AR 15 Buyer’s Guide 2024

This is a no BS list that shows the real cost of building a complete AR15 with accessories. Anything above “Modest Functional Rifle” is diminishing returns unless you regularly fire in full auto, but I have included them for comparison. PSA barrels in my experience have been surprisingly accurate with 62 and 75 grain projectiles. This list does not include consumables such as Batteries or Ammunition.

Destitute Rifle – $474

It’s going to be terrible, break easily, and suffer from poor reliability and accuracy. I do not recommend this.

The Absolute Cheapest Option

Minimum Functional Rifle – $639

I recommend building a rifle this way versus purchasing the actual cheapest possible option.

300 yard rifle as configured

Modest Functional Rifle – $735 to $895

Free float handguard with MLOK and a full length picatinny rail, better adjustable stock, better trigger

700 yard Capable rifle as configured with 1-6×24 LVPO
Improved Functional Rifle – $1570
Higher quality parts, better trigger
Improved Functional Rifle – $1750
Higher quality free float rail/upper build