Kel Tec SU16 or kit built AR?

[W Turner]

I am going to go one of these routes to get a Ar15-mag fed semi-auto rifle. I just haven't decided which one yet.

If I build an AR I will likely use an Anvil Arms lower receiver and either a Del-Ton or Model 1 kit. That is unless I am able to find a kit builder that will build me an A1 16" upper as part of the kit. I put the total cost at $650-$700 using a flattop upper and still having to buy a BUIS.

I am not married to the idea of the AR platform though. This is where the SU16 comes in. The 16" models all use AR front sights, it's AR15 magazine-fed and the reality is that I won't be using whatever I buy in the desert in Iraq or similar harsh conditions. Matter of fact, I will do well to make it to one carbine class every other year or so. The rest of the time, it will be used as a range toy and maybe HD.

For $650 I can get a 16" SU16 model, and an adequate (no Eotech or Aimpoint) optic for the price of the AR kit. I will also have a factory to turn to for any issues that may come up.

For MY intended purposes, which way to do you think I should go.

DISCLAIMER: I am a fan of Kel Tec's in general. If your opinion is "buy an AR kit because all Kel-Tec's stink" or similar, please just pass this thread on by.

Thanks,
W

 

[Aaryq]

Ya know, W Turner, I've been in the market for an .223 plinker and I didn't even think about your logical answer about factory support. I'd say go with the Kel-Tec.

 

[Z-Michigan]

Some other options: DPMS Sportical, and Armalite AR-180B. Those are both assuming you're trying to reach a price point of $700 or less, and are indifferent to the AR-15 design. Both get you factory support, with a lifetime warranty on the Armalite, and mostly very standard AR parts on the Sportical.

The SU-16 is innovative, but if you don't own any AR-15 design, I think you would really enjoy having one (although probably not the carbon cleaning part, hehehe).

 

[stiletto raggio]

Grab a Sprotical. I have two more expensive ARs but after handling one in the local shop, I was impressed. Remember: the original AR-15 had no forward assist.