DPMS PANTHER ARMS
Any thoughts on the DPMS Panther Arms A3 TEK Lite .223/5.56 NATO on sale at Cabelas for $899.99 with four 30 round mags. Would be my first AR style rifle. 16" barrel 1:9 rifling twist, A2 flash hider, 6 position stock, 6.5 lbs. Is this a true AR that could be modified?
0
-
It's not a bad little shooter and can be modified. The rifle below started as a basic A3 Lite and was tweaked a bit. $900 sounds a little high to me. I got this one on the auction side a couple years ago for under $700.
Here's a link to one on GB.
http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/ViewItem.aspx?Item=289487196
You can pick up P-mags fairly cheap if you look around a bit.
0 -
quote:Originally posted by pirate2501
Any thoughts on the DPMS Panther Arms A3 TEK Lite .223/5.56 NATO on sale at Cabelas for $899.99 with four 30 round mags. Would be my first AR style rifle. 16" barrel 1:9 rifling twist, A2 flash hider, 6 position stock, 6.5 lbs. Is this a true AR that could be modified?
DPMS is a good brand along with Smith & Wesson, Colt, Bushmaster, Armalite, Rock River, Daniel Defense, Saber Defense, Noveske and other quality made AR15's all of which have basic models which I prefer and upgraded models which are not for me, but ymmv as will many others... The DPMS is an 'AR15' as the others are as well in and of itself for what they are, however if you really want to get technical the 'original' Armalite Rifle design by Eugene Stoner(not the company today) is the 'truest' as it were of the AR15's. Albeit all of the AR15's sold to civilians are civilian models and not what we are issued in the military... However the differences are pretty insignificant really and unnoticeable and any quality made AR15 will perform as it was meant too in defense, hunting, or as a shtf weapon.
Although you will probably find that some people are very distinct and 'picky' if you will with which brand that they like and is expected in this sort of environment though. Cost is a big issue as with the AK and some companies charge a ridiculous premium simply for the particular brand name while others do not and not necessarily in relation to quality but because they know that some people will pay for a specific name brand over others that will function and do the same job and without all that, but to each their own as they say. Some prefer the Colt because it carries the military contract (however again the weapon sold to civilians is not what we are issued but is pretty close) and has for many years and is supposed to be built to mil-spec standard using the tdp (technical data package). However I know that the tdp has not always been followed unfortunately (and is hopefully just oversight) from being in the military and having worked for DARPA, but for the most part it is about the closest besides the tri-burst and some other refinements. I have had several Colt 6920 rifles but prefer the Colt 6940 because of the piston over the gas impingement, however found that the fit and finish were a little rough amongst some other minor details. I personally like the Smith & Wesson MP15 and Smith & Wesson MP15 Sport (after adding a piston system) which have had perfect fit and finish and functioned flawlessly even when trying to attempt failures and which have been put through several rigorous torture tests and passed with flying colors. All brands though no matter who manufactures it are going to experience some issues at some point being made by humans but for the most part the quality made specimens should function fine as they were made too and it really comes down to whatever brand you personally prefer, similar with the AK-47/AKM.
I will state though that certain AR15's can be more extravagant in their manufacturing making them more expensive(although not necessary) such as Noveske for example and such which may be for some people that like to spend more but certainly isn't for me...From quality manufacturers I prefer basic models and do the refinements that I want myself such as add a piston system, carry handle, etc, so that I can get exactly what I want and neither get over or under what I need...
quote:Originally posted by tsr1965
As stated above, the DPMS and several other's are well made. The only ones, that I am aware of to stay away from, are the ones that say Hesse, Vulcan Arms, or Blackthorne, and of course CAI.
The price, considering we are well into the OBAMA II craze, is very reasonable, however, don't wait around too long, or you will be without.
An AR-15 lower, can take any AR-15 upper, so you can modify it anyway you wish.
Best
Good point, avoid the baddies altogether like Hesse, Vulcan Arms-Blackthorne or what they are calling themselves and I would add watch out for non quality non brand names by the 'bubba garage franken special rifle' makers as well trying to cut in on the market with junk just to part you with your money and then hassle you on 'what warranty?' or 'what refund?' best just to avoid them and their 'deals'... And of course CAI which should just stick to importing weapons rather than trying to build them until they start really paying attention to QC...I mean come on how difficult is it to at least pay attention to your job and notice the obvious...apparently too much.Originally posted by beantownshootah
I have nothing to add on AR-15s, except to concur that DPMS guns are perfectly fine, and if you like one, you shouldn't expect any issues.
On the Obama gun panic. . .IMO, talk of this is highly exaggerated.
Obama couldn't get any significant gun control package passed when the Dems controlled both branches of Congress. He sure as hell isn't going to be able to do it with a Republican-controlled House, and at best a razor thin majority of the Senate (and he well may face a unified Republican Congress).
This, of course, assumes the guy is even re-elected, which after today's job numbers, is growing increasingly less likely.
So don't worry about some "Obama panic". The people selling the guns have every reason to create and perpetuate this panic; Obama has been the best gun salesman ever, manufacturing has ramped up considerably, and the industry doesn't want it to end.
I'm not saying there can't be another run on guns and ammo, I'm just saying that if Obama is lucky enough to get re-elected, it will be not only temporary, but probably lesser in both duration and magnitude than what happened in '08-09.
With the political climate actually shifting pro-gun now, if Romney gets elected, AND enjoys a bilateral Congressional majority (which isn't out of the realm of possibility), there is some chance (albeit small) of actual gun control liberalization.
Well said, I could only add that the anti's really haven't done much of anything as they apparently are realizing the obvious that the pro-gun side has a powerful influence not to mention the lobbies and to attack it especially now would be detrimental to his campaign. Although the other guy (rino) doesn't fair much better nor do we, as he has a horrible record on 2A/RKBA and is not pro-gun despite his lies, his record on guns is abysmal, check it out... To focus just on the liberal may be unwise as a wolf in sheep's clothing he may be and whatever is going to happen is approaching...0 -
As stated above, the DPMS and several other's are well made. The only ones, that I am aware of to stay away from, are the ones that say Hesse, Vulcan Arms, or Blackthorne, and of course CAI.
The price, considering we are well into the OBAMA II craze, is very reasonable, however, don't wait around too long, or you will be without.
An AR-15 lower, can take any AR-15 upper, so you can modify it anyway you wish.
Best0 -
I put a DPMS lite upper on a Bushmaster lower. So far all is great. 0 -
I have nothing to add on AR-15s, except to concur that DPMS guns are perfectly fine, and if you like one, you shouldn't expect any issues.
On the Obama gun panic. . .IMO, talk of this is highly exaggerated.
Obama couldn't get any significant gun control package passed when the Dems controlled both branches of Congress. He sure as hell isn't going to be able to do it with a Republican-controlled House, and at best a razor thin majority of the Senate (and he well may face a unified Republican Congress).
This, of course, assumes the guy is even re-elected, which after today's job numbers, is growing increasingly less likely.
So don't worry about some "Obama panic". The people selling the guns have every reason to create and perpetuate this panic; Obama has been the best gun salesman ever, manufacturing has ramped up considerably, and the industry doesn't want it to end.
I'm not saying there can't be another run on guns and ammo, I'm just saying that if Obama is lucky enough to get re-elected, it will be not only temporary, but probably lesser in both duration and magnitude than what happened in '08-09.
With the political climate actually shifting pro-gun now, if Romney gets elected, AND enjoys a bilateral Congressional majority (which isn't out of the realm of possibility), there is some chance (albeit small) of actual gun control liberalization.0 -
dpms panther on sale now at fin feather and fur outfitters for $600
Outstanding rifles. I have two friends that have them and they give up NOTHING to my Armalite.0 -
I'm just not a big fan of the DPMS rifles and I'll let it go at that. There are many other rifles out there that I think are higher quality. I say that from my own personnel experiences with them. I just think there are better rifles out there for around the same price. 0 -
quote:Originally posted by armilite
I'm just not a big fan of the DPMS rifles and I'll let it go at that. There are many other rifles out there that I think are higher quality. I say that from my own personnel experiences with them. I just think there are better rifles out there for around the same price.
Can you start a new thread and list some links? I'm sure many would be interested in a 'high quality', low cost AR15.
I'm looking @ a DPMS A15 for $587.oo (flattop, sans sights).
Better the same price? Where?0 -
quote:Originally posted by iceracerx
quote:Originally posted by armilite
I'm just not a big fan of the DPMS rifles and I'll let it go at that. There are many other rifles out there that I think are higher quality. I say that from my own personnel experiences with them. I just think there are better rifles out there for around the same price.
Can you start a new thread and list some links? I'm sure many would be interested in a 'high quality', low cost AR15.
I'm looking @ a DPMS A15 for $587.oo (flattop, sans sights).
Better the same price? Where?
iceracerx, where are finding the DPMS A15 for $587.oo (flattop, sans sights)?
Regards0 -
quote:Originally posted by iceracerx
quote:Originally posted by armilite
I'm just not a big fan of the DPMS rifles and I'll let it go at that. There are many other rifles out there that I think are higher quality. I say that from my own personnel experiences with them. I just think there are better rifles out there for around the same price.
Can you start a new thread and list some links? I'm sure many would be interested in a 'high quality', low cost AR15.
I'm looking @ a DPMS A15 for $587.oo (flattop, sans sights).
Better the same price? Where?
Well since your $587 rifle has no sights your about $100 off on your price. Now your roughly at $700. You can buy lots of things cheap until you actually need to use them.
So your gonna shoot it without sights for $587 get real.0 -
Juggernaut - I got the lead from General Discussion.
They can be found for that price @ Walmart. Also, no dust cover nor 'forward assist' (neither of which I need).
Armilite - After 50+ years involvement w/ firearms I'm sure I have a scope or three that will mount to the DPMS @ no additional cost. The trouble is that I still like to shoot iron sights but my eye sight isn't what it used to be.
Sure would be nice of you to share your knowledge and point people in the 'right' direction via web sites, links, etc.0 -
quote:Originally posted by iceracerx
Juggernaut - I got the lead from General Discussion.
They can be found for that price @ Walmart. Also, no dust cover nor 'forward assist' (neither of which I need).
Armilite - After 50+ years involvement w/ firearms I'm sure I have a scope or three that will mount to the DPMS @ no additional cost. The trouble is that I still like to shoot iron sights but my eye sight isn't what it used to be.
Sure would be nice of you to share your knowledge and point people in the 'right' direction via web sites, links, etc.
Wow, I didn't realize walmart sold AR15's...Yeah I agree, no need for the 'dust cover' or 'forward assist' and never use them either and no other non-AR weapons use them, the bolt can be pushed or racked if needed and the dust cover is open when firing anyway, both pointless imho.0
Please sign in to leave a comment.
Comments
12 comments