What an AR Rifle Is
An AR rifle is a semi-automatic, magazine-fed rifle built on the AR platform, the most popular rifle design in the country. The "AR" stands for ArmaLite Rifle, the company that designed it, not "assault rifle," and the platform is known for being modular, accurate, and easy to customize.
The big reason AR style rifles are everywhere is that they're built like a set of building blocks. You can swap barrels, handguards, triggers, and optics to fit how you shoot, and parts are cheap and available everywhere. We stock more AR rifles than any other rifle type, and you can test-fire one on our indoor range before you commit. The platform covers everything from plinking and hunting to home defense and competition, so there's a build that fits whatever you have in mind.
Types of AR Rifles
AR rifles split into two main subcategories based on caliber, and the right one depends on whether you want light recoil and cheap ammo or more power and range. Both run the same controls and feel, so once you learn one, you can run the other.
| Platform | Common calibers | Recoil | Best for |
| AR-15 | 5.56 NATO / .223, .300 Blackout | Light | Plinking, home defense, varmint and hog hunting |
| AR-10 | .308 / 7.62 NATO, 6.5 Creedmoor | Moderate | Big game hunting, long-range shooting |
The AR 15 rifle is the lighter, more affordable choice and the one most people start with. It shoots a smaller, faster round with soft recoil, holds 30 rounds in a standard magazine, and handles most everyday jobs.
The AR 10 rifle is the bigger brother. It runs a larger .308-class cartridge that hits harder and reaches farther, which makes it the pick for big game and longer shots. It costs more, weighs more, and kicks more, but you get real power for it.
How to Choose an AR Rifle
The best AR rifle for you comes down to caliber and purpose, not the name on the receiver. Before you buy, work through these five things:
- Intended use. Target shooting, hunting, or home defense. This sets your platform and caliber first.
- Caliber. 5.56 for cheap, soft-shooting fun and most hunting, or .308 when you need more power and range.
- Barrel length. A 16-inch barrel is the do-it-all standard. Shorter barrels handle easier indoors but give up some velocity.
- Furniture and optics. Decide if you want an adjustable stock, a free-float handguard, and an optics rail for a red dot or scope.
- Budget. A solid, reliable AR starts around $500, so you don't have to overspend to get a rifle you can trust.
If you like to tinker, you can also start from one of our complete AR 15 lowers and build up from there. The easiest way to settle it is to put a few in your hands. Our team will walk you through the options at the shop, and you can rent and shoot models on our range before you decide.
Best AR Rifle Brands
The best AR is the one that fits your job for it, but a handful of brands stay popular for good reason. Models like the Smith & Wesson M&P15, Ruger AR-556, and Daniel Defense DDM4 lead the pack for their reliability, parts support, and proven track record. Our curated AR lineup covers the brands shooters ask for most:
- Smith & Wesson -- the M&P15 line, a reliable and affordable starting point
- Ruger -- the AR-556, known for solid value and dependability
- Daniel Defense -- premium, duty-grade rifles built to take a beating
- Aero Precision and Palmetto State Armory -- great bang for your buck and builder favorites
- Bravo Company, BCM, and LWRC -- proven choices for shooters who want top-tier parts
If you want a more rugged setup built for hard use, look at our tactical rifle options too. And if you have your eye on a model we don't have in stock, just ask, since we can usually source it for you.
What an AR Rifle Costs
Most AR rifles sell for $600 to $1,200, with budget-friendly models starting near $500 and premium or piston-driven builds running $1,500 to $2,500 or more. You're paying for barrel quality, trigger, furniture, and brand reputation, not just the caliber, so there's a good AR at almost every price. AR-10 rifles typically run a few hundred dollars more than a comparable AR-15 because of the larger frame and parts.
Total Impact backs every rifle with a price-match guarantee. If you find the same AR for less somewhere else, we'll match it, so you can shop with us without second-guessing the price.
How to Buy an AR Rifle Online
Buying an AR online is simple, and federal law just requires that the rifle ship to a licensed dealer for pickup, not straight to your door. Here's how it works with us:
- Order your AR. Pick your rifle and check out on our site.
- Pick your FFL. Choose a local licensed dealer (FFL) for the transfer, or pick up in our shop.
- We ship it. We send the rifle to that dealer anywhere in the country.
- Pass your background check. Complete the standard background check at the dealer, then take it home.
You must be at least 18 to buy a rifle from a licensed dealer, though some states set the age at 21, so check your local laws. We handle FFL transfers both in and out, so we can ship your AR to a dealer near you or receive one you bought elsewhere. Picking up at our shop is usually the fastest and easiest route.
Frequently Asked Questions About AR Rifles
What does AR stand for in AR rifle?
AR stands for ArmaLite Rifle, after the company that designed the platform in the 1950s. It does not stand for "assault rifle." An AR rifle sold to civilians is a semi-automatic, meaning it fires one round per trigger pull.
What is the difference between an AR-15 and an AR-10?
The main difference is caliber and size. The AR-15 shoots a smaller 5.56/.223 round with light recoil, while the AR-10 shoots a larger .308 round that hits harder and reaches farther but weighs and kicks more.
How much does an AR rifle cost?
Most AR rifles cost between $600 and $1,200, with budget models near $500 and premium builds at $1,500 to $2,500 or more. AR-10 rifles run a few hundred dollars higher than comparable AR-15s. Total Impact price-matches any competitor, so you always pay the best price.
Are AR rifles good for hunting?
Yes, AR rifles are popular hunting rifles. An AR-15 in 5.56 or .300 Blackout works well for varmints and hogs, while an AR-10 in .308 or 6.5 Creedmoor has the power for deer and larger game. Check your state's caliber rules before you hunt.
Can I buy an AR rifle online and ship it to my state?
In most states, yes, you can buy an AR online and have it shipped to a local FFL for pickup. A few states and cities restrict certain features or magazine sizes, so check your local laws first. We ship nationwide to any licensed dealer.
What is the difference between an AR rifle and an SBR?
A standard AR rifle has a barrel at least 16 inches long, while an SBR rifle has a shorter barrel and is regulated under the National Firearms Act. An SBR requires extra paperwork and a tax stamp, while a standard AR does not.
Find Your Next AR at Total Impact
Whether you're after your first AR-15 or a hard-hitting AR-10 for the hunt, Total Impact has the rifles, the price-match guarantee, and the range to help you choose. Browse the lineup above, and reach out if you want one we can source for you.