14 Best AR-15s In 2024: Ultimate Guide & Build Photos

In the market for an AR-15? Adding one to the collection for the first time? Or maybe you’re curious about the best AR-15 brands and manufacturers out there?

You’re in the right spot. I’ve been cooking up this list for a little while now. Since the AR-15 is one of the most popular firearms in America, trying to nail down the best ones for you fine shooters to add to your collection takes a lot of footwork (and debates that go on for hours).

But who makes the best AR-15 for every level? For those relying on them and those just getting into the game for the first time, each shooter may require different things from their rifles.

Buying more than you need can cost more than you want to spend. One thing is for sure: the gun game is expensive, and it can add up very quickly.

After years of experience as an armorer in the Marines, I know a thing or two about AR-15s. Here are my key takeaways:

1. Best Brands: Brands like Bravo Company, Radian, and IWI are highly recommended for their quality AR-15s in various price ranges.
2. Understand Specifications: Pay close attention to specifications like upper and lower material, barrel length, weight, and overall length, as these factors significantly impact the AR-15’s performance and suitability for specific uses.
3. Cost Consideration: There’s a wide price range in AR-15s, from budget-friendly models under $1000 to high-end options. Determine your budget beforehand and understand that price often correlates with the quality and features of the rifle. Also, don’t forget all the upgrades and accessories you want to make.
4. Californian Options: There are specific models compliant with California’s gun laws. Make sure you understand the legalities and restrictions. Check out our California-compliant AR-15 guide here.
5. Consider the Purpose: Clearly define your primary purpose for the AR-15 (e.g., sport shooting, home defense, hunting) as it will guide your choice in terms of model, features, and accessories.

With a decade’s experience in firearms, including as a Marine armorer and enthusiast, my AR-15 insights are rooted in practical experience and extensive knowledge.

Our review process, informed by industry expert consultations and personal testing, emphasizes depth and technical understanding. We maintain transparency and objectivity, ensuring our reviews are unbiased despite industry connections.

Continuously updated to reflect market trends and user feedback, our reviews aim to provide current, relevant, and fact-based information, helping you, the reader, stay informed.

Now, let’s dive into the details.

Image	Product	Price
	Best Overall – Bravo Company Recce MCMR 14.5	Check Price
	Best High-End – Radian Model 1	Check Price
	Best Under $1000 – IWI Zion	Check Price
	Best Lightweight – Faxon Firearms ION-X	Check Price
	Best For Beginners – Sig Sauer M400 Tread	Check Price
	Best For Hard Use – Knights Armament SR15	Check Price
	Best For Home Defense – Springfield Saint Victor	Check Price
	Best AR-Pistol – Noveske Gen 3 Diplomat Pistol	Check Price
	Best Short Barreled Rifle – Daniel Defense Mk18 SOCOM	Check Price
	Best For Law Enforcement – ADM UIC Mod 2	Check Price
	Daniel Defense DDM4 V7	Check Price

Best Overall – Bravo Company Recce MCMR 14.5

Specifications

Pros & Cons

The BCM Recce is, by all standards, the best bang for your buck in the expensive world of high-end AR-15s.

It’s made from the same materials and standards as rifles three times the price, and it’s capable of doing just as much. At this point, I’ve put 8,000 rounds of different types of 5.56×45 and .223 Remington through my own without one jam or failure.

The Recce is machined from 7075-T6 Aluminum, with no proprietary parts which makes it more compatible with replacement parts if you wish to go that way. The best part of this rifle is not what it’s machined from, where it really shines is what’s inside.

Bravo Company makes one of the best bolt carrier groups on the market, which is machined from Carpenter 158 Steel with chrome-lined bolt housing and inner gas key. It makes for smoother shooting. Match that with great quality control coming from BCM, and you can see why it’s loved so much.

It’s also used by many law enforcement and military personnel alike, and if you look closely, it is used by many YouTubers in their high-speed, informative, and entertaining videos.

As I said before, I’ve put thousands of rounds through my BCM Recce MCMR and have used it on shoot days in the wet Pacific Northwest, fallen in the mud, you name it.

Every time I’ve picked the rifle back up, it worked as if nothing ever happened.

No matter what capacity you want to use it in, whether it be home defense or SHTF, I would wholeheartedly recommend the BCM Recce MCMR.

Best Value – Aero Precision M4E1

Specifications

Pros & Cons

Under $1,000, it’s hard to find a rifle that can do as much as the M4E1. Am I saying it’s perfect from the factory? No. But it’s the best budget rifle to build on.

Also machined from Forged 7075-T6 Aluminum, the M4E1 gives you a solid platform to start from, and it’s surprisingly easy to be accurate with.

I’ve put hundreds of rounds through the M4E1, and it’s not hard to achieve at least 1 MOA accuracy with 62-grain ammo. The barrel itself is made of 4150 CrMoV with a 1:7 twist, which, again, is seen on much pricier rifles.

When I shot it side by side with my BCM Recce, it was hard to tell the difference (other than by barrel length) due to how solid the M4E1 is, and it costs a third of the price.

Of course, there are other budget rifles like those from PSA, but the Aero Precision M4E1 is in a league of its own as far as budget rifles go.

Home defense, SHTF, truck gun, you name it. And this rifle can do it.

My only gripe is the M4E1 lower is inadaptability with some of the finer parts. Aftermarket ambidextrous controls don’t fit right.

But, this thing is accurate. Definitely more accurate than you and I. This rifle doesn’t take too much to hit 1-MOA at 100 yards.

If you want a mid-tier rifle that doesn’t cost mid-tier cash, the M4E1 should be on your list.

Best High-End – Radian Model 1 

Specifications

Pros & Cons

If you’ve ever done some digging into building an AR-15, you’ve heard of Radian. They are one of the finest producers of aftermarket parts in the industry for AR-15s.

Now they’ve taken their best parts (and the best parts they can get their hands on) and put them into one rifle—the Radian Model 1.

The first time I got my hands on the Model 1, I knew there was something special about it. Everything from the fit and finish to the Sub-MOA accuracy (with Black Hills Ammo) tells you that this rifle is premium.

Just look at how the upper and handguard almost look as if it’s monolithic.

Made of 7075-T6 Aluminum, the Radian Model 1 offers extreme durability, form, and function. It will work no matter what role you decide to put it in.

I have fired 500 rounds through the Model 1 at my local FFL and was able to get my hands on one on a shoot day. Despite all the rain and mud, it ran like a dream.

The barrel that gives you that Sub-MOA accuracy (again, with Black Hills ammo) is made of 416R Stainless Steel, which isn’t as durable as your other popular barrels and may require sooner replacement but is especially helpful with accuracy. Best yet, the muzzle device is suppressor-ready.

Almost as if it were milled out of one solid piece, right?

