9 Cheap AR-15s In 2024 That Will Fit Anyone’s Budget

Over at Gun Made, we believe all Americans should have access to an AR-15, and sometimes, you might need to go for a budget or cheaper option to avoid taking on unnecessary debt.

We’ve been fortunate to test dozens of AR-15 models, learning about what they can do, how you can change them up, and what makes certain ones better. Our hands-on time with so many ARs has given us some smart tips on what to look for, especially when you’re not looking to spend a lot of money.

We found out that getting a good AR-15 doesn’t mean you have to empty your wallet. Although going super cheap might leave you with a gun that doesn’t do what you want, you can aim for a budget of around $400 to $800. In this price range, you can snag a solid new AR-15, but there’s also a chance to find some really great deals on used ones.

One of the stars in our quest for budget-friendly AR-15s has been the Diamondback DB-15 (check out our full review here). This rifle quickly became our favorite recommendation for those looking to get the most bang for their buck.

The DB-15 showcases a fantastic blend of affordability, performance, and reliability, making it a top choice for anyone on a budget but unwilling to compromise on quality.

With so many insights gathered, we are excited to dive into the next section, where we will share our top picks for cheap and budget-friendly AR-15s. We have sifted through the market to find the gems that provide good value without burning a hole in your pocket.

We even list two of the cheapest AR-15s on the market, which are not bad options, especially if you can’t afford to spend $600-800 on a quality rifle.

If you’re in a rush, just remember our most important recommendations when buying an AR-15 on a budget –

1. Evaluate Quality vs. Price: Choose an AR-15 that balances affordability, reliability, and performance.
2. Identify Your Purpose: Select a model based on your specific use, be it range shooting, home defense, or hunting.
3. Research Features and Brands: Compare build quality, customization options, warranties, and brand reputation to ensure value for money.

So, let’s venture into our favorite cheap AR-15s, exploring what makes them stand out in a market flooded with options. Through our detailed reviews, we hope to guide you toward making a decision that aligns well with your budget and needs.

Image	Product	Price
	Best Overall – DB-15	Check Price
	Cheapest & Most Customizable AR-15 – Radical Firearms SOCOM 556	Check Price
	Cheapest AR-15 (Runner-Up) – ATI Omni Hybrid Maxx P3	Check Price
	Best Value – RUGER AR-556	Check Price
	Best AR-15 Under $500 – BLEM PSA PA-15 5.56 AR-15 RIFLE	Check Price
	Best Optic Ready AR-15 – Andersen AM-15 Optic Ready .223/5.56 AR-15 Rifle	Check Price
	Best Overall Performance – Smith & Wesson M&P15 Sport II	Check Price
	Best for Customization and Versatility – DPMS Oracle A3	Check Price
	Best for Durability and Traditional Design – Bushmaster XM-15 M43 A3	Check Price

Best Overall – Diamondback DB-15

Specifications

Pros & Cons

Our review of the Diamondback DB15 unravels why this rifle stands out as our favorite budget AR-15.

Our first interaction with this firearm was a detailed inspection in the shop, which transitioned to a comprehensive field test at the range.

This exercise revealed a blend of standard and modern features that embellish this rifle, standing as a testament to its affordability without compromising quality.

The heart of the DB15 lies in its robust construction, with the upper and lower receivers crafted from forged 7075 T-6 Aluminum, a hallmark of durability. The 7-slot M-Lok handguard, A2 flash hider, 6-position ATI Mil-Spec buttstock, and standard mil-spec trigger form a constellation of features that synergize to offer a reliable and ergonomic platform for any shooting endeavor.

The bolt carrier group, B.C.G, embodies a decent quality confirmed through our rigorous testing on the range. Moreover, the standard controls like the safety selector, magazine release, and forward assist blend simplicity with functionality, underlining the user-friendly nature of the DB15.

Our shooting experience was largely positive, despite a minor hiccup with gas expulsion in one of the models tested. The subsequent tests with other DB15 models displayed a consistent and reliable performance that significantly bolstered our confidence in this rifle.

The ease of customization and the rifle’s performance across different magazines and ammunition types further sweeten the deal, making the DB15 a worthy contender for anyone seeking a budget-friendly AR-15.

The blend of affordability, reliability, and solid construction makes the Diamondback DB15 an excellent choice for range shooting or home protection, living up to the essence of a great home protection rifle.

