- Home
- Blog
Where Can I Buy an AR-10?: Buyer’s Guide for U.S. Customers
The AR-10 platform represents one of the most versatile and powerful rifle systems available to American shooters today. Unlike the AR-15’s 5.56 caliber, the AR-10 delivers serious stopping power through larger calibers like .308 Winchester and 6.5 Creedmoor. At Beal Rifle Company, we understand that choosing the right precision rifle requires knowledge of the market, legal requirements, and quality standards that separate exceptional firearms from mass-produced alternatives.
The growing demand for precision rifles has made the AR-10 a focal point for discriminating shooters seeking performance beyond standard platforms. Our Fort Worth manufacturing facility specializes in creating custom AR-10 builds that meet the exacting standards of veterans, law enforcement, and civilian precision shooters. This detailed guide will walk you through everything you need to know about acquiring these powerful rifles, from legal requirements to quality considerations that matter most when you buy AR-10 platforms.
AR-10 Ownership and Compliance: Legal and Technical Overview
What Makes AR-10s Different
The AR-10 platform chambered in larger calibers offers distinct advantages over smaller rifle systems. AR-10s provide effective range capabilities extending beyond 1,000 yards with proper optics and ammunition selection. The platform accepts various calibers, including .308 Winchester, 6.5 Creedmoor, 7.62 NATO, and specialized cartridges like 6.5 PRC for extreme long-range applications.
According to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), all federal firearms licensees must comply with specific reporting requirements for rifle manufacturing and sales. The ATF’s Annual Firearms Manufacturing and Exportation Reports track production data, showing significant growth in precision rifle manufacturing over recent years.
Federal and State Regulations
Before you buy AR-10 rifles, being aware of legal requirements prevents costly mistakes. Federal law requires that all rifle purchases through licensed dealers include background checks via the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). Some states impose additional restrictions on rifle features, magazine capacity, or waiting periods.
All rifle purchasers must be at least 18 years old, pass federal background checks, and comply with state-specific regulations. We work exclusively with licensed federal firearms dealers to guarantee legal compliance for all transfers. Our Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business certification reflects our commitment to operating within all applicable regulations.
Where to Buy AR-10 Rifles: Your Options Explained
Licensed Firearms Dealers
Local gun stores represent the most common purchase avenue for rifles. Licensed federal firearms dealers (FFLs) provide face-to-face transactions, hands-on inspection opportunities, and immediate possession after background check completion. Many dealers stock popular AR-10 models from major manufacturers but may not offer custom options or precision builds.
Advantages of dealer purchases include immediate availability, personal service, and warranty support. However, selection limitations and markup pricing may restrict options for specialized requirements. Beal Rifle Company partners with select dealers who understand precision rifle applications and can properly represent our custom AR-10 builds.
Online Firearms Purchases
Internet purchases offer a broader selection and competitive pricing for rifle buyers. Online rifle purchases require shipping to local FFLs for background checks and legal transfer completion. This process typically adds 7-14 days to delivery timelines but provides access to specialized manufacturers and custom builders nationwide.
Research seller reputation, warranty policies, and return procedures before committing to online purchases. Our website provides detailed specifications, customization options, and direct communication with our engineering team for technical questions.
Gun Shows and Firearms Exhibitions
Regional gun shows feature multiple dealers, private sellers, and specialty manufacturers in a single location. Gun shows allow hands-on comparison of different AR-10 models and direct interaction with manufacturers or their representatives. However, private sales at shows may not include warranties or customer support available through established dealers.
Always verify seller licensing and request documentation for any rifle purchase. We participate in select regional shows where we demonstrate our precision AR-10 builds and discuss customization options with potential customers.
Direct Manufacturer Sales
Some manufacturers sell directly to consumers through licensed dealer networks. Direct manufacturer relationships provide access to full customization options, technical support, and warranty coverage unavailable through third-party retailers. This approach works best for buyers seeking specific configurations or precision requirements.
We specialize in direct-to-customer relationships through our authorized dealer network. Our Fort Worth facility produces each custom AR-10 according to individual specifications, backed by our limited lifetime warranty program.
Custom AR-10 Builds vs. Factory Models: Performance & Value
Benefits of Custom Builds
Production rifles serve general market needs but rarely achieve the precision requirements of serious shooters. Custom AR-10 builds allow specification of barrel profiles, trigger systems, stock configurations, and caliber selections optimized for individual applications. With the right ammunition, Our unique approach creates rifles with sub-MOA accuracy.
Our engineering team selects components based on intended use, shooting disciplines, and performance requirements. Custom builds include precision-matched receivers, hand-selected barrels, and performance-tuned gas systems unavailable in production rifles.
Production Model Limitations
Mass-produced rifles prioritize cost control over precision manufacturing. Production AR-10s often use standard-tolerance components that compromise accuracy potential and long-term reliability. Generic specifications may not suit specialized applications like long-range precision shooting or professional use requirements.
Quality control variations in production rifles can result in accuracy inconsistencies, reliability issues, and premature wear. Our custom approach eliminates these compromises through individual attention to each rifle’s construction and testing.
Long-Range AR-10 Performance: Design and Caliber Considerations
Precision Shooting Requirements
Long-range AR-10 applications demand specific design characteristics for consistent accuracy. Precision AR-10 builds require match-grade barrels, adjustable gas systems, and rigid receiver mounting systems to achieve repeatable sub-MOA performance. Barrel length, twist rates, and chambering specifications must match intended ammunition and shooting distances.
