Thoughts on a Colt AR

[Panhead Bill]

I was looking today at a new Colt AR-15. It's the first time in many years that's it's been made available in California. 6-position collapsible stock, flip-up front and rear sights, full-length quad rails (I think that's what you call it, the rail on top extends fully from the front to the rear sight-the other three are the length of the handguards), 16" barrel, gas impingement system, I think that's it. I have limited recent experience with AR's. I carried and shot the A-2 a lot back when I was in the Marine Corps, but that's been over 15 years ago, and I'm sure there have been a few changes since then, but then there's not much a reputable mfg can do to screw one up.

Anyone have experience with this specific model?  If so, what are your thoughts?  Price out the door after tax, fees, etc, is around $1600. Because it's CA, it'll be priced a little higher than anywhere else in the country. Im not sure how that price compares, except that this dealer is usually one of the lowest priced in my area.

My purposes for the rifle are (1) just for fun, (2) defense, (3) I'd like to get into 3-gun eventually, and (4) I also hope to do some small game hunting (further down the line but, if this rifle isn't perfect for that then darn, I'll have to buy another gun down the road) and right now, I'd prefer one that works for all of the above.

I guess ultimately what I'm looking for is if there are better models for the same/lower price or am I in the right ballpark?

Worth jumping into?

Bill

[Blackwing Shooter]

Cheaper than dirt had Colt for $900. I would also check G&R Tactical for a good price on Colt.  I am not sure if living in Cali will change the price.  When in doubt buy Colt.

[Panhead Bill]

Undortunaly, yes - pretty much all firearms are more expensive in CA, all across the board, most handguns are about $100 more. Even more so for "evil black rifles.". It sucks!

Bill

[NS2]

Still.  $1600 seems high for an AR.

Are the S&W M&P Rifles on the CA DOJ approved list?  Colt is a great manufacturer, but there are an equal number out there that are just as good. 

OR...are the attributes of this particular rifle what make it so valuable in CA?

[Panhead Bill]

Last night I looked in the most recent magazine from FMG that has a "buyers guide" in it and it lists that particular Colt as $1500, so it's in the ballpark. No, I'm not set on that particular model, it's just that I know Colt makes a solid AR. I'm also considering a Crusader Weaponry AR-style rifle (just found out they make 'Em CA compliant.)

Essentially, right now I'm looking for something basic and well-built, but has the capability to be added onto to make it better. So rails so I can put on better optics and so it's flexible, but a good barrel that can turn out good long distance accuracy, while still staying in the 18" range so that it's maneuverable in tight spaces. In sum, right now I want something basic, but quality, but on which I can expand to improve it.

Bill

[NS2]

Have you had a chance to check out the series of videos on building an AR at Brownells?

You may find them helpful.

[Panhead Bill]

I know it may be more cost-effective to build one, and I would have the advantage of knowing the rifle intimately, but for my first AR I want to make sure it's done right, plus I wouldn't have the factory warranty with one I build.

I may still build one in the future, but for this one I want to get it from the factory.

Bill