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Posted: 1/20/2022 10:01:20 PM EDT
Hello all,

Super long story short, I used to live in CA and built my first AR about 9 years ago with some cool parts (Geissele, Magpul, etc.) I wanted and was happy with. I eventually converted it to a 22 cause I was sick and tired of all the changes in the laws. I soon fell off the AR bandwagon and forgot about AR's for the most part.

Fast forward to now, I have moved to Texas and for my job I am strongly, strongly advised to purchase my own AR as soon as possible. There is no strict criteria, other than it has to be basically quality and duty grade. Looking to make the purchase ASAP.

I have a budget of around $1,500 for just the rifle.

So far I am looking at this FN rifle: https://www.gtdist.com/fnh-fn15-556-16-tactical-carbine-mod3-w-buis-first-responder-pricing.html

Seems to offer a lot for $1000 some dollars. I already know what optic and light I want to run and also plan to drop in a few upgrades like an ACT trigger I have lying around and also switch out some of the furniture to Magpul.

Just wondering if you guys think it is a solid choice for a foundation AR?


Thanks!
Link Posted: 1/20/2022 10:36:11 PM EDT
[#1]
Colt 6920 or a BCM of one flavor or another would probably be the easiest to acquire

Edit SOLGW usually have some for sell at one of their vendors.
Link Posted: 1/20/2022 10:40:30 PM EDT
[#2]
That looks like a good option OP. If you choose that one it will likely serve you well. I would also consider the following:

Daniel Defense
Windham Weaponry
Geissele
Colt
Link Posted: 1/20/2022 10:42:02 PM EDT
[#3]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
Colt 6920 or a BCM of one flavor or another would probably be the easiest to acquire
View Quote

Probably

Hard to find an AR that isn't good to go even at a 3rd of that budget but the 6920s are relatively cheap right now for something that will absolutely be reliable and durable for just about anything you need.


Edit
Geissele Super Duty's are a probably my favorite right now if they can be had at 1500. Trigger, rail, and gassed perfect only need buis and whatever you want to mount to it.
Link Posted: 1/20/2022 11:31:12 PM EDT
[#4]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
That looks like a good option OP. If you choose that one it will likely serve you well. I would also consider the following:

Daniel Defense
Windham Weaponry
Geissele
Colt
View Quote

Idk how you could lump Windham in there.
Link Posted: 1/20/2022 11:45:37 PM EDT
[#5]
Giessele has LEO rifles at good prices too.
Colt 6920
BCM M4 of some sort
Centurion Arms
SOLGW, if you can find in stock.

Rainier, LaRue  a few other boutique companies probably will too

Link Posted: 1/20/2022 11:57:22 PM EDT
[#6]
Daniel Defense. But we're all gonna have our favorites and thankfully it's tough to buy a stinker nowadays if you do a little bit of due diligence
Link Posted: 1/20/2022 11:58:10 PM EDT
[#7]
Same brands everyone has listed.

For my work gun I use a 12.5 Centurion Arms

Attachment Attached File
Link Posted: 1/21/2022 12:02:50 AM EDT
[#8]
I would skip the FN and look for a 6920 EPR or 6933 EPR if you don't mind doing paperwork.


Link Posted: 1/21/2022 12:07:16 AM EDT
[#9]
6920 EPR is a little hard to find in stock right now, but here's one on Gunbroker that isn't too expensive.
https://www.gunbroker.com/item/919770575


Link Posted: 1/21/2022 12:13:01 AM EDT
[#10]
13.7" for in and out of vehicles. And you won't find a better warranty than SOLGW. Use it in a lawful defensive shooting and your rifle is seized for evidence, they'll replace it. Shoot out the barrel, they'll replace it.

https://www.interstateguns.com/solgw-m4-patrol-sl-13-7.html

https://www.interstateguns.com/solgw-patrol-sl-16.html
Link Posted: 1/21/2022 12:30:52 AM EDT
[#11]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
Same brands everyone has listed.

