"Budget" AR in 7.62x51

[thatrwhichisnt]

Hey guys. As the post count says I am new here. I am part of a few other gun-related sites, however this one focuses on something I am becoming interested in.

I am pretty well versed in firearms, much more so than the average civilian. I have owned everything from pistols, to M4geries, ak's, and such. However, I am looking to buy my first rifle for dedicated long-range marksmanship.

I these types of guns, more so than others, can be a black-hole for cash. That is something as a college student I do not have too much of. I have settles on the 762x51/308 because of the choice and availability of the round. I also decided on the AR platform as I have owned them before, and have been "trained" with them (no formal training per say, but a buddy who was a cav-scout taught me almost everything I know about).

My question is what is my best choice for ~$1,000 (I can go plus or minus a few). I know the obvious ones like DPMS, RRA, CMMG, and such. If you were in my shoes what would you do? Regarding optics, a wealthy person I know says that he is going to get me a nice pair of glass for free.

Thank's for any input and have a great day!

 

[Longshot38]

Re: "Budget" AR in 7.62x51

It all depends on what you want. If someone makes the rifle you seek then financially you will be better off purchasing an off the shelf model. However if there is something specific you desire then you are better off piecing one together.

Also you budget is really low for this type of firearm. The large frame ARs are not as cheap as their small frame cousins. For $1000 you are better off looking in the used market. most rifles of this type start around the $1200 mark and head up from there.

 

[thatrwhichisnt]

Re: "Budget" AR in 7.62x51

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Longshot38</div><div class="ubbcode-body">It all depends on what you want. If someone makes the rifle you seek then financially you will be better off purchasing an off the shelf model. However if there is something specific you desire then you are better off piecing one together.

Also you budget is really low for this type of firearm. The large frame ARs are not as cheap as their small frame cousins. For $1000 you are better off looking in the used market. most rifles of this type start around the $1200 mark and head up from there. </div></div>
Yeah, I understand it is low. Sadly until I graduate I will not have thousands of dollars I can drop on a rifle at once. My goal is to get something bare bones, then over time put money into it. My gunsmithing skills are lacking to say the least, so I honestly do not feel competent enough yet to try to piece on together on my own.

 

[Subxero]

Re: "Budget" AR in 7.62x51

Where you located? just curious

How far you wanna end up taking this out to?

Key thing is you mentioned long range (what does that mean to you?)

If you want to shoot longer ranges, accuracy will start to become key, cuz well if you can not consistently hit your target....it is not going to be much fun.

That being said do you have around 1k total to spend, or you got some money aside for some optics as well?

My thoughts,

If you can find something used for a good price that is a proven tac driver...this is the way to go. You will not have to put money into a cheaper rifle to get it to shoot better...and you might never get it to shoot as good as you want.

i am a big fan of buying a good product the first time around and you will be happy with it the rest of your life and will not lose money when you go to trade a lower end rifle in so you can get a nicer one...cuz you already have the nicer one.

so my other suggestion. Save up get a nicer one off the bat and spare yourself some trouble and the what if's

 

[thatrwhichisnt]

Re: "Budget" AR in 7.62x51

I live in Louisiana. The furthest range around where I live goes 500-600 yards. Ranges that go further are a few hours away.

I have around 1k to spend on the rifle. Optics are being taken care of by someone else I can wait and spend 1200 on CMMG. Anything more than that I can't justify dropping that much money on a gun at this point in my life. I understand your suggestion, and agree that "buy once, cry once" is the way to go. However, that is just not feasible for me right now.

 

[at4rxj]

Re: "Budget" AR in 7.62x51

For $1000, I think you're shooting yourself in the foot trying to do an AR in 308. If you're stuck on 308, get a bolt action and decent optic. If you're stuck on the AR platform, go 5.56. You'll have a MUCH better base rifle with either of these routes, and I believe you'll be much happier. When you have the funds available, do a 308 AR.

