I usually tell beginners (to ARs) to get a Colt 6920 from Walmart.
RRA is one of my favorites. I tell beginners to CMP/NRA service rifle competition to get a RRA NMA2 1/2x1/2.
avoid the absolute bottom price points with names like "sportical"... Avoid the specialty calibers, that is anything other than .223. I'd say avoid the high end $2000+ until you know what brand & features you want.
for your first general purpose AR get a complete standard M4-gery, 16" collapsable stock, in .223, like the colt I mention above. You will get hooked and you will get more and you will be building your own in a few years.
while you're spending money, goto Brownells and order 10 magazines, either brownells brand aluminum or magpul P-mags. Then shop around and get a case of Federal .223 which lately is around $330/1000. Get an aimpoint PRO or eotech 512, if you're over 40, you won't be able to see your front sight and will need the scope.
welcome to the dark side, shoot good!
Poole