For my work gun I use a 12.5 Centurion Arms

https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/86935/2D5E130A-B2D3-4D75-98BC-020028A30CB3_jpe-2248268.JPG
View Quote

Those are nice but haven’t been in stock for like 2 years
Link Posted: 1/21/2022 12:32:21 AM EDT
[#12]
I would go with Sionics or Colt if the budget is 1500 or less. DD or Geissele if you can go up to 1700-1800
Link Posted: 1/21/2022 2:12:07 AM EDT
[#13]
That FN 15® TAC3 Duty rifle is built with 4140 barrel.
A rifle with CMV barrel is much better option.
Link Posted: 1/21/2022 8:19:40 AM EDT
[#14]
Freedom Trading
Attachment Attached File
Link Posted: 1/21/2022 8:26:55 AM EDT
[#15]
You aren't getting better for your money with a BCM BFH upper, their furniture is some of my favorite as well.
Link Posted: 1/21/2022 10:28:09 AM EDT
[#16]
If it where me

Bravo Company Manufacturing 5.56 NATO Mid-Length BHF AR-15 Barreled Upper - MCMR-15 - 16"

Aero Precision M4E1 Complete AR-15 Lower Receiver - MOE SL Grip & SL Carbine Stock - Black

Sons of Liberty Gun Works 5.56 M16 / AR-15 Bolt Carrier Group - Phosphate


That setup from primary arms is is $1280 shipped

That leaves you cash for a sling and some good metal back up sights
Link Posted: 1/21/2022 10:55:15 AM EDT
[#17]
Why not just build your own?  Easy enough and you get exactly what you want, and it will be less expensive.  Its fun too.

Even if you buy an off the shelf firearm, in my mind its not "reliable" until proven so.  Lots of rounds, in adverse conditions provide the proof.

With a little searching, you can probably buy all the parts you need or want, unless you are getting exotic, in an afternoon session on the internet, or a really good local gun shop.



Entirely off topic, but I'm curious:  what sort of job does one have where you are very, very highly encouraged to get yourself an AR?
Link Posted: 1/21/2022 11:26:45 AM EDT
[#18]
Keep it simple, that FN you found is perfectly fine. FN makes great firearms.


Link Posted: 1/21/2022 11:37:27 AM EDT
[#19]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
Keep it simple, that FN you found is perfectly fine. FN makes great firearms.


View Quote


Seconding, $1,000 is a great price on the TAC3, you won't be disappointed. I followed the link, I thought it was the actual TAC3 not the midwest model. Still would be fine but not nearly the deal I thought it was
Link Posted: 1/21/2022 11:59:45 AM EDT
[#20]
SOLGW / Sionics or most of the others (non-propietary) at the top of the "tier" list.

Get on the "SOLGW Owners Group" Facebook page and I'm sure you can find one in stock somewhere.



Big Tex Ordnance (in Conroe) has 6920's in stock @ $999, FN-15 @ $1300...

Primary Arms, sorting by brand has quite a few candidates.

Geissele has their Super Duty, coupled with a SHOT show 35% off coupon it would be around $1,300.
Link Posted: 1/21/2022 11:59:55 AM EDT
[#21]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
You aren't getting better for your money with a BCM BFH upper, their furniture is some of my favorite as well.
View Quote


Military M4 and M16 rifles were not CHF. No need to focus on a BFH (CHF) rifle. I have a BCM and it's not CHF at all.
Link Posted: 1/21/2022 12:00:23 PM EDT
[#22]
BCM
Link Posted: 1/21/2022 12:49:40 PM EDT
[#23]
Aero M4E1 lower with act trigger.

Aero upper with rail of your choice, omitting the BCG

Sionics phospate BCG
Link Posted: 1/21/2022 1:06:22 PM EDT
[#24]
For $1500 you should be able to buy a Colt 6920, Aimpoint, Blue Forces Gear Vickers sling.
Link Posted: 1/21/2022 2:12:06 PM EDT
[#26]
Build your own
Link Posted: 1/21/2022 2:44:46 PM EDT
[#27]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
Build your own
View Quote



Most departments require them to be factory built. They usually have a list of approved manufacturers. The Colt Enhanced Patrol Rifle is designed for department use. That would be my choice
Link Posted: 1/21/2022 2:59:18 PM EDT
[#28]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
Why not just build your own?  Easy enough and you get exactly what you want, and it will be less expensive.  Its fun too.

Even if you buy an off the shelf firearm, in my mind its not "reliable" until proven so.  Lots of rounds, in adverse conditions provide the proof.

With a little searching, you can probably buy all the parts you need or want, unless you are getting exotic, in an afternoon session on the internet, or a really good local gun shop.



Entirely off topic, but I'm curious:  what sort of job does one have where you are very, very highly encouraged to get yourself an AR?
View Quote



Yea I’d build as well. Start with This Barrel OP and start buying parts

If not building I’d feel good with most the brands listed here, and I’d even throw in a premium PSA rifle.
Link Posted: 1/21/2022 3:16:12 PM EDT
[#29]
Bee See Emm
Link Posted: 1/21/2022 10:26:53 PM EDT
[#30]
Thanks for all the responses, guys.

