Hi, I will be purchasing my first AR-15 this weekend, and I have reallly done my homework, I see that the Bushmaster is definitely the way to go. Like I said, I did my homework, but Im still confused on a couple of issues. Please dont kill me for sounding like a newbie(even thought I am) but whats the difference between the a1,a2,a3, m4????I have absolutely NO idea what these designations are. At the local gun shop, they pretty much all look the same to me, w/ minor variations.
This is what I know so far, I want a 16" w/ the short front handguard, as for the stock, I want the full stock (not the fake collapsible)(it can be changed later). Whats the full stock called? I really want the carry handle, i kinda like the iron sights, Is the flattop w/ the removable carry handle pretty much the same thing?
The gun is going to be used for plinking and having a good time, No competition or that kinda thing....
By the way, its going to cost me $825 before tax, is this ballpark for the NYC area? (stuff is definitely more $$ here)
One last thing, as for the barrel, what kinda flashhider/compensator should I get? like I said, they pretty much all look the same(I know I dont want that 5" long one, Id rather have the extra 3 1/2" of barrel...)
What else should I know?? Any help is appreciated and please throw you 2 cents in!!!