AR-10 vs. AR-15

Attribute	AR-10	AR-15
Manufacturer	ArmaLite	ArmaLite, Colt, various others
Caliber	.308/7.62x51mm	.223/5.56x45mm
Weight	9-10 lbs	6-7 lbs
Barrel Length	20 inches	16 inches
Magazine Capacity	20 rounds	30 rounds

History and Development

The AR-10 and AR-15 are both popular rifles that have a shared history. The AR-10 was designed by Eugene Stoner in the late 1950s as a lightweight, accurate rifle for military use. However, due to various reasons, the AR-10 was not widely adopted by the military. This led to the development of the AR-15, which was based on the AR-10 design but with some modifications. The AR-15 was eventually adopted by the US military and has since become one of the most popular rifles in the world.

Caliber and Ballistics

One of the main differences between the AR-10 and AR-15 is the caliber they are chambered in. The AR-10 typically fires the larger .308 Winchester round, while the AR-15 fires the smaller .223 Remington round. The .308 Winchester round is known for its long-range accuracy and stopping power, making the AR-10 a popular choice for hunting and long-range shooting. On the other hand, the .223 Remington round is lighter and faster, making the AR-15 a popular choice for tactical and competition shooting.

Size and Weight

Another key difference between the AR-10 and AR-15 is their size and weight. The AR-10 is typically larger and heavier than the AR-15 due to the larger caliber it fires. This can make the AR-10 less maneuverable in tight spaces and heavier to carry over long distances. On the other hand, the AR-15 is more compact and lightweight, making it easier to handle and carry for extended periods of time. This difference in size and weight can be a deciding factor for some shooters when choosing between the two rifles.

Recoil and Handling

Due to the difference in caliber and weight, the AR-10 and AR-15 also have different levels of recoil and handling characteristics. The AR-10 typically has more recoil than the AR-15 due to the larger .308 Winchester round it fires. This can make the AR-10 more challenging to shoot accurately, especially for newer shooters or those with less experience. On the other hand, the AR-15 has less recoil and is generally easier to handle, making it a popular choice for shooters of all skill levels.

Customization and Accessories

Both the AR-10 and AR-15 are highly customizable rifles with a wide range of accessories available. However, due to their differences in size and caliber, some accessories may be specific to each rifle. For example, the AR-10 may require different magazines, stocks, and handguards than the AR-15 due to its larger size. This can limit the interchangeability of parts between the two rifles. Despite this, both the AR-10 and AR-15 have a vast aftermarket support, allowing shooters to customize their rifles to suit their preferences and needs.

Price and Availability

When it comes to price and availability, the AR-15 tends to be more affordable and easier to find than the AR-10. This is due to the popularity of the AR-15 platform and the wide range of manufacturers producing AR-15 rifles and parts. On the other hand, the AR-10 can be more expensive and harder to come by, as there are fewer manufacturers producing AR-10 rifles and parts. This can make the AR-10 a less accessible option for some shooters, especially those on a budget.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the AR-10 and AR-15 are both excellent rifles with their own unique attributes. The AR-10 is known for its long-range accuracy and stopping power, while the AR-15 is prized for its lightweight and maneuverability. Shooters should consider their intended use, preferences, and budget when choosing between the two rifles. Whether you prefer the power of the AR-10 or the versatility of the AR-15, both rifles offer a reliable and customizable platform for shooters of all skill levels.