Help Me Get Started with an AR-15

[Guerrero]

I've decided to come to the dark side and consider getting an AR-15 (my first). I would use it as a home-defense and recreation rifle; I'm not a heavy shooter or competition shooter. I'd like to keep it fairly light weight - I only plan on putting a red-dot, a light, and a sling on it. I'd like a good quality option (obviously), and my max budget is probably around $1000. I don't know how they work, but I really like the look of the slim fore-ends. I'm looking at maybe something like the Aero Precision OEM rifle and putting on my own furniture (but how do I put on iron sights?), but I'd consider complete rifles.

Help a brother out?

[holmes168]

I've always felt like the Colt 6920 is the best all around value for the money. Very solid rifle and outside of the 3 round burst option not being available, it's a carbon copy of what I carried in Iraq.
The add ons- lights, red dots, etc. are nice to have, but not always necessary and can be long term purchases.

[Chance]

The Colt 6920 OEM is the present group-think's favorite choice for ARs.

[Rich@CCC]

Take a look at HM Defense. They're an Ohio company that is producing some quality gear at decent prices.

[schüler]

$1k budget for rifle only or the complete sighted/lit/slung rig?

[HCM]

The Colt 6920 OEM is the present group-think's favorite choice for ARs.

This ^^^

The parts Aero make themselves, receivers and barrels via their subsidiary Ballistic Advantage are good. They small parts they buy outside and their assembly have issues.

Buy once, cry once under $ 1k = Colt.

I'm assuming "slim fore ends" means tube style free float hand guards ?

OEM 2 plus a GI barrel nut hand guard of your choice or the Colt Trooper.

[Guerrero]

$1k budget for rifle only or the complete sighted/lit/slung rig?

Light/sling/red dot could come later. $1k for finished rifle.

Yes on the tube style fore end, but not mandatory

[Mr. Goodtimes]

Buy a 6920 or 6720 (LW barrel), Surefire X300 and a Magpul furniture and an Aimpoint T series. If you can’t afford a quality red dot then throw a carry handle on top and shoot irons. A basic M4 Carbine with irons and a good WML is more than adequate.


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[mark7]

I'd also vote Colt for your first. Never head of these guys but a 6920 for $729

https://gunprime.com/product/colt-m4...-le6920-ar-15/

[David S.]

Aimpoint PRO is much more budget friendly than T-series. A little bulkier, but still widely accepted as “duty grade.”
I already have a Inforce WML and a 2 pt sling standing by.
Im strongly considering the Colt OEM2 when it comes time for me to do the same thing. Just add appropriate furniture.