Chris17404

Hi all,

I'm not quite sure why I'm not getting a strong itch to learn how to shoot/maintain (and eventually purchase) my first AR-15 type rifle, but I have the itch bad.

Maybe it's the looming new AWB that I pray never becomes law, or maybe I just want to upset the gun-hating lawmakers, or maybe I want to further exercize my 2nd Amendment rights, or maybe I'd like to in some way honor the courageous soldiers who use these every day to defend me and my family, or maybe it's just because they seem so damn fun to shoot!

Whatever the reason, I'd like to start by researching their basic operation, maintenance requirements, cleaning supplies, accessories, ammo, etc. What resources are there on the Internet that have really good information/guides for novice AR-15 shooters? Something that is well-written that really goes into the in's and out's of AR's?

The shooting club I recently joined has a 250 yard rifle range and they offer very good classes on shooting these types of weapons. I definitely plan on taking a course like this (hopefully before I even purchase an AR-15).

I'd also like your opinions on which specific (brand and model) AR-15 you'd recommend for a beginner. Keep in mind I like a quality gun that will last me a long time. I don't forsee myself purchasing any other AR-15's, so one will have to do it. What's a good do-it-all AR-15 that would fit my requirements? Right now, I don't have a price range in mind, but keep it reasonable.

Thanks a lot for your time. I look forward to your replies.

Oh, and if you have any other suggestions for a first-time AR owner/shooter, I'm all ears.

Chris

JT

Here’s a good source…

http://www.ar15.com/forums/


There is an article section, in addition to the forum. You just have to be thick skinned if you post any questions. There are some jerks there that will berate you for not using the search feature, if they think your question has been asked too many times.

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Jamie Young

Rock River Arms A2 for a first time AR.

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Ditto...

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ccw9mm

There's a really good book out there, entitled: The Gun Digest Book of the AR-15, by Patrick Sweeney. For an AR-15 noob (uh, that would be me), it's pretty good. Decent coverage of the history, tear down and maintenance, operating the gun, alterations.

BTW, I just picked up a lefty Stag 15/3L. Nice gun. IMO, the AR-15 isn't a beginner rifle. One is on more simple/complex than the next, so there are no real advantages there.

If concerned, I'm sure most folks at the range would be happy to let you run a few magazines' worth through their guns, if you're interested and looking. That might help with selection. Otherwise, any of the quality makers would do: Colt, Bushmaster, Rock River, Stag, Olympic and a couple others. AR15.com is a good place to root around.

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pgrass101

I don't think you can go wrong with any of the one mentioned.

I would not build my own first AR unless funds are really low

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rocky

Any of the bigger names should suit ya fine. Do some reading on AR15.com.

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Enlist - you'll learn all about the AR series!

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1911shooter

i agree as well as the BUSHMASTER stay away from colt i had 2 of them and traded both.

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