where to see and buy AR15s?

[jclark927]

Hi All.

Preparing for a recent hunting trip, my wife, son and I went to Front Sight for the four day rifle course. (I knew it was tactical, but figured 500 rounds of practice under instruction would translate to their hunting rifles.) We rented two AR15's, one bolt action and took turns.

If you are on this forum, you probably already know, we had a great time shooting the ARs. So, now I am considering buying a couple CA-legal versions --- but I am a rookie.

I understand the price advantages of the internet, but would prefer to find a good pro-shop where there might be 3-5 or more models to consider, a knowlegible person to talk to and fair prices.

Finally my question: do any of you know of a CA shop you like that fits the description above?

We are in the SF Bay Area, but I get around the state on biz so, really, anywhere in CA would work. There is a shop near us, but they carry just one model and advise that demand is such that they are charging $300 over MSRP (does that make sense based upon what you know?). If that is true everywhere, I guess I'll wind up on the www, but would prefer face-to-face.

Thanks for your time/J

 

[mustystubs]

Seems like I just provided this info recently but here goes again:

River City Gun Exchange
2370 Fruitridge Road
Sacramento, CA
916-428-0377

They run an add for the California Legal Bushmaster. Today's add does not include the Bushmaster, so call first. Runs just under $900.

Hours are Tuesday - Saturday 10-6 and they take MC and Visa.

And no, I do not get a commission. They're just really nice people to deal with. Not like Wild Sports.

 

[jclark927]

Hey Stubs. Just a quick "thanks" for the info. I called River City this week. We had a pleasant chat and they have models from at least 4 makers. My wife and I will cruise over there in a couple of weeks./J

ps: sorry if the question was redundant, didn't catch it.

 

[mustystubs]

JC:

Glad you found the information useful. Best wishes.

 

[mustystubs]

I stopped into River City Gun Exchange last Friday to renew my Handgun Safety Certificate. I was pleasantly surprised to see an FAL hanging on the wall. I asked to see it and was told the pinned magazine makes it California Legal.

I always wanted one but the $1,400 price tag has put that thought on hold.

 

[jclark927]

Hey Stubs. Well, we are not "wanna be's" anymore --- or at least not after the 10 days are over.

My wife and I were in the shop last Monday. We talked with a young guy named Lawrence. He was well-informed and patient as we talked over the various AR15 models. End of day, we opted for a Stag that already had iron sights and a rail that we liked.

I know we have a lot to learn, but that will be part of the fun of getting into a new branch of shooting. When I think about that rail, I suspect these AR's come with a gravity-field that attracts more money --- but we are looking forward to adding a couple of accesories too. I'll have to order that new Brownell's catalog that is all AR15 items.

If the FAL was new and on the rack to the right side of the back wall, I think I might have held it too. I had asked about .308 options at one point and that lead to a tour of that rack. Our son is mostly looking forward to shooting the AR though, so we stuck with the plan (and saved a few $).

Anyway, thought you might like to know that something came of your response. Thanks again. See ya at the range./J

 

[mustystubs]

JC927:

Glad you were able to make use of the info. I have a pre-ban AR with three uppers. The standard .223 20" barrel with carrying handle, a 7.62x39mm 20" flat-top with a red-dot, and lastly (and my personal favorite) a 7.62x39mm 16" with carrying handle and iron sights. The 16" is very compact and fast handling.

They are all fun to shoot.