Which Budget AR-15 Is The Most Accurate? - PSA, Ruger, Anderson, S&W, Radical Firearms

Published on July 21, 2025
Duration: 17:55

This video provides an expert-level comparison of five budget AR-15 platforms, evaluating their accuracy potential with various ammunition types. Instructor Elliott Delp meticulously outlines the testing methodology, including crucial experimental controls like free-float handrails and 16-inch barrels, to ensure a fair assessment. The analysis highlights that budget AR-15s can achieve impressive accuracy, with the Palmetto State Armory (PSA) Blem and Ruger AR-556 emerging as top performers in terms of average and best group MOA, respectively.

Quick Summary

The Palmetto State Armory (PSA) Blem AR-15 achieved the best overall average accuracy of 1.9 MOA, while the Ruger AR-556 produced the tightest single group at 1 MOA. Both are excellent choices for accuracy on a budget, demonstrating that reliable performance is achievable in the $400-$600 price range.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Rifle Selection
  2. 00:55Ammunition & Testing Setup
  3. 01:32Experiment Controls
  4. 03:22Ruger AR-556 Results
  5. 05:51S&W M&P15 Sport III Results
  6. 08:14Anderson AR-15 Results
  7. 10:34Radical Firearms RF-15 Results
  8. 12:37PSA Blem Results
  9. 14:12Conclusion & Final Rankings

Frequently Asked Questions

Which budget AR-15 is the most accurate?

Based on the test, the Palmetto State Armory (PSA) Blem AR-15 achieved the best overall average accuracy of 1.9 MOA, while the Ruger AR-556 produced the tightest single group at 1 MOA. Both are excellent choices for accuracy on a budget.

What factors influence the accuracy of budget AR-15s?

Accuracy in budget AR-15s is significantly influenced by the ammunition used, barrel quality (like cold hammer-forged), handguard type (free-float preferred), and consistent testing parameters such as barrel length and trigger type.

How much does an accurate budget AR-15 typically cost?

The budget AR-15s tested ranged from $350 to $650. The top performers, PSA and Ruger, fell within the $470-$600 street price range, demonstrating that reliable accuracy is achievable without breaking the bank.

What is MOA and how does it relate to AR-15 accuracy?

MOA (Minute of Angle) measures firearm accuracy; 1 MOA at 100 yards is about 1.047 inches. Lower MOA values mean better accuracy. The best budget AR-15s in this test achieved groups as tight as 1 MOA.

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