It’s almost as if the Model 1 should be a showpiece. But make no mistake; this isn’t a garage queen. This rifle can hold its weight along with the heavy hitters.

After all, she is a chunky girl.

Of course, there is a downside. If you want to get one from Radian, you’ll have to wait a while. The lead time is about 6-9 months. But that’s the price you pay for quality.

Best Under $1000 – IWI Zion 

Specifications

Pros & Cons

The Tavor, Galil, Masada Slim, and the infamous Uzi.

Just to name a few firearms that are made from IWI, and for those looking for a good rifle under $1,000, it’s hard to beat the Zion.

One of the local gun stores had the Zion for rent, and I put it side by side with the Sig M400 Tread, fired 300 rounds through both, and decided that the Zion was better for a lower price.

They aren’t too different, but the M400 was gassier and didn’t feature a full Picatinny rail as the Zion does. Winner: IWI.

The Zion is also made of 7075-T6 Aluminum to give it the durability and robustness often reserved for rifles at a higher price point. It features a barrel similar to the one on the M4E1, which contributes to its durability and accuracy.

The bolt carrier group is also made by IWI and does a fairly good job for range-use purposes.

The Zion 15 is built with the same materials as rifles three times the price, and I’ve found that it is severely underpriced (in comparison to mid-tier rifles). And if you disagree, go shoot one.

In the cons, you will see that I mentioned grittiness in the trigger. That was as temporary as my father’s presence in my life. After a while, the trigger was as smooth as the trigger on my BCM.

I only have good things about the Zion. It holds a high place in my book for being one of the best-priced firearms compared to what you get. I haven’t tested it on a shoot day (yet), but I would definitely recommend it for home defense or a range toy.

Anyone looking for a rifle under $1,000 would be hard-pressed to find one better than the Zion.

Check out our Zion-15 review for more information!

Best Lightweight – Faxon Firearms ION-X

Specifications

Pros & Cons

Our hands-on experience with the Faxon ION-X Hyperlite AR15 indisputably redefined what it means to be a lightweight, battle-ready rifle.

We were amazed that this rifle, weighing just 4.93 lbs stripped and hovering below 7 lbs when we equipped it with optics and suppressors, offered such a robust shooting experience.

During our test runs, the 16-inch pencil profile barrel combined with the carbon fiber M-LOK handguard showcased its prowess, maintaining a cooler touch even during our extensive firing sessions.

The adjustable gas system, which we didn’t even have to fine-tune, performed exceptionally, showcasing the rifle’s adaptability across varied shooting conditions.

Shooting the Faxon ION-X was like wielding a masterpiece where every component harmonized perfectly with the other. From its unique low-mass lightweight receiver set and contoured muzzle brake to the ergonomically superior charging handle, every aspect resonated Faxon’s commitment to excellence.

The Hiperfire EDDM single-stage trigger was particularly impressive, providing a seamless firing experience with its clean break and reset. While its weight, or lack thereof, might be its standout feature, for us, it was the amalgamation of innovative design and flawless performance that set the ION-X apart.

Perhaps the most telling testament to its durability was our intense torture test. We shot over 600 rounds, all suppressed, and the ION-X sailed through with flying colors, maintaining its pinpoint accuracy throughout. The ION-X doesn’t just participate in the lightweight AR15 market — it commands it.

For us, it wasn’t just about experiencing a lighter rifle, but reveling in a shooting experience that felt uncompromised and unparalleled. If there’s an AR15 that exemplifies the perfect blend of weight, performance, and durability, it’s the Faxon ION-X Hyperlite.

If you’re serious about looking for a lightweight AR-15, check out our best lightweight AR-15s article for our other favorites.

And check out our ION-X review for the full scoop on our favorite lightweight AR.

Best For Beginners – Sig Sauer M400 Tread

Specifications

Pros & Cons

If you want a full review of the Sig Sauer M400 Tread, here it is.

The Sig Sauer M400 Tread is Sig’s entry into the budget-rifle category of AR-15s, which makes it easier for more people to attain a quality firearm. Not too long ago, I got my hands on it for a review and was pleasantly surprised by what I found.

Typically, with budget rifles, you experience a ton of issues. Whether it be from poor quality control or just issues with the rifle itself, that wasn’t the case here. I have put 1,300 rounds through the tread at the time of this writing, and aside from being a bit overgassed, the Tread performed flawlessly.

The Tread is machined from 7075-T6 Aluminum, like other rifles listed, with a 16-inch stainless steel barrel, which aids in accuracy but takes away from durability. The barrel is wrapped in an M-Lok handguard, which does get hot fairly quickly, but only if you’re mag dumping.

Unfortunately, the rifle doesn’t have a full-length Picatinny rail on the top. This limits the amount of space you have but does help keep the rifle light and is beneficial to those who don’t want a picture rail chewing up their hands when they are using the rifle.

If you want a full-length picatinny rail on a rifle under $1,000, the IWI Zion would be a great option.

If you’re looking for a solid home defense rifle or a gun to run at the range, the M400 Tread is definitely one to consider.

Best For Hard Use – Knights Armament SR15

Specifications

Pros & Cons

At the tip of the spear, we have the Knights Armament SR-15. Expensive? Yes. I thought it was too expensive, actually. But, when you actually get your hands on one, you can see why the going price is as high as it is.

I was able to get my hands on an SR-15 during a LARPing event in Idaho not too long ago, and once I saw what it was capable of, it made sense as to why this rifle is trusted by military, law enforcement, and civilians who want the ultimate SHTF rifle.

The SR-15 is made from 7000 series forged aluminum and has more proprietary parts than a SpaceX rocket ship.

All of the parts are made by Knights in-house, from the bolt, barrel, and chamber. Almost everything is proprietary, which makes it harder to find replacement parts when you need them. But this rifle was built to outlast you and me both, so you don’t have to worry about that.

The SR-15 also features a two-stage match grade trigger with little to no creep, and a crisp reset.

Everything about the SR-15 is built to be all you need at your worst moment. While no rifle is perfect, and you’re bound to run into one issue or another, the SR-15 will thrive in any role you put it in, but it is built more for SHTF and duty use.

If you can spare the time and money it takes to get your hands on one, the SR-15 is the best option on this list.

Best For Home Defense – Springfield Saint Victor

Specifications

Pros & Cons

Springfield stepped it up a notch with their Saint line of rifles. One glance at the Saint Victor, and you know you aren’t looking at a “budget” rifle.

Many of my Law Enforcement friends use the Saint as their duty rifle. They liked it so much that they bought their own, which allowed me to try one.

After putting 500 rounds or so downrange on one of them, I was pleased.

Is it perfect? No. I like a full-length picatinny rail on top of my rifle, and the Saint doesn’t have that. So, if you want to mount night vision devices or any other devices that need to hold zero, this might not be the best rifle for that.

