First AR suggestions ?

[whited]

Hi, any ideas for a good first AR ?

I don't need anything fancy, just something that works well and maybe
could be built on in the future. It would be just for general range/zombie use.

I am definitely not a rich man, so expense is important.

 

[highlander 5]

DPMS carbine $875 in my neck of the woods

 

[strat81]

If $$$ is most important, build it. You can give it everything you need and nothing you don't. Lower receivers start at $100 and it's the only part you need an FFL for. Complete, illustrated instructions are available at www.ar15.com.

If you want to buy it complete, avoid Hesse/Vulcan. Olympic is hit or miss. They're reported to be good for plinking but don't hold up to heavy use. You'll pay a premium for the Bushmaster and Colt names. DPMS and Stag, IMO, are the best values in AR-15s right now.

If you want to add geegaws and doodads in the future, I'd get a flat top. Don't forget the used market either. Check the marketplace here and the equipment exchange at arfcom.

 

[Obiwan]

Bravo Company

 

[Slugless]

Bushmaster carbine = $850, 20" HBAR = $868. A3 with removable carry handle. Houston gunshow.

Doublestar seems like a good value, a friend of mine has a carbine & is very happy with it, says it's very accurate. I've not heard any bad reviews here on THR.

Definitely get the A3 flattop.

DPMS comes with a chrome-moly barrel, not a chrome-lined barrel. I don't want to get into the pros & cons of that, just be aware.