[TheLaw]

Here is a link to a chart that has tons of information on the AR platform. I found this chart while searching over at M4carbine.net. The owner/creator of the chart is Rob_s, and I have re-posted this link with his specific permission. You can find information about Rob_s here. I found the information to be very helpful and has me wanting to sell my current AR platform and purchase one that is a little further to the Left on the chart. A S&W to be specific.

I hope you find the chart informative as I did.

AR Chart - http://spreadsheets.google.com/pub?key=pwswheghNQsEuEhjFwPrgTA&single=true&gid=5&output=html

 

[TedG954]

When you cruise the AR-dedicated sites, the "chart" is either hated or loved.

It is a good comparison of features, but it also suggests "tiers" of quality. Noveske, is supposedly at the very top of the heap. Does that mean that an RRA is second rate? Or, that Delton is junk? I don't think so. If you do your homework and research, you can put together a fine rifle that will last for years while hitting everything you aim at. The chart states objective fact and specifications. Subjectively, you can read whatever influences you to re-enforce postitively or negatively what you have already chosen. (PS... I own a Noveske)

 

[Rowdie]

Here is another link that has a lot of helpful information+ pics. I think Melissa5 posted this a few months ago.

http://forums.officer.com/showthread.php?81462-So-you-want-to-buy-an-AR-15-huh

 

[usa1_chevy]

Thanks! Was planing a build in the future, this will help.

 

[VolGrad]

I've seen the chart for years as well. A lot of it is lost on me anyway though as I either don't understand the details of the differences/options or find them not applicable for my intended use of the platform.

I am not a "if you build it, it will shoot" kind of guy. For that that are ... good for you. I personally will stick with complete rifles or at least complete uppers/lowers to mis-match.

I have pretty much narrowed down the brands I would consider for any future AR purchases to the following;
S&W M&P line (I already have one)
Daniel Defense
Rock River Arms (I had one previously)
Spike's Tactical
Noveske

That order isn't exactly set in stone but S&W and DD would be the two I personally would be looking the closest at. This is based on my experience with my M&P and lots and lots of reading. I can't give specifics on features that made me decide this. It's more about the overall quality and value each of these offers.

 

[MacA]

Before hopping on "the soapbox", I want to first say that I admire Rob_S for the time he took to develop such a detailed write-up on the important characteristics of an AR. I used it extensively while learning aboout the AR platform before I made my first AR purchase (Daniel Defense M4v2). Incredible tool IF USED PROPERLY!

My issue with the chart is that most people today reference this chart only when comparing the manufacturers listed on the chart. The flaw with the current chart is that the data is 5+ years old. Most of the manufacturers have produced numerous newer versions with higher quality parts and improved manufacturing and testing procedures.

The best way to use the chart is to pick several ARs that you are interested in and insert them into your own chart and compare current models against each other that way.

I have read that Rob_S is trying to update the data on the chart. The only issue is that that will soon be outdated as fast as this market is changing.

Stepping down now!!

 

[sfguard]

Well, now you have me wondering where my Spikes Tactical, and my POF would fall in there.

 

[TheLaw]

Before hopping on "the soapbox", I want to first say that I admire Rob_S for the time he took to develop such a detailed write-up on the important characteristics of an AR. I used it extensively while learning aboout the AR platform before I made my first AR purchase (Daniel Defense M4v2). Incredible tool IF USED PROPERLY!

My issue with the chart is that most people today reference this chart only when comparing the manufacturers listed on the chart. The flaw with the current chart is that the data is 5+ years old. Most of the manufacturers have produced numerous newer versions with higher quality parts and improved manufacturing and testing procedures.

The best way to use the chart is to pick several ARs that you are interested in and insert them into your own chart and compare current models against each other that way.

I have read that Rob_S is trying to update the data on the chart. The only issue is that that will soon be outdated as fast as this market is changing.

Stepping down now!!

I think that is an excellent point and one I did not think of. Might be good to do as you said and use this chart to find out the important piece of information on a AR one might be thinking about purchasing.

 

[Occam's Razor]

My first AR was purchased after getting some input from quite a few folks and some heavy thought on my part. I'd seen the chart before, but chose what worked for me. My Sabre falls in the middle of the pack as far as the chart is concerned. But in SBR version works perfectly for me and shoots spot on (as most will).

 

[VolGrad]

My Sabre falls in the middle of the pack as far as the chart is concerned. But in SBR version works perfectly for me and shoots spot on (as most will).

I've heard great reviews of Sabre SBRs.

 

[Occam's Razor]

I've heard great reviews of Sabre SBRs.

That was definitely part of my research, but also where they're made and how. I wanted the SBR for a couple of different reasons: 1) being short 5'6" when I kneel it doesn't shove the barrel into the dirt with a single point sling, and 2) easy to manuveur in rooms, cars, etc. Only changes I made were Magpul fore, pistol and butt. I liked the Magpul MOE because I can add rails if I want, otherwise simple is better.

 

[VolGrad]

That was definitely part of my research, but also where they're made and how. I wanted the SBR for a couple of different reasons: 1) being short 5'6" when I kneel it doesn't shove the barrel into the dirt with a single point sling, and 2) easy to manuveur in rooms, cars, etc. Only changes I made were Magpul fore, pistol and butt. I liked the Magpul MOE because I can add rails if I want, otherwise simple is better.

It appears we are of similar size & taste.

 

[ccrn_csc]

Well, now you have me wondering where my Spikes Tactical, and my POF would fall in there.

After much reading it appears that Spikes is one of the major brands and reasons for the "updated Chart". I have had a Spikes 16" midlength for about 1500 rounds now and it has performed flawlessly. I was wondering about your experiences with it. I feel as though I am more accurate with a 62gr round than a 55gr.

I know you reload - would you mind sharing a recipe for the 5.56?