If you are considering purchasing a firearm, you want to make sure you know as much about it as possible. Thinking about buying an AR-15? Well, how much do you know about that firearm? What is an AR-15? Is knowing that actually all that important?

Being familiar with firearms in general is a good idea, but knowing the specifics of the particular firearm you choose is even better. Before you purchase a weapon, consider testing it out on the firing range. You may or may not be able to handle it. Fortunately, AR-15s are suitable for both beginners and firearm aficionados. They are the preferred firearm by any number of individuals. Even the military and law enforcement prefer weapons from the AR platform over others.

Let's test your knowledge regarding AR-15s.

What Does "AR” Mean?

Despite what you may have heard, "AR" does not mean ‘‘automatic rifle,’’ or ‘‘assault rifle.’’ AR stands for Armalite Rifle, the company that originally made the AR-10 and AR-15, among other AR platform firearms.

What's the History of the AR-15?

Armalite developed the first AR-15 for the military back in the late 1950s.

Does the Colt Company Own the AR-15?

In 1959, Colt Manufacturing Company bought the trademarks and patents to the Armalite AR-15 and AR-10.

If Colt Has a Patent, How Can Other Companies Make an AR-15?

In 1977, most AR-15 patents expired, leading numerous manufacturers to produce Colt AR-15 copies under different names. The AR-15 name trademark, however, is retained by Colt.

How Many Rounds Does an AR-15 Have? What Kind of Ammunition Does It Take?

Rounds – These weapons are issued with 30-, 20-, 10-, and 5-round STANAG magazines.

Ammunition – When it comes to an AR-15, ammunition choices can vary (9 x 19 mm Parabellum, .22 LR, 7.62 x 39 mm, 6.5 mm Grendel, and shotgun calibers), but typically 5.56 x 45 mm NATO or .223 Remington are used.

What Is the Effective Range of an AR-15?

The effective range of an AR-15 is roughly 600 yards.

How Long Is the Barrel on an AR-15?

The barrel length on an AR-15 can vary between 24 inches, 16 inches, or 20 inches.

Is the AR-15 a Rifle-Only Model?

There are AR-15 rifles and AR-15 pistols. The pistols come with support gear. They are not a handgun, per se. You won't carry one in a holster, in your waistband, purse, or glove compartment.

How Much do AR-15s Cost?

A lot of different factors determine how much an AR-15 will cost. Very generally speaking, however, expect the following:

• $700 for a budget version
• Roughly $850 for your average AR-15 (mid-tier)
• $2000 and up for a top-of-the-line model

Final Question: Where Can You Buy a High-Quality AR-15?

The answer to this one is easy: TacOp Shop.

In addition to AR-15s, we carry AR-10s, pistols, handguns, scopes, magazines, clips – you name it. Don't shop anywhere else until you check out our inventory. Currently on a budget? No problem. We offer both layaway and payment options.

Got questions? Would you like to place an order? Please contact us at 801-980-4862 or email us at info@tacopshop.com.

You can also use our convenient online form to open lines of communication if you need more information. Fill out the form, send it in, and we will reach out to you.