Im looking to purchase my first AR10 in the next couple of months. Ive been on a number of web sites (Fulton armory, Bushmaster, Armalite, and Colt) to name a few. Is there a difference between these mentioned companies products. What is the best entry level rifle to buy and from whom. I'm looking to spend up to $1,500.
Welcome to the site. I think you'll find it a pleasant and informative experience. As for which AR10 to buy, I agree that it can be a somewhat confusing process. I believe that it stems from there being no set standard for the platform in the same manner that exists for the AR15/M16/M4. Each manufacturer can put their own "spin" on the AR10 if it so desires.
You've answered one of the key questions already - budget. But what is the intent for this rifle? Intent will drive the features that you consider "must have." Also, does your budget allow for optics/sights? Many AR10 rifles come without either, so that should be a planning consideration.
Another question you need to ask yourself is, "How far can I shoot?" This isn't in reference to your shooting skills, but to the distances you will be shooting. I've seen folks drop major coin on a long-range precision stick, but only shoot it 100 yds because that's the longest distance available at their local range.
In my opinion, Armalite offers the best bang for the buck. The barrels are excellent, the triggers are very good, and the rifle is very well made with a good balance between reliability and accuracy. Check out many of the Armalite sub-forums here. Then check out other platform or brand specific forums. What you don't see here versus those other forums are threads that start, "I just bought rifle X and it's not working right." You don't see much of that at all here.
When I did my cost/benefit/usage analysis, it led me to Armalite. I picked up an AR10A4 carbine w/NM trigger for $1500 OTD. And I'm very happy with the purchase.
I obtained my AR10 10TCBNF from BudsGunShop.com for a smidge over 1500... shipped. I did approach my range's store (sorry Joe, I can get them but it'd be retail) and a couple others locally, but at almost $400 under retail buying online was hard to pass up. Now, I do support my local range having bought my carry Walther and all my practice ammo from them... and in kind they are free w/ assistance, casual education, pointers, etc, so we in essence support each other (as it should be)... we all need our local retailers (sorry for the sermon).
Where I got silly with my (wife's) money was buying an EOTech and Burris tripler... for when the zombies attack?
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