The '''AR-15''' is a semi-automatic rifle originally built by Armalite for the U.S. military in 1959. The design was purchased by weapons manufacturer [[Colt]] and became known as the [[M-16]]. In 1963, the Colt AR-15 became available to civilian customers. It is widely regarded as one of the most popular weapons available and is sold by dozens of different aftermarket gun manufacturers. In its most sought after configuration, the weapon is semi-automatic and fires the 5.56x45mm [[NATO]] round.
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The '''AR-15''' (ArmaLite Rifle, design 15) is a semi-automatic rifle originally built by ArmaLite for the U.S. military in 1959. The design was purchased by weapons manufacturer [[Colt]] and became known as the [[M-16]]. In 1963, the Colt AR-15 became available to civilian customers. It is widely regarded as one of the most popular weapons available and is sold by dozens of different aftermarket gun manufacturers. In its most sought after configuration, the weapon is semi-automatic and fires the 5.56x45mm [[NATO]] round. Some AR platform rifles are designed to also work with .223 ammunition.
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AR stands for ArmaLite Rifle.
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Although some refer the the "AR" as meaning "Assault Rifle" or "Automatic Rifle," it actually stands for ArmaLite Rifle.