Many of the parts on the Saint Victor lend themselves to a fine shooting rifle, like the trigger, which is nickel boron coated and flat-faced, lending a hand to accuracy.

At the tip, you’ll notice a muzzle brake. I’ve had the pleasure of firing it on many occasions, both indoors and outdoors, and have found it to perform on par with rifles three times the price.

The Springfield Saint Victor is machined from Forged 7075-T6 Aluminum on both the upper and lower receivers, with B5 furniture on the grip and stock.

The barrel is made of tool steel, which lends a hand to reliability over accuracy. It’s a fine combination of both. I was able to achieve 1.5-2 MOA with 55-grain 5.56×45 at 100 yards with the rifle on a bench.

All in all, I would recommend the rifle for home defense or the range. Depending on your idea of “SHTF,” it could work there as well. Best of all, it’s not hard to find one under $1,000.

See our full Saint Victor review for more information!

Best AR-Pistol – Noveske Gen 3 Diplomat Pistol

Specifications

Pros & Cons

Not many new shooters know about Noveske, but to put it in perspective, they are up there with KAC and LMT in terms of performance and durability.

Many tier-1 operators use Noveske rifles. Of course, this means the price of these is higher.

The first time I got my hands on the Diplomat was by way of a friend of mine who owns the LGS not too far from me. Every time one of the guys there buys a new rifle, we have a shoot day at the private indoor range and put it through its paces.

Since .300 BLK is expensive, and I live off a writer’s salary, I could only put 200 rounds down range with it before handing it off. But I saw another 1,000 rounds be put through it without failure. So let’s say reliability is no issue.

The Diplomat is machined from 7075-T6 Aluminum with a 7.94-inch stainless steel barrel with a Q cherry bomb muzzle brake, which is compatible with a multitude of suppressors. The barrel is wrapped with an M-Lok handguard with a full picatinny rail up top.

When matched with a suppressor and subsonic .300 Blackout, this rifle will function as a great home defense or truck gun.

I wouldn’t suggest it for SHTF purposes due to its short barrel. SHTF would call for something with more reach, and .300 BLK is way more expensive than your typical 5.56×45. The Diplomat is available in 5.56×45, but in my experience, 5.56×45 does not perform well out of barrels as short as this one.

But in .300 Blackout, it’s the perfect PDW.

Best Short Barreled Rifle – Daniel Defense Mk18 SOCOM

Specifications

Pros & Cons

The Daniel Defense MK18 has been the choice for special operators and pipe hitters since the day it was built. When I got my hands on it, I could definitely see why.

It’s rugged and robust, and the quad rail handguard gives you ample room to mount what you need. The 10.3 Cold Hammer Forged barrel mixes accuracy and durability perfectly. Of course, it’s meant for close-quarters situations, which makes it optimal for home defense/PDW purposes.

The DDMK18 is machined from 7075-T6 Aluminum with a 6061-T6 Aluminum handguard. The charging handle has latches made of 6061 with a 7075-T6 Aluminum body. All of which makes it durable and lightweight.

The RIS2 Handguard that Daniel Defense uses on the MK18 is regarded as one of the best quad-rails in the industry due to how durable it is. A few of my friends on my shooting team use the MK18 as their primary firearm and have nothing but good things to say about it.

It is heavier and thicker than M-Lok, so that is definitely something to consider before buying.

Usually, shorter barrel rifles are harder to use at further distances. But it’s different with the Mk18. Daniel Defense makes all of its barrels in-house, and they are some of the best. We’ve been able to stretch the legs on the MK18 out to 150 yards reliably, but taking it any further is not optimal. Keep it close.

Overall, home and personal defense is where the MK18 thrives. If that’s what you’re here for, put this one on your list.

Best For Law Enforcement – ADM UIC Mod 2

Specifications

Pros & Cons

ADM doesn’t usually get too much love when it comes to talks about the best AR-15s. Let me tell you from experience it definitely deserves more discussion than it gets.

I’ve spent a great deal of time with the Mod 2 during a 3-day event in Idaho, where a few of my friends and I switched rifles and put each other’s firearms to the test.

It’s always best to get a second opinion on your build, especially when others may have more experience.

After hundreds of rounds with the Mod 2, I can wholeheartedly say that it is among the top five AR-15s today. And it is ready, out of the box, for duty use and any other way you may want to run it.

It comes with a Geissele G2S trigger from the factory, a Radian Raptor charging handle, the industry’s best fully ambidextrous lower receiver, a Criterion barrel, and the list goes on. Usually, you buy a rifle and start changing parts quickly. That’s not the case here.

Milled from billet 7075-T6 Aluminum, the Mod 2 is lightweight and highly durable. Forging is usually a more durable process, but unless you’re testing the Mod 2 to superhuman levels, you won’t have to worry about that. It’s used by multiple police agencies and military personnel across the globe and has been trusted by many who need a rifle that they can rely on.

And I recommend it for anyone in a role where they may have to rely on their rifle. You get the best names in the AR-15 parts, all brought together in one rifle.

And with the Criterion barrel, you can rest assured that you will do whatever you have your sights on.

Whereas most rifles may require an additional part or two to make it a fine combat rifle, ADM has taken that need away. Unless you’re super picky, you won’t be able to find any rifle that offers you more. And yes, it is cheaper than a KAC.

Home defense, SHTF, wherever you put the Mod 2, it will thrive. If you’re keen on running a suppressor, you can also order one with a Deadair, Surefire, HuxWrx, or SOLGW suppressor-ready muzzle device. No need to get your pin and weld removed to change it out.

If only more manufacturers offered this option.

Daniel Defense DDM4 V7

The Daniel Defense DDM4 V7 is my definite premium pick, as it retains unmatched quality, reliability, accuracy, and ease of use without exceeding your budget with unnecessary features. I’d say it’s a granted value for your money, despite being around the $1,500-$2,000 mark.

This model comes with M-LOK attachment tech that provides a lightweight feel. It has all the important features of a high-end rifle, including a flash suppressor, free floating handguard, Mil-Spec lower and upper receiver with QD swivels, and a cold hammer-forged 16-inch barrel.

What I love about the DDM4 V7 is the pinned, low-profile gas block with a staked gas key that’s CNC-machined from 4140 hardened steel that can take massive amounts of heat. That’s why it’s regarded as a target practice and competition shooter for those long hours at the ranges.

With a chrome-moly vanadium steel barrel, a 1:7 Twist, and a mid-length gas system, you can bet it’ll eat anything from 40- to 70-grain, but be careful around the 75-mark ammo boxes.

Then there’s the DDM4 V11 model, with a standard aluminum dust cover, in contrast to the V7’s polymer dust cover. The difference is that the V7 is mid-length, while the V11 is more lightweight, with a higher muzzle rise, and the V11 is more expensive.

There’s no difference in precision, though the V7 has a far superior free-floating handguard. It feels very free and offers great operation on the fly.

Folks waited long enough for the M-LOK attachment options, and I’m sure that now it has all the right stuff for a true competition shooter to justify the high to mid-range price tag.

Here are some honorable mentions if you’re looking for left-handed alternatives or DIY-builds for your AR-15 platform.

Left-Handed Alternative – Stag Arms Stag-15L Tactical LH

Here’s a little something ambidextrous for you left-handed folk out there. Stag Arms are well-known for their ambidextrous LH uppers and full rifle kits, and the Stag 15L Tactical is a shining example of well-designed machinery.

The Stag 15L Tactical is a left-handed answer to their signature, the Stag 15 rifle, and it has the exact same Mil-Spec manganese phosphate-coated M16 BCG, an ejection port on the left-side, chrome-lined 16-inch barrel, and Magpul MOE pistol grips for extra comfort and handling.

You’d be surprised at the accuracy of the rifle, as the chrome-lined barrel with a 1:7 twist rate swirls just enough for 70-grain bullets. It’s a heavy hitter that’s accurate, comfortable, and easy to customize, of course, in compliance with US laws in selected states.

The Magpul CTR buttstock feels just right on the shoulder. The selector switch is on the right side, and you can choose between the 5.56 NATO and the .223 Remington model calibers.

The BCG isn’t the only thing that’s Mil-Spec. The single-stage trigger works extra smooth for follow-up shots, and though it might feel heavy at first, it gets crispier.

If you’re a glove shooter, you’ll definitely appreciate the enhanced trigger guard, not to mention the 13.5-inch free-floating handguard with a QD point for slings. I would definitely recommend no other rifle than the Stag 15L if you’re a left-handed person. Check out our Gunmade.com list of left-handed AR-15 options as well.

Easy to Take Down For DIY – DPMS Panther Arms Oracle AR-15

DPMS (Defense Procurement Manufacturing Services) Panther Arms is a mouthful, but they’ve managed to establish a name for themselves in the budget niche of AR-15 rifles.

The Oracle A3 has proven itself time and time again, and all I see are more and more videos of people giving it a shot. It’s a lightweight (6.4 pounds) semi-automatic AR-15 model that focuses on combat but has no sights, so you can focus on grabbing some red dot sights and scopes of your choice.

It has a birdcage flash hider, adjustable stock, and a chrome-lined BCG that offers solid reliability. I don’t like how the gas block is lower than the top rail, but the standard Picatinny rail opens up a window of aftermarket opportunities.

Additionally, it has an O-ring extractor for more stopping power, a staked castle nut, and a shell deflector and forward assist. These features offer excellent ease of operation for the money.

The round polymer drop-in handguard feels like a classic, and the 1:9 twist rate works great with 44-grain bullets. Basically, it’s a budget mid-range carbine rifle that’s best suited for those of you who like to attend sporting competition shooting and for tactical home defense use.

I believe that the low price definitely calls for a red dot sight or a scope attachment since DPMS believes that you’d want one of your personal choices.

In selecting the top AR-15s, our methodology centered on critical evaluation criteria, informed by extensive firsthand experience and a deep understanding of the needs of AR-15 users.

We assessed each firearm based on material quality, barrel performance, ergonomics, customization options, and overall value, recognizing these factors’ impact on durability, accuracy, and user satisfaction. Our hands-on testing involved real-world scenarios to measure each rifle’s practical performance across various applications, from range shooting to home defense.

Leveraging years of expertise, we aimed to provide insights that resonate with both seasoned shooters and newcomers, focusing on what truly matters to you.

By distilling our findings into key takeaways, our goal is to empower you with concise, actionable information to help you find an AR-15 that not only meets your needs but exceeds your expectations in reliability, functionality, and value.

This guide is tailored for gun enthusiasts, sports shooters, and anyone interested in owning an AR-15, whether buying your first rifle or adding to a collection. It’s beneficial for those who want a deeper understanding of what makes a good AR-15 and how to choose one that fits their needs.

These rifles are great for various scenarios, like sport shooting, home defense, or just as a part of a firearm collection. They have different features that make them suitable for specific uses, but they might not be the best choice for someone looking for extremely budget-friendly options or for use in highly regulated areas.

If you’re looking for alternatives, such as rifles suited for different regulations or lower-priced options, our other guides and reviews can help you out. Check out our articles on budget rifles or state-specific firearm choices for more information.

In summary, this guide is ideal for those who appreciate AR-15s for their versatility and performance and are looking for a detailed breakdown to make a confident choice.

As we delve deeper into the world of AR-15s, it’s essential to spotlight the creators behind these masterpieces. In the following section, we’ll explore some of the industry’s most respected and reliable AR-15 manufacturers.

These titans are shaping the AR-15 market, continuously raising the bar for quality, innovation, and performance.

Best High-End AR-15 Manufacturers

For those who seek the pinnacle of performance and craftsmanship, high-end AR-15 manufacturers offer a unique blend of advanced features and unparalleled quality. These manufacturers push the boundaries of innovation, crafting rifles that stand out in terms of durability, precision, and technology.

Let’s dive into the best high-end AR-15 manufacturers, exploring the distinct attributes that put them at the top of the game.

• Bravo Company: BCM is a veteran-owned company renowned for crafting high-quality and dependable AR-15s. They’ve garnered immense respect and popularity in the industry.
• Radian: Radian makes innovative and high-quality AR-15 parts and accessories, such as ambidextrous charging handles, safety selectors, triggers, and handguards. They also offer complete AR-15 rifles with sub-MOA accuracy guarantee.
• Sons of Liberty Gun Works: Sons of Liberty Gun Works makes durable and reliable AR-15 rifles and components, such as bolt carrier groups, barrels, gas blocks, and receivers. They also offer gunsmithing and training services
• American Defense Manufacturing: American Defense Manufacturing makes premium AR-15 rifles and pistols with various features and options, such as adjustable gas blocks, ambidextrous controls, QD mounts, and M-LOK handguards. They also make optics mounts and accessories.
• Daniel Defense: DD stands as another veteran-owned entity, producing premium AR-15s known for their excellent accuracy and durability. Their rifles are commonly used by military and law enforcement agencies.
• Knight’s Armament: Knight’s Armament is one of the best high-end AR-15 manufacturers. Their rifles offer innovative and advanced features. Their products are known for their reliability and outstanding performance, even under harsh conditions.
• LWRC: LWRC specializes in piston-driven AR-15s designed specifically to minimize fouling and heat. The company is recognized for its use of high-quality materials and components in the manufacturing of its rifles.
• LaRue: LaRue focuses on precision and accuracy in their AR-15s. They use premium components and offer various options and configurations for their rifles.
• Rainier Arms: Rainier offers custom-built AR-15s with high-end parts and accessories. They have a wide selection of models and calibers to suit different needs and preferences.
• Lewis Machine & Tool (LMT): LMT makes AR-15s for military and law enforcement customers around the world. They have a reputation for durability and reliability in harsh environments.