 

[thatrwhichisnt]

Re: "Budget" AR in 7.62x51

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: at4rxj</div><div class="ubbcode-body">For $1000, I think you're shooting yourself in the foot trying to do an AR in 308. If you're stuck on 308, get a bolt action and decent optic. If you're stuck on the AR platform, go 5.56. You'll have a MUCH better base rifle with either of these routes, and I believe you'll be much happier. When you have the funds available, do a 308 AR. </div></div>

Forgot the add this into the OP, but the man who is purchasing the optics for me is also giving me $500 towards an AR in 308. That is why I settled on it, and would be stupid to pass up that offer. If it wasn't for that I would be making an MK12.

 

[at4rxj]

Re: "Budget" AR in 7.62x51

So is it your $1000 plus $500, or your $500 plus his $500?

$1500 might change things... lol

 

[thatrwhichisnt]

Re: "Budget" AR in 7.62x51

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: at4rxj</div><div class="ubbcode-body">So is it your $1000 plus $500, or your $500 plus his $500?

$1500 might change things... lol </div></div>
I would like to keep it between $1000-$1500. $1,500 would make my wallet very uncomfortable lol. Obviously I would like to get the best quality for the least amount of money possible within my range.

 

[adrenaline junkie]

Re: "Budget" AR in 7.62x51

Keep an eye on gunbroker, or even the classified ads here. I've seen quite a few used RRS,DPMS, and remingtons in your price range. Most of them will do 1MOA and better and would be a great gun foe someone your age to hunt, shoot and learn with.

 

[tylerw02]

Re: "Budget" AR in 7.62x51

If you only have $1000 to spend and want to shoot "long range" for accuracy, I'd probably skip the AR and pick up an 700 SPS Varm/Tac/AAC and a good trigger and stock for it.

 

[sgtbutt]

Re: "Budget" AR in 7.62x51

If you only have $1000 look into the Bushmaster ORC. I seen one locally here in Laramie WY for that price. Bushmaster is the same as DPMS just branded with a different roll mark. The Bushy has a mid length gas system and guys on here have proven that they are shooters.
You do also have to remember that ammo plays a critical roll in your accuracy. Match ammo will perform better than surplus. And then there is you, the shooter that plays the biggest roll. You said you have owned M4s, throw glass on there that you are getting from the "wealthy" person and hone your talents on that. If you have a range out to 600 you have all you need to stretch out the legs of a 5.56.
You know yourself that its a money pit, make sure its something you want to do. I had a Iron Ridge Arms stripped lower for over a year and planned on a build with it. In the end I sold it to build my Mega. I know that I wouldn't have been as happy with an IRA build for my own reasons. What I'm getting at is wait till you can get exactly what you want, use your other toys in the mean time.

 

[RobertB]

Re: "Budget" AR in 7.62x51

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: thatwhichisnt</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I live in Louisiana. The furthest range around where I live goes 500-600 yards. Ranges that go further are a few hours away.

I have around 1k to spend on the rifle. Optics are being taken care of by someone else I can wait and spend 1200 on CMMG. Anything more than that I can't justify dropping that much money on a gun at this point in my life. I understand your suggestion, and agree that "buy once, cry once" is the way to go. However, that is just not feasible for me right now. </div></div>What part of louisiana?

 

[Subxero]

Re: "Budget" AR in 7.62x51

if you are set on a .308 just try and be patient and don't jump into anything to fast and keep you eyes on the classifieds on every shooting site you can find, especially this one.

There are tons of great deals popping up on here everyday. I jumped on a sale 2 weeks ago and i am glad i did, but man i have to quit looking at the classifieds here cuz there is just to much great stuff at great prices i want to buy.

But yeah, check sales daily and sooner or later you will find a slightly used gun well taken care of for a killer price, just need to pull the trigger on the buy before someone else does

 

[thatrwhichisnt]

Re: "Budget" AR in 7.62x51

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: RobertB</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: thatwhichisnt</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I live in Louisiana. The furthest range around where I live goes 500-600 yards. Ranges that go further are a few hours away.

