I want a full length AR with A4 upper. Between a Colt and Spikes Tactical, which one would you recommend? I know FN makes one but it’s a little out of my price range.
Between those two, I’d choose a Colt every time, even for a couple hundred dollars more.
The Windham Weaponry R20GVTA4S-7 seems to be regarded rather highly.
My Colt AR15 A4 has been dead nuts reliable. Wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it. I don’t have any personal experience with Spikes.
I didn’t think FN was much more than the Colt, or was right around the same price, but I haven’t been keeping up evidently. Given what you list, it isn’t a contest really, Colt wins.
BCM may also be worth a look, though I’m not sure what sort of pricing you are looking for.
Colt and FN are the only two I would consider for such a rifle.
Between those two, Colt for sure. FN would be a great choice if you can swing the $$$.
The Windham indeed!
https://www.windhamweaponry.com/firearms/rifles/223-556-caliber-rifle/20-govt-rifle/
I have two builds using the same upper assembly and two other builds using the same barrel assembly. Very accurate and this rifle will rival the Colt in every aspect.
I have this particular WW. Deadly accurate and flawless reliability. Like my Colts, the trigger sucked and got changed out. Otherwise, an excellent rifle.
Aero when they are in stock
Personally I would pick the Colt, but I would have no issues purchasing a Windham or BCM as a second choice.
BCM makes a complete A4?
Colt would have the best resale value.
very very happy with my windham weaponry
This is always the lamest reason to buy a Colt or any other brand for that matter. If you are in the AR market to buy and sell, then you are not in it for the right reasons. You buy and build what gives you the best value for your money while fulfilling your needs/wants. If you are a fanboy of one brand or another, that is fine. Not everyone is. In the civilian A4 market, there are several good options available. Some are less expensive than others and some are a little bit better in quality, fit, finish, and accuracy. Most of these DO NOT have the Colt logo on them. When it comes to a really good quality A4, three names come into mind. They are BCM, Colt, and Windham Weaponry. Personally, I am not a fan of the big white BCM on the upper receiver. Not a fan of Colt products made in the past few years. That leaves the Windham Weaponry and that is what I, and some others, have recommended. They are a great value and a fantastic product with the accuracy and construction to back them up, not to mention the support you get from Windham Weaponry. They are in tune to the market and the customers. My decisions on buying or building never hinge on resale value. I suggest the same for anyone. Now, if you are a licensed dealer, that is different.
I have both the Colt & FN A4 and both have performed equally well. The FN did come with cheapo handguards though, whereas the Colt came with actual mil spec A2 handguards. I would also look at the Aero A4. It seems to have pretty good reviews and can be had for pretty cheap. I think Brownells even sells one from Aero with KAC M5 RAS installed for like $1000 which is a pretty good deal.
Not about buying and selling. But minds change, financial situations change, what you like today you may not want tomorrow.
Should you decide to sell or trade for something else later you’d want to get the most you can out of it.
Spikes is considered hobby grade around here. Handled alot, shot very little. Its not a bad thing if you’re on a budget, I just wouldnt be grabbing it for something that went bump in the night.
Ergo they cant even get their specs right:
20" Rifle Length Barrel
MIL-B-11595E CMV
Chrome Lined
1/7 Twist Rate
1/2 X 28 Thread Pitch for Muzzle
5.56 Nato Chamber
.750 Gas Block Seat
M4 Feed Ramped Barrel Extension
Mil-Spec Phosphate Coating
HBAR/ A2 Profile
They used to. Although I haven’t seen a complete rifle available for a long time. Uppers occasionally show up in the wild.
I’ve noticed that among several folks (and some manufacturers) a Plain-Jane A4 and a basic A2 are often both referred to as “A2 configuration”. Presumably because they look so similar?
FYI, DS Arms now offers their new DSArms AR15 20" Service Series 5.56x45 NATO A4 Rifle - Knight’s Armament Upgrades. It comes complete with KAC M5 RAS, rail panels, VFG, and MaTech rear BUIS.