All You Need to Know Before Buying Your First AR-15
Welcome to the exciting, slightly overwhelming world of AR-15 ownership. Before diving into the world of AR-15s, ask yourself, “Why do I want this rifle?” Are you looking to impress your friends at the gun range, or are you preparing for the unlikely event of an active shooter? Maybe you’re a deer hunter in need of a new challenge, or perhaps you’re just looking for something to keep handy for home defense. Whatever your reason, knowing why you want an AR-15 will help guide your purchase.
Whether you’re a seasoned ticket holder to the gun show or just a curious newcomer, we have created this helpful (hopefully) step-by-step guide so you can decide the best way to purchase (or build) your very first AR.
The Origin of the AR
It is always helpful to know a little about the history of any life-changing purchase. Contrary to popular belief, “AR” doesn’t stand for “Assault Rifle” or “Automatic Reaper.” It actually stands for ArmaLite Rifle, after the company that designed it in the 1950s. Originally developed as a military rifle, the AR-15 has become a popular choice among civilians for its versatility and modularity. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of rifles, only cooler and with more attachments.
The first weapon to be commonly regarded as an assault rifle was the German StG 44, introduced during World War II. It was developed in response to the German military’s need for a new type of weapon for their infantry forces. The StG 44 was capable of both automatic and semi-automatic fire and was chambered for a new type of cartridge, the 7.92x33mm Kurz (short) cartridge. This intermediate cartridge was less powerful than traditional rifle cartridges but more powerful than pistol rounds, providing a good balance of range and firepower in combat scenarios.
The idea was to equip soldiers with a weapon that could be effective at the typical combat ranges of 200-300 meters, which were shorter than the distances envisioned in earlier military doctrines. The StG 44 allowed soldiers to carry more ammunition and to fire more effectively in the automatic mode than with the full-powered rifle cartridges of older rifles.
Buying Guide
Complete Rifle: Pros and Cons
Buying a complete AR-15 is like buying a season ticket; it’s straightforward, you know exactly what you’re getting, and you can use it right away. You walk into a gun shop, pass a background check, and walk out ready for action, assuming you’ve endured the waiting period mandated by state law.
Benefits
1. Ready to Use: One of the most significant advantages of buying a complete AR-15 is that it comes fully assembled and ready to fire. This is ideal for those who are eager to use their new rifle right away without the hassle of assembling parts.
2. Reliability: Complete rifles are assembled by professionals (like us) and undergo factory testing (by us) to ensure they meet quality and safety standards. This can provide peace of mind regarding the rifle’s function and performance.
3. Warranty Coverage: Most complete AR-15s come with a manufacturer’s warranty. This can be invaluable if any issues arise with the rifle, as the manufacturer can repair or replace parts under warranty.
4. Simplicity: For those new to the AR-15 platform, buying a complete rifle simplifies the process. There’s no need to research individual components or worry about compatibility issues between parts.
Cons
1. Cost: Generally, buying a complete AR-15 can be more expensive than building one from parts. The convenience of a ready-made rifle often comes at a premium.
2. Lack of Customization: While some customization is possible after purchase, buyers are initially limited to the configurations chosen by the manufacturer. This can be a drawback for those who have specific preferences for components like the barrel, trigger, or stock.
3. Generic Components: Some manufacturers may use generic or lower-quality components to keep costs down. This can affect the overall performance and durability of the rifle compared to one built with hand-selected, high-quality parts.
4. Learning Opportunity: Building an AR-15 provides a deep understanding of how the rifle functions, which can be beneficial for troubleshooting and maintenance. Buying a complete rifle skips this learning process.
Building Your Own: Pros and Cons
On the other hand, assembling your own AR-15 from scratch is for those who prefer to build their season from the ground up. You select your lower receiver (the heart of the rifle) and upper receiver (the brains), choose the perfect gas block and tube, and decide if you want a traditional rifle scope or a red dot sight for close-range engagements. It’s like being both the coach and the quarterback, which can be incredibly rewarding or a total disaster.
Pros
1. Customization: Building your own AR-15 allows you to select each component according to your specific preferences and needs. Whether it’s the barrel length, trigger mechanism, or aesthetic elements like color and finish, you have complete control over the customization.
2. Cost-Effectiveness: Often, building an AR-15 can be more cost-effective than buying a complete one. You can shop around for parts, take advantage of sales, and avoid paying for features you don’t want or need.
3. Educational Value: Assembling an AR-15 from scratch is an excellent learning experience. You gain a thorough understanding of how each part functions, which can be invaluable for troubleshooting and maintenance.
4. Satisfaction: There’s a significant sense of accomplishment and personal attachment when you build your own rifle. This DIY aspect can enhance the overall enjoyment of the firearm.
Cons
1. Time and Effort: Building an AR-15 requires time and effort. For those unfamiliar with firearm assembly, the process can be challenging and time-consuming.
2. Tools and Space: You’ll need specific tools and a suitable workspace to assemble an AR-15. The initial investment in tools and the space requirement can be a barrier for some.
3. Warranty Issues: Individual parts may have warranties, but a self-assembled AR-15 doesn’t come with the comprehensive warranty that a complete gun might have. Any issues might need to be addressed part by part.
4. Reliability Concerns: Unless you are very skilled, there might be reliabil
Why Mitchell Defense Rifles are the Best for Beginners and Advanced
Now, let’s talk about Mitchell Defense Rifles—because, let’s be honest, not all AR-15s are created equal. Mitchell Defense rifles have garnered a reputation for excellence in the crowded AR market, distinguishing themselves through several key features that appeal to both novice shooters and experienced enthusiasts. Our rifles are renowned for their precision engineering. Each component is meticulously designed and manufactured to ensure optimal performance and reliability.
We use high-grade materials, such as aerospace-grade aluminum and premium steel, which contribute to the durability and longevity of our rifles. This attention to detail in manufacturing means tighter tolerances and better overall fit, which can significantly enhance accuracy and reliability.
So there you have it, your field guide to buying your first AR-15. Before you know it, you will be a pro. Whether you go for a complete Mitchell Defense rifle or choose to buy your parts from us and assemble your own, we promise, we won’t disappoint. Happy shooting!