I have around 1k to spend on the rifle. Optics are being taken care of by someone else I can wait and spend 1200 on CMMG. Anything more than that I can't justify dropping that much money on a gun at this point in my life. I understand your suggestion, and agree that "buy once, cry once" is the way to go. However, that is just not feasible for me right now. </div></div>What part of louisiana?</div></div>
BR

 

[pistolpacknpete]

Re: "Budget" AR in 7.62x51

if 600 is all youre shooting just get it in 5.56 with a fast twist. i bought a 400 dollar upper at a gun show, its a heavy stainless fluted barrel 1-8 twist,free float etc. bought a bolt for 100. a lower for 100,65 bucks parts kit and a rock river two stage for 130. and a magpul prs for 200. that gun will shoot 600 consistently with a 75 grain hornady bthp. its cheaper to shoot and you can build it a lot better for 1000 than trying to build the same rifle in 308

 

[thatrwhichisnt]

Re: "Budget" AR in 7.62x51

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: midkansasguy</div><div class="ubbcode-body">if 600 is all youre shooting just get it in 5.56 with a fast twist. i bought a 400 dollar upper at a gun show, its a heavy stainless fluted barrel 1-8 twist,free float etc. bought a bolt for 100. a lower for 100,65 bucks parts kit and a rock river two stage for 130. and a magpul prs for 200. that gun will shoot 600 consistently with a 75 grain hornady bthp. its cheaper to shoot and you can build it a lot better for 1000 than trying to build the same rifle in 308</div></div>
I understand that, and agree, however I chose .308 for other reasons stated above.

 

[RuLins05]

Re: "Budget" AR in 7.62x51

Honestly at that price point I would go with the CMMG, Bushmaster or a DPMS. 16-18 barrel for your range requirements should be sufficient and will allow the rifle to be more mobile. The CMMG seems to be a pretty good rifle for the price, not that I own one but its just what I have read. I do however own a Bushy and started my 308 fetish with DPMS rifles and for their price they too are a lot of gun for the money. I have found though that building your own is the all around best way to go and because it is an AR no real gunsmithing is required. Quick parts list

TM-10 lower for $229
DPMS upper for $165
DPMS BCG $210
18" Rainier Select 308 barrel $259 (they'll check headspace if you buy BCG and Barrel from them)
A2 Stock with 308 rifle buffer/Spring $95
DPMS 308 Lower parts kit $65
Simple DPMS free float forearm $55
Gas tube $15
Gas block $30
308 Crush washer $3
308 A2 Flash Hider $12
Magpul 20 LR PMag $18.95
DPMS 308 Free Float Tube Wrench $45
Upper receiver action block $50

Total $1252 plus shipping and Transfer fees (prices are from MidwayUSA, Rainier Arms and JSE Surplus)

Thats is a good place to start if you ask me, you can change the handguard, stock, trigger, pistol grip and flash hider later on but this will get you up and running for the time being. The lower goes together with punches, hammer and allen wrenches. There are guides that can walk you through the entire process, then you'll know it all goes together and comes apart. Something to think about.

 

[madcratebuilder]

Re: "Budget" AR in 7.62x51

I have had range time with most of the different .308 platform AR's. IMHO they are be design an accurate platform. I own a Noveske and ArmaLite and I'm brand loyal, so naturally I'm going to recommend the ArmaLite style rifles.

In your budget range I would recommend the CMMG or the new SR-25 compatible ArmaLite AR-10A. Since you are new to the platform I would buy 'new' so you have a warranty and customer support.

If your goal is starting long range shooting and you already have a AR15 you could buy a 6.5G upper. For the cost of an entry level .308 AR you could have a super nice 6.5G upper and a start on optics.

 

[kimberseries1]

Re: "Budget" AR in 7.62x51

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: thatwhichisnt</div><div class="ubbcode-body">, I am looking to buy my first rifle for dedicated long-range marksmanship.

I have settles on the 762x51/308 because of the choice and availability of the round. I also decided on the AR platform as I have owned them before, and have been "trained" with them (no formal training per say, but a buddy who was a cav-scout taught me almost everything I know about).

My question is what is my best choice for ~$1,000 (I can go plus or minus a few). I know the obvious ones like DPMS, RRA, CMMG, and such. If you were in my shoes what would you do? </div></div>

I would stay away from AR platform for under or at $1,000. Look at the FNAR, can be had for at $1000, or slightly under if you look at GB. They are harder to dissassemble, but some only clean every 500-1000 rounds. If you're not shooting suppressed, you're golden. They are piston, so they run cleaner if you shoot Federal, stay away from Russian junk/WWB because it'll dirty it up faster.

