[Guest]

Right off the bat, I have no interest in spending $1200 for an AR style weapon. The only gun I will consider in that price range is the Springfield M1A, that actually could double for big game hunting and has actual power to it, unlike the .223 round.

My little rant aside, I am looking for the best AR style .223 brand for the money. Possibly for use in home defense and 3 gun style competition (I don't really need advice as to peoples views on better options for home defense as I already have a shotgun w/ 00 buckshot and an XD40.) I understand "best" is subjective many times but I would appreciate some feedback on the best offerings in the $600-$800 range, or cheaper if a quality one can be had for less.

I am also curious as to your views on the Ruger Mini 14 as an alternative?

Thanks in advance.

 

[Paul]

You will not find one for less. In that price range I would simply watch ksl classifieds like a hawk and pick up a used one. There are some $800 new AR's you can buy from gun stores, but if you are patient you can pick up a much better gun for the same price off of ksl and not pay tax and get a lot more gun for the money.

 

[Kevin Jensen]

Check out Van Wagenens in Orem. Norm has some NEW Bushmasters starting as low as $700.

 

[Guest]

thanks for the info

 

[Guest]

The best AR for the money is an AK.

 

[Crusader Smithy]

Stag rifles

 

[Guest]

thanks guys, I am certainly not opposed to an sks or some 7.62x39 variant. I would certaily consider a Mini-30 or something to that effect. Honestly, if I were to ever need to be used in defense, and some shorter to intermediate ranges, I would prefer the power of that round over the .223 adn I feel it would have more knock down power and ability to penetrate a barrier if needed. If I was using it for varminting, that is another story, but I have no interest in that use for this gun.

 

[Guest]

well,

after some looking around, I think I may want to either go w/ a lower range Panther DPMS that I hear I can get from time to time at gunnies in the $700 range, or maybe try one of the Smith and Wesson M&P .223's that would be in the $850 range.. Although I have to admit that I am going into this in ignorance and really do not know what to look for or what is considered Junk, so to speak.