The AR-15 rifle is widely favored in the American long gun market for its versatility and numerous versions. Over time, the U.S. military and various other countries have refined and enhanced the AR-15. The American civilian market has also significantly influenced its creative development, leading to new and better design choices.
This article will examine 17 top AR-15s to help you make a well-informed choice. It’s essential to understand which AR-15s are currently the most popular and readily available for American gun owners.
1. Palmetto State Armory (PSA) Complete AR – $499
PSA’s AR-15 rifles are an ideal choice for first-time buyers and budget-conscious shooters. They offer a cost-effective way to get acquainted with firearms, allowing users to upgrade later. By managing the production process from start to finish, PSA cuts costs and passes savings onto customers.
These affordable and reliable rifles make them a great entry point into the firearm world at $499 without compromising quality. PSA also focuses on supporting the 2nd Amendment, selling only to civilians.
2. Smith & Wesson M&P15 Sport II – $735
Smith & Wesson’s M&P15 Sport II rifles are a budget-friendly choice in the AR-15 category at only $735. Although labeled for military and police use, civilians also favor them for their dependable performance and light build.
These rifles lack some of the high-end features seen in more expensive models. However, some optics-ready models skip the front sight to make adding a scope or red dot easier. They’re an excellent option for budget-conscious shooters.
3. Ruger AR-556 – $819
Ruger, a brand known for offering affordable firearms, has introduced the AR-556 series to the AR-15 market. This 5.56 NATO-chambered gun is a basic version of the traditional AR-15 designed by Eugene Stoner, with minimal additional features. Despite its simplicity, the AR-556 offers many mil-spec parts and proved capable of achieving 1.86-inch groups at 100 yards with steel-cased ammo during testing.
The Ruger AR-556 is an excellent option for those seeking a quintessential AR-15 at an exceptional value. It is often priced at a fraction of the cost of other AR-15 models, making it an excellent gateway AR for beginners at only $819. The AR-556 series is an outstanding choice for an affordable yet reliable firearm.
4. Colt LE6920 M4 Rifle – $820
The Colt LE6920 M4 Rifle is highly regarded among law enforcement officers for its tactical efficiency, combining speed, accuracy, and a manageable weight for high-stress situations. This rifle is designed specifically for law enforcement, providing the necessary firepower and agility for tactical scenarios.
It closely mirrors the military M4 in performance and reliability, making it an essential tool for officers facing dangerous situations. Although it’s not the lightest, its dependable performance is crucial when lives are at risk and is affordable at only $820.00.
5. Aero Precision M4E1 – $989
Aero Precision is renowned for its top-quality upper and lower receivers, essential for building an AR from scratch. Their products, particularly the M4E1 upper receiver, are in high demand and known for their solid craftsmanship and durability.
Although Aero doesn’t usually sell complete rifles, their components like the M4E1 are highly praised for features like a mid-length gas system and a free-floating handrail with M-LOK capability, making them a preferred choice for AR-15 enthusiasts and will cost you between $989.99 – $1,099.99.
6. FN 15 Guardian – $999
FN America, a trusted manufacturer of battle-ready guns for the U.S. military and law enforcement, offers the FN 15 Guardian at an affordable price point of $999. This carbine rifle is designed to complement the rest of the company’s AR (FN 15) line of rifles. The Guardian is a light, fast-handling carbine perfect for home defenders and sport shooters.
With its entry-level price point, FN quality is a reliable and accurate rifle worth the investment.
7. Springfield Armory Saint – $1,023
The Springfield Saint is a well-known AR-15 rifle that has been popular since its introduction in 2016. It is valued for offering great quality without needing any extra modifications. The standard version includes a chrome-moly vanadium barrel, a mid-length gas system, and a Melonite-coated bolt-carrier group made of Carpenter 158 Steel. Springfield markets these features as “upgraded out of the box,” immediately providing the buyer with good value.
The Saint’s popularity is due to its dependable performance and solid construction. It has a dedicated following that speaks to its effectiveness and dependability. Springfield Armory has successfully provided a high-quality, affordable, trustworthy rifle at only $1,023.
8. Stag Arms STAG 15L Tactical Lefty 5.56 NATO – $1,099
Stag Arms stands out in the AR-15 market by specializing in left-handed models, like the 15L Tactical, a true mirror image of traditional right-handed AR-15s. Constructed from mil-spec aluminum, the upper receiver incorporates a forward assist, dust cover, and shell deflector positioned for left-handers and is priced reasonably at $1,099.
