post #352614 post #1490985 post #1272365

The AR-15 is a rifle originally designed by the American gun manufacturer ArmaLite in the 1950s, though the patents were later sold to Colt's Manufacturing Company. The design was later adopted by the United States military as the M16 rifle in the 1960s.

Since then, a large number of variants have been derived from the original pattern, and it has seen widespread popularity in both military service and the commercial market, as well as popular media.

Tagging Info:

Due to the vast number of variations that exist, and the fact that specific identifying features may not be visible, any post that includes a gun following the basic AR-15 pattern should be given this tag.

See also:

• ranged_weapon
• assault_rifle - Though not always technically accurate, popular conception stemming from its military use and depictions in media has created a strong association between AR-15 style guns and this term.