Best AR-15s for Long Range Precision Shooting
The AR-15 has long been praised for its versatility, but when it comes to long-range precision shooting, many still assume bolt guns dominate the field. Here's the truth: a finely-tuned AR-15 can absolutely hold its own at distances of 500, 600 even 800 yards with surprising accuracy. It won’t outshoot a .300 Win Mag sniper rifle, but for those who appreciate the flexibility of semi-automatic platforms, the AR-15 can be a precision shooter's dream.
Whether you're setting up a designated marksman rifle (DMR), competing in long-range matches, or just love ringing steel at a distance, here are the AR-15s that consistently hit the mark both literally and figuratively.
1. LaRue Tactical PredatAR 5.56
Precision Engineering in a Lightweight Package
LaRue Tactical built its reputation among special operations units, and the PredatAR is a rifle that balances field-ready portability with competition-level accuracy. Weighing in at just under 7 pounds unloaded, it’s surprisingly nimble for a precision rig. The 18-inch stainless barrel features polygonal rifling, which improves barrel life and enhances bullet stability especially with heavier match-grade ammo.
The Geissele SSA two-stage trigger is crisp and predictable, with a clean break that makes long-range shots feel effortless. Add in LaRue’s rock-solid free-floating handguard and you get minimal barrel deflection and maximum consistency.
Shooter's Note: If you’re running 75 or 77-grain match ammo like Black Hills or Hornady you’ll find sub-MOA groups at 100 yards are easily achievable, even from unsupported positions.
Specs:
Barrel: 18" stainless steel, 1:8 twist
Gas System: Rifle-length
Trigger: Geissele SSA
Weight: 6.75 lbs (unloaded)
Ideal For: Precision shooters who move between prone, barricades, and positional shooting.
2. Daniel Defense DDM4 V7 Pro
Race-Ready Accuracy with Battle-Tested Reliability
Daniel Defense built the V7 Pro with competition shooters in mind, but don’t be fooled this rifle is just as at home on the firing line as it is on a 600-yard range. The 18" cold hammer-forged S2W (Strength to Weight) barrel is designed for durability and heat management, and the rifle-length gas system makes for a smoother recoil impulse.
You’ll also find Daniel Defense's Muzzle Climb Mitigator reduces vertical rise significantly, helping you stay on target for rapid follow-up shots. The MFR 15.0 M-LOK rail is slim, lightweight, and perfect for mounting bipods, offset optics, or precision lights.
Shooter's Note: Pair this with a low-power variable optic (LPVO) or a 2-10x scope, and you’ve got a tack driver that’s just as good for 3-Gun as it is for prairie dogs.
Specs:
Barrel: 18" S2W profile, cold hammer-forged, 1:7 twist
Trigger: Timney single-stage
Weight: 7.4 lbs
Gas System: Rifle-length
Ideal For: Shooters who need a dual-purpose gun for both competition and long-range plinking.
3. Noveske Gen III N6 6.5 Creedmoor (AR-10 platform)
Not Quite an AR-15 but an Honorable Mention for Longest Reach
Okay, this one is technically in AR-10 territory, but it’s too good to leave off this list. If you’re stepping up your game and need something to compete past 800 or even 1,000 yards, the Noveske N6 in 6.5 Creedmoor delivers everything you'd expect from a high-end semi-auto precision rifle.
The 22” match-grade stainless steel barrel is button-rifled, and Noveske’s proprietary Gen III upper and lower receivers are machined to incredibly tight tolerances. A Raptor charging handle, ambidextrous controls, and tuned buffer system give it the feel of a true premium rifle.
Shooter's Note: Match this with