Best Mid-Tier Manufacturers

Navigating the mid-tier range of AR-15 manufacturers, you will find a balance of cost and performance. These manufacturers provide exceptional quality and reliability without commanding the same premium price as high-end manufacturers.

Let’s turn our attention to these best mid-tier AR-15 manufacturers, uncovering the standout features that make them a worthwhile investment for any serious shooter.

• Sig Sauer: Sig Sauer, a well-known name in the firearms industry, offers a selection of excellent AR-15s with various configurations and options. Their reputation for excellence and innovation in the industry is well-deserved.
• Springfield Armory: Springfield Armory makes various AR-15 rifles and pistols with upgraded features and components, such as M-LOK handguards, nickel boron triggers, and QD mounts. They also make other firearms, such as bolt action rifles, 1911 pistols, and XD pistols.
• Faxon Firearms: Faxon makes lightweight and accurate AR-15 barrels, bolt carrier groups, receivers, and handguards. They also offer complete AR-15 rifles and pistols with various calibers and configurations.
• Aero Precision: Aero Precision makes high-quality and precision-machined AR-15 parts and accessories, such as upper receivers, lower receivers, handguards, gas blocks, and sights. They also offer complete AR-15 rifles and pistols with various calibers and options.
• FN Herstal: FN Herstal makes premium AR-15 rifles and pistols with various features and options, such as adjustable gas blocks, ambidextrous controls, QD mounts, and M-LOK handguards. They also make optics mounts and accessories.
• Palmetto State Armory (PSA): PSA makes affordable and dependable AR-15 parts and accessories, such as lower receivers, upper receivers, barrels, bolt carrier groups, and triggers. They also offer complete AR-15 rifles and pistols with different calibers and configurations.
• Ruger: Ruger makes durable and reliable AR-15 rifles with various features and options, such as free-float handguards, flip-up sights, muzzle brakes, and adjustable stocks. They also make other firearms, such as bolt action rifles, 10/22 rifles, and SR pistols.
• Sig Sauer: Sig Sauer makes innovative and high-quality AR-15 rifles and pistols with various features and options, such as piston-driven systems, folding stocks, carbon fiber handguards, and modular triggers. They also make other firearms, such as P320 pistols, MCX rifles, and MPX submachine guns.
• Smith & Wesson: Smith & Wesson makes popular and reliable AR-15 rifles with various features and options, such as M&P handguards, Magpul furniture, flash suppressors, and QD sling mounts. They also make other firearms, such as M&P pistols and revolvers.

Best Budget Manufacturers

The world of AR-15s isn’t just for those with deep pockets; there’s plenty of room for budget-conscious buyers too. The best budget AR-15 manufacturers offer affordable rifles that do not compromise on reliability and functionality.

Let’s explore these budget-friendly manufacturers, highlighting those that provide exceptional value for your hard-earned dollars.

• Stag Arms: Stag makes innovative and reliable AR-15 rifles and parts, such as upper receivers, lower receivers, barrels, bolt carrier groups, and handguards. They also offer complete AR-15 rifles and pistols with various calibers and configurations, including left-handed models.
• Bear Creek Arsenal: BCA makes affordable and dependable AR-15 rifles and parts, such as barrels, bolt carrier groups, receivers, and handguards. They also offer complete AR-15 rifles and pistols in different calibers and configurations, including a .410 shotgun.
• Rock River Arms: Rock River makes high-quality and precision-machined AR-15 rifles and parts, such as upper receivers, lower receivers, barrels, triggers, and sights. They also offer complete AR-15 rifles and pistols with various features and options, such as free-float handguards, flip-up sights, muzzle brakes, and adjustable stocks.

Overview Of The AR-15

The AR-15 is a lightweight, semi-automatic, magazine-fed rifle that shoots the .223 Remington/5.56×45 cartridge. It has cemented itself as America’s Rifle and is loved by many.

Common uses for the AR-15 include home defense, competition shooting, combat (military use), and even hunting small game.

Eugene Stoner: The Man Behind The AR-15

Eugene Stoner started his career as an engineer creating aircraft equipment. As the story goes, Stoner began creating firearms in his garage. Impressed by what he saw, Jim Sullivan made him the chief engineer for Armalite, and they quickly began creating firearms.

This is where the AR in AR-15 comes from, Armalite Rifle-15. There were numbers before it, like the AR-3, AR-5, AR-9, AR-11, and AR-12, but none gained any significant traction, aside from the AR-5, which the U.S. Air Force adopted to be used by pilots as a survival rifle.

Stoner patented the bolt and carrier, piston-driven design in 1956 and used it in many of his earlier works, like the AR-10. It would later be known as Direct Impingement.

In 1956, the AR-10 was submitted to the Army to replace the M1 Garand, but lost to the M14. So, Stoner gave the AR-10 to a Dutch company to sell to other military forces, who produced the rifle until 1960.

Jim Sullivan and Robert Fremont scaled down the AR-10 to accept the .223 Remington, which was then named the “AR-15.” It was unveiled by Stoner at Fort Benning in May of 1957. This would begin many years of testing.

In 1961, Stoner left Armalite for Colt, who bought the patent for the AR-15 before he left Armalite.

In October of 1961, the Advanced Research Projects Agency sent ten AR-15s to Vietnam. After receiving much love from those who used it, another 1,000 AR-15s were sent in 1962.

Revisions were made to the AR-15 design during this time, and it became the M16. In 1963, Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara ordered the widespread adoption of the M16, and it entered service in 1964.

The M16 has been in service for almost 60 years, making it the longest-serving rifle in American History.

From Military To Civilian Use (And 1994 Assault Weapons Ban)

The AR-15 became available to the civilian market in the 1960s as the Colt Armalite AR-15 Sporter Rifle, and it was flying off the shelves. For years, it was loved by sport shooters, hunters, and all those who required a lightweight rifle for the outdoors.

But in 1994, then-president Bill Clinton introduced the term “Assault Weapon” to the public. He then signed a bill that banned the purchase of AR-15s following a string of mass shootings.

Manufacturers continued finding loopholes to keep production going, and when the ban went away in 2004, sales went back up. Manufacturers began pumping out rifles as quickly as the public would buy them.

They sold like hotcakes. Millions of Americans now own AR-15s, which is still the country’s most popular rifle.

