AR-15-platform rifles are some of the most sought-after firearms on the market. In many ways, it's the face of the firearm world. The "AR" in "AR-15" comes from ArmaLite, the company that first developed this rifle in the 1950s. It's important to note that "AR" doesn't mean "assault rifle" or "automatic rifle, commonly mistaken in English acronyms.
Misconceptions About AR-15 Style Rifles
People often mistake AR-15-style rifles for "assault weapons" or "assault rifles." However, an assault rifle is a fully automatic machine gun, which is very different from an AR-15. Since 1934, civilians have faced severe restrictions on owning automatic firearms.
If someone refers to an AR-15-style rifle as an "assault weapon," they either support banning these firearms or they don't understand their function and sporting use. The term "assault weapon" is a political term, first used by anti-gun legislators in California in the 1980s to ban some semi-automatic rifles.
M4 and M16 are basically military AR-15s but named differently with military designations.
Functionality and Legality of AR-15-Style Rifles
Even though AR-15-style rifles resemble military rifles like the M16 and M4, they operate literally the same minus the full auto feature. The semi auto AR15s fire one round each time you pull the trigger. You can legally own versions of modern sporting rifles in most states regardless of configuration limitations, as long as you pass the mandatory FBI background check required for all retail firearm purchasers.
The only exception is for a rifle barrel length under 16", which is governed under the ATF NFA law. Basically, the buyer has to register the rifle as a short barrel rifle in his/her state of residence, and pay $200 tax stamp to legally obtain.
Evolution and Versatility of Modern Sporting Rifles AR-15
Civilian sporting rifles have evolved from their military counterparts since the 19th century. The modern sporting rifle is just a continuation of this tradition. These rifles are popular for their accuracy, reliability, ruggedness, and versatility. They are suitable for all weather conditions and are perfect for target shooters and hunters.
AR-15 Caliber Platforms
Modern AR-15 rifles come in various calibers, including .22, .223 (5.56 x 45mm), 300 blackout, 6.8 SPC, .308, .450 Bushmaster, and many others. You can also find upper receivers for pistol calibers such as 9 mm, .40, and .45. There are even .410 shotgun versions. These rifles are versatile and can be used for a variety of hunting activities, range shooting and personal defense. They're also used for target shooting in national matches.
Power and Modularity of AR-15 Style Rifles
AR-15 style rifles are not more powerful than other hunting rifles of the same caliber. In fact, many of them are chambered in calibers less powerful than common big-game hunting cartridges like the 30-06 Springfield and .300 Win. Mag
One of the unique features of the AR-15 platform is its modularity. Owners appreciate the ability to attach different "uppers" (the barrel and chamber) to the "lower" (the grip, stock). The platform is popular to modify and refine as much as a sports car.