I have been a member of the board for a short time and read oh so many posts on peoples AR preferences.  I have for my own reasons narrowed my first AR choice down to 3 choices.  If anyone has any comments to help me decide I would appreciate it.  I am looking for a starter gun.  If I really get into the AR I may buy another gun.  The first gun should be affordable and fun to shoot.  I want to mount either a red-dot or other scope to the AR.  I have gone back and forth whether I should get an A3 or an A2 and just mount the optics for my first one on the carry handle.  I am looking at the Olympic PCR 5 ,Cavalry Arms M-4, or the scout flattop.  I am going to order from Atlantic Firearms.  Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Rooter

For my FIRST rifle I would get the 20" A3.  It will do everything you want with irons or a red dot.  I always go with full size rifles first and then pick up more specialized carbines late.  Just what I prefer to do.  YMMV.

Good Luck!

I agree...
Learn on a 20" rifle. Better accuracy at longer ranges.

I bought a Bushmaster 20" A2 Target. My first choice was a A3 match Colt, but he sold it the day before I was ready to buy, so I bought the Bushy instead.  Now I'm looking at red dots for optics to mount on the Carry handle.

Next rifle will be have an A3 upper...

[sniper2]  

I am leaning toward the 16" barrel.  Although this will be my first AR it will not be my first firearm.  I have an AK and many, many bolt action rifles in various calibers so I am confident that I can adapt to the shooting characteristics of the carbine barrel.  I understand there are deep feelings among some of you guys about which manufacturer you prefer.  To each his own.  I have made manufacturer choices, but as far as the model I have narrowed it down to the three choices I listed above.  Thanks for the input.  If anyone has any other comments about the 3 rifles I would appreciate it.  If there is one thing I have learned is that this board has a WEALTH of knowledge.  I should also add that in my area AR's are very pricey.  I feel confident that if I do indeed like the AR life I can sell my budget weapon and make a small, but tidy profit and step up to an "all the bells and whistles" model

Thanks,

Rooter