Looking for my first AR. I will use it more for recreation than defense. Should I start with a 5.56 or a 22lr? The cheap ammo is leaning me towards the 22 but since it is my first I feel I should be more traditional and get the 5.56.  If I do go 5.56 couldn't I buy a 22 upper later?

Thanks.

5.56...it has no kick and is highly accurate...you wont regret it.  Like you I've always considered getting a 22lr AR, but for some reason it keeps getting pushed back for that "I've got to have that" new toy.  

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like FOREST stated you can buy a 22 drop in conversion or even a spare 22 upper

If your going to go the conversion kit route its better to get a 1:9 twist barrel.  If you can find a light weight barrel in 1:12 that will work best with 22 lr but limits you to bullets up to about 60 grains in 5.56.  Most 1:7 twist barrels don't do well with 22 LR and 1:8 twist are usually SS varmint/target barrels.  A friend has used a Ciener in a SS RRA 1:8 twist Wildey chamber and it did pretty go.  I like 1:9 twist, it  allows you to go up to 70 grain bullets in 5.56 and still shoots 22 LR pretty good.  Fortunately the conversion kits are getting easier to find now.  I'd recommend Spikes or CMMG conversion kits before Ciener or Olympics Rimfire Adapter (RFA).  If your not concerned about using the AR for defense or hunting I'd still consider the 22 LR upper.  Anything you buy you can usually sell pretty quick for close to what you paid if you don't like it.  I have 3 5.56 uppers/rifles and 3 22 LR uppers/rifles.  My 22 LR uppers go to the range every week at least.  My 5.56 upper only get shot once or twice a year with the price of ammo and since getting the 22 LR uppers.  Then there is what everyone here recommends, GET BOTH! (I know I've got BRD)