still surprisingly lightweight.
Bottom Line
History and gun enthusiasts would love to have this AR-15 in their collection. A lightweight model with a long 20" barrel and a magazine capacity of 20 rounds is nothing to write off and can provide an amazing experience for those who shoot as a hobby.
Best Entry Level AR-15:
DPMS - 5.56 Oracle A3 16" Rifle
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Shooters love this AR-15 for its incredible construction, adjustability, and accuracy. It has repeatedly exceeded expectations for its price point and maintains a strong firing rate.
Why it Stands Out to Us
For such a lightweight rifle, this is incredibly powerful and multifaceted. It boasts a 1:9 twist rate down a 16" chrome moly barrel, and an upper and lower made with forged 7075 T6 aluminum. To top it all off, you can enjoy the standard A2 pistol grip and Glacier Guard handguard and customize it further thanks to the railed gas block.
Bottom Line
This rifle is the perfect solution for casual shooters who find themselves engaging in tactical shooting, target practice, and hunting. It's also great for self-defense and will retain accuracy through all these applications thanks to the multifaceted 16" barrel.
Best AR-15 Under $700:
Smith & Wesson - M&P15 Sport
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Shooters are generally pleased with this gun, praising its reliability in the shooting range and commendable power. The red dot is crisp, aiding the highest level of accuracy, and the overall rifle is great for beginners.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This is a highly unique AR-15, thanks to the blowback action and relatively uncommon 10-round magazine. It features the renowned Magpul folding front sight mounted over top a 16" barrel. Anyone who wishes to customize their gun will run into no problems in doing so, thanks to the extra rail on the gas block.
Bottom Line
This AR-15 is a great option for shooters looking for a highly customizable rifle without having to break the bank. The flat-top handguard and adjustable stock are great for getting the firearm perfectly adjusted to your body, and it's guaranteed to give you the power and ruggedness of higher-end guns.
Best Long Range AR-15:
RUGER - AR-556® MPR 5.56 18" 30+1
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
People have been consistently pleased by this Ruger AR-15. It maintains a powerful performance, and of course, lives up to the Ruger's consistent, excellent quality standards.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Whereas most guns like this have a 16" barrel, this one sports an 18" with a full-length gas system. The direct impingement action is much lighter than a gas piston and provides more opportunities for interchangeability since most AR-15s on the market feature this action type as well. The 1:8 twist rate is highly commendable as well.
Bottom Line
This is a great gun for tactical shooting and casual target practice. It maintains a consistent reputation in its functionality, offering the highest level of performance no matter what your application.
Most Accurate AR-15:
Bravo Company - Mid-16 Mod 0 16in 5.56x45mm
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Several shooters - both beginners and experienced gun owners - have reported that this AR-15 has far exceeded expectations. The Magpul handguard is a widespread favorite, and all are pleased with the firearm's smooth shooting.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Right away, one of the unique features of this AR-15 is the flash suppressor, which mitigates the muzzle flash you'll see when firing your gun. Additionally, many gun owners believe that the Direct Impingement action supports greater accuracy than gas pistons, which may be a major selling point for many shooters gaining new experience.
Bottom Line
This is a great, versatile rifle that can be used for both new, occasional shooters to the most experienced gun owners. Whether you take it out for a hunt or just shooting steel on the range, the Mid-16 Mod 0 is a great weapon due primarily to its Direct Impingement, 30-mag capacity, and high accuracy.
6. PSA 16" Mid-Length 5.56 NATO 1/7
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Shooters are raving about this AR-15, primarily due to the incredible value for functionality. Almost everyone is happy with the firearm's accuracy. It's an accurate shooter through the first 200-300 rounds and forever on. Plus, Palmetto State Armory's excellent customer service is nothing to sneeze at.
Why it Stands Out to Us
For the value and size, this gun packs a punch. It's made with a chrome moly vanadium barrel and boasts a 1:7 twist rate and an M4 barrel extension. The BCG is an 8620 steel full-auto M16 profile, and it features a 6-position collapsible stock.
Bottom Line
For those looking for a highly versatile, budget-friendly AR-15, this should be your go-to. Its 16" barrel is perfect for multifaceted use, and the accuracy and speed is comparable to high-end firearms.
7. PSA 16" Mid-Length 5.56 NATO 1/7
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Shooters are just as happy with this variation of the PSA 16" mid-length 5.56 NATO 1/7 as they are with its brother, described above. At a fantastic value, this firearm maintains incredible accuracy, speed, and versatility.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This model stands out for the same reasons as the variation discussed above, as they are, essentially, the same gun. The primary difference is the 15" PSA M-Lok free-float handguard, as opposed to the 13.5".