The Colt 6920 EPR seems like a nice rifle, but I noticed that it is a carbine gas system. Isn't that pretty undesirable for a 16" barrel compared to a mid length gas system?

My criteria right now is 5.56mm, 16" barrel, and as of now, I prefer a mid length gas system. However, I have been out of the AR loop for quite some time and if the 6920 is really all that then I might give it a top consideration.

Thank you!
Link Posted: 1/21/2022 10:56:34 PM EDT
[#31]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
Thanks for all the responses, guys.

The Colt 6920 EPR seems like a nice rifle, but I noticed that it is a carbine gas system. Isn't that pretty undesirable for a 16" barrel compared to a mid length gas system?

My criteria right now is 5.56mm, 16" barrel, and as of now, I prefer a mid length gas system. However, I have been out of the AR loop for quite some time and if the 6920 is really all that then I might give it a top consideration.

Thank you!
View Quote


Nothing wrong with a 16in 6920, port size is more important than gas length and Colt does it right, or find a 16in BCM that should be easy since it seems to me most people want a pinned 14.5.
Link Posted: 1/21/2022 11:01:36 PM EDT
[#32]
There are those who say that mid-length is better on a 16" AR.  I don't have one, so I can't weight in on that debate.

But, if you're talking "duty-grade," every issued M16 "carbine" in the US military has been carbine gas, from the XM177 to the M4.  So, regardless if there's a better way, carbine gas has been working for over 50 years now...
Link Posted: 1/22/2022 12:51:42 AM EDT
[#33]
Check out Colt’s 6960 16” mid length gas, smooth shooter.
Attachment Attached File
Link Posted: 1/22/2022 1:35:13 AM EDT
[#34]
Add it to your cart and it's $1,425.00.

https://tombstonetactical.com/product/daniel-defense-ddm4-carbine-v7-5-56-16in-32rd?utm_source=ActiveCampaign&utm_medium=email&utm_content=Exercise+Your+2A+Rights+With+The+DDM4+V7+From+Daniel+Defense+%F0%9F%87%BA%F0%9F%87%B8&utm_campaign=Weekly+1+16+22+-+DANIEL+DEFENSE#product_detail
Link Posted: 1/22/2022 2:10:22 AM EDT
[#35]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:

Idk how you could lump Windham in there.
View Quote


Is Windham Weaponry deficient in an area? I’m considering one of their carbines.
Link Posted: 1/22/2022 6:59:21 AM EDT
[#36]
Nothing wrong with Windham.
Link Posted: 1/22/2022 9:16:36 AM EDT
[#37]
I have a 20" WW and find it to be superb. I'd expect nothing less from their other guns. Same with a few parts from them I have on builds. I equate "Duty-Grade" to the dude with the 4-hour boner. Great marketing. "Sucker born every minute" deal.
Link Posted: 1/22/2022 10:33:21 AM EDT
[#38]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
Thanks for all the responses, guys.

The Colt 6920 EPR seems like a nice rifle, but I noticed that it is a carbine gas system. Isn't that pretty undesirable for a 16" barrel compared to a mid length gas system?

My criteria right now is 5.56mm, 16" barrel, and as of now, I prefer a mid length gas system. However, I have been out of the AR loop for quite some time and if the 6920 is really all that then I might give it a top consideration.

Thank you!
View Quote



When you say duty grade, you are talking for a LEO application correct? Or are you using it as an arbitrary term which means nothing?
Link Posted: 1/22/2022 11:38:33 AM EDT
[#39]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History


Have you ever bought anything from Atlantic Firearms? Online reviews give them 1.5 stars.
Link Posted: 1/22/2022 11:51:52 AM EDT
[#40]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
Add it to your cart and it's $1,425.00.

https://tombstonetactical.com/product/daniel-defense-ddm4-carbine-v7-5-56-16in-32rd?utm_source=ActiveCampaign&utm_medium=email&utm_content=Exercise+Your+2A+Rights+With+The+DDM4+V7+From+Daniel+Defense+%F0%9F%87%BA%F0%9F%87%B8&utm_campaign=Weekly+1+16+22+-+DANIEL+DEFENSE#product_detail
View Quote


Can't beat that TBH.
Link Posted: 1/22/2022 11:52:50 AM EDT
[#41]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
Have you ever bought anything from Atlantic Firearms? Online reviews give them 1.5 stars.
View Quote


Yes. Got my ZPAPM70 from them last April and multiple AK magazine orders. Absolutely no issues and they don't charge tax (to my state at least).
Link Posted: 1/22/2022 11:59:07 AM EDT
[#42]
Lots of options. Not sure if you a have a length requirement, but a factory built DD mk18 upper half is around $1,100. You could build a basic lower with decent parts and stay close to the 1500 mark.
Link Posted: 1/22/2022 12:00:27 PM EDT
[#43]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
There are those who say that mid-length is better on a 16" AR.  I don't have one, so I can't weight in on that debate.

