DPMS panter arms AR-15

So I saw that Cabelas is having a sale on the DPMS arms Panter Oracle AR-15 rifle in 5.56x45. Basically I shot my friends Colt AR-15 and his SIG 556 and want something similar. I dont want to spend close to $1,500 on something thats just gonna be for plinking pretty much.

The DPMS is on sale for $700 which is much more in my price range, then once I add optics and tax I'll still be well below $1000 (keep in mind I just want something decent not top of the line). Now I know its not nearly the same quality as Colt or SIG or a lot of other brands. But for the price is it a good gun? and is there anything that is the same price range (new or used) that is better?

 

I read this yesterday. its not about the same model as your talking about but does have some info on DPMS as a company.

http://www.m4carbine.net/showthread.php?t=52130

 

DPMS makes great AR's and tons of up grades for the AR!!! Good choice!!!Check out DPMS.com!!!

 

CMMG, Stag and a kit from Model1sales.com are all better choices imo.

 

dont forget about rock river. DPMS is one of the lowest quality AR's on the market.
visit AR15.com to get limitless info on ar15 rifles


For a very reliable gun just over $700 check this out
http://www.ar15.com/forums/topic.html?b=3&f=118&t=486660

 

dpms is NOT one of the lowest quality guns on market. I own one and it has been only great for me I also bought it used from and a friend and I could guarantee it has had lots and lots of rounds through it with no problems besides gas rings ($5)

 

http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/guns-hunting/86115-so-you-want-buy-ar-15-faqs.html

 

I'm glad it's working out for you but DPMS is not known for quality. It ranks just above Olympic Arms.

Edit; my mistake. They rank just below OA.

 

hey matt, can you post a link for the "chart"? I cant access it at work

 

Here ya go.
http://spreadsheets.google.com/pub?key=pwswheghNQsEuEhjFwPrgTA&single=true&gid=5&output=html

 

for anyone thinking their or any DPMS is a "quality" rifle, please consult the linked "chart".

 

Let's not bring up the gospel...I mean 'chart of truth and wisdom' again.
Nothing has been overhyped more on AR forums than that damn chart...except the name Colt.
In re OP...DPMS is a mid-tier...maybe lower mid-tier manufacturer.
I don't look to their products when I'm buying, but wouldn't avoid one if it was the deal or version I really wanted.

 

Yeah let's not get caught up with facts.

 

Buy the dpms. Get the fever. Not everyone can have the same AR. And not every single AR from a manufacturer is the same. So to lump one brand into a quality ranking is kinda stubborn. I dont think you will be dissapointed. BUt whichever part of the gun you might happen to not like... upgrade. Its the beauty of the platform. Enjoy.

 

I'm the first one to say any AR is better than no AR but facts are facts when it comes to quality and attention to detail.

 

Function is what's important.
My Rock River is too stupid to know it's not a top tier gun.
It just works perfectly, and continues to shoot tiny little groups...all the time.
Ignorance is bliss.

 

I would buy a CMMG bargain bin before the DPMS, all other things being equal.