Top 5 AR15 Alternatives... That Failed

This entry analyzes five rifles that, despite decent designs, failed commercially. TFB TV's Alex C. and Patrick discuss the Bushmaster M17S's poor ergonomics, the Armalite AR-180's competitive pricing issue, the Bushmaster ACR's MSRP and unmet promises, the Benelli MR1's user interface flaws, and the Egyptian Rashid's dangerous gas tube design. The analysis highlights how design flaws and market missteps can doom even promising firearms.

This video analyzes seven firearms that failed to achieve commercial success despite promising features and manufacturer backing. It highlights issues ranging from poor ergonomics and trigger quality to high prices and critical reliability problems, offering insights into why innovative designs sometimes falter in the real-world market.

This video provides a critical review of several AR-15 alternatives, including the Bushmaster ACR, Ruger Mini-14, Kel-Tec SU-16, Troy PAR, Beretta RX4 Storm, Robinson Arms XCR-L, Kel-Tec RDB, and FN FS2000. The expert assessment highlights specific pros and cons for each platform, focusing on performance, ergonomics, reliability, and market reception. It offers valuable insights for consumers considering options outside the traditional AR-15 platform.

Brandon Herrera's 'Gun Meme Review' revisits the highly anticipated return of the Bushmaster ACR, detailing its modular features and historical context. The video also touches on comparisons with the PSA JAKL, teases a future segment on the M79 Thumper, and briefly discusses industry news regarding Lucas Botkin and T.REX Arms. Herrera's high-profile influencer status and hands-on demonstrations underscore his expertise in firearm platforms and industry trends.

This review examines the Ruger SR-556, a 2009 attempt at a service rifle, highlighting its short-stroke piston system, 1:9 twist barrel, and front-heavy design. Despite its $2,000 price point and failure to secure military contracts, the SR-556 is considered a better rifle than the Bushmaster ACR by the reviewer, primarily due to its softer shooting characteristics on the lowest gas setting and more robust accessory mounting options. However, its high cost and lack of a dedicated suppressed setting are noted drawbacks.

This video provides an update on the Bushmaster ACR platform, directly addressing rumors of its discontinuation. A Bushmaster representative confirms that the ACR is not dead and that new products are in development for the platform, with announcements expected to follow the pattern of recent Shot Show releases. The host expresses significant relief and excitement regarding this news.

This video, presented by Alex C of TFBTV, identifies five of the most reliable firearms across different categories. The assessment focuses on mechanical simplicity, historical production numbers, and documented performance in demanding conditions. The chosen firearms include the Glock (handgun), Uzi (SMG), Mauser 98 (bolt-action rifle), Remington 870 (shotgun), and IWI Galil (self-loading rifle), with detailed explanations for each selection based on expert criteria.

This guide details the process of loading and firing a cap and ball revolver, emphasizing the multi-step procedure required for each shot. It highlights the historical significance but impracticality for modern concealed carry. The video features Alex C., a recognized firearms expert from TFBTV, demonstrating the techniques with technical accuracy and a humorous tone.

This video from TFB TV, hosted by James Reeves, provides an expert-level comparison of the Ruger Mini-14 and the AR-15, highlighting eight key areas where the Mini-14 may be considered superior. Reeves, demonstrating high authority with technical terminology and empirical testing, details advantages in low profile, stock trigger quality, maneuverability due to its operating system, sight radius, piston operation, accuracy improvements in modern variants, CHF barrels, and stainless steel construction. While acknowledging the AR-15's modularity and ergonomics, the Mini-14 is presented as a compelling alternative for specific use cases.

This video from TFBTV explores five excellent surplus rifles available for under $500, focusing on their historical significance, operational features, and current market value. The hosts, Alex C and Patrick R, demonstrate a high level of expertise, discussing specific models like the Lee Enfield, Yugo Mauser 98, Swiss K31, MAS 49/56, SKS, and Mosin Nagant M38. They highlight the affordability of these firearms and the availability of surplus ammunition, making them attractive options for collectors and shooters alike.