AR-15 Usage Today (Military and Civilian Markets)

Much as it was in the past, the AR-15 is used for many different roles. You will find an AR-15 wherever there is conflict, from home defense to the battlefield. In combat applications, you will find the M16 and M4, which offer more pew per trigger pull.

In the civilian market, AR-15 sales and production are booming. There is an AR-15 out there for every shooter with any budget.

And nowadays, new calibers are being introduced to the AR-15, like .300 Blackout.

.300 Blackout is a .30 caliber cartridge similar to the 7.62×39 commonly used in the AK-47. It was created for special forces personnel who require more power and a round that is easier to suppress.

And it only requires a new upper receiver—no visits to the gun store or paperwork needed.

Due to how versatile the AR platform is, I do not suspect any other platform will come along and take its place anytime soon.

AR-15 vs. AK-47

One of the most common comparisons of the AR-15 is the AK-47. After all, they are the two longest-serving military rifles and have faced off on the battlefield multiple times.

But which one is better?

That’s a loaded question. On one side, you have a lightweight, modular platform that is easy to use and figure out. Conversely, you have a rifle capable of functioning in the harshest conditions.

Choosing one over the other boils down to personal preference. If you want a harder-hitting rifle that can be run through the dirt and still function, you may choose the AK-47. If you want a rifle that offers more modularity and can be changed quickly to fill different roles, the AR-15 is your best bet.

Key Components Of The AR-15 Rifle (And Their Roles)

Key components of the AR-15 and their roles in function.

• Upper Receiver – This is the upper portion of the rifle where your bolt carrier group, barrel, handguard, charging handle, ejection port, and gas system reside.
• Lower Receiver – This is the lower portion of your rifle. Your trigger, magazine, hammer, buffer tube, stock, and grip can be found here.
• Bolt Carrier Group – The heart of the rifle. The BCG is where your firing pin, extractor, gas key, and bolt reside. The bolt carrier group’s primary function is to feed a round into the chamber, lock it in place, shoot the round (firing pin), take in the gas from the bullet being fired, extract the spent shell casing, and chamber a new one.
• Stock – You know this one. It’s where you put your shoulder.
• Buffer Tube – Houses the buffer and buffer spring, which are the parts that make recoil more manageable and return the bolt carrier group into position after chambering the spent round.
• Charging Handle – The part that pulls the bolt carrier group back to chamber a round.
• Barrel – Stabilizes the bullet and projects it from the rifle.
• Gas Tube – Responsible for bringing gas from the spent round back into the gas key of the bolt carrier group. The gases make the bolt carrier group go back so that it can function reliably.
• Forward Assist – Used to send the bolt forward if it doesn’t lock into the chamber during loading and cycling.
• Trigger – The thing you pull to make the rifle go boom.
• Pistol Grip – This is the handle attached to the lower receiver of the rifle, providing a comfortable and ergonomic place for the shooter’s hand.

Safety and Operation

How The Safety Works On An AR-15

The safety selector of the AR-15 is pretty straightforward. There are two positions in civilian variants: semi-automatic and safe. When in the safe position, the recess cut into the internal part of the safety is away from the trigger bar, which doesn’t allow the trigger to move far enough to drop the hammer.

In the fire position, the recess on the internal part faces downward, allowing the trigger enough room to let the sear disconnect from the hammer and against the firing pin.

Semi-Automatic, Burst, and Automatic

In the semi-automatic setting, there is only one round per trigger squeeze. The trigger is pulled, the sear disconnects from the hammer, and the hammer springs drive the hammer forward and into the firing pin. Due to inertia, the firing pin hits the back of the cartridge and sends the bullet out of the barrel.

As the bolt carrier moves back, it brings the hammer back to the disconnector, which holds the hammer until the trigger is released, allowing the sear to re-engage the hammer.

In burst fire, the disconnector is split in two, and an auto sear and a burst cam are introduced. The left disconnector is responsible for semi-automatic fire, and the right is for burst. The sears never function simultaneously, and when the selector is moved over to burst, the left disconnector is disengaged, moving all functions over to the right disconnector.

The burst cam has notches that allow the disconnector to stay disengaged from the hammer, and on the third shot, the cam gives the disconnector enough room to hold the hammer back.

In the automatic setting, the burst cam is removed. The auto sear holds the disconnector down as long as the trigger is depressed. Since the disconnector can’t engage the hammer, the hammer continues to go forward. Fairly simple.

The best AR-15 for one shooter may not be the best for another. Everyone’s needs are different, and if you make the mistake of thinking that you can run an M&P15 in a combat role, you may just find out the hard way.

You can always buy more than what you need, but I never recommend buying less.

What Are You Using It For?

This is the most crucial question you must answer when buying an AR-15. I always say that the rifle featured in the “best overall” spot is good for everyone. And if you are unsure of what you want to use it for, go with that.

But suppose you’re going to be running your rifle through the wringer, throwing it off of things, falling with it, and needing the most rigidity. In that case, I recommend something heavier with a thicker handrail.

Those who solely want an AR-15 for home defense can get away with almost any AR15 on the list. But eventually, you may find yourself needing to upgrade.

Buy once, cry once.

How Far Are You Shooting?

The 5.56×45 cartridge is well known for being able to reach out. But, it can lack power once it reaches a certain distance. Therefore, I usually recommend staying inside 600 yards when shooting it.

And not all barrel lengths are capable of hitting that distance. The more you chop off the tip, the less pleasure you’ll get in the long run.

In some cases.

If you plan to run it out to 600 yards, I recommend 16” barrels or above. 14.5 is good as well, but it’s better to have more and not need it, especially out in the field, where most engagements take place at a distance.

But again, it all goes back to what you plan on using that rifle for. And how far you plan on going.

Hunters, go longer. Door kickers (and home defense), keep it short.

Direct Impingement vs. Gas Piston System

There are two main gas systems for the AR-15: the DI or Direct Impingement and gas-piston operation. To keep it short, stick to direct impingement, and I won’t bore you with the details and physics.

Most AR-15s are DI, and this is because they’re cheaper, lighter, and it’s easy to find parts and customization options for them. The gas piston rifles are definitely heavier, but more durable in harsh weather conditions and have no problems with dust and moisture. They’re mostly designed for military use in my honest opinion.

DIY and Aftermarket Customization Availability

You’ve heard the saying that the AR-15 rifle feels just like “an adult Lego set” you can tweak and tinker with. It’s definitely true.

Look for AR-15 rifles that have a Picatinny rail, stocks, and grips that can be easily modified and replaced with parts of your choice. Foldable stocks are a hot topic nowadays, but I think that it entirely depends on a person’s preference. 

Almost every AR-15 rifle has good rails for red dot sights and scopes, and they’re usually very easy to install.

If you’re taking the DIY route, pick uppers and lower receivers that have Mil-Spec compatibility. Just find cheaper lower receivers, pay attention to the quality of your upper, make sure the gas key is staked, and you’ll be fine.