Bottom Line
This gun is perfect for casual or beginning shooters who are looking for better hand placement options on their AR-15 (given the longer handguard). This rifle is just as impressive in quality as higher-end models, allowing buyers with modest budgets to get the best of the best without breaking the bank.
Best AR-15 Under $1000:
PSA PA-15 16” Nitride M4 Carbine 5.56
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Shooters have been consistently pleased with the smooth functioning of this AR-15. It's directly comparable to many high-end models and will give you even more bang for the buck. The grip, stock, and cheek weld are remarkably comfortable and provide the best possible experience while shooting.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This AR-15 is an amazing value, distinguished by many top-of-the-line features like the 4150V chrome moly vanadium steel barrel, chrome-lined 8620 steel bolt carrier, and M4 flat top receiver. The gas block also has a low-profile .750" diameter, offering the greatest ease of use and personalization.
Bottom Line
This is perhaps one of the most comfortable AR-15s on the market, great for shooters who are looking for a multifunctional weapon.
Lightest AR-15:
PSA PA-15 16” Nitride M4 Carbine
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Shooters, both new and experienced, are beyond happy with this AR-15. It has maintained a highly consistent performance, with great accuracy and extensive personalization options. Additionally, the gun has minimal recoil and has been a great entry-level piece for many new gun owners.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This is an incredible firearm, distinguished by its Magpul MOE Carbine stock and Black MOE grip and trigger guard. The Enhanced Polished Trigger (EPT) is a single-stage assembly as well, offering much smoother handling than you would get with the mil-spec.
Bottom Line
Shooters who find they don't like the mil-spec triggers may find this AR-15 to be much better suited to their needs, thanks to the EPT fire control group. Plus, it's very lightweight, allowing you to shoot standing or in whatever position you like for extended periods, whether you're out having fun or engaged in tactical training.
Types of AR-15
The AR-15 has always been highly versatile and is still available in many different forms. The most common types of AR-15 firearms are discussed below.
A1
Like the A2 and A3, this variation is distinguished by a permanent carry handle (as opposed to that of the A4, which has a removable carry handle). The A1's carry handle boasts a rear sight, which featured a windage selector as well.
A2
This model is very similar to the A1. However, it improved on a few functional features, namely, the incorporation of adjustable windage and elevation. These selectors are easily accessible, featured on the rear sight of the carry handle.
Additionally, the A2 is a much more comfortable - perhaps even safer - design for left-handed shooters, thanks to the spent case deflector. It also has a three-round burst setting instead of fully automatic.
A3
This is essentially identical to the A2, the only difference being the fire-select feature. With this said, you can expect an A3 firearm to have tool-adjusted windage and elevation selectors, a carry handle rear sight, and a spent case deflector for left-handed shooters as well.
A4
These AR-15s feature a removable carry handle, earning it the nickname, "flat top." It is also the only variation that can be readily equipped with an after-market optic. (AR-15 versions A1-A3 require an adapter to attach an optic.)
Comparison Overview
Despite how great the AR-15 is, it's not the only firearm out there, and should be considered in light of possible alternatives.
Consider the following comparisons when shopping for your brand-new firearm:
AR-10 vs AR-15
While the AR-15 is a heavier gun, designed to shoot 7.62x51 rounds, the AR-10 is more lightweight and is intended primarily to shoot .223 or 5.56 ammo. The AR-15 also has a larger magazine.
M4 vs AR-15
While you can shoot in fully automatic or burst modes with the M4, you cannot do either with an AR-15.
M16 vs AR-15
The M16 is lighter, has a longer range, and a faster fire rate. The M16 is also known for its fixed 20" barrel. Other than that, the two are very similar.
AK47 vs AR-15
The AR-15 has a much longer range than the AK-47, with a 600-yard accuracy vs. 400 yards. The AK-47 is also 30% less accurate than the AR-15. Further, the AR-15 is lighter than the alternative, and is significantly more ergonomic. It also boasts a faster fire rate.
Mini 14 vs AR-15
Many believe that the Mini-14's stock trigger is of much better quality than the AR-15, but the latter can be easily swapped out for one more suitable. The M-14 also has a lower profile than the other. The AR-15 also has greater accuracy and magazine capacity.
AR-15 Safety
Look for the following features on your AR-15 (or ensure that they are compatible) to ensure you handle it as safely as possible.
