The "Accidental" AR15

**Abominog** · December 24, 2011, 19:54

I recently had the pleasure to dine with some fine firearms RKIs. One, a well known MG guy; another, a student of Buffalo Arms; the third a serious collector of HKs; the fourth a quiet man well known to the most serious collectors but unknown to the vast majority of firearms collectors. And, obviously, me, the "oddball" FAL fan. Dolf was in town, but couldn't make it to dinner.

It was a fabulous time of sharing information on our particular fields of study. Though each man focused on one particular field of study, we all greatly appreciated the passion that each individual held for a specific design.

During the passage of conversation, one asked the HK guy if he has any AR15s. He responded "Not really" then with reflection, added, "well, I do own five or six."

Heads nodded in quiet understanding and agreement. None would consider the AR15s they own to be a collection, though undoubtedly, the specimens they possessed would please even the most discerning AR collector. It was clear that all had the same thought- hmmm...I guess I do have a few ARs, though I'd never thought of it as a collection.

And it seems to be an interesting phenomenon that is not uncommon. Serious collectors somehow over the years tend to "accidentally" acquire AR15s. Inevitably, one is a "functional" firearm with a useful, rather than collectible, purpose. The other ARs, well, it seems that they just got acquired "somehow."

Perhaps it is the ubiquitous nature of the AR; yet, I don't over-analyze the case. But clearly, many collectors of specific firearms models own ARs, even very unique and/or interesting ARs, but think nothing of it, and certainly wouldn't say that they are AR collectors.

Isn't that rather odd?

nwobhm · December 24, 2011, 20:25

I don't own an AR.

**hkshooter** · December 24, 2011, 21:41

Quote:

Originally posted by nwobhm
I don't own an AR.

Me either but I've owned five. They just never seem to stick around. I have my own thoughts about that.

jaykden · December 25, 2011, 00:59

i currently own more ARs than FALs.

although, i have built more FALs than ARs in the past. guess for me, it comes down to a variety of calibers. i have a 9MM, 5.45X39, 5.56, 300 BLK and a .308... all ARs of some sort.

the FALs still get shot often but not as much as the ARs just because of ammo costs.

my first EBR was an AR, but the next was an FAL. after that, the next AR was after i had acquired/built quite a few FALs.

now that i think about it, i don't really know why i got that second receiver...

hmmmm....

IanMor · December 25, 2011, 01:32

My first EBR was an AR too. I was a kid at the time. I got into MBRs as I matured. I competed a little in my area in NRA High Power matches. I never did well, raising a family I didn't have the time to put to it. Last rifle I competed with was an AR. It was nice, but it never really grew on me.

I have a standard barrel A2 I put together. I built it because it's like the ones I saw stacked all over the place at Parris Island when we went down for my son's graduation from boot camp. I figured I'd like to own what my son went to war with. But I dont have it for any other reason than that.

I like the MBRs. It's where I'm happy and confidant. I have built probably 50 ARs over the years, and near as many FALs. FALs are artwork. ARs are... Well, machines I guess.

I collect FALs and black powder guns. I don't know if it's possible to collect ARs?

**hkshooter** · December 25, 2011, 12:44

AR's have no heart.

AR's are the cats of the gun world while Garands, FALs, M1As and such are the dogs. Everybody loves dogs. Cats? Eh.
I love my cats but nothing warms the heart like a big eyed dog with his big ears layed back and "pet me" written on his forehead.

**Mebsuta** · December 25, 2011, 14:27

I luv AR A2s. Straight up A2 and A1 are nice looking rifels.

They are fun to build and shoot and 5.56 is easy cartridge to reload. They are light and if you have a little back or shoulder trubble, you will appreciate that.

catmguy445 · December 25, 2011, 14:27

The one really collectible AR I've seen was one I couldn't buy. My USAF Reserve unit had been activated for Desert Storm, and as CATM Specialists, part of out duties were performing inspections on Mobility Weapons. Another NCO and I were going through boxes of M-16's at Norton AFB and checking them for serviceability, and when we opened one box, there were several M-16's that didn't look quite normal.

Upon taking a closer look at them, besides having green furniture instead of black, the had unusual looking charging handles, sort of triangular instead of the normal "T" shape. When we checked the serial numbers, the receivers were marked "Armalite AR-15, Costa Mesa, CA", and all of them that we found were 3-digit or lower serial numbers. They were all selective fire, and of course, were all also government property, and the Air Force was going to send them to Kuwait to use in Desert Storm, which made all of us cringe a little bit, because all of them were absolutely brand new and in original condition and really should have been museum pieces.

So, yeah, there are SOME AR's that really are collectible. The problem is that they aren't for sale.

Bubacus · December 25, 2011, 15:47

I have a Colt H-Bar (CMP upper) A2 that I've had for about 12 years....I have many other guns and always put putting a M4 style gun off because I think they'll always be out there and improving in design. They are kind of like computer equipment...I don't buy one now thinking the latest and greatest innovation is yet to come..

I've concentrated on getting the odd ball firearms that I've been more fascinated with first....That being said, my A2 is the most accurate gun I own.

ftierson · December 25, 2011, 15:53

Quote:

Originally posted by Mebsuta
I luv AR A2s. Straight up A2 and A1 are nice looking rifels.