Cheapest & Most Customizable AR-15 – Radical Firearms SOCOM 556

Specifications

Pros & Cons

The Radical Firearms AR-15 emerges as a strong contender in the budget firearm market, showcasing a blend of affordability and performance that’s hard to ignore. You can currently find them priced at around $399, which is insane!

Since this also happened to be the lowest-priced option on our list, we awarded it as the cheapest AR-15 that we would personally recommend to our friends and family.

Our experience with this AR was largely positive, demonstrating that a modest price point doesn’t necessarily translate to compromised quality. It braved sub-zero temperatures and still performed efficiently, a testament to its durability. The rifle was highly reliable, with 273 of 275 rounds fired without a glitch.

The minor hiccup with two rounds failing to eject was a small setback but not a deal-breaker. The rifle’s accuracy was commendable, too; hitting 10” gongs at 100 yards was a breeze, making it a viable option for those who train within such ranges.

The upgraded furniture was one of the more impressive features, which significantly deviated from the standard fare in budget AR-15s. The B5 Systems Type 23 P-Grip and Bravo Stock were welcome upgrades, enhancing the overall feel and handling of the rifle.

The ambidextrous safety selector was a nice touch, adding a level of user-friendliness not often found in entry-level ARs. The free float rail system was a standout feature, offering ample room for accessories and customization, making the rifle feel more premium than its price would suggest.

The rail system and the M-Lok slots provided a solid platform for customization, a trait cherished by firearm enthusiasts.

In our rigorous testing with Radical’s AR-15, we explored the rifle’s ammo flexibility and were pleased with its performance across different ammo types, barring minor issues with the 55-grain Winchester FMJs.

The Radical Firearms AR-15 scored well in our assessment, particularly in the customization and value departments.

Radical Firearms has managed to package a reliable, user-friendly, and customizable AR-15 at a price point accessible to many. This rifle is more than just a budget-friendly option; it’s a solid performer that holds its own, making it a worthwhile consideration for anyone looking to own a reliable AR-15 without burning a hole in their pocket.

Cheapest AR-15 (Runner-Up) – ATI Omni Hybrid Maxx P3

Specifications

Pros & Cons

The Omni Hybrid is lightweight, sleek, and highly durable. It was designed and put through a series of tests to tolerate a wide range of abuse.  

The reason we chose this as the runner-up to the cheapest AR-15 is that it also comes in at $399, but we really enjoyed the Radical Firearms RF-15 during our testing, and since they both came in around the same price, we recommended the ATI as runner-up.

The manufacturers at ATI used pressure and weight-bearing tests based on the US Military’s form of weapon testing. After extensive testing, ATI was satisfied with how well the gun functioned, even after the heavy machinery used to treat the gun like an armament.  

Despite the high durability, the gun only weighs about 5.5 pounds. The lightweight feel is due to the material that makes up the structure of the gun. The lower and upper section of the gun comprises a fiberglass-composite polymer and zinc material that has been reinforced.  

The Omni Hybrid also features a 6-position stock beveled mag to assist you in making faster magazine switches. The gun’s overall length is 34 inches, with the barrel being 16 inches long.

The Omni Hybrid is a great semi-automatic rifle, and the gun is also selling at a great price. It’s challenging to beat a cheap AR-15 under $500. Because of the Omni Hybrid’s lightweight yet powerful material and affordable price, I have chosen this gun as the best in its category. 

Best Value – RUGER AR-556

Specifications

Pros & Cons

With the Ruger AR-556, you get a lot of options in variety. 

For the RUGER AR, several gun variations feature an original design, capacity, or model.  

The RUGER AR currently comes in three styles: standard, MPR, and free-float handguard. The standard RUGER AR 5.56 NATO is my top pick out of the available types.  

Model number 8500 has a total length of 32.25 inches, with the barrel length being 16.10 inches. The front sight has an adjustable post, and the rear sight features a folding rapid deploy mechanism.  

The RUGER AR features 7075-T6 hard-coat aluminum forgings and a proof-tested 9310 steel bolt. Along with those features, the gun offers an 8620 steel bolt carrier. On the inside, the gas key and carrier are plated with chrome. 

The standard RUGER AR is easy to use by one person due to the barrel nut and delta ring feature. The glass-filled and heat-resistant nylon handguard provides a safe and dependable gun-handling experience.  

However, you can use your favorite handguard, as the gun’s design allows you to use most carbine-length handguards.  

Best AR-15 Under $500 – BLEM PSA PA-15 5.56 AR-15 RIFLE

Specifications

Pros & Cons

Having fired over a thousand rounds through our PSA Blem PA-15, we can confidently say this budget AR platform performs incredibly well for the price point. The minor cosmetic blemishes in no way affected functionality, and we experienced zero malfunctions even when rapidly dumping mags of cheap steel-cased ammo.

