Guns New from ArmaLite: Defensive Sporting Rifles Recoil Staff September 9, 2014 Join the Conversation At RECOIL, we review every product fairly and without bias. Making a purchase through one of our links may earn us a small commission, and helps support independent gun reviews. Learn More ArmaLite has introduced their new “Defensive Sporting Rifle Series” with two AR-15 variants; the Defensive Sporting Rifle 15 (DEF 15) and Defensive Sporting Rifle 15F (DEF 15F). Both are chambered in 5.56x45mm, with the latter integrating an A2 Front Site. The third rifle in the series is the Defensive Sporting Rifle 10 (DEF10) chambered in 7.62x51mm. What initially stands out with the Defensive Sporting Rifle Series is the affordability and lightweight package. The DEF 15 and DEF 15F both have a $699 MSRP, which comes in well under typical retail pricing (the DEF 10 has an MSRP 0f $999). The two AR-15 style rifles both come in at 6.35 pounds, with the AR-10 variant weighing in at 7.9 pounds. Speaking about the new Defensive Sporting Rifle series ArmaLite, Vice President of Product Management, Walt Hasser says, “These rifles represent ArmaLite’s commitment to our customers and the shooting community as a whole. Our goal was to make legendary ArmaLite quality available at a previously unattainable price and we met that goal. We’re excited to see new shooters and new ArmaLite customers have an economically viable avenue into the AR community.” Each of the new rifles feature a single stage trigger and 6 position collapsible buttstock. The DEF 15 Rifles utilize a 16″ chrome-lined barrel manufactured with (chrome-moly vanadium MIL-B 11595 E) steel with an M203 step down and 1 in 7 twist rifling. The barrels are threaded for 1/2×28 to accept common AR-15 muzzle devices and are equipped with an A2 Flash Suppressor. The DEF 10 Rifle has a 16″ melonite treated barrel with 1 in 11.25 twist rifling and is threaded for 5/8×24. Receivers all utilize (7075-T6 Aluminum) and the upper receiver is sight ready with top mounted Picatinny rail. ArmaLite President, Tommy Thacker provides additional insight for further work down the line, “I am proud of what our product and engineering teams have been able to accomplish in a short period of time. The Defensive Sporting Rifles series is the first of many new products to come from ArmaLite.” The Defensive Sporting Rifles can be purchased through authorized ArmaLite dealers. Let us know in the comments if these rifles are something you'd like to see evaluated. Why you can trust RECOIL Since our founding in 2012, RECOIL remains the premier firearms lifestyle publication for the modern shooting enthusiast. We deliver cutting-edge coverage of guns, gear, accessories and technology. We go beyond basic reviews, providing no B.S. buyer’s guides, hands-on testing and expert analysis on everything from firearms and survival equipment to watches and vehicles. Our reviewers are the backbone of our operation and come from diverse shooting backgrounds: Former law enforcement, military veterans, competitive shooters, seasoned hunters and plain old firearms enthusiasts. Furthermore, we’re not just gun experts, but dedicated journalists who adhere to the strictest standards of our profession. At RECOIL, editorial independence is the foundation of everything we publish and the cornerstone of reader trust. Our editors, writers and content creators make all editorial decisions independently, free from outside influence. That boils down to: advertisers don’t dictate our coverage, the outcomes of our reviews or what we recommend in our buyer’s guides. First and always, our commitment is to our audience—ensuring every review and article is accurate, unbiased, and driven by real-world experience. Whether you’re selecting your next firearm, upgrading your gear, or exploring the latest innovations in the shooting world, RECOIL provides the trusted insights you need to make informed decisions. Learn more about our Editorial Standards and how we review products. NEXT STEP: Download Your Free Target Pack from RECOILFor years, RECOIL magazine has treated its readers to a full-size (sometimes full color!) shooting target tucked into each big issue. Now we've compiled over 50 of our most popular targets into this one digital PDF download. From handgun drills to AR-15 practice, these 50+ targets have you covered. Print off as many as you like (ammo not included). Get your pack of 50 Print-at-Home targets when you subscribe to the RECOIL email newsletter. We'll send you weekly updates on guns, gear, industry news, and special offers from leading manufacturers - your guide to the firearms lifestyle.You want this. Trust Us.