They are fun to build and shoot and 5.56 is easy cartridge to reload. They are light and if you have a little back or shoulder trubble, you will appreciate that.

About sums it up...

Forrest

Peconga · December 25, 2011, 16:18

Quote:

Originally posted by hkshooter
AR's have no heart.

AR's are the cats of the gun world while Garands, FALs, M1As and such are the dogs. Everybody loves dogs. Cats? Eh.
I love my cats but nothing warms the heart like a big eyed dog with his big ears layed back and "pet me" written on his forehead.

I think that sums it up perfectly! Maybe it is their chameleon nature or plastic fantastic construction or the historical association with Robert McNamara, but to me ARs simply seem to have no Soul.

By contrast, I recently spent a fair bit of time cruising the various AK forums, researching the idea of building some .223 AKs as household SHTF weapons. Although I have had a few AKs over the years, I never thought of them as collectible and certainly not as loveable. Imagine my surprise when I discovered that even the lowly AK has its own group of dedicated fanboys, with their own design aesthetic and who engage in endless, passionate debate over the merits of every different variation.

Whoa! You'd think they were talking about a REAL rifle, like a Garand or an FAL

**fal fiend** · December 25, 2011, 16:22

Like i read once about the m16. they are hell in fire fight.

**hkshooter** · December 25, 2011, 16:40

May sound weird but I won't own an AR now primarily because everyone else does. Can't go to the range for a minute without seeing some mall ninja loaded out AR fanboy thinking he's unique. I don't want to be associated with that croud.
There is an AR I'd own today but havent gotten serious about because of funds, and that's a Knight SR-15. Best of the AR world in my eyes.

zombie hunter · December 25, 2011, 18:40

I've accumulated a few. I started with a "mall ninja" 5.56x45, then I wanted something a little different (and liked the idea of a light barrel and short LoP fixed stock), so I got an M16A1 kit. Then I got a 5.45x39 to take advantage of the cheap ammo.

Now I find myself thinking I should jump on the 300 BLK bandwagon. I'd already have one if I didn't live in a state that doesn't allow suppressors.

SWOHFAL · December 25, 2011, 19:56

I have an A2 and will be building my own lowers here at some point to accessorize with various uppers in a variety of calibers. I think they are good to have available, considering they are the standard firearm of the land in this country, but unless they're something such as 6.8spc or the like, not especially interesting. Everyone ought to have at least one because of their ubiquity.

IanMor · December 25, 2011, 21:29

Quote:

Originally posted by Mebsuta
I luv AR A2s. Straight up A2 and A1 are nice looking rifels.

They are fun to build and shoot and 5.56 is easy cartridge to reload. They are light and if you have a little back or shoulder trubble, you will appreciate that.

Yup. Right on, Mebs. Maranatha bro!

Arby · December 25, 2011, 22:05

I bought my first SP1 back in the sixties. I really liked it, but I sold it in the seventies. I later found another SP1. I like them. But I don't make it a point to tell anyone that I do. But I don't really tell people that I like FALs, Garands, or other S/As.

It's either all accidental or it didn't actually happen.

**hkshooter** · December 25, 2011, 22:17

Starting to sound like an AR's Anonimous meeting.

aardq · December 25, 2011, 22:43

Abominog, can you please educate me on what an RKI is?

Thanks,
Dan

Windustsearch · December 25, 2011, 22:46

The AR-15 is nothing other than a Buck Rogers piece of shit.

**Jaxxas** · December 25, 2011, 22:58

I own 2.5 FAL's and 4.3 AR's! We are one big happy family! Fugg everybody else!

Merry Christmas!

**Abominog** · December 25, 2011, 23:26

Quote:

Originally posted by aardq
Abominog, can you please educate me on what an RKI is?

Thanks,
Dan

Reasonably Knowledgeable Individual. There are no "experts." Well, except maybe for Larry Ruth. Particularly with the FAL, there is not sufficient information, knowledge, or individual wealth to become an "expert." It is also a humbling term, one that when used admits that one does not know everything.

**bykerhd** · December 26, 2011, 00:08

Right now they are one of the cheaper things to shoot.
I can overlook/forgive the "sproing" in order to shoot more.

Plus, they are easy to play "mix-n-match" with tons of issue and after-market parts available and not too much for tools required.

You can spend a little, or a lot, and still have something that will outshoot an AK most of the time with better ergonomics and with an unbelievable assortment of options available.

All it takes is money....

Everbody should have an AR, or two, three, etc....

lew · December 26, 2011, 05:00

Quote:

Originally posted by hkshooter
AR's have no heart.

AR's are the cats of the gun world while Garands, FALs, M1As and such are the dogs. Everybody loves dogs. Cats? Eh.
I love my cats but nothing warms the heart like a big eyed dog with his big ears layed back and "pet me" written on his forehead.

I am in absolute agreement. I hate cats much more than AR's, though. If an AR got in the house, I'd have to play with it. All cats will be shot on sight. Fuckers. I do not own an AR, nor plan on doing so, but they are decent firearms. Also, not a 5.56/.223 fan.

