The AR-15 is one of the most popular rifles made in the U.S. Designed for military use during the Viet Nam War it is now the leading competition and marksmanship training rifle in the country and is becoming more popular for use in large game hunting. According to the BATFE the number of AR-15s in the U.S. will exceed 2.5 million in 2010, not accounting for those that were made before 1986 for which records are not available. Improvements in the firearm over the decades in which it has been used under all types of conditions have resulted in the AR-15 being among the most reliable and accurate weapons.
The AR-15 is the most flexible and customizable rifle ever designed. By changing upper receivers, the rifle can be changed from a carbine to a long-range rifle in a matter of seconds. With its modular design, it can be an excellent medium range tactical rifle or a base for long range use. It is quickly disassembled without tools for inspection, cleaning, and parts replacements. Parts are easily available and interchangeable with other rifles.
The ability to convert the AR-15 to a large number of rifle and pistol calibers allows a single weapon to serve a wide variety of applications. Changing the caliber is a simple matter of swapping the upper receiver kit which includes the barrel, optics, sights, and hand guards. The BATF classifies the lower receiver as the firearm allowing for upper receivers to be bought without an additional Federal Firearms License. This eliminates the need for multiple weapons since the AR-15 can quickly be adapted for differing needs and circumstances, from hunting prairie dogs to big game, self defense, and sport shooting.
The market is booming in tactical accessories for the AR-15 to make possible extensive customization. The rail system allows for the mounting of optic, light, bipod, laser, and removable iron sights. Stocks, slings, grips, clips, and more allow for further customization to meet individual preferences and needs. Though the AR-15 trademark is registered to Colt Industries, many companies are now manufacturing AR-15 variations and accessories to meet market demands and desires.
The reliability and accuracy of the AR-15 along with the modular design to allow for extensive customization and a wide variety of uses has made this weapon the choice of civilians as well as military and police. After nearly a half century of use, the AR-15 platform continues to increase in popularity and will undoubtedly remain the weapon of choice for decades to come.