The semiautomatic rifle is the most versatile type of firearm you can purchase. It can be used for hunting, target practice and self-defense.
Yet there’s around, oh, a million different semiautomatic rifles you can choose from. How the heck can you determine which rifle to buy? Let us help with that.
How to Know Which Semiautomatic Rifle to Pick?
Of course, before making any final purchasing decision, you’ll want to look at every aspect of each rifle.
Be sure to check out factors like their trigger sensitivity, which can affect how safe the rifle is and whether it’s a good choice for typical firing range activities.
You should also pay attention to the velocity that a rifle can bring to bear on your target.
Higher velocity rifles produce more stopping power and are better for long-distance shooting or hunting. Lower velocity rifles are usually cheaper and are better for more casual shooting.
Additionally, keep every rifle’s chambering and accepted ammo in mind. You don’t want to pick up a rifle that uses bullets you don’t have!
With that said, let’s talk about the top semiautomatic rifles you can find on the market today.
1. BRN-605 5.56
This is actually a replica of Colt’s earliest M16-style carbines. Brought back to life by Brownells, it’s a fantastic semiautomatic firearm in its own right.
It features a rifle length gas tube and is built around high-quality upper and lower receivers. The carbine runs incredibly smoothly and is rifled to be compatible with modern ammunition.
BRN-605 Rifle image by Brownells
Furthermore, the firearm features a well-machined rear sight drum, a chrome-plated bolt and carrier group, and chambering for 5.56×45 NATO rounds, although you can also use .223 Remington if that’s more your speed.
Combined with a flash hider muzzle, it’s a great firearm that enthusiasts would do well to check out.
Key Points:
- 20+1 capacity
- Black finish
- 34 inches long
- 15.5-inch barrel
- 7.5 pounds
2. Thompson Center T/CR22 Rimfire
This semiautomatic rifle is chambered for .22 LR: some of the best long-range cartridges you can use.
Further facilitating long-range use is the green fiber-optic front sight and adjustable rear sight, both of which come built into the weapon’s frame for quick use.
We also really like that there’s a Picatinny rail integrated into the upper receiver, making it easy for you to combine this weapon with your favorite optics or other attachments.
Other top-tier features include a light and crisp trigger pull, a button-rifled barrel, and a threaded muzzle so you can combine the weapon with a suppressor or other attachments.
Altogether, this rifle is lightweight, durable, and high performance. There's nothing to dislike!
Key Points:
- 10+1 capacity
- Blue finish
- 35 inches long
- 17-inch barrel
- 4.4 pounds
3. LWRC International IC-SPR
Lastly, check out this AR 15-base semiautomatic firearm chambered for 5.56 NATO.
The rifle is made with high-quality materials and features a black anodized finish for reduced corrosive damage and to eliminate glare in the sun.
Black IC-SPR Rifle image by Brownells
The rifle is machined from lightweight but durable alloys and has a gas piston system for better performance and easy accessibility if you want to tinker with the build after purchasing.
Plus, it comes with a flash suppressor muzzle and a polymer stock that does a great job of cushioning your shoulder against recoil. It’s quite pricey, but a great pick for something more modern and high-performance.
Key Points:
- 30+1 capacity
- black anodized finish
- 32-35.25 inches long
- 14-inch barrel
- 7.1 pounds
Wrap Up
Any of the above semiautomatic rifles will be a great fit in a firearm enthusiast’s collection. But they’re also great fits if you just want a solid weapon platform you can rely on for virtually any need. Good hunting!
Which of these three semi-automatic rifles are you eyeing to get? We'd love to hear from you in the comments section!
Up Next:
- Semi-Automatic vs Automatic Firearms | What’s the Difference?
- 3 Best Rifles For Long Range Shooting
- 3 Best Long Range Scopes For Rifles You Should Try
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Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on June 01, 2023 and has been updated for quality and relevancy.
i was hoping to read something about rifles outside the AR and M1 platforms, and in other calibers than .223/5.56mm, such as 22-250, .243, 6mm, 7mm, .308, 30-06, 300 Win Mag, or something else.
yes I’m with you. Years ago before the age of background checks. All ya needed is a D.L. I have a Browning .308, A .300 Wetherbee, and the 30-06, I think it is a savage. Great for hunting in the brush.
All three Awesome rifles. I don’t need a rifle that looks “military” like the AR’s etc
I had a 222 magnum pump I think was a Winchester, great for groundhog.