You can check out our list of best bolt carrier groups, muzzle brakes, and upper receivers that can give you more than a few ideas.

Another great add-on would be an AR-15 suppressor.

Don’t forget the buying stops when you buy the rifle itself. There are many customization accessories, parts, and upgrades to consider.

Fortunately, we’ve put together some guides to make it easier for you. Check out our guides here:

• Best AR-15 Lowers
• Best AR-15 Uppers
• Best AR-15 Handguards
• Best AR-15 Triggers
• Best AR-15 Stocks
• Best BCGs
• Best AR-15 Charging Handles
• Best AR-15 Suppressors
• Best AR-15 Lasers
• Best AR-15 Magazines
• Best LPVOs
• Best Red Dots For AR-15s

Optics/Sights

Choosing an optic involves understanding what you intend to use your AR-15 for. For example, I used an LPVO (Low Powered Variable Optic) when I first bought my AR-15 because I wanted the ability to shoot a bit further at times but still have the capability to shoot in close quarters.

That time has passed. And now, I run an EOTech EXPS3 on my AR-15 because I found myself using it more for close to mid-range shooting rather than for distance and precision.

So, depending on what you want to use your AR-15 for, your optic should match it.

LPVOs are great for mid-long-range shooting, but they wouldn’t be my first choice for shooting in close quarters, such as in home defense applications.

Red Dots and Holographic sights (like an EOTech) are geared toward close-range shooting, which is where most people use their AR-15.

However, you can add a magnifier to your setup to extend the effective range of your red dot or holographic sight.

Regardless of the type of optic you choose, a quality set of backup iron sights is always recommended (see our BUI guide here) in case your optic ever fails. Magpul’s MBUS sights are a popular and affordable option to consider.

Check out our best LPVOs guide here and our favorite red dots for AR-15s here.

Triggers

Triggers are your way of connecting with your AR-15. It is how you interface with your rifle; depending on your trigger, it can make or break your love affair with your rifle.

Most first-time AR-15 buyers are looking for a solid home defense gun. And there are triggers that are made for this. They are usually two-stage with a heavier trigger pull.

Why?

Because adrenaline is a hell of a thing, and when someone comes crashing through your door in the middle of the night and wakes you up, you’re already in a race against time. So now your heart is pumping, your hands are sweaty, and mom’s spaghetti is ready to come out from the nerves in your stomach, and you’re trying to get to the threat before it gets to you.

You find the threat. He’s tense, you’re tense, and so is the dog. Your finger is hovering over the trigger, the safety is off, you have the threat in your sights, and everything seems to be under control. But the tension is still high.

Now, what do you think could happen if you have a single-stage competition trigger with a two-pound pull? If you guessed, “accidentally pulling the trigger,” then you’d be correct. Then, they can use something like “it was the lightweight trigger’s fault” against you in court.

So what do you do? Go heavier. Especially when your AR-15 is being used for home defense.

“But what if it’s too heavy?”

It won’t be. At least not heavy enough to make it harder for you to pull the trigger than it would typically be.

I typically suggest a two-stage trigger with a 5-pound or heavier pull for home defense or self-defense purposes. If anything else, they can’t use it against you in court.

See our guide on the best AR-15 triggers to get our top recommendations and advice!

Lights and Lasers

Listen, you know the old saying, “Never point your trigger at anything you don’t intend to shoot?” Yes. I’m sure you do.

But what happens when it’s pitch dark in your house and you hear something go bump in the night? Are you going to turn on your lights and give away your every movement? That’s not wise. If the intruder has a gun, you can bet he (or she) is now aiming right in that direction.

So, what do you need? A light, not only to show you the way but also to make sure you’re aiming at something that may need killing and not your neighbor who got too drunk and stumbled into the wrong house.

It has happened. Why do you think I mentioned it?

Not only that, but a strong beam of light to the eyes when it’s dark is like a flashbang, only without the noise. And there have been many incidents where a beam of bright light stopped an aggressor in his tracks.

Dead stop. He can’t see, his eyes hurt, and his brain is starting to realize that there may be a gun pointed at him. Now you have the upper advantage.

So, for defensive uses of the AR-15, there is no reason why you shouldn’t have a light on your rifle. Sure, they can be expensive, but having a light could save you more than just money. It could save you from having to answer to a judge and a jury of your peers.

Check out our best AR-15 lasers guide for more information!

Muzzle Devices

Compensators, suppressors, brakes, and the list goes on. And there are dozens of manufacturers out there to cater to your needs.

Suppressors, or as some call them, “Silencers” are meant to lower the decibel output of your rifle. I’m sure you know that. It’s not like Hollywood has a shortage of films with them in it.

Compensators are meant to, as the name suggests, compensate for recoil. Typically, there are ports on the top of the muzzle device that will push the gas upward and the muzzle down—making it easier to get your sights on target.

Muzzle Brakes have porting on the sides, which push the gases from the round being fired outward. It’s meant to reduce recoil but is usually passed over for a compensator. Since muzzle brakes push the gasses to the left and right, it can be extremely loud to the people next to you.

So, it’s usually best to stick with a compensator.

But if you want to change your muzzle device so you can mount a suppressor, I would recommend the compensator. The recoil of an AR-15 is already easy to control, and muzzle brakes won’t piss off the shooters next to you on the range.

Barrel, Barrel Twist, and Chambering

You won’t go wrong with 16-inch or 18-inch barrels. They’re pretty much the optimal length for reliability and accuracy. Anything shorter than 16-inches is an SBR, and these might get you into trouble.

Then, you got carbine-length rifles that are practically Colts, the heavier .937-inch diameter for heavy-duty use, the medium or Government M4 well-balanced .750-inch diameter barrels, and the lightweight pencil barrels with a .625-inch diameter.

I suggest you steer clear of the lightweight ‘pencil’ barrel profiles if you don’t want bent necks or if you plan to fire consistently. The quality of the barrel should be your priority, so you won’t go wrong with chrome-lined barrels that are more durable but at the (slight) expense of accuracy.

As for finishes, nitride treated barrel surfaces are of higher quality, but they’re more expensive. I still think that the chrome-lined ones are solid if you don’t have the extra cash, and the MP HP (magnetic particle/high pressure) testing really guarantees you longevity after many rounds; it’s still costly.

For barrel twist and bullet grain ratio, you should check this handy chart out:

Your AR-15 barrel has grooves inside that spin the projectile to stabilize it, providing accuracy and velocity. The bullets you use must be in accord with the rifling if you want to sharpen your precision, and remember—the smaller the twist number, the faster the twist.