This carbine felt great right out of the box, with the free-floated M-Lok handguard and nitrided barrel standing out as high-end features not always found on entry-level rifles.

After cleaning off the factory grease and properly lubing the BCG, the PA-15 cycled smoothly and locked back flawlessly on empty magazines. While the trigger and furniture are basic mil-spec, accuracy was more than acceptable for defensive use, churning out consistent 2 MOA groups.

We also found the mid-length gas system provided a softer shooting experience than carbine-length alternatives.

When considering value, at just $499 the PSA Blem PA-15 is hard to beat. The savings over a comparable new rifle allowed us to upgrade with a red dot, sling, and magazines while keeping the total investment under $650. For the budget-minded, this AR platform checks all the boxes – reliable, durable, plenty accurate, and backed by PSA’s excellent customer service.

The minor cosmetic blems are barely noticeable but get you huge savings.

We strongly recommend the PSA Blem PA-15 as one of the best values among complete budget AR-15s. The negligible cosmetic defects don’t affect performance; you still get PSA’s lifetime warranty.

This rifle proved itself reliable and accurate for defensive use right out of the box. The free-float handguard and nitrided barrel are great upgrades on pricier models. If you are looking for an affordable, functional AR-15 to start with, definitely consider this PSA Blem.

Best Optic Ready AR-15 – AM-15 Optic Ready .223/5.56 AR-15 Rifle

Specifications

Pros & Cons

I have chosen the Anderson Manufacturing Optic Ready Rifle as the best optic-ready semi-automatic rifle on the list.  

Our experience with the Anderson AM-15 proved it to be a top contender in the budget AR-15 market, primarily for self-defense purposes.

The simplicity of the AM-15, denoted as a Plain Jane rifle, didn’t detract from its performance. From the get-go, it felt right, demonstrating a balance between lightweight and sturdy construction. The 8 lbs. weight made handling easy without feeling flimsy.

Shooting the AM-15 was a straightforward and rewarding experience. Even with the factory setup, the rifle showed impressive accuracy. Our initial range testing yielded a ¾-inch group, a performance typically expected from more expensive models.

The AM-15 didn’t just stop at being a budget-friendly option; its accuracy stood out during our testing. Despite the windy conditions during one of our range sessions, the AM-15 managed to hold its ground, delivering an 11/16 group with Nosler 55 gr. BTV ammo at 100 yards.

The ease of achieving tight groups even under less-than-ideal conditions spoke volumes about its performance. Clearly, the rifle was not just budget-friendly but a performer where it mattered most. The AM-15 was not just a self-defense rifle; its accuracy made it suitable for varmint hunting, stretching the value of this budget AR-15.

Moreover, the reliability of the AM-15 was unmatched in our tests. It functioned flawlessly with no malfunctions encountered, even after several boxes of ammo. This reliability extended our trust in the AM-15 as a self-defense weapon.

The consensus from other online reviews mirrored our experience, further solidifying the AM-15’s position as a value-for-money, reliable, and accurate self-defense rifle. This budget-friendly AR-15 didn’t just meet our expectations but exceeded them, making it a worthy consideration for anyone needing a self-defense weapon without stretching their budget.

Best Overall Performance – Smith & Wesson M&P15 Sport II

Specifications

Pros & Cons

It’s hard to find people who don’t know the Smith & Wesson name, even if they’re not interested in firearms. The famed manufacturer has produced good guns since the 1850s and continues to lead the market with outstanding build quality and general ingenuity.

The M&P 15 Sport II is fundamentally a sporting rifle engineered for both recreational and sport shooting applications. It also works well in most professional environments.

This model features a Magpul MBUS Rear Sight system, a forged internal trigger guard, forward assist & dust cover systems, and an Armornite barrel finish. The 6-position collapsible stock gives it more flexibility than some competing products and is generally compatible with standard AR-15 accessories.

As sold, this rifle holds 30 rounds and weighs about 6.5 lbs total, which makes it light enough to carry for extended periods without trouble. The safety is a standard setup, which doesn’t wow me but also isn’t a problem. I don’t hold anything against manufacturers when they include systems that work, even if I think they could find ways of improving somehow.

The one thing that notably sets this rifle apart from the Radical Firearms model is the shorter rail system. Unlike that model, where the rail goes practically the entire gun length, the M&P Sport II has a noticeably limited area that offers less customization.