Our precision AR-10 models incorporate proprietary barrel manufacturing techniques, precision-machined receivers, and individually tested components. Our Fort Worth facility includes dedicated accuracy testing capabilities to verify each rifle’s performance before delivery.
Caliber Selection for Distance
Different calibers offer distinct advantages for long-range applications. 6.5 Creedmoor provides excellent ballistic coefficients and manageable recoil for extended shooting sessions, while .308 Winchester offers broader ammunition availability and proven terminal performance. Specialized cartridges like 6.5 PRC extend effective range but require careful consideration of barrel life and ammunition costs.
According to NSSF’s “Firearm Ownership & Sport Shooting Participation in the U.S.” report, adult participation in shooting sports grew by 24.1 percent between 2009 and 2022, rising from 34 million to over 63.5 million participants. The report also found that in 2022 17 percent of all adults participating in shooting sports were newcomers, representing a 42 percent increase since 2020; and that target shooting with a rifle was among the most popular activities, with 15.6 percent of adults reporting it as their main discipline.
| Caliber | Effective Range | Recoil Level | Ammunition Cost | Best Application |
| .308 Winchester | 800+ yards | Moderate | Moderate | General purpose/hunting |
| 6.5 Creedmoor | 1000+ yards | Low | Moderate-High | Long-range precision |
| 6.5 PRC | 1200+ yards | Moderate-High | High | Extreme long-range |
| .260 Remington | 900+ yards | Low | Moderate | Precision shooting |
Analyzing AR-10 Quality: Components, Tolerances, and Warranty
Manufacturing Standards
Rifle quality depends on manufacturing precision, material selection, and assembly standards. Premium AR-10 builds use precisely machined receivers, match-grade barrels, and individually fitted components that ensure consistent performance and reliability. Tolerance specifications, surface finishes, and quality control procedures separate exceptional rifles from adequate alternatives.
We maintain aerospace-level manufacturing standards in our facility. Each custom AR-10 undergoes multi-point inspection, precision measurement, and functional testing before shipment. Our lifetime warranty reflects confidence in our manufacturing processes and component selection.
Component Selection
Critical components determine rifle performance, reliability, and longevity. Barrel quality represents the most important factor in rifle accuracy, requiring proper steel selection, manufacturing processes, and chambering precision. Bolt carrier groups, trigger systems, and gas systems must meet specific tolerances for optimum function.
Our engineering team sources components from proven suppliers with documented quality standards. Beal Rifle Company’s relationships with premium component manufacturers allow access to specifications and features unavailable to general market consumers.
Warranty and Support
Comprehensive warranty coverage protects your investment and demonstrates the manufacturer’s confidence. Lifetime warranties should cover manufacturing defects, material failures, and workmanship issues throughout the rifle’s service life. Responsive customer service, technical support, and repair capabilities indicate reliable manufacturer backing.
Our limited lifetime warranty program covers all manufacturing aspects of our custom AR-10 builds. Our service department provides ongoing support, upgrade options, and maintenance services for all our rifles throughout their operational life.
Precision AR-10 Options: Beal Rifle Company Offerings
Custom Build Process
Our custom AR-10 development begins with a detailed consultation to understand your specific requirements. Each precision AR-10 build incorporates your preferred caliber, barrel specifications, stock configuration, and accessory requirements into a cohesive, optimized system. Our engineers recommend component combinations based on intended applications and performance objectives.
Our custom process includes computer-aided design modeling, precision machining, individual component fitting, and detailed testing. Our Fort Worth facility produces rifles that meet or exceed customer specifications while maintaining our quality standards.
Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Business Advantage
As a certified SDVOSB, Beal Rifle Company brings military-grade standards to civilian precision rifle manufacturing. Our veteran ownership and operation provide a firsthand expertise of reliability requirements, precision needs, and durability standards demanded in professional applications. This experience translates directly into superior civilian rifle products.
Our partnership relationships with organizations like Darby’s Warrior Support and 10-7 Outdoors demonstrate our ongoing commitment to military and law enforcement communities. These connections provide valuable feedback for continuous improvement in our rifle designs and manufacturing processes.
Lifetime Performance Guarantee
Every Beal Rifle Company custom AR-10 includes our limited lifetime warranty covering all manufacturing aspects. Our guarantee reflects absolute confidence in our materials, manufacturing processes, and quality control procedures. This warranty extends beyond typical industry standards to provide complete peace of mind for your precision rifle investment.
Our service center provides ongoing support, maintenance, and upgrade services throughout your rifle’s operational life. This commitment to long-term customer relationships sets us apart from manufacturers who focus solely on initial sales.
Legacy of Precision: Building Rifles for Generations
The decision to buy AR-10 rifles requires careful consideration of legal requirements, quality standards, and intended applications. Whether you choose production models for general use or invest in custom precision builds for specialized requirements, awareness of these factors ensures successful rifle acquisition and long-term satisfaction.
Beal Rifle Company’s commitment to precision manufacturing, veteran-owned operation, and lifetime warranty support provides the foundation for exceptional custom AR-10 builds. Our Fort Worth facility combines traditional craftsmanship with modern manufacturing techniques to produce rifles worthy of passing down through generations.
For shooters seeking precision AR-10 performance that exceeds production rifle capabilities, we offer consultation, custom builds, and ongoing support that transforms your shooting requirements into reality. Contact our engineering team at [email protected] or (817) 888-3000 to discuss your specific needs and discover how our custom approach can exceed your expectations for precision rifle performance.