But, if you're talking "duty-grade," every issued M16 "carbine" in the US military has been carbine gas, from the XM177 to the M4.  So, regardless if there's a better way, carbine gas has been working for over 50 years now...
View Quote


None of the military ones were 16", though.  10.3", 10.5", 11.5", and 14.5".  The URGI 14.5" are mid-length, though, IIRC.
Link Posted: 1/22/2022 12:08:25 PM EDT
[#44]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:


Can't beat that TBH.
View Quote View All Quotes
View All Quotes
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
Quoted:
Add it to your cart and it's $1,425.00.

https://tombstonetactical.com/product/daniel-defense-ddm4-carbine-v7-5-56-16in-32rd?utm_source=ActiveCampaign&utm_medium=email&utm_content=Exercise+Your+2A+Rights+With+The+DDM4+V7+From+Daniel+Defense+%F0%9F%87%BA%F0%9F%87%B8&utm_campaign=Weekly+1+16+22+-+DANIEL+DEFENSE#product_detail


Can't beat that TBH.


Looks like they're out of stock now. Showed in stock when I posted it.
Link Posted: 1/22/2022 12:10:33 PM EDT
[#45]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:


Yes. Got my ZPAPM70 from them last April and multiple AK magazine orders. Absolutely no issues and they don't charge tax (to my state at least).
View Quote View All Quotes
View All Quotes
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
Quoted:
Have you ever bought anything from Atlantic Firearms? Online reviews give them 1.5 stars.


Yes. Got my ZPAPM70 from them last April and multiple AK magazine orders. Absolutely no issues and they don't charge tax (to my state at least).


Thanks. I've been thinking about one of the newly released 6920 SOCOMs and that's a decent price, just don't know that I'd be willing to roll the dice with them after reading the reviews.
Link Posted: 1/22/2022 12:20:34 PM EDT
[#46]
Daniel defense
Link Posted: 1/22/2022 12:32:26 PM EDT
[#47]
At this point I would go for a 6920, 6920-EPR or Centurion C4
Link Posted: 1/26/2022 10:16:48 PM EDT
[#48]
Just wanted to post an update.

I ended up just buying the Colt 6920 Enhanced Patrol Rifle. It seems to be really hard to find but my local gun store I guess remembered that I called and ended up getting one for me. I ended up paying $1379 + tax so essentially full price. It's not a mid length gas system but oh well hopefully it shoots well.

I was going to settle with a Daniel Defense DDM4 V7 but it was really going to stretch my budget plus I would need flip up sights for it right away, whereas the Colt already comes with MBUS Pro sights which I really wanted to try.


On a side note, wow is the buying process painless here compared to California....
Link Posted: 1/26/2022 10:51:47 PM EDT
[#49]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
Just wanted to post an update.

I ended up just buying the Colt 6920 Enhanced Patrol Rifle. It seems to be really hard to find but my local gun store I guess remembered that I called and ended up getting one for me. I ended up paying $1379 + tax so essentially full price. It's not a mid length gas system but oh well hopefully it shoots well.

I was going to settle with a Daniel Defense DDM4 V7 but it was really going to stretch my budget plus I would need flip up sights for it right away, whereas the Colt already comes with MBUS Pro sights which I really wanted to try.


On a side note, wow is the buying process painless here compared to California....
View Quote

I just went through the same thing trying to find a new rifle. I too ended up back with Colt. So far I’ve put 400rds through it and it’s run flawlessly. I think it (6921 upper) may actually be more accurate than my older 6920. The Centurion rail is awesome, it’s very thin and feels great
Link Posted: 1/26/2022 10:53:58 PM EDT
[#50]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
Just wanted to post an update.

I ended up just buying the Colt 6920 Enhanced Patrol Rifle. It seems to be really hard to find but my local gun store I guess remembered that I called and ended up getting one for me. I ended up paying $1379 + tax so essentially full price. It's not a mid length gas system but oh well hopefully it shoots well.

I was going to settle with a Daniel Defense DDM4 V7 but it was really going to stretch my budget plus I would need flip up sights for it right away, whereas the Colt already comes with MBUS Pro sights which I really wanted to try.


On a side note, wow is the buying process painless here compared to California....
View Quote


Hell yeah, you did good
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