This rifle is a little more rear-heavy than some of its competitors, thanks to the smoother, narrower end of the barrel. If you’re used to larger barrels, you may need to spend a little more time practicing with this gun to get used to the difference in weight.

To be clear, none of this means the M&P Sport II is a bad rifle. Quite the opposite, actually. This is a fantastic rifle on its merits, even if the price is pushing what I’d call budget pricing. However, it’s not quite as customizable as some other models. In other words, you’re trading flexibility for overall quality, and that’s a deal many people are happy to take.

Best for Customization and Versatility – DPMS Panther Oracle (Runner-up)

Specifications

Pros & Cons

The DPMS Panther is a well-balanced AR-15 model, and the ORC variant works particularly well for most situations. This affordable option is about 6.4 lbs and features a 10+1 capacity and a 16-inch barrel. The rail system is a standard Picatinny unit on a receiver and gas block.

This is functionally a mid-range carbine that hits the sweet spot between the sporting and tactical markets. While not quite the right choice for most tactical personnel, its affordability makes it a great training gun and will outperform many other budget models.

This unit also offers a good amount of flexibility with its rail system. While it doesn’t quite match up to the Radical Firearms unit’s incredible length, it still has more rail space than many competitors and more opportunities to customize it to your liking.

The DPMS Panther ORC also benefits from generally high build quality, which means there are rarely any issues with the rifle itself as long as you take care of it. You might see the occasional problem with a magazine, but DPMS typically replaces those without giving you any trouble.

However, the same factors that serve as strengths for this rifle also serve as a weakness. It’s not quite good enough to be a truly tactical weapon, which cuts out an entire market segment. It’s modestly affordable but still not the cheapest option, which means it doesn’t appeal to true budget-seekers either.

In short, this rifle is a good option for those who want to spend more than the minimum amount on a rifle but don’t want to increase their budget enough to enter the truly professional range. It’s a nice gun but a little harder to match the target market.

Best for Durability and Traditional Design – Bushmaster XM-15 M43 A3 (Runner-up)

Specifications

Pros & Cons

Bushmaster isn’t quite as well-known as some other companies on this list, but the XM-15 M43 A3 Carbine Rifle is still an excellent option if you’re looking for a solid, reliable gun. Among its most notable features is an A2 flash hider, making it a better choice for hunting and tactical needs.

The outer coating is a Mil-Spec manganese phosphate setup that provides excellent protection from rust and corrosion, while the bore and chamber are chrome-lined for general longevity and ease of cleaning. That’s the kind of detail I like to see on AR-15s, and it’s one of the reasons this rifle got onto my final list.

Other notable features include a detachable carry handle, an F-Marked front sight base, an M16 bolt carrier, and a staked castle nut. While this rifle performs well, it’s definitely more of a close-range rifle straight out of the box. You can tell because the handle takes up the entire length of the rail system, leaving no real room for attaching other accessories.

The biggest strength of the AR-15 system is its flexibility, and carry handles aren’t particularly useful for many buyers. Some people will like them, sure, but I’d rather see that as an optional extra, you can get along with the rifle instead of a component that comes standard.

While you may end up removing the handle and replacing it with something more useful for your environment, this is still functionally a professional-grade AR-15 and suitable for most purposes.

Make sure you check the exact specifications of your model, though. Some versions of this rifle have a 30+1 capacity while others only have a 10+1, and that could make a major difference in overall performance while you’re out shooting.

Of course, it is pointless to read about which guns are the best in each category without explaining what to look for when buying. You should be looking for many things in a high-quality yet affordable semi-automatic rifle. 

Things to Keep in Mind

When buying any kind of gun, there are a few things that you should keep in the back of your head.

Why Do You Want an AR-15? 

There is no wrong answer for wanting an AR-15. Whether you are a collector and want to add to your collection or a hunter looking for something new to experiment with. However, there are many different models of semi-automatic rifles.  

Some semi-automatic rifles are better for hunting, while some are better for working with beginners. Some rifles will work for more than one activity. Knowing what you plan to do with the gun once you have it can help you narrow down a choice.

Your Personal Budget

Luckily, as we saw in the list above, many affordable options for high-quality AR-15 guns exist. If you are working with a decently sized budget, you may feel compelled to look at a wider range of options.  

Many great guns fall within the $1,000-$1,500 range. If you can afford it, you may find it in your best interest to invest a little extra in a gun that you find very appealing. 

However, you can often find a gun for less than $1,000, or even less than $600. Keeping your budget in mind will help you to avoid overspending. 

