AR-15 Rifle

Manufacturer: Multiple U.S. Manufacturers
Category: Small Arms & Infantry Weapons
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Caliber 5.56×45mm NATO / .223 Remington
Effective Range 500 to 600 meters
Rate of Fire Semi automatic
Weight Approx. 3.0 to 3.5 kg

Full Specifications

1. General Information

Name	AR-15 Rifle
Weapon Type	Assault Style Semi Automatic Rifle
Manufacturer	Multiple U.S. Manufacturers
Country of Origin	United States
Year Introduced	1959
Designer	Eugene Stoner
Service Status	In Service
Users	United States, Civilian and Law Enforcement Markets

2. Performance

Muzzle Velocity	2,700 to 3,200 ft/s
Effective Range	500 to 600 m
Maximum Range	Approx. 3,600 m
Rate of Fire	Semi automatic
Accuracy	High
Reliability	High

3. Dimensions

Overall Length	32 to 39 inches
Barrel Length	14.5 to 20 inches
Height	Approx. 8 inches
Width	Approx. 2.5 inches
Weight (Empty)	3.0 kg
Weight (Loaded)	3.5 kg

4. Ammunition & Firepower

Caliber	5.56mm / .223
Cartridge Type	NATO Standard Ball Ammunition
Feed System	Detachable Box Magazine
Fire Modes	Semi automatic
Operating Mechanism	Gas Operated, Rotating Bolt

5. Build & Materials

Construction	Aluminum Alloy, Steel, Polymer
Durability	High
Ergonomics	Modern

6. Sights & Accessories

Standard Sights	Iron Sights / Optical Ready
Optics Compatibility	Picatinny Rail
Accessory Mounts	M-LOK / Picatinny
Optional Attachments	Optics, Laser, Bipod, Flashlight, Suppressor

7. Variants

Variants

AR-15 Carbine, DMR Variant, Pistol Variant, Competition AR-15

8. Operational History

Combat Proven	Yes
Notable Conflicts	Derived military platform used in Vietnam, Iraq, Afghanistan
Military Adoption	Basis for M16 and M4 family

9. Additional Notes

Special Features	Modular receiver system
Modern Upgrades	Free float rails, optics integration, lightweight materials

10. Disclaimer

Legal Notice

Information is for educational purposes only. TheDefenseWatch.com does not sell, trade, or promote illegal acquisition of firearms.

Our Rating

The overall rating is based on review by our experts

Reliability 8 / 10
Firepower / Lethality 7 / 10
Accuracy 8 / 10
Versatility / Modernization 9 / 10

PROS

Lightweight and ergonomic design
Highly modular and customizable
Widely available accessories and parts
Low recoil improves controllability
Good accuracy at medium ranges

CONS

Sensitive to poor maintenance in some variants
5.56mm round has limited long range stopping power
Regulations vary across U.S. states
Entry level models may lack durability
Higher ammunition costs during shortages

AR-15 Rifle, Modular American Sporting Rifle

The AR-15 Rifle is one of the most recognized semi automatic rifles in the United States. Originally developed in the late 1950s as a lightweight infantry rifle platform, the AR-15 evolved into a widely used civilian sporting and tactical firearm. Its modular design, low recoil, and customization options have made it popular among sport shooters, law enforcement agencies, and firearm enthusiasts.

Designed around the 5.56×45mm NATO and .223 Remington cartridges, the AR-15 platform offers reliable accuracy and adaptable performance across short and medium range engagements. Modern variants support optics, suppressors, lasers, bipods, and advanced rail systems, allowing users to configure the rifle for hunting, target shooting, home defense, or tactical applications.

Manufacturer

The original AR-15 design was developed by ArmaLite in the United States under engineer Eugene Stoner. Today, the rifle platform is manufactured by numerous American defense and firearms companies, including Colt’s Manufacturing Company, Daniel Defense, Smith & Wesson, and FN America.

Its modular upper and lower receiver system allows extensive aftermarket support, making the AR-15 one of the most customizable rifle platforms globally.

Speed and Range

The AR-15 typically fires 5.56mm ammunition at muzzle velocities ranging from 2,700 to 3,200 feet per second, depending on barrel length and ammunition type. Effective engagement range generally falls between 500 and 600 meters with standard optics.

The rifle’s direct impingement or piston operating system provides fast cycling and manageable recoil, improving follow up shot accuracy during rapid fire situations.

Cost / Price

Civilian AR-15 rifles in the U.S. market generally range from $700 to over $2,500 depending on manufacturer, barrel quality, optics compatibility, and included accessories. Premium tactical variants with upgraded triggers, free float handguards, and enhanced coatings command higher prices.

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