Windustsearch · December 26, 2011, 17:44

Cat, it's whats for dinner. It may not be prime rib, but it'll make a turd.

Just don't shoot them with an AR, they'll grenade.

Lockbar · December 26, 2011, 19:34

I have been here for a long time, but only own two Fals. I have never been a member of ARF.com, but own 7 AR's. What does this mean??

Nomad, 2nd · December 26, 2011, 19:47

AR's tend to creep up on me, primarily because I have a severe case of "its cheapitus"

Gunstuff that's cheap... I must buy.

Think I have 4-5 vie never shot. Whenever they get up to about that many I sell until my "its cheapitus" flares up again.

I'll likely always have atleast one now since i have a .50 upper at Red Jacket getting a can put on it.

I hate AR's

homelandprotector · December 27, 2011, 01:28

Quote:

Originally posted by Windustsearch
The AR-15 is nothing other than a Buck Rogers piece of shit.

That piece of shit is laser beam accurate, killed thousands of bad guys, it's light weight, controllable in full auto, all my AR's blow away Fals in accuracy ( not even close).

Besides........Buck Rogers was pretty cool.

**riffraff2** · December 27, 2011, 05:24

Quote:

Originally posted by lew

I am in absolute agreement. I hate cats much more than AR's, though. If an AR got in the house, I'd have to play with it. All cats will be shot on sight. Fuckers. I do not own an AR, nor plan on doing so, but they are decent firearms. Also, not a 5.56/.223 fan.

I feel the same way about dogs. I gut shoot them so they run off and don't stink up my property. You guys like your shit eating dogs, keep them in your own yard. I find cats make excellent house pets. They are smart enough to use a litter box.

flopshot · December 27, 2011, 07:40

Quote:

Originally posted by riffraff2

I feel the same way about dogs. I gut shoot them so they run off and don't stink up my property. You guys like your shit eating dogs, keep them in your own yard. I find cats make excellent house pets. They are smart enough to use a litter box.

nice neighbor you must be.

SWOHFAL · December 27, 2011, 08:37

Quote:

Originally posted by riffraff2

I feel the same way about dogs. I gut shoot them so they run off and don't stink up my property. You guys like your shit eating dogs, keep them in your own yard. I find cats make excellent house pets. They are smart enough to use a litter box.

I've contemplated doing the same to my dog-hating neighbors, but I doubt the buzzards and coyotes will do their work quickly enough.

**Abominog** · December 27, 2011, 09:17

Quote:

Originally posted by riffraff2

I feel the same way about dogs. I gut shoot them so they run off and don't stink up my property. You guys like your shit eating dogs, keep them in your own yard. I find cats make excellent house pets. They are smart enough to use a litter box.

I've taken note that you like to run mouth and take things off topic strictly for the sake of argueing. Go play in another sandbox.

Windustsearch · December 27, 2011, 10:21

Quote:

Originally posted by homelandprotector

That piece of shit is laser beam accurate, killed thousands of bad guys, it's light weight, controllable in full auto, all my AR's blow away Fals in accuracy ( not even close).

Besides........Buck Rogers was pretty cool.

They blow away the FAL in more than just accuracy, but otherwise I agree. But the FAL or other 7.62 x 51 mm has some advantage in non-military applications.

goodorbit · December 27, 2011, 10:40

Interesting observation.

AR's have found their way into my collection as well, some because they are unique, but mostly because they are fun, easy & cheap to shoot.

My favorite is an older A1 with the 22 conversion in it. The kids love it too.

Maybe they just are not seen as collectible yet, because they still in such wide spread use? Naw, somehow that don't fly with the AK collectors.
Maybe because there's only a handful of flavors?

ftierson · December 27, 2011, 11:00

I've had quite a few accidents...

Forrest

Deltaten · December 28, 2011, 10:30

I'm not particularly fond of the type. I believe the only AR I'd like to have, strictly for collection purposes, is the short-issued Delta H-bar in the case w/accessories.
Need you wonder why?

Nevah gonna happen 'cause the prices only go up... and *that* kinda money for a glorified poodle-shooter is krazy! LOL

**stimpsonjcat** · December 29, 2011, 12:59

Hmmm...

Service rifle AR...check. Built for a single purpose.
3-gun AR...same.
7.62x25AR...well cause I can and the ammo is cheap.
5.45x39AR...same.

I have no particular love for them though. The service rifle is accurate enough, sure, but I can shoot it offhand with the buttstock resting on top of my shoulder.

STGThndr · January 05, 2012, 03:21

I don't collect em. Collecting is for older weapons.. I collect bolt actions and lever guns and the like. Just so happens there have been a few ARs in the mix and as Ive aged, the ARs are easiest to lug and shoot, even more so that the AK's. I need to sell/trade some stuff and get holt of a nice lightweight AR carbine, 16 inch bbl, with an A1 stock preferably.

lawdog · January 07, 2012, 11:35

So wait, the guy who tongue-in-cheek made a reply about shooting dogs in response to some fool talking about shooting cats gets flamed, but the tough guy foaming at the mouth to shoot cats gets a pass?

