Its popularity is undeniable within the world of firearms. The AR design has been around since the 1950’s and is only becoming more commonplace in the firearms landscape. In addition, the range of variants of this design available these days is staggering.
Their uses are as expansive as their designs. You can hunt with them or deploy them for self-defense, competition, recreational shooting and more. So, it begs the question: Is the AR-15 a suitable option for new shooters?
[Be sure to read Alan Rice’s Springfield SAINT B5 review.]
Following are my thoughts on this topic for the beginner considering an AR-15 for their first rifle.
Ease of Use
One of the best-selling points for the AR-15 platform is that it is extremely easy to use. More importantly, it has what I would call a common manual of arms. If you were blindfolded and we handed you any permutation of the AR-15 that Springfield makes, they would all function the same. The outward appearance might be different amongst models, but their safeties all actuate the same way, as well as their mag releases, triggers, bolt catches, dust covers, etc.
Versatility
Another aspect of the AR-15 that makes it a great choice for beginners is the platform’s modular design. Having a common blueprint to the design allows all manufacturers to produce interchangeable and user-serviceable components. This opens the door for practically limitless customization to make your firearm your own.
Also, it solves what I would call the “middle of nowhere” dilemma. If you are at a competition or on a hunt somewhere far away from home and something breaks where you need to buy new parts and service for your AR-15, could you? With this platform, it is a resounding “yes.” Not only are the firearms themselves abundant, so are the aftermarket parts for servicing and customizing them.
Recoil
On the spectrum of felt recoil, the AR-15 and its standard chambering of .223 Remington/5.56mm NATO is very much near the bottom, making it very welcoming to new shooters. Regardless of your stature, age or strength, the AR-15 is easy to confidently control.
Availability of Training Resources
With millions upon millions produced and in circulation, this platform is not only common but is a favorite amongst shooters both new and old. Therefore, there is an abundance of armorer’s classes to teach you how to maintain them, countless training courses for self-defense and marksmanship, as well as competitions varying from the most serious to the most casual. The amount of information surrounding the AR-15 is robust and often free, making the barrier to education very minimal.
In comparison to other beginner-friendly platforms, the AR-15 still wins out. Some that come to mind are the semi-auto rimfire rifle and the pump-action shotgun. All the respect to those other platforms, but the AR-15 is still more common, customizable and beginner-friendly in my opinion.
Cost
Another appealing reason that so many people gravitate to the AR-15 platform is its price. You can buy a standard Springfield Armory SAINT rifle for around $1,000. You can also buy just a lower receiver, the serialized component to the puzzle, and build your own from scratch.
For beginners who want a household name brand, a lifetime warranty, and the assurance that quality control has already been imbued into the product, the SAINT M-Lok AR-15 Rifle in 5.56mm is a wonderful place to begin.
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Expert Endorsements
Adam Richardson, the owner/founder of Tactical Carry, LLC in Minnesota as well as a staff sergeant in the Army’s 34th Infantry Division, had this say about the AR-15 platform in regards to its use by new shooters:
“For those new to shooting, the AR-15 carbine rifle is an excellent choice, offering a simplified design, ease of handling, and a user-friendly interface. Its adjustable stock and manageable recoil have made it a popular option among Americans learning to shoot.”
Adam Richardson is definitely someone who intimately understands the importance of training with your tool, as he has served this country and now teaches others to be safe, proficient shooters, too.
Other Considerations
Something else that may be worth noting are the regulations local to where you live, hunt or compete. Most areas of the country do not have any laws prohibiting the ownership or use of an AR-15, but select jurisdictions do. Be aware of this and do your research.
This also ties into the importance of responsible ownership and training. Responsible ownership is understanding and knowing the laws that are local and that apply to you. Furthermore, you should train with your chosen platform so you are proficient, safe, and competent.
Conclusion
If you are a new shooter reading this and are still on the fence about purchasing your first AR-15, I in closing simply want you to know that it is important to keep an open mind about such a popular, widespread and utilitarian platform that is the AR-15. Furthermore, you don’t have to go through your journey of gun ownership alone.
You can crowdsource people’s opinions on the AR-15 because everyone has one. You can get feedback from all of your friends because it is so popular. Since many firearms owners have at least one, you can poll your friends for advice on what they do or don’t like in their AR-15’s so you can have the best experience possible using yours.
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