8 Affordable AR-15s to Fit Any Budget

The AR-15 is known as "America's Rifle" for a good reason. It's a battle-tested gun with a long history of service. But just as importantly, it's available in a wide variety of options, both from a price perspective and special features and designs.

While we all want to drop coin on tricked-out AR-platform rifles, not all of us can afford the high-dollar price tags. For those moments, we turn to affordable AR-15 models. Guns.com has pulled together some of our favorite and most wallet-friendly models for those minding their bank accounts.

2023 Update: Affordable AR-15s Under $750

1. S&W M&P15 SPORT II

The Smith & Wesson M&P15 burst onto the AR-15 scene in 2006, debuting at SHOT Show. Marked with the “Military and Police” moniker, the rifle provided a rugged, semi-automatic build designed for law enforcement, recreation, sports, and professional shooters.

Now a staple in the AR-15 realm, the Smith & Wesson M&P15 offers a wide swath of options from barrel lengths and calibers to state-compliant models, making it a great option for gun owners who prefer a little variety to life. Those that prefer the standard model will find a 16-inch barrel length with a 30-round capacity magazine and a weight that's around 6.85 pounds.

2. Diamondback DB15

Diamondback Firearms is known for making affordable firearms for price-conscious consumers. The DB-15 proves no different. Made in the good ol' USA, the DB15 comes in the shooter’s choice of loadout with options ranging from simple color options all the way to sights and stocks.

The gas-impingement rifles are chambered in 5.56 NATO/.223 Rem and sport barrel lengths from 16 inches to 18 inches with weights around 6.65 pounds.

RELATED: DIAMONDBACK DB15 REVIEW

3. ZRO DELTA BASE RIFLE

ZRO Delta has become known for innovation and customization. Their Base Rifle is an entry-level AR-15 that caters to someone who wants a lot of bang for their buck. The rifle is incredibly lightweight, due in part to the M-LOK handguard, which not only cuts down on weight but also gives the user numerous places to attach aftermarket accessories.

Weighing in at only 6.4 pounds, this is one of the lightest ARs on this list.

4. Rock River LAR-15

Lar-15 rifle in a man's hands at the range

Chambered in, you guessed it, 5.56 NATO/.223 Rem, the LAR-15 from Rock River Arms brings a rugged and reliable rifle to the civilian market that is ready to take a beating and still perform. This AR-15 offers a carbine-length gas system with a low-profile gas block, Rock River Arms single-stage trigger, and M-LOK compatible handguard for those accessories. Plus, there are plenty of variations to give you even more options.

The LAR-15 is a highly capable rifle and, most impressively, offers a modest street price.

5. DEL-TON ECHO 316

Del-Ton has long been viewed as an affordable brand, and their Echo 316 lineup has lots to offer for those on a budget. For starters, there are several models available. So, depending on the style and features you're looking for, Del-Ton probably has you covered. As one of the more affordable ARs on the market, the Echo 316 has been a go-to for people looking to get a lot of gun without breaking the bank.

6. Ruger AR-556

A modern sporting rifle, the Ruger AR-556 delivers an all-black AR-15 platform featuring adjustable sights, QD socket and bayonet lug, single-stage trigger positioned in an enlarged trigger guard, and six-position, telescoping buttstock. Equipped with a carbine length gas system, the AR-556 sports a 16.10-inch barrel length, overall length of 32.25 to 35.50 inches depending on stock position, and a weight of 6.5 pounds.

The Ruger AR-556, chambered in the obvious choice of 5.56 NATO, ships with one Magpul 30-round PMAG.

7. Bird Dog Arms BD-15

The world of AR-style firearms does seem to be growing at an exponential rate lately, but there are things that quickly trim away the list of guns we would want to personally select for home defense or general shooting needs. The first two would be quality and price, and Bird Dog Arms certainly met and exceeded that with their BD-15 line.

These affordable ARs are ready to fill your everyday shooting needs and leave enough extra money to get some ammo to go with it.

8. Bushmaster XM-15

Bushmaster brings the XM-15 Standard to consumers looking for multiple pricing options. Featuring a variety of models to suit a range of budgets, the 5.56 NATO XM-15 Standard features barrel lengths of either 16 inches or 20 inches. Offering a 30-round mag capacity, the XM-15 delivers a modern sporting rifle design with an M16 bolt carrier and weights between 6 and 8 pounds.