Quote:
Originally Posted by dmcummins
Not to get political, but for some reason I've really got the itch to pick up a AR in .223. I guess because some feel that I shouldn't own one makes me want one. Or more.
Now I no nothing about them or what to look for, but I want one. If I were to buy one I would probably take it to the local range, there are 100yd and 200yd targets.
So what should I look for?
I went to a local show but it was so crowded I really didn't get much chance to look. Im not much for crowds and this looked like Wal Mart on Black Friday.
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What is your experience level with firearms? You say you know nothing about these, so is this just a new niche in the shooting world that you want to explore, or is shooting in general a new thing you want to explore?
The reason I ask is that you are getting advice from a few guys who are really into it and know their AR platform rifles. It is, however, kind of "graduate level" stuff. If you are into this enough to follow what they are saying, then it's all great advice. If you are wondering what on earth they are talking about, you are not ready for this level of commitment just yet.
I would buy a simple, complete, ready to fire AR right off the rack. There are any number of reputable companies making good ones that will fit any budget. There are variations that make some easier to scope, there are longer and shorter barrels, folding or fixed stocks, and on and on.
If it were me, starting off not knowing much about these, I would opt for an inexpensive "flat top" variant; these are missing the big carrying handle on the top of the receiver, and instead have a rail for scope mounting. A fixed stock will be cheaper. One that will accept 5.56 NATO and .223 will open up your ammo options.
Remington, Ruger, Smith and Wesson, Colt, and some others make relatively inexpensive examples that would all make fine "range rifles" for some fun target shooting and plinking. Go to your local gun shop and handle a few, and talk to the salesman about what you are after. You should be able to find something to get you started.