The grandfather of all the modern sporting rifles — and the daddy of the comparatively smaller AR-15 — the AR-10 rifle has been around for 65 years.
Despite going extinct for a short time, the AR-10 has seen a rebirth and has grown today to be one of the best and most widespread .30-caliber autoloading rifles available.
The realm of semi-automatic rifles is rich with history and innovation, and within this domain, the AR-10 stands (almost) alone. Hailing from the foundational days of the DI rifle system, the AR-10 has carved its niche not just as a sibling to the more famous AR-15, but as a formidable force in its own right.
Its power, precision, and versatility, paired with medium-bore caliber options like .308 Win., 6.5 Creedmoor, and .260 Rem., make it a sought-after choice for those in pursuit of long-range applications or those who just want more pow from their AR.
While some rifles might suffice for varmints and smaller game, the AR-10’s broad capability — equally adept at handling whitetails and big game such as elk, wild boar, and moose — gives it range and power that distinguishes it from its counterparts.
Yet, as with almost all things AR these days, the market is awash with AR-10 variants. Some boast history, some bank on innovation, and others promise affordability. For the AR-10 buyer, the challenge is to sift through this dense market and pinpoint a rifle that aligns with specific needs, be it hunting, home defense, or target shooting.
Our goal is to provide a clear roadmap to the AR-10 landscape, ensuring that by journey’s end, you’re equipped with the knowledge and perspective to make an informed choice.
Ready? Let’s jump in.