While optimized for left-handed users with features like an upward-flipping dust cover and left-aligned ejection port, the rifle also appeals to right-handers, offering robust quality and excellent performance in various scenarios.
9. SIG SAUER M400 SDI – $1,499
The SIG Sauer M400 SDI is a tactical rifle based on the M400 DH3 platform, created with input from top competition shooter Daniel Horner. Unlike the DH3, the M400 SDI is designed for duty use and adopts a Recce (Reconnaissance) style. It’s a lightweight rifle that can shoot over longer distances compared to some shorter barrel options. This makes it ideal for hunting, long hikes, or for use in duty and training roles.
The M400 SDI X-Series is notable among AR-15s for its fast and precise shooting. Its design is well-suited for those who need a tactical rifle with outstanding accuracy and is priced at $1,499.
10. LWRCI IC Rifles – $1,500
LWRCI rifles are known for their high quality and are considered top-tier in terms of price. Based in Maryland, the company produces a range of AR variants, such as the LWRCI IC DI, with advanced features such as fluted barrels, high-performance bolt-carrier groups, and responsive triggers.
These rifles have been tested, proven accurate, dependable, and highly recommended for personal use. You can expect to pay around $1,500 – $2,000.
11. Bravo Company Recce-16 MCMR – $1,560
The BCM Recce-16 MCMR AR-15 is praised for its robust construction, impeccable finish, and lack of loose parts, offering a stable, well-engineered feel. It features a corrosion-resistant manganese phosphate-coated barrel and a BCM MCMR15 15” M-LOK handguard for an attractive, professional appearance.
This rifle combines aesthetics with functionality, making it a solid choice for anyone valuing quality, performance, and longevity in an AR-15, available at a competitive price of $1,560.
12. Faxon ION Ultralight 5.56 Rifle – $1,575
The new Faxon Ion Lightweight AR-15 series stands out in the AR-15 market with its ultra-light design without sacrificing performance. It is comparable to the Usain Bolt of rifles—fast and efficient. It features ambidextrous handles and sleek carbon-fiber handguards, appealing to those who value both design and functionality. It is priced at $1,575.
Ideal for shooters looking for a portable yet accurate firearm, the Ion series offers reliability covered under a lifetime warranty despite its louder report and noticeable recoil.
13. Daniel Defense DDM4 V7 – $1,800
The DDM4 V7 by Daniel Defense is a highly respected AR-15 rifle known for its impressive features. Its simple handguard includes M-LOK slots, a rubberized cheek rest, and an adjustable stock for a more comfortable shooting feel.
While it might not be the cheapest option available at $1,800 but the V7’s high quality makes it worth the cost. Buyers won’t need to upgrade unless they want to improve their shooting skills further. Overall, the DDM4 V7 is considered a top choice for anyone searching for a high-quality AR-15.
14. FN M4 Carbine – $1,929
The FN M4 Carbine is a flexible and dependable firearm with a strong reputation in the industry. While it wasn’t initially designed by FN, they have adapted it and turned it into a popular choice for many U.S. soldiers serving abroad in the last twenty years.
This rifle stands out for its precision, sturdiness, and user-friendliness, making it easy to operate effectively right from the start for only $1,929.
15. Patriot Ordnance Factory P415 Edge – $1,999
The Patriot Ordnance Factory (POF) P415 Edge is an upgraded AR-15 that is of high quality. POF has equipped this rifle with a short-stroke gas system for smooth and reliable shooting. POF makes almost all parts of the P415 Edge, except for the stock, pistol grip, and charging handle.
This rifle costs $1,999, which is a substantial amount of money. However, buyers will find that they get great value for their money. The P415 Edge is a top choice for anyone looking to buy a high-quality AR-15.
16. Geissele Automatics Super Duty Rifle – $2,500
Geissele’s Super Duty rifle is renowned for its exceptional performance and quality, attracting a specific group who value premium AR-15s. Founded by Bill Geissele, the company evolved from simple gun upgrades to a brand trusted by SOCOM operators.
Although expensive at $2,500, the Super Duty promises superior durability, accuracy, and ergonomic design, making it comparable to a collector’s edition in its exclusivity and value. It stands out in a market filled with less expensive options, offering a gourmet experience for discerning users.
17. FN M249S PARA SAW 5.56mm NATO 16.1in – over $10,000
Which AR-15 Do You Like?
Are you in the market for a new AR? Which one from this list would you consider? Or, is there another one not here that you want instead? Tell us in the comments.
