AUGs: MSAR vs. Steyr

[Anthony]

Hello Everyone,

While browsing at the local gun shop this past weekend I was comparing the new American made AUGs from MSAR and Steyr. In comparing them I could not help but notice the price difference of about $400 to $500.

How has the collective experience been from the board's rifle enthusiasts on these new version of a classic design?

Thank you for the input.

 

[Maverick223]

I would opt for the MSAR over the AUG due to the price, quality (no better, but no worse either), and being made in the US (making service work much simpler). OTOH, you are likely to come out better on the AUG if you decide to sell, but alas I buy guns that I like, not ones to sell. If I can save a a few bucks and get an equally nice carbine, that is made here in the USA, that gives me more pocket money to invest in shooting it, or investing in the next rifle.

How has the collective experience been from the board's rifle enthusiasts on these new version of a classic design?

I'd say that most prefer the genuine AUG, but most folks go more by he name on the box than the actual performance and build quality.

FWIW, I will have a new MSAR E-4 in 7.62mm if they ever build and sell the dang thing.

 

[Uncle Mike]

FWIW, I will have a new MSAR E-4 in 7.62mm if they ever build and sell the dang thing.

That's the spirit! lol

And, I would opt for the MSAR, well built, cost isn't bad and made right, made here, in the USA!

 

[leadcounsel]

I have the MSAR E4 and really like it. The drawbacks are the plastic guts, average trigger, and it will only take plastic M4 style mags. No metal mags. It's a sweet rifle for $1300.

 

[Maverick223]

The drawbacks are the plastic guts...

Isn't the Steyr AUG the same?

 

[iamkris]

I answered you over at GRRN / Pro Arms thread as well.

I've got an MSAR E4. I've been surprised by it...I didn't think I'd like bullpups but wanted to try one out. It is incredibly handy, I love that the compactness of it. Muzzle rise is less than an AR due to the geometry. The trigger has surprised me...much better than I thought.

Mine had a few minor troubles in the first few 100 rounds but MSAR customer service is impeccable. They bend over backwards for you. All troubles are gone. Bullpups won't replace traditional rifles in my safe but I appreciate them when pure compactness is required.

As for Steyr vs MSAR, MSAR has continually product improved the rifle and are being very innovative and responsive to customer requests. The company is reputable (Microtech knives are their background). If you absolutely must have a Steyr, buy it. But I wouldn't hesitate getting the MSAR.

Also, I made a podcast review of the rifle. Take a listen, let me know what you think

http://gunreviewpodcast.com/msar-stge4-kris-from-southwest-michigan/

http://gunrightsradio.com/forums2/index.php?topic=2767.msg19985;boardseen#new

MSAR StGE4



Me shooting my E4



Size comparison to other 16” barreled rifles



MSAR 30 round mag, USGI 30 round mag, CMMG 42 round mag

 

[Paul Kersey]

I have the STG-556. I've had no problems in over 4,000 rounds. The 1.5 optic is fine for it's intended for. Accessories are available online at a reasonable cost. I understand the company will do what it takes to make you happy.

 

[1KPerDay]

Here's my quick shoot/impressions of the Steyr AUG-A3:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sV2Ql6eIuBY

You may want to browse this guy's vids on the MSAR; he had problems with his bolt. They eventually replaced the rifle IIRC. Runs great now.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-h7XDISTwyY