The AR-15’s chambering is 5.56 NATO/.223 Remington. 5.56 NATO is regarded as the gold standard because it allows you to use .223 Remington and 5.56 NATO ammo. However, you can’t shoot 5.56 NATO from a .223 Remington caliber rifle, so keep this in mind.

You have other calibers like the 6.5 Grendel (not the Creedmoor), 9mm, or the .458 SOCOM if you’re planning to kill a giant grizzly bear. Whatever works for you, these are the classics.

You can also check out our guide for choosing the right barrel length for your AR.

Handguards

You’ve heard of M-LOK, free-floated, drop-in, etc. Here’s the gist. Handguards offer you mounting options, protect your barrel from falling damage, and, of course, protect your hands from heat.

Two main types of handguards abound on the market: the free-floated and the drop-in. The drop-in ones are the cheaper option, but I wouldn’t recommend them. Always go for free-floated handguards because they touch the barrel, which means that you get solid accuracy and reduced heat transfer.

You also have M-LOK handguards, which are popular for their comfort and many attachment points. Then, there are the carbon fiber handguards, which are lightweight, durable, and heat-resistant but too expensive.

You can check out our guide on the best handguards for more information.

The .223 Remington/5.56×45 has been around for a long time, and years of testing have been conducted to ensure you get the most out of your AR-15.

The advancements from years of testing have given us different types of ammo to use in our AR-15 so we can find what it likes and doesn’t like. Don’t be mistaken; not all ammo is created equal. Some ammo types do better than others.

But let me tell you something about grain weight. It’s not the amount of powder in the case itself but the weight of the actual bullet.

So, if you see 55-grain on the side of the box, then the bullet itself (not the whole thing, just the bullet) weighs 55-grains, which is the most common type of AR-15 ammo sold in the USA.

Why does grain weight matter? Good question. Some barrels work better with certain grain weights than others.

Simply put, the shorter the barrel, the less time the bullet has to be stabilized by the rifling in the barrel.

There’s a particular science to this, though. I don’t want to confuse you, so I’ll keep it simple.

Shorter barrels usually have tighter twist rates. The twist rate pertains to how many times the bullet will twist before it leaves the barrel. The higher the second number in the ratio, the slower the twist.

So if you have an AR-15 with a 1:8 twist rate, the bullet will make one rotation inside the barrel every 8 inches. So if you have a 16-inch barrel, the bullet will twist twice before it exits the muzzle.

If you have a 1:8 twist on a seven-inch barrel, the bullet will not make a full rotation before it leaves the barrel.

So on and so forth.

The faster the twist rate, the heavier you want the bullet to be. Lighter bullets shot from a barrel with a faster twist rate will become overstabilized and be more prone to spin drift, which is when the bullet veers off in the direction it’s spinning.

On the other hand, bullets shot from a slower twist rate (say a 1:16 out of a 12.5-inch barrel) will lose its trajectory quicker and have less velocity.

For more information, check out our guide on the best AR-15 ammo.

Keeping Your AR-15 In Top Condition

Part of ensuring your AR-15 is always ready for use is keeping it clean and functioning properly.

We’ll start with cleaning your AR-15.

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to clean your rifle after every range trip. This depends on the quality of the ammo you’re shooting and the AR-15 you own, but a quality AR-15 should be able to go 500-1,000 rounds without cleaning.

If you can’t, you do not want to stake your life on it.

Cleaning your rifle doesn’t require many supplies. The primary three things are nylon brushes, cloth, and a cleaning solution.

You can choose whatever cleaning solution you wish, but it’s best to stick with those made for cleaning firearms or without harsh chemicals. Slip2000 is excellent for cleaning your rifle but is costly and only comes with a small amount. Some other popular firearm cleaning products can be found from Hoppe’s and Breakthrough Clean, to name a couple.

Again, you can use whatever you like. Just make sure it doesn’t have harsh chemicals that can affect your rifle’s finish.

Nylon brushes are a savior when you have carbon buildup. Please, with sugar on top, don’t use metal brushes. Yes, this includes copper. Over time, metal brushes will scratch up and remove metal from the parts you use it on.

If used on the bolt carrier group, it can cause tolerance issues, which can later cause the rifle to not function properly due to the inability to keep the gases where they need to be.

So, nylon brushes only.

Cloths and rags are to soak up all the dirt and carbon taken off by the cleaning solution. Or you can use Q-Tips for the hard-to-reach areas.

Check out our gun cleaning guide to learn more!

Lubricating Your AR-15

There are plenty of quality commercial lubricants, such as Hoppe’s 9, Lucas Extreme Duty Gun Oil, and Militec-1, but there is also a very simple solution —a mixture of Mobil1 Synthetic Oil and Synthetic Grease.

When mixed, it is one of the best lubrications you can use on your AR-15. Best of all, it’s cheap and easy to find. Well, it was easier to find before everyone in the gun community learned about it.

Many shooters may not feel comfortable using this method of lubrication, but fear not; it’s been used by gunsmiths and armorers who have worked on the AR-15 daily for decades.

Depending on the climate you’ll be shooting in, you may want to make the blend more or less viscous. If you’re going to be shooting in the cold, you can opt for more oil than grease. Vice versa if it’s hot.

One gallon of Mobil1 Synthetic Oil and one tub of Synthetic Grease will last you for years, depending on how often you shoot. And it’ll save you money in the long run.

Where To Lubricate The AR-15

Wherever there is friction, there should be lubrication.

The inner walls of your upper receiver, the bolt carrier, the top of your charging handle, and the inner parts of your bolt carrier group are all important. Not the bolt face, though. The buffer housing, the buffer, and a dab on the hammer/trigger springs.

And the chamber itself. You know, that star-looking thingy inside your rifle where the bolt locks into.

Depending on how much you’re shooting, you may want to be liberal with the lubrication. When I first started shooting with the AR-15 platform, I would have CLP dripping from the rifle. Every shot would splash oil and carbon all over my uniform, but the rifle ran perfectly.

When I thought the rifle was getting dry, I would lock the bolt to the rear and drip oil through the ejection port onto the walls of the upper receiver and onto the bolt carrier group.

Depending on the material of your parts, you may have to oil it more or less. For example, if you have a chrome-coated bolt carrier group, you don’t have to lubricate it as much as if you were running a BCG made from phosphate.

Thank you, fine shooter, for sticking with me until the bitter end.

If you want to skip the read and find the best rifle for all situations and bank accounts, the BCM Recce MCMR is my top pick. If you’re one of our law-abiding readers who happen to live in California, go check out our recommendations on the best California-legal AR-15s.

Hopefully, you found a new AR-15 to add to the collection. And I know some may say that there are AR-15s that should have been listed over others, but this is the result of hours of debates with multiple shooters in the industry.

But please, drop us a comment and let us know what rifle you think deserves a spot on this list.

See you on the range, fine shooter.