Safety Selector
The most common choice for this feature is the ambidextrous safety selector, which, implied by the name, can be used by both right- and left-handed shooters.
You can choose between the 45° and 90° options; however, the latter are more suited for gun owners with less experience, as they are designed for greater ease of manipulation.
Deflector Brake
This component is critical to shooter safety. You don't want to spend your time with your AR-15 getting struck in the face by spent brass, so a reliable deflector brake is essential.
It's a low-cost way of ensuring that both you and fellow shooters at the range don't get nicked by stray cases and preserve the physical condition of the brass for reloading.
Firearm Lock
The Bureau of Firearms approves of the use of the Franzen AR-15 firearm lock, a type of magazine block, for your new firearm. Your lock should be compatible with all barrel lengths, specifically for .223 caliber variants.
How to Clean an AR-15
To clean your AR-15, follow the instructions below and refer to the video at the end of the article for the best results.
- Ensure that the AR-15 is empty of any ammunition. Remove the magazine and check the chamber to verify.
- Pull out the takedown pin and remove the bolt carrier and charging handle.
- Lift the upper assembly to expose the gun's interior.
- Spray down the bore with an all-in-one cleaner and lubricant. (Try to keep it out of the gas tube.)
- Set the gun aside and let it soak.
- Take down the bolt by using a bullet to pull out the cotter pin. Set the ammo away from your cleaning area.
- Remove the firing pin, cam pin, and bolt from the bolt carrier, then spray them all.
- Clean the carbon from the bolt and firing pin with a CAT M4 cleaning tool.
- Going through the bolt with a pipe cleaner is a good idea, too.
- Going through the bolt with a pipe cleaner is a good idea, too.
- Insert a patch into the opposite end of the CAT M4 tool and use this to clean the bolt carrier interior.
- Wipe down your firing pin, cam pin, and cotter pin and reinstall them into the bolt carrier.
- Lube and wipe down the charging handle.
- Using either a bore snake or .22 patch, clean the bore.
- Reassemble the AR-15.
AR-15 Shooting Tips
Whether you're a beginner or experienced AR-15 owner, you can benefit from a few shooting tips. The following pointers will surely improve your experience with your brand-new firearm.
Positioning Your Body
Make sure that you are comfortable in your stance before aiming your gun. This is known as getting your "natural point of aim," and will directly influence your accuracy. Straining yourself will result in low accuracy.
Breath Control
You don't want to be pressing the trigger while inhaling. Instead, it's best to shoot on the "respiratory pause," which can range from 4-8 seconds, depending on your individual fitness.
Mounting the Rifle
Many people tend to pull their rifles into the crux of the shoulder. This is unstable and gives you less control over the AR-15's recoil. Instead, position the butt of the gun into the outer edge of the chest, just before the shoulder begins.
Conclusion
AR-15s are one of the most beloved weapons on the market. There are so many variations of this firearm that it can be difficult to identify which is best suited for your purposes, yet, with this guide, you are significantly more prepared to find the perfect gun for you.
People Also Ask
You may still have a few questions about the AR-15. For more information, consult the FAQs below.
How Does an AR-15 Work?
The AR-15 is designed to have all forces directed onto the same axis. The gases responsible for propelling the bullet are diverted to the BCG, exerting pressure all throughout the interior chamber. This positions a new bullet and ejects the spent brass.
How Accurate is an AR-15?
You can expect most AR-15s to shoot at about 2 MOA at 100 yards. Higher-end models can get down to about 1 MOA.
How Much Does an AR-15 Cost?
AR-15 firearms can cost anywhere from $500 to $2,000.
Who Makes the AR-15?
Originally developed by the Fairchild Engine and Airplane Corporation, the AR-15 is now manufactured by Colt Industries.
How Many AR-15s in America?
The National Shooting Sports Foundation estimates that there are approximately 5-10 million AR-15 type rifles in the United States.
How Many Rounds Per Minute AR-15?
An AR-15 can shoot up to 400 rounds per minute, but this depends heavily on the specific gun. For instance, some can be as low as 45 rounds per minute.
How Many Bullets Does an AR-15 Shoot Per Second?
AR-15 firearms can shoot 3-6 bullets per second.
How Many Rounds Does an AR-15 Hold?
AR-15s can hold, 5, 10, 20, and 30 rounds.
Who Invented the AR-15?
The AR-15 was invented by ArmaLite, specifically, Eugene Stoner.
When Was the First AR-15 Made?
The AR-15 was invented in the 1950s, and Colt began mass production in 1959.