It doesn't go one way only. Shooting either cats or dogs for fun licks balls equally and just makes you a sadistic sonofabitch with big problems that I'll bet were there all the way back to childhood.

Back on topic though, the AR is the Mr. Potato Head of the weapon world. I have become a believer of this rifle. So much has been done with it and as already mentioned, there are parts everywhere for it. You can make them pretty darn ergonomically pleasing. I have found them to be quite reliable. I have a few in the stable. The one most enjoyed though is the 5.45 version because I can shoot a true rifle round on the cheap.

bill3542 · January 07, 2012, 18:55

we have only one here and its a fairly recent addition that was won at a gun bash on a five dollar ticket.
i consider the Saiga .223 AK conversions we have to be a better all around rifle that will outlast the S&W MP-15 in the long run.

**FALonious** · June 03, 2012, 10:07

Quote:

Originally Posted by lawdog

So wait, the guy who tongue-in-cheek made a reply about shooting dogs in response to some fools talking about shooting cats gets flamed, but the tough guy foaming at the mouth to shoot cats gets a pass?

It doesn't go one way only. Shooting either cats or dogs for fun licks balls equally and just makes you a sadistic sonofabitch with big problems that I'll bet were there all the way back to childhood.

This...X100!

...sounds like barfcom crap.

Nog...cool story and a good question, thank you. Too bad it got pissed on by dopes.

gew98 · June 03, 2012, 11:56

Never liked the A2...especially when Unc sam took my A1 away and replaced it with that lethargic A2..damn them then !.
Got a handfull of retro AR's as I like them like that. Only 7,62 rifles I own anymore are an L1A1 and metric thingy FAL. I'm not partial to the M14 fanboy environment nor that ugly euro thing HK put out there.
Got my AR's for close up work and plinking , and my FAL's for longer range and penetrating things that need to be holed.

**Hebrew Battle Rifle** · June 03, 2012, 14:11

I have a couple of ARs. The first resulted from acquiring various parts that were included in trades over the years. Once while sorting through various junk boxes looking for this or that , it dawned on me that I had enough parts to assemble a rifle. Well, almost. A few smalls here and there. Since I like building guns, I pieced it together and discovered that I liked building ARs. It is like playing with legos, tinker toys, and erector sets all in one.
The second came about for two reasons: I agree with the 2 is 1, 1 is none rule and at the time, I had access to essentially free 556 ammo. (All that I had to to do was go pick it up off of the ground where HSLD types had dropped it during training.)

They are fun to shoot, but they do not excite me. My Garand excites me. My F A Ls excite me.My Mausers excite me. My AKs and ARs just don't.

BTW, I don't have a collection. I have an assortment. I am not a museum curator. I have no interest in acquiring guns that must be protected from doing what they were built to do.

hagar · June 03, 2012, 17:32

If AR's were made in Outer Mongolia and rare and expensive, we would all be singing their praises. But they are made right here, plentiful, and easily aquired, modified and customised.

I agree they have no sentimental value, but if I had to grab a rifle I know will work, be accurate and dependable, it will be on the top of my list, followed by the Fal and Garand.

E5c03 · June 03, 2012, 17:47

M16A1 was my issued weapon whilest a "BOOT" at MCRD. 1983

Later an M16A2.

Learned the ins and outs of the weapon.
Easy to modify,,change barrels,,internals
Just need a "happy" switch again

.22 conversions are plentifull too.
Whilest my M1 Grand is a GREAT MBR,,as well as my FAL.

Parts,,mags,,ammo,,are easy to find,,even n commie states like CA,,NY ect..{for the AR}

Except for maybe the 1903s

By the way the M16 platform has been the longest running USAs Military issued rifle

**Bprewit** · June 03, 2012, 18:11

I did not own any AR type for the longest time and believed everything I heard about how poor a rifle they were- jams, dirty gas system, etc. I have to admit that I now own 3 of them in various calibers and found they are just damn fun to shoot. Lightweight and inexpensive parts make for a great truck gun that im not afraid to have it get beat around. I treat my FAL's like queens and like them more than any other semi-auto but AR's come in a close second for me. My fairly cheap olympic arms 7.62X39 upper has no problems with cheap steel case ammo and have never had any issues once I figured out how to make the magazines feed.

STGThndr · June 03, 2012, 23:13

I'd like to try out an AR10. Just cuz...

BC · June 04, 2012, 01:31

Quote:

Originally Posted by hagar

If AR's were made in Outer Mongolia and rare and expensive, we would all be singing their praises. But they are made right here, plentiful, and easily aquired, modified and customied.

That's the truth. Someone said in a different thread that the mini-14 is considered an exotic weapon in Swiss. It is the "shit" (which means wonderful in the local language). That doesn't surprise me a bit.

**Andy the Aussie** · June 04, 2012, 03:03

"Accidental AR15"....I wonder if that is at all like the person I once had to deal with who's dick "accidentally" fell in a dog ...??????

ftierson · June 04, 2012, 03:38

Quote:

Originally Posted by Andy the Aussie

"Accidental AR15"....I wonder if that is at all like the person I once had to deal with who's dick "accidentally" fell in a dog ...??????