What to Look For In An AR-15

Now that you know what benefits owning an AR-15 can provide, you should also know what makes a high-quality gun. 

The Price

As mentioned before, your budget is important when selecting a final product. It is important to research the gun you are interested in thoroughly. While a gun may seem great due to its price, you may not receive the highest quality. Your gun may break, leading you to spend double the money to replace it. 

On the opposite side of the spectrum, just because a gun is expensive does not mean it is high quality. Buying an expensive gun only to have it falter on you is a costly inconvenience that can typically be avoided. 

EXPERT TIP: We recommend establishing a routine for the maintenance and care of your AR-15. Regular cleaning, proper storage, and periodic check-ups are essential, especially for budget models, to ensure they remain in top condition.

The Build 

For crafty gunmen, there are many options to buy an AR-15 set that has not been assembled yet. These sets allow you to create your AR-15 with your own hands. These sets are a great option if you are into building your firearms. 

EXPERT TIP: We advise you to familiarize yourself with local and federal firearm laws. Understanding the legal aspects of owning and modifying an AR-15 is crucial for responsible ownership.

However, if you are looking to get a finished AR-15, make sure that you are aware of how the gun is built before purchasing it. Overlooking this detail could lead to a frustrating experience, so make sure you clarify whether the gun is a complete rifle.  

You may not be out of luck if you accidentally buy the wrong kind of rifle. Many firearm companies have a return policy or a product warranty, which brings us to our next point. 

Warranty

Finding an AR-15 of high quality is the end goal, but no matter how high quality a gun is, accidents will still happen. Whether you made a mistake on your end or there was an incident during the shipping process, mistakes happen. 

Firearm companies know that there is a chance that something could happen to your gun that is beyond control. As a result, many firearm companies offer a warranty plan. The length and conditions of the plan often differ from company to company, so make sure that you read the details of any warranty before accepting it.

Accessories and Features

The accessories and features that come with an AR-15 can change the value of the gun.  

Depending on your use of guns, you may be looking for a gun with higher safety features. Or you may be looking for a specific kind of M-lok attachment, suppressor, or Wylde chamber. Either way, there are countless accessories and features to choose from.  

You will also want to consider the material used to build your AR-15. Different materials provide different levels of durability. The material that the gun features can also affect how heavy or light the gun is.

If you are not very knowledgeable about the different AR-15 parts, such as the bolt carrier group, you may find it in your best interest to research them or read our guide on bolt carrier groups.

The Size 

When selecting an AR-15, you will want to note the gun’s size. 

Depending on how you like to work with guns, the standard length of a barrel is typically 16 inches long. However, some people may prefer something different from the standard 16-inch barrel. Depending on the situation, some people find working with a longer, mid-length, or shorter barrel easier.  

The best barrel size depends on personal preference. If you enjoy working with lightweight and easy maneuvering guns, you may want to choose a gun with a shorter barrel length. A longer barrel might be the best option in instances where long-range shooting is preferred, such as hunting.

A gun’s weight and overall length can also bring pros and cons. Heavy guns are difficult to move around with but can be great for aero-precision and long distances. Lighter guns are great to carry while moving around on foot, but bullets can fall short if your target is moving. 

The Brand

Countless firearm brands around the world sell and distribute AR-15s.

Brands ranging from Diamondback to Magpul, to DPMS Panther Arms, to Remington and Bushmaster are well known among the gun community. Remington is responsible for creating the .223 Remington rifle cartridge. Palmetto State Armory, or PSA, is one of the most popular companies for AR-15 parts. Brownell’s will also provide many of these parts.

Some brands, such as Springfield Armory, founded in the late 1700s, have been around for hundreds of years. Some brands are much more modern, like Sig Sauer, founded in the late 1970s, and Daniel Defense, founded in 2000. Even Geissele was founded in the year 2004.  

It is essential to remember that while some brands are certainly better than others, one brand’s value is often a matter of personal preference. If you are familiar with a certain brand already, you may find it helpful to look for an AR-15 within the brand you are already using.  

The differences in brands can expose you to different styles of guns.  

It can also be helpful to experiment with different brands, however. Some brands may feature a certain design that you find works best for you and your family. Brands such as Diamondback are well-received for their affordable prices. Shopping around for different brands can provide you with many great options. 

What Are The Benefits of Owning an AR-15?

There are several benefits of owning an AR-15 for many different situations, such as its lightweight design and low recoil, customization options for enthusiasts, effectiveness in hunting with high accuracy, and ease of repair due to its straightforward mechanical structure.

