Olympic Arms AR15 - any good?

[LGustin]

I have an oppertunity to pick an AR15 built by Olympic Arms for $625. I do not own any AR rifle so I know nothing about them. Is this a good one or should I stick with the ABC rule? Thanks!!

 

[timspawn]

I have never had a problem with Oly. I would buy it if you want it.

 

[Cortland]

I think their "Plinker" grade once used cast receivers, so be on the look out for that if it bothers you. If it *is* a Plinker grade, be aware that the MSRP on their newer Plinkers (with forged lower) is only $595.

 

[timspawn]

I think their "Plinker" grade once used cast receivers, so be on the look out for that if it bothers you. If it *is* a Plinker grade, be aware that the MSRP on their newer Plinkers (with forged lower) is only $595.

I always forget about that one. If it is a forged lower and has an upper with "pre ban" features, it sounds like a good buy.

 

[LGustin]

not to sound too stupid, how would I know the difference? Serial numbers?

 

[timspawn]

not to sound too stupid, how would I know the difference? Serial numbers?

You might be able to call Oly with the serial number and have them tell you. If not then compare it to another AR like a Colt or Bushy. A cast lower will have a rougher finish to the metal where as a forged lower will be nice and smooth.

 

[Silvertip]

You might be able to call Oly with the serial number and have them tell you. If not then compare it to another AR like a Colt or Bushy. A cast lower will have a rougher finish to the metal where as a forged lower will be nice and smooth.

Olympic Arms answers this very question on their website. Here's a link to their FAQ. Scroll down to the question "Is my receiver Cast or Forged?" and click on "here" to open the window with the reference material.

http://www.olyarms.com/?rootView=page&page=faq#

 

[prowler]

I have post May M16 from Oly, have been shot over 10G showing to many LE, let them try out still kicking, The only thing fail is three gas rings at the bolt I have to change out twice.
I is a great priuce and great gun.

 

[Gunbert]

For a semi gun my only concern with Olympic would be what barrel configuration is it? If it has everything you want then I'd say, from a quality standpoint, go get it. If, however, it's not exactly what you want, I'd keep shopping... there are some really good deals out there if you look. My local dealer had a sale the other day, Bushmaster M4A3's complete with detachable carry handle, slings and mag, for $799. While Oly is good, their barrels aren't chrome lined and don't generally have the reputation for quality parts that bushmaster has, so if it's exactly what you want, get it... if it isn't, keep looking.

Here's my Oly, though the lower is the only thing left on it that was made by them: