Anybody have any first-hand experience in these rifles? I’m looking at one in the$1600 range right now, comes with one 30-rnd mag and one 42-rnd mag and factory optics, in factory case. Probably 85%+ condition, gray synthetic stock. 16" barrel with flash-hider.
Is this a good deal? If so, would I be better off buying the used Microtech MSAR (practically the same gun, by looks) from Bud’s for like $1200-ish? Is there anything so special about the Steyr brand, other than they are the “NAME” people know? Like a Colt to a Bushy, perhaps?
Pretty much anything you’d run on a AR-15 carbine is good to go. There is something to be said for buying a MSAR scope since it will be correct manufacturer equipment should these rifles ever become collectible in the future.
I would also recommend an MSAR because of cost vs. AUG and because the E4 model uses most AR type mags. If you have your heart set on an actual AUG, I would pass on the USR and get the A3 AUG. Ratworxusa.com has one listed at $1900.00. The MSAR E4 would run you $1350.00 from Ratworx as well.
Both guns well accept most optics you can buy for AR’s. You will have plenty of options to consider. Good Luck:D
Did you make a decision? Another route, if you haven’t made your purchase yet, might be to buy the USR and swap out the “sporter” stock with a new E4 MSAR stock.
That is not a great price on a USR in 85% condition. Pete Athens/PJS has a USR in excellent shape that I believe he posted for $1700. I believe he still has this in inventory. Also, a USR shouldn’t have a threaded barrel unless it has been de-sporterized by using the appropriate number of US parts.
I really like my USR. I bought it before the AUG A3 was available and debanned it using parts from TPD and a Steyr NATO stock. It was unfired when I bought it and I have put probably 700 rounds down range using P-mags. It has proven to be a great rifle so far. I was never into the AUG or bullpups in general, but stumbled on a deal I couldn’t pass up when I found the USR. Now I enjoy the AUG platform more and more each time I shoot my USR. It is very ergonomic, handles incredibly well, and I shoot it well.
As much as I like the debanned USR, I would recommend you buy an AUG A3 instead. It gives you far more options for mounting optics, has a bolt release lever, and has factory support from Steyr/SABRE. You are basically SOL with support on a USR. And the AUG A2/USR is known to have issues with the receiver/scope interface tolerances opening up over time with repeat installation/removal of your optic or rail. This results in your optic or rail having ever so slight play where it installs on the receiver.
I just bought a Steyr AUG A3 from Pete and am looking forward to its arrival. Given the choice between the MSAR and Steyr, I personally like the Steyr. But that is just personal preference. The MSAR E4 seems like it is a great rifle and that MSAR has fully debugged the STG with the release of the E4.
Do you have a link? I am still leaning more towards the MSAR, but definately like the idea of using AR mags, since there are plenty of them laying around here right now…lol.
I have never owned a Bullpup-style rifle… is thi sa good place to start off? Should I explore any other options if I’m planning on spending around $1800 total on rifle/optics?
Thanks for all the great advice and opinions. It’s also good to know that Steyr doesn’t really have any customer support… that’s a HUGE buying point for me.
Thanks for all of your input, but I have had a change of heart. I have decided to build an AR-10 with the budget rather than building-up a Bullpup right now. Maybe with the next gun-money-splurge-fest… but not this one.
Once again, I appreciate the knowledge you have leant me.
