Best AR-15 Style Rifles (2020 Guide)

An AR-15 style rifle is any lightweight semi-auto rifle that has its design based on the original ArmaLite AR-15. With so many choices nowadays, it can be difficult to decide on which AR-15 style rifle might be the best for you. In this guide, we’ll cover some of the best AR-15 style rifles currently available on the market and help you decide which one’s right for you. 

Editor’s Pick: ArmaLite Eagle-MFT

Performance: ★★★★★

Modularity: ★★★★★

Reliability: ★★★★★

Value for money: ★★★★★

Aesthetics: ★★★★★

Every aspect of the Eagle, from its operation to its looks and feel, sets the benchmark for what an AR-15 rifle should be. It’s a compact, lightweight carbine with a very ergonomic design delivering ultra-fast and precise shooting action. 

It is chambered to shoot either the .223 Remington or 5.56 NATO ammo and features a full auto bolt carrier, forward assist and dust cover. The gun is highly reliable and tough under all conditions. It would never disappoint when you fire it up, whether it is on the range or in a more critical situation.  

Runner-up: Bravo Company Recce-14

Performance: ★★★★★

Modularity: ★★★★★

Reliability: ★★★★★

Value for money: ★★★★★

Aesthetics: ★★★★

The Recce rifle was originally developed to provide US special forces with a better lightweight alternative to the original M4, boasting enhanced ballistics and utility function over the former. Now, its semi-auto version is available for the civilian market, and make no mistake, this carbine is just as praise-worthy as its military cousin.  

The rifle is superbly reliable and shoots accurately and softly. It is chambered to shoot 5.56 NATO rounds and features one of the best triggers of any AR rifle. It also has an excellent mid-range gas system that allows it to run cooler than most of its counterparts. 

It was a difficult choice to make between the Recce and the Eagle on who should be the top pick, but ultimately, the lower price and better aesthetics of the Eagle granted it a slight edge.

Best Budget AR-15 Style Rife: Aero Precision AC-15M 

Performance: ★★★★

Modularity: ★★★★★

Reliability: ★★★★

Value for money: ★★★★★★

Aesthetics: ★★★★

While the firearm company is better known for providing AR-15 parts, they also sell fully assembled rifles. For those on a tighter budget, you will find that there are few better options than the AC-15M. The rifle boasts excellent value for money, featuring many of the bells and whistles you will find on pricier options. The design is highly ergonomic, shoots great right out of the box, and there is a little compromise when it comes to the quality of its components. Overall, it makes for an excellent rifle for first-time buyers, being budget-friendly as well as relatively simple and a breeze to maintain. 

Best Compact AR-15 Style Rife: Springfield Saint Pistol 

Performance: ★★★★

Modularity: ★★★

Reliability: ★★★★★

Value for money: ★★★★

Aesthetics: ★★★★★

For home defense or for operations in close quarters, a lightweight and short length rifle is the best option, being more easily maneuverable and easier to aim and fire. Featuring a barrel length of just 7.5 inches and a weight of just 5.6 lbs., the Saint Pistol is as compact as an A5-style rifle can get. It is chambered for the usual 5.56 NATO cartridge and features an M-LOK rail and a Picatinny section for easy accessorizing. 

Despite its short size, shooting remains surprisingly comfortable and accurate. While the noise is loud, it isn’t terribly so, and most of it is pushed towards the target away from you thanks to its superb muzzle blast divider.  

It is definitely a fun rifle to fire with a crisp trigger and a very smooth operation. The rifle’s material looks and feels very high-quality, justifying its relatively higher price tag. 

Best High-End AR-15 Style Rife: Daniel Defense M4 V1

Performance: ★★★★★

Modularity: ★★★★★★

Reliability: ★★★★★

Value for money: ★★★★

Aesthetics: ★★★★★

No compromise has been made from the arms manufacturer in their construction of the M4 V1. And, this is clearly seen in the remarkable shooting performance it delivers. The fit and finish of the rifle are exceptionally good, and the precisely machined parts feel super durable. 

When it comes to personal medications, there is hardly another option on the market that can boast as much accessorizing. Virtually all A5-15 parts and upgrades can easily be fitted onto this rifle 

The rifle’s design is ambidextrous, accommodating to left-handers just as much as right-handers. The proprietary buttstock and pistol grip are sturdy yet comfortable. While it’s certainly an expensive option, being priced almost twice that of most other rifles on this list, the M4 V1 is certainly one of those rare A5-15 rifles that manage to be excellent in every aspect, making the price well justified. 

Best Beginners AR-15 Style Rife: Ruger AR 556

Performance: ★★★★

Modularity: ★★★★

Reliability: ★★★★★

Value for money: ★★★★★

Aesthetics: ★★★

Thanks to its simplicity, affordable price tag, and rugged durability, the Ruger AR 556 makes for an excellent beginner’s AR-15 style rifle. To keep the cost down, the rifle is mainly composed of standard mil-spec components. Because of that, while it would certainly not rank high in aesthetics or make your gun garner much attention at the range, it still makes for a very functional complete design. In addition, when you do your upgrades, you probably won’t feel that bad about replacing them. Maintenance of this rifle is a breeze, and it is versatile enough to perform superbly in a variety of settings, from sports, shooting to home defense. 

Over to You 

Which of the above AR-15 style rifle mentioned above would you plan on buying or already own? Tell us in the comments below. Also, don’t forget to purchase your rifle ammunition supply from our store where it is being offered at a great discount.