Well, you do have to deal with some 'interesting' persons, that's for sure...

Forrest

December 24, 2011, 19:54	#1
Abominog Old Fart Gold Contributor FALaholic #: 372 Join Date: Jul 2000 Location: Finger Lakes, NY Posts: 6,579	The "Accidental" AR15 I recently had the pleasure to dine with some fine firearms RKIs. One, a well known MG guy; another, a student of Buffalo Arms; the third a serious collector of HKs; the fourth a quiet man well known to the most serious collectors but unknown to the vast majority of firearms collectors. And, obviously, me, the "oddball" FAL fan. Dolf was in town, but couldn't make it to dinner. It was a fabulous time of sharing information on our particular fields of study. Though each man focused on one particular field of study, we all greatly appreciated the passion that each individual held for a specific design. During the passage of conversation, one asked the HK guy if he has any AR15s. He responded "Not really" then with reflection, added, "well, I do own five or six." Heads nodded in quiet understanding and agreement. None would consider the AR15s they own to be a collection, though undoubtedly, the specimens they possessed would please even the most discerning AR collector. It was clear that all had the same thought- hmmm...I guess I do have a few ARs, though I'd never thought of it as a collection. And it seems to be an interesting phenomenon that is not uncommon. Serious collectors somehow over the years tend to "accidentally" acquire AR15s. Inevitably, one is a "functional" firearm with a useful, rather than collectible, purpose. The other ARs, well, it seems that they just got acquired "somehow." Perhaps it is the ubiquitous nature of the AR; yet, I don't over-analyze the case. But clearly, many collectors of specific firearms models own ARs, even very unique and/or interesting ARs, but think nothing of it, and certainly wouldn't say that they are AR collectors. Isn't that rather odd? __________________ They will live a long time, these men of the South Pacific. They, like their victories, will be remembered as long as our generation lives. Longer and longer shadows will obscure them, until their Guadalcanal sounds distant on the ear like Shiloh and Valley Forge. --- Michener, Tales of the South Pacific Tempus Edax Rerum

December 25, 2011, 00:59	#4
jaykden Moderator Resident Alaskan FALaholic #: 3800 Join Date: Jul 2001 Location: sitka, ak Posts: 4,221	i currently own more ARs than FALs. although, i have built more FALs than ARs in the past. guess for me, it comes down to a variety of calibers. i have a 9MM, 5.45X39, 5.56, 300 BLK and a .308... all ARs of some sort. the FALs still get shot often but not as much as the ARs just because of ammo costs. my first EBR was an AR, but the next was an FAL. after that, the next AR was after i had acquired/built quite a few FALs. now that i think about it, i don't really know why i got that second receiver... hmmmm.... __________________ In a family of fudds, i'm the black sheep of the family...... EBR black, that is...

December 25, 2011, 01:32	#5
IanMor Moderator Guerilla gunsmith FALaholic #: 2417 Join Date: Jan 2001 Location: New York State Posts: 1,354	My first EBR was an AR too. I was a kid at the time. I got into MBRs as I matured. I competed a little in my area in NRA High Power matches. I never did well, raising a family I didn't have the time to put to it. Last rifle I competed with was an AR. It was nice, but it never really grew on me. I have a standard barrel A2 I put together. I built it because it's like the ones I saw stacked all over the place at Parris Island when we went down for my son's graduation from boot camp. I figured I'd like to own what my son went to war with. But I dont have it for any other reason than that. I like the MBRs. It's where I'm happy and confidant. I have built probably 50 ARs over the years, and near as many FALs. FALs are artwork. ARs are... Well, machines I guess. I collect FALs and black powder guns. I don't know if it's possible to collect ARs? __________________ Peace, Poptarts, and 7.62

December 25, 2011, 14:27	#8
catmguy445 Registered FALaholic #: 50311 Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Boise, ID Posts: 1,212	The one really collectible AR I've seen was one I couldn't buy. My USAF Reserve unit had been activated for Desert Storm, and as CATM Specialists, part of out duties were performing inspections on Mobility Weapons. Another NCO and I were going through boxes of M-16's at Norton AFB and checking them for serviceability, and when we opened one box, there were several M-16's that didn't look quite normal. Upon taking a closer look at them, besides having green furniture instead of black, the had unusual looking charging handles, sort of triangular instead of the normal "T" shape. When we checked the serial numbers, the receivers were marked "Armalite AR-15, Costa Mesa, CA", and all of them that we found were 3-digit or lower serial numbers. They were all selective fire, and of course, were all also government property, and the Air Force was going to send them to Kuwait to use in Desert Storm, which made all of us cringe a little bit, because all of them were absolutely brand new and in original condition and really should have been museum pieces. So, yeah, there are SOME AR's that really are collectible. The problem is that they aren't for sale. __________________ Zeke the CATM guy (MSGT, USAF, ret.) "The only easy day was yesterday" - US NAVY SEALs

December 25, 2011, 15:47	#9
Bubacus Registered FALaholic #: 13971 Join Date: Mar 2004 Location: Massachusetts Posts: 599	I have a Colt H-Bar (CMP upper) A2 that I've had for about 12 years....I have many other guns and always put putting a M4 style gun off because I think they'll always be out there and improving in design. They are kind of like computer equipment...I don't buy one now thinking the latest and greatest innovation is yet to come.. I've concentrated on getting the odd ball firearms that I've been more fascinated with first....That being said, my A2 is the most accurate gun I own. __________________ Bubacus

December 24, 2011, 20:25	#2
nwobhm ΜΟΛΩΝ ΛΑΒΕ FALaholic #: 9580 Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: USA Posts: 6,015	I don't own an AR.

