From doomsday preppers to seasoned hunters, we can all appreciate the usefulness of quality semi-automatic rifles. Offering reliability, accuracy, stopping power, and increased magazine capacity, semi-automatics really can do it all.
We’ve compiled a list of our favorite semi-automatic rifles offering a range of practical uses, most being very versatile firearms to have in any collection. So if you need a great all-around rifle take a look below to see the best the market has to offer.
Armalite AR-10 A2
The AR-10 A2 utilizes a gas-operated system, the capturing of propellant gases cause a delay in the recoil causing less interruption to the shooters accuracy. It also features a 2-stage trigger activating on a long pull and has a chrome-lined bore for corrosion resistance. The AR-10 is also available in a shorter and lighter carbine version. This rifle offers substantial stopping power alongside a standard 20 round magazine.
Calibre: .308 Win/7.62 NATO
Capacity: 20
Weight: 7.8lbs
Barrel Length: 20″
Length Of Pull: 14.5″
Remington R-15 VTR Predator
The Remington R-15 VTR Predator is a rifle to be reckoned with and is full of high-performance features. It uses the AAC 51 Tooth Blackout muzzle brake for reduced recoil and quicker consecutive shots. You’ll also benefit from both a Magpul trigger guard and grip of ergonomic polymer construction and design. If That’s not enough it also features a 2-stage trigger for competitive level accuracy.
Calibre: .223 Remington
Capacity: 5
Weight: 7.75lbs
Barrel Length: 16.5″
Length Of Pull: 13 3/8″
DPMS LR-308 Sportical Carbine
With a lot to offer for its price, the DPMS LR-308 comes with a Pardus stock, A2 grip and a Glacier Guard Handguard as standard. It is extremely compact shrinking down to 32″ when the stock is collapsed or 36″ when extended. This rifle best works when used with a heavy oil.
Caliber: .308/7.62 NATO
Capacity: 20
Weight: 8.3lbs
Barrel Length: 16″
Length Of Pull: Adjustable Stock
Remington R-25 GII
The Remington R-25 is built on an AR-10 platform but with the sole purpose of big game hunting in mind. The R-25 ships with a 4-round magazine but accepts other A10 style magazines. Coming with a heat-treated steel bolt and bolt carrier and a strong aluminum body where the lower receiver is milled from a single piece, you can rest assured that the R-25is built for durability.
Calibre: .308 Win
Capacity: 4
Weight: 8.75lbs
Barrel Length: 20″
Length Of Pull: 13.375″
Colt AR6720
The Colt AR6720 is a lightweight carbine rifle often used by law enforcement due to its reliability and accuracy. As standard you’ll receive a 4-point tactical collapsible stock, Magpul MBUS Gen 2 rear sights, and a 30-round magazine. It also shoots the popular, therefore readily available, 5.56 NATO, the AR6720 also has a flattop receiver with a scope ready rail. The AR6720 is also one of the more affordable rifles on the market.
Calibre: .223 Remington/5.56 NATO
Capacity: 30+1
Weight: 6.3lbs
Barrel Length: 16.1″
Length Of Pull: Adjustable Stock
Knight’s SR-25 E2 PR Keymod
Due to its weight and size, the Knight’s SR-25 is a great distance or still shooting rifle. It fires .308 Win/7.62 NATO rounds to provide substantial stopping power and is extremely customizable due to its Picatinny rail system. Due to its overall length, varying between 39.75″ and 43.5″, it’s common to see shooters attach bipods and optics for greater distance shooting/hunting.
Calibre: .308 Win/7.62 NATO
Capacity: 20+1
Weight: 10.5lbs
Barrel Length: 20″
Length Of Pull: Adjustable Stock
Barrett REC 7 Carbine
The REC7 is an incredibly customizable rifle to add to any collection with the Barrett M-LOK handguard providing accessory mounting positions, a Magpul 6-position stock, and a 3-prong flash hider/muzzle break. This rifle really is an all-rounder, great for hunting, competitive shooting or home defense. They’ve even redesigned the trigger guard to make it more accessible for glove wearers.
Caliber: 5.56 NATO
Capacity: 10/20/30
Weight: 7.2lbs
Barrel Length: 16″
Length Of Pull: Adjustable Stock
Springfield M1A
Both the Springfield M1 and M14 are truly iconic rifles that have been brought together to form the M1A that has been available for civilian purchase since 1974! The M1A shoots the 7.62 NATO round with a 22″ 6-groove carbon steel barrel, the stopping power on this rifle is incredible. Weighing 9.3lbs it can be extra work to carry around for long periods of time but if you’re looking for a reliable perimeter defense gun the M1A won’t disappoint.
Caliber: .308 Win/7.62 NATO
Capacity: 10
Weight: 9.3lbs
Barrel Length: 22″
Length Of Pull: 14″
Ruger Mini-14 Model 5817
This is a great compact and lightweight semi-automatic rifle from Ruger offering a standard magazine capacity of 20-rounds and a comfortable length of pull of 13″. Due to its size and weight, this is a great home defense weapon or rifle for more petite frames as it’s easily handled and easily loaded. The cold-hammer-forged barrel provides precise rifling, increased accuracy, and easy maintenance.
Caliber: 5.56 NATO
Capacity: 20
Weight: 6.7lbs
Barrel Length: 18.5″
Length Of Pull: 13″
Smith & Wesson M&P15 Sport II
Smith & Wesson is one of the most prestigious firearm manufacturers on the planet and they haven’t disappointed with the M&P15. Being incredibly lightweight it offers itself as a great sport or recreational rifle. It’s also a very versatile rifle as most AR-15 components are compatible allowing for greater customization options. Smith & Wesson also back all of their products with a lifetime guarantee so if you do have any problems you can rest assured it’ll be quickly taken care of.
Caliber: .223/5.56 NATO
Capacity: 30
Weight: 6.45lbs
Barrel Length: 16″
Length Of Pull: Adjustable Stock
Hopefully, you agreed with at least some of our favorite semi-automatic rifles. Semi-autos may not always seem necessary in home defense or hunting as shooters should typically only require 1 round to achieve their desired purpose. However, it does help shooter feel more comfortable knowing they have multiple follow-up shots with an easy firing system. Whatever firearm you choose, being comfortable and familiar with your weapon will lead to you becoming a more proficient shooter.
