Lightest Weight AR-15: A Comprehensive Guide
When it comes to the AR-15 platform, there’s no shortage of options available to shooters. However, if you’re looking for the lightest weight AR-15 on the market, you’ll want to consider several factors. In this article, we’ll delve into the details of the lightest weight AR-15 models, their features, and how they compare to other options.
Understanding the Lightest Weight AR-15
The term “lightest weight AR-15” can refer to various components of the rifle, including the upper receiver, lower receiver, barrel, stock, and accessories. For the purpose of this article, we’ll focus on the overall weight of the rifle when all components are assembled.
One of the key factors in determining the weight of an AR-15 is the material used for its construction. Aluminum is a popular choice for its strength and lightweight properties. Titanium is another option, though it’s more expensive and typically used in high-end models.
Top Lightest Weight AR-15 Models
Here are some of the top lightest weight AR-15 models currently available on the market:
| Model | Overall Weight (lbs) | Barrel Length (inches) | Caliber |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colt Lightweight M4 | 6.6 | 16 | 5.56 NATO |
| Rock Island Armory RIS-Lite | 6.8 | 16 | 5.56 NATO |
| Stag Arms SAB-15 | 6.9 | 16 | 5.56 NATO |
| Smith & Wesson M&P 15 Sport II | 6.9 | 16 | 5.56 NATO |
As you can see from the table, the Colt Lightweight M4 is the lightest model with an overall weight of 6.6 pounds. The Rock Island Armory RIS-Lite and Stag Arms SAB-15 follow closely behind at 6.8 pounds, while the Smith & Wesson M&P 15 Sport II is slightly heavier at 6.9 pounds.
Features to Consider
When selecting the lightest weight AR-15, there are several features to consider:
- Barrel Material: A lightweight barrel can significantly reduce the overall weight of the rifle. Chrome-lined barrels are a popular choice for their durability and lightweight properties.
- Receiver Material: Aluminum receivers are lighter than steel receivers, making them a great choice for those looking to reduce weight.
- Stock Material: Polymer stocks are lighter than wood stocks and can help reduce the overall weight of the rifle.
- Handguard: A lightweight handguard can make the rifle more comfortable to carry and handle.
Comparing Lightest Weight AR-15 Models
Now that we’ve discussed the top lightest weight AR-15 models and the features to consider, let’s compare these models based on their weight, barrel length, and caliber:
| Model | Overall Weight (lbs) | Barrel Length (inches) | Caliber |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colt Lightweight M4 | 6.6 | 16 | 5.56 NATO |
| Rock Island Armory RIS-Lite | 6.8 | 16 | 5.56 NATO |