Self Defense

One of the biggest reasons that people buy any gun is for self-defense. In a world where nothing is certain, owning a firearm is a way to help many families sleep easier at night. When it comes to self and home defense, the AR-15 has helpful benefits. 

Because AR-15s are typically lightweight and easy to work with, they allow whoever is handling the gun to move quickly and efficiently. In a situation that requires self-defense, it is essential to move quickly. 

As well as providing free movement, AR-15s often have very low recoil. A low recoil on a gun is a great way to prevent loss of time or self-injury during a frantic situation. Low recoil is favored among guns in general, as guns that possess strong recoils are usually tricky to work with and can sometimes be painful. Using a gas block can also help lessen the recoil. 

Customization Options

If you are a collector of guns, then you know that being able to customize your gun is a great benefit. With an AR-15, you will have a lot of options for customizing and experimenting with your gun. 

An AR-15 that is optic-ready will allow you to add on red dots, iron sights, and more. Most models will allow you to switch out stocks, handguards, triggers, quad rails, charging handles, BCGs (bolt carrier groups), and other various parts of the gun, such as:

• Uppers
• Lowers
• Suppressors
• Flashlights
• Lasers
• Magazines
• Pistol Grips
• Backup Iron SIghts

The mechanical system of an AR-15 is relatively easy to understand and work with when you have a good knowledge of guns. Those who are skilled in working on guns will be able to customize a standard AR-15 to their hearts’ content. 

Hunting

Hunting and keeping control of livestock can be made much easier through the use of a semi-automatic rifle. 

The AR-15 is known for providing great accuracy with low recoil. The gun can function well on its own, but those who customize their guns can get more significant results when it comes to hunting. Laser optics and sights can make hunting in the dark a breeze and customizing other features to make a great hunting rifle. 

Easy to Fix

Owning an AR-15 can help turn you into a handyman. If you want to learn how to take a gun apart and put it back together, the AR-15 would be a solid option.

Because the structure of the gun is easy to navigate, many people can fix any mechanical issue without going to a specialist. When fixing a gun yourself, you get to save money while learning how the gun works. 

While not every issue that occurs when working with an AR-15 will be within your realm to fix, you can enjoy the process of trying.

Two of the cheapest AR-15s you can buy are the Radical Firearms SOCOM 556 and the ATI Omni Hybrid Maxx P3.

The Radical Firearms SOCOM 556 excels in reliability and versatility, offering smooth functionality and a robust build with a well-designed handguard and balanced barrel weight, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a quality AR-15 component at an affordable price.

The ATI Omni Hybrid Maxx P3 features an innovative polymer and steel hybrid lower receiver, providing durability and cost-effectiveness, standard AR-15 features, and good accuracy, suitable for personal and home defense.

Our guide on the best AR-15 ammo discusses the importance of selecting the right ammunition for your AR-15, emphasizing that the choice depends on your preferences and your rifle’s characteristics.

When choosing ammunition for your AR-15, it’s essential to match the ammo with your rifle’s specifications, such as barrel length, twist rate, and gas system, as these can significantly affect performance.

It’s also important to balance cost and performance, ensuring you get reliable ammunition that suits your budget.

Experimenting with different types of ammunition is key, as each rifle may have its own preference, impacting accuracy and overall shooting experience. Testing various options will help you determine the best choice for your specific AR-15.

For a comprehensive understanding and specific recommendations, read our full article on selecting the best AR-15 ammo.

There are many great options for a cheap AR-15. Of all the guns I have personally tested, I found the DB-15 is the best option.  

But if you’re looking for the cheapest AR-15, I’d strongly recommend the Radical Firearms AR-15. We really enjoyed our time shooting with it and were surprised at how low the price tag was.

The DB-15 is a durable and user-friendly gun that does not take a lot of experience to handle properly. Simultaneously, the gun has many features and customizable options that allow experienced gun users to experiment with different options. The design is modern and aesthetically pleasing. On top of that, the gun costs less than $600.  

The DB-15 beat out the other four contenders on the list, but the other options still hold much value. Each gun was ranked the highest in its category, and you can substitute the DB-15 if you prefer a specific category.  

EXPERT TIP: We recommend comparing these budget AR-15 models with higher-end options. Understanding the differences can help you gauge what features or performance aspects you might be missing and whether they justify the extra expense.

Now that you have all of the information needed to buy an AR-15, including the best option for an AR, it is time to go and get your dream rifle.