Some are getting 1/2" groups at 100 with russian junk ammo. I got 1/2" groups not even trying, with a wobbly bipod, sighting in someone else's rifle with Remington core-lokt ammo(flat nose, not very aerodynamic).

<span style="font-weight: bold">Pros</span>
-The recoil is FANTASTIC, I could shoot all day.
-Accuracy is the cat's meow
-No need for $200 quad rail, $100 Magpul stock, etc., etc., already has pistol grip and adjustable stock for length of pull, cant, etc., and adjustable cheek welds
-Piston system shoots very clean
-16" light bbl is just as accurate as 20" bull bbl(I shot 20" bull bbl, and it's not that heavy)
-FN makes 70% of the world's armies' weapons
-Quality of fit and finish is spectacular! Action was 10-20 times smoother than the new Remington Versa Max shotgun I've cycled.


<span style="font-weight: bold">Cons</span>
-Proprietary mags, about $40-$50 each
-Harder to take apart for cleaning
-Must use crown protector to rod from muzzle, or use OTIS cleaner for bore
-More muzzle heavy 20" bull bbl, but 16" light bbl is probably much more portable, and not thin like a hunting light bbl, but more like a military light bbl.



Just my $0.02, but I'd jump at that for a 1000 yrd gun at or under $1,000.....

I've got one, just picked up a Nikon temporary until I save for US Optics or NF, just deciding on mount now....

 

[BravoSector1]

Re: "Budget" AR in 7.62x51

Well...I've got a 16" DPMS LR-308 that will shot MOA out to 300 meters all day long. If optics are provided then you could start here. Ammo matters! Find those Federal Gold Metal Match sales for $19.99 a box in the 168s or 175s...that DPMS will love it!


But...

You said dedicated!...A bolt action and glass would be highly recommended. You could buy a Savage 10FCP for under $700 and use additional funds for optics, accessories and ammo. Semi-autos are great but not needed unless certain circumstances present themselves. You'll be able to target shoot and hunt wiht the bolt action and arguably hone your skills more effectively with it. People tend to get "antsy" and "rushed" with a semiauto. You'll really enjoy what a modern heavy barrel factory .308 rifle will provide you in the accuracy and fun department.

 

[O_W]

Re: "Budget" AR in 7.62x51

keep your eye on gunbroker for sure. I just picked up a build that has a DPMS SASS barrel, geissle trigger, UBR stock and the upper and lower are the Mega MA-ten for 1425. Top of the liine parts and it shoots great. I picked it up because it was "cheap" in relation to another build and I cannot be more pleased. I planned to have to throw some money into it but have not had too.

 

[BOONEY7750]

Re: "Budget" AR in 7.62x51

RRA LAR-8 Mid Length A4, I got mine for $1163. I am a newb. It shoots Walmart ammo predictably, has a life time warranty, and well made. I was on the CMMG bandwagon, then I handled one that had the upper and lowers off by almost a 1/4 an inch and it scared me away, glad I went with the RRA.

 

[George63]

Re: "Budget" AR in 7.62x51

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: at4rxj</div><div class="ubbcode-body">For $1000, I think you're shooting yourself in the foot trying to do an AR in 308. If you're stuck on 308, get a bolt action and decent optic. If you're stuck on the AR platform, go 5.56. You'll have a MUCH better base rifle with either of these routes, and I believe you'll be much happier. When you have the funds available, do a 308 AR. </div></div>

"If you only have $1000 to spend and want to shoot "long range" for accuracy, I'd probably skip the AR and pick up an 700 SPS Varm/Tac/AAC and a good trigger and stock for it"

I will 3rd this 1000 will put together a 223 AR that is perfectly capable of 600 yds -- or if someone truly wants to help you out and you tell them you did your research and a bolt gun is a much better tool to build your skills they would be likely to contribute to that

You state that you are a student, on a budget etc. so realize that ammo costs are more critical than the cost of the rifle, if you want to build your skills plan for the ammo costs and how it will be funded

 

[Hunt4life]

Re: "Budget" AR in 7.62x51

My $999 DPMS LR308B has been shooting lights out. Shot a 1" 20 round group with it the other day. That is far better than I expected, think I will keep it.