Buying first AR

[Rastus]

A good thread to resurrect.  My son may be buying his father-in-law an AR.  So....on the list is Palmetto State Armory, Ruger, Smith and Wesson, and maybe Armalite.  Something that is solid and at or below $800-$900.

Anything to chime in on with a price point at or below $900?

[alfsauve]

I don’t know the answer now as to when I started this thread.  However, a couple of related thoughts.

Not sure what son’s FIL would like, but if you go for heritage/history then either an Armalite or a Colt.  Okay I know Armalite isn’t exactly the same company but the name would be at least a nod to the creator, as Colt would be to the first government supplier.  Also think used in these categories.  If the FIL might have some practical use, such as hunting, then also consider something other than 5.56.  300BO or .458SOCOM.  If long range shooting, then one of the preferred 6 or 6.5 calibers.

If no special reason behind the purchase then as others have said, PSA might be the best beginners/tinkerers one to start. A gateway drug of ARs to speak.

[Rastus]

The FIL just wants one.  He grew up a city dweller and feels the need for defense.  He's not going to be shooting much at all...I doubt it will ever have more than 100 rounds through it.  I was thinking along those same lines with Armalite and Colt...but the Colt starts out pricing above what methinks the middle child wants to spend.  As far as caliber...I think the FIL would be fixated on the "military round".  Essentially, I think the AR is on the FIL's bucket list...he has bad kidneys.

[alfsauve]

Oh definitely a PSA w/ Armalite brand on it.  Well within the price range.  Only thing might be unique is if he could find an A1(Carry Handle) model to us older types the Carry Handle say's late '60s M-16.

<ADDED>   PSA does make an Upper with Carry Handle for ~$370.  If you son would mind buying the lower separate.  PSA has complete lowers for <$300.