December 25, 2011, 12:44	#6
hkshooter Veteran Member Silver Contributor FALaholic #: 5391 Join Date: Jan 2002 Posts: 1,790	AR's have no heart. AR's are the cats of the gun world while Garands, FALs, M1As and such are the dogs. Everybody loves dogs. Cats? Eh. I love my cats but nothing warms the heart like a big eyed dog with his big ears layed back and "pet me" written on his forehead.

December 25, 2011, 14:27	#7
Mebsuta Khemi, Stygia Contributor FALaholic #: 4143 Join Date: Sep 2001 Location: Khemi, Stygia Posts: 6,373	I luv AR A2s. Straight up A2 and A1 are nice looking rifels. They are fun to build and shoot and 5.56 is easy cartridge to reload. They are light and if you have a little back or shoulder trubble, you will appreciate that.

December 25, 2011, 16:22	#12
fal fiend Curio & Relic Bronze Contributor FALaholic #: 7091 Join Date: Aug 2002 Location: Indiana USA Posts: 2,267	Like i read once about the m16. they are hell in fire fight. __________________ In memory of a true friend, Derby Fals 1956-2007/ I'm a Contributor, u should be 1 too, support the Fal board.

December 25, 2011, 16:40	#13
hkshooter Veteran Member Silver Contributor FALaholic #: 5391 Join Date: Jan 2002 Posts: 1,790	May sound weird but I won't own an AR now primarily because everyone else does. Can't go to the range for a minute without seeing some mall ninja loaded out AR fanboy thinking he's unique. I don't want to be associated with that croud. There is an AR I'd own today but havent gotten serious about because of funds, and that's a Knight SR-15. Best of the AR world in my eyes.

December 25, 2011, 18:40	#14
zombie hunter Registered FALaholic #: 62660 Join Date: Jan 2011 Location: Illinois Posts: 312	I've accumulated a few. I started with a "mall ninja" 5.56x45, then I wanted something a little different (and liked the idea of a light barrel and short LoP fixed stock), so I got an M16A1 kit. Then I got a 5.45x39 to take advantage of the cheap ammo. Now I find myself thinking I should jump on the 300 BLK bandwagon. I'd already have one if I didn't live in a state that doesn't allow suppressors.

December 25, 2011, 19:56	#15
SWOHFAL Registered FALaholic #: 34346 Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: Obamunist-occupied America Posts: 8,669	I have an A2 and will be building my own lowers here at some point to accessorize with various uppers in a variety of calibers. I think they are good to have available, considering they are the standard firearm of the land in this country, but unless they're something such as 6.8spc or the like, not especially interesting. Everyone ought to have at least one because of their ubiquity. __________________ Man is tormented by no greater anxiety than to find someone quickly to whom he can hand over that great gift of freedom with which the ill-fated creature is born. - Fyodor Dostoevsky

December 25, 2011, 22:05	#17
Arby Registered FALaholic #: 653 Join Date: Aug 2000 Posts: 3,512	I bought my first SP1 back in the sixties. I really liked it, but I sold it in the seventies. I later found another SP1. I like them. But I don't make it a point to tell anyone that I do. But I don't really tell people that I like FALs, Garands, or other S/As. It's either all accidental or it didn't actually happen.

December 25, 2011, 22:17	#18
hkshooter Veteran Member Silver Contributor FALaholic #: 5391 Join Date: Jan 2002 Posts: 1,790	Starting to sound like an AR's Anonimous meeting.

December 25, 2011, 22:43	#19
aardq Registered FALaholic #: 18645 Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: Flint Area Posts: 1,168	Abominog, can you please educate me on what an RKI is? Thanks, Dan

December 25, 2011, 22:46	#20
Windustsearch Registered FALaholic #: 10219 Join Date: Apr 2003 Location: Seattle,Wa Posts: 5,702	The AR-15 is nothing other than a Buck Rogers piece of shit.

December 25, 2011, 22:58	#21
Jaxxas Don't Tread On Me! Bronze Contributor FALaholic #: 34933 Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Arizona Posts: 3,180	I own 2.5 FAL's and 4.3 AR's! We are one big happy family! Fugg everybody else! Merry Christmas! __________________ JaXXas It's funny though, everywhere else I'm considered the lunatic fringe, on FAL Files I'm a moderate.

December 26, 2011, 00:08	#23
bykerhd Dinosaur Bronze Contributor FALaholic #: 2798 Join Date: Mar 2001 Location: Burlington Vermont area Posts: 13,262	Right now they are one of the cheaper things to shoot. I can overlook/forgive the "sproing" in order to shoot more. Plus, they are easy to play "mix-n-match" with tons of issue and after-market parts available and not too much for tools required. You can spend a little, or a lot, and still have something that will outshoot an AK most of the time with better ergonomics and with an unbelievable assortment of options available. All it takes is money.... Everbody should have an AR, or two, three, etc....

December 26, 2011, 17:44	#25
Windustsearch Registered FALaholic #: 10219 Join Date: Apr 2003 Location: Seattle,Wa Posts: 5,702	Cat, it's whats for dinner. It may not be prime rib, but it'll make a turd. Just don't shoot them with an AR, they'll grenade.

December 26, 2011, 19:34	#26
Lockbar Registered FALaholic #: 2234 Join Date: Jan 2001 Location: Illinois Posts: 716	I have been here for a long time, but only own two Fals. I have never been a member of ARF.com, but own 7 AR's. What does this mean??

December 26, 2011, 19:47	#27
Nomad, 2nd Registered FALaholic #: 33115 Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Nomadic Posts: 581	AR's tend to creep up on me, primarily because I have a severe case of "its cheapitus" Gunstuff that's cheap... I must buy. Think I have 4-5 vie never shot. Whenever they get up to about that many I sell until my "its cheapitus" flares up again. I'll likely always have atleast one now since i have a .50 upper at Red Jacket getting a can put on it. I hate AR's

December 27, 2011, 10:40	#34
goodorbit Registered Bronze Contributor FALaholic #: 7482 Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: Right here Posts: 1,307	Interesting observation. AR's have found their way into my collection as well, some because they are unique, but mostly because they are fun, easy & cheap to shoot. My favorite is an older A1 with the 22 conversion in it. The kids love it too. Maybe they just are not seen as collectible yet, because they still in such wide spread use? Naw, somehow that don't fly with the AK collectors. Maybe because there's only a handful of flavors? __________________ Everything should be made as simple as possible, but not simpler. -Albert Einstein

December 27, 2011, 11:00	#35
ftierson Registered FALaholic #: 13827 Join Date: Mar 2004 Location: Colorado Springs, CO Posts: 11,206	I've had quite a few accidents... Forrest

December 28, 2011, 10:30	#36
Deltaten Registered FALaholic #: 124 Join Date: Jul 2000 Location: Lancaster, PA USA Posts: 8,502	I'm not particularly fond of the type. I believe the only AR I'd like to have, strictly for collection purposes, is the short-issued Delta H-bar in the case w/accessories. Need you wonder why? Nevah gonna happen 'cause the prices only go up... and that kinda money for a glorified poodle-shooter is krazy! LOL __________________ All or Nothing! Senator McCarthy was right! and as always......FYB!

December 29, 2011, 12:59	#37
stimpsonjcat Windoze free since 1-2010 Silver Contributor FALaholic #: 470 Join Date: Jul 2000 Location: Dawsonville, GA Posts: 4,219	Hmmm... Service rifle AR...check. Built for a single purpose. 3-gun AR...same. 7.62x25AR...well cause I can and the ammo is cheap. 5.45x39AR...same. I have no particular love for them though. The service rifle is accurate enough, sure, but I can shoot it offhand with the buttstock resting on top of my shoulder. __________________ peace! Happiness=UPS+ORMD "Your 8mm FAL is like a deuce coup with a Ferrari pancake 12 under the hood and a Jaguar rear end. It just kinda transcends cool into fantasy."- USMC 0341 "The stimpgewehr is the reason Waldo is hiding."- Kotengu Cause I can still hear his voice when I put it to my shoulder, "A guns like a woman son, it's all how you hold her."

January 05, 2012, 03:21	#38
STGThndr Registered FALaholic #: 14583 Join Date: Jun 2004 Location: Southern Colorado mtns and desert Posts: 3,409	I don't collect em. Collecting is for older weapons.. I collect bolt actions and lever guns and the like. Just so happens there have been a few ARs in the mix and as Ive aged, the ARs are easiest to lug and shoot, even more so that the AK's. I need to sell/trade some stuff and get holt of a nice lightweight AR carbine, 16 inch bbl, with an A1 stock preferably. __________________ Turning and turning in the widening gyre The falcon cannot hear the falconer; Things fall apart; the centre cannot hold; Mere anarchy is loosed upon the world, The blood-dimmed tide is loosed, and everywhere The ceremony of innocence is drowned; The best lack all conviction, while the worst Are full of passionate intensity. W.B Yeats

January 07, 2012, 11:35	#39
lawdog Registered FALaholic #: 7773 Join Date: Oct 2002 Location: Pennsylvania Posts: 1,099	So wait, the guy who tongue-in-cheek made a reply about shooting dogs in response to some fool talking about shooting cats gets flamed, but the tough guy foaming at the mouth to shoot cats gets a pass? It doesn't go one way only. Shooting either cats or dogs for fun licks balls equally and just makes you a sadistic sonofabitch with big problems that I'll bet were there all the way back to childhood. Back on topic though, the AR is the Mr. Potato Head of the weapon world. I have become a believer of this rifle. So much has been done with it and as already mentioned, there are parts everywhere for it. You can make them pretty darn ergonomically pleasing. I have found them to be quite reliable. I have a few in the stable. The one most enjoyed though is the 5.45 version because I can shoot a true rifle round on the cheap.

January 07, 2012, 18:55	#40
bill3542 Registered FALaholic #: 5675 Join Date: Feb 2002 Location: Indiana Co.PA Posts: 1,726	we have only one here and its a fairly recent addition that was won at a gun bash on a five dollar ticket. i consider the Saiga .223 AK conversions we have to be a better all around rifle that will outlast the S&W MP-15 in the long run. __________________ BILL H

June 03, 2012, 11:56	#42
gew98 Registered FALaholic #: 32830 Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: away from taxation without representation , Kentucky !. Posts: 792	Never liked the A2...especially when Unc sam took my A1 away and replaced it with that lethargic A2..damn them then !. Got a handfull of retro AR's as I like them like that. Only 7,62 rifles I own anymore are an L1A1 and metric thingy FAL. I'm not partial to the M14 fanboy environment nor that ugly euro thing HK put out there. Got my AR's for close up work and plinking , and my FAL's for longer range and penetrating things that need to be holed. __________________ The vice of capitolism is it's unequal sharing of blessings. The Virtue of Socialism is it's equal sharing of MISERY. Winston Churchill 1) Culture builds upon the past 2) The past always tries to control the future. 3) Our future is becoming less free 4) To build free societies you must limit control of the past. All hail lord IMPOTUS and Darth Biden All hail.

June 03, 2012, 14:11	#43
Hebrew Battle Rifle Horses Ass Bronze Contributor FALaholic #: 5777 Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Arkansas Posts: 6,858	I have a couple of ARs. The first resulted from acquiring various parts that were included in trades over the years. Once while sorting through various junk boxes looking for this or that , it dawned on me that I had enough parts to assemble a rifle. Well, almost. A few smalls here and there. Since I like building guns, I pieced it together and discovered that I liked building ARs. It is like playing with legos, tinker toys, and erector sets all in one. The second came about for two reasons: I agree with the 2 is 1, 1 is none rule and at the time, I had access to essentially free 556 ammo. (All that I had to to do was go pick it up off of the ground where HSLD types had dropped it during training.) They are fun to shoot, but they do not excite me. My Garand excites me. My F A Ls excite me.My Mausers excite me. My AKs and ARs just don't. BTW, I don't have a collection. I have an assortment. I am not a museum curator. I have no interest in acquiring guns that must be protected from doing what they were built to do. __________________ THANK YOU JESUS

June 03, 2012, 17:32	#44
hagar Registered FALaholic #: 228 Join Date: Jul 2000 Location: Columbia, SC Posts: 6,724	If AR's were made in Outer Mongolia and rare and expensive, we would all be singing their praises. But they are made right here, plentiful, and easily aquired, modified and customised. I agree they have no sentimental value, but if I had to grab a rifle I know will work, be accurate and dependable, it will be on the top of my list, followed by the Fal and Garand. Last edited by hagar; June 04, 2012 at 21:50.

June 03, 2012, 17:47	#45
E5c03 Registered FALaholic #: 18505 Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: Colorado Posts: 610	M16A1 was my issued weapon whilest a "BOOT" at MCRD. 1983 Later an M16A2. Learned the ins and outs of the weapon. Easy to modify,,change barrels,,internals Just need a "happy" switch again .22 conversions are plentifull too. Whilest my M1 Grand is a GREAT MBR,,as well as my FAL. Parts,,mags,,ammo,,are easy to find,,even n commie states like CA,,NY ect..{for the AR} Except for maybe the 1903s By the way the M16 platform has been the longest running USAs Military issued rifle __________________ Talega Zone Recon Marine SEMPER FIDELIS Last edited by E5c03; June 04, 2012 at 01:27.

June 03, 2012, 18:11	#46
Bprewit Senior Member Contributor FALaholic #: 7403 Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: Midland, Tx Posts: 695	I did not own any AR type for the longest time and believed everything I heard about how poor a rifle they were- jams, dirty gas system, etc. I have to admit that I now own 3 of them in various calibers and found they are just damn fun to shoot. Lightweight and inexpensive parts make for a great truck gun that im not afraid to have it get beat around. I treat my FAL's like queens and like them more than any other semi-auto but AR's come in a close second for me. My fairly cheap olympic arms 7.62X39 upper has no problems with cheap steel case ammo and have never had any issues once I figured out how to make the magazines feed.

June 03, 2012, 23:13	#47
STGThndr Registered FALaholic #: 14583 Join Date: Jun 2004 Location: Southern Colorado mtns and desert Posts: 3,409	I'd like to try out an AR10. Just cuz... __________________ Turning and turning in the widening gyre The falcon cannot hear the falconer; Things fall apart; the centre cannot hold; Mere anarchy is loosed upon the world, The blood-dimmed tide is loosed, and everywhere The ceremony of innocence is drowned; The best lack all conviction, while the worst Are full of passionate intensity. W.B Yeats

Thread Tools
Show Printable Version Email this Page
Display Modes
Linear Mode Switch to Hybrid Mode Switch to Threaded Mode