The AR-15 is a popular semi-automatic rifle that has gained widespread use in both military and civilian settings. One common question that many people ask about the AR-15 is how long it is. In this post, we'll answer that question and provide some additional information about the length of a AR 15.

Standard AR-15 Length

The standard AR-15 rifle has an overall length of 35 to 36 inches. This measurement includes the rifle's barrel and stock.

Barrel Length

The barrel of an AR-15 can vary in length, but the most common length for a civilian rifle is 16 inches. This is the legal minimum length for a rifle barrel in the United States without registering the weapon as a Short-Barreled Rifle (SBR).

AR-15 Pistol Length

In addition to the standard rifle length, AR-15s are also available in pistol configurations. These pistols have shorter barrels and do not have a stock. The overall length of an AR-15 pistol is typically 26 to 30 inches.

Measuring the AR-15 Length

To measure the length of an AR-15, you will need to include the length of the barrel, the upper and lower receivers, and the stock. The length of the barrel is measured from the muzzle to the front of the receiver. The overall length is calculated by measuring the distance between the end of the stock and the end of the muzzle.

AR-15 Variants

There are many variations of the AR-15 rifle, and the overall length can vary depending on the model. For example, some AR-15s are designed with a collapsible stock that can reduce the overall length of the rifle. Additionally, some models may have shorter or longer barrels, which can impact the overall length of the rifle.

Tactical Configurations

Some AR-15s are designed for tactical use, and these models may have additional accessories that can impact the overall length of the rifle. For example, a rifle with a bayonet lug or a flash suppressor will be longer than a rifle without these features.

Transporting AR-15s

The length of an AR-15 is important to consider when transporting the rifle. In some states, rifles that are longer than a certain length may be classified as assault weapons, which can impact their legal status. Additionally, if you plan to travel with your AR-15, you may need to transport it in a case that is long enough to accommodate the entire rifle.

Overall Size

While the length of an AR-15 is an important consideration, it's also important to remember that the rifle's overall size can impact its handling and use. A shorter rifle may be easier to maneuver in tight spaces, while a longer rifle may be more stable and accurate at longer ranges.

Use Cases

The length of an AR-15 can impact its use in different scenarios. For example, a longer rifle may be better for long-range shooting or hunting, while a shorter rifle may be better for tactical or close-quarters situations.

The length of an AR-15 can vary depending on the model and configuration of the rifle. The standard length for an AR-15 with a 16-inch barrel is 35 to 36 inches, but variations in barrel length, stock, and other features can impact the overall length of the rifle. When choosing an AR-15, it's important to consider the length of the rifle, as well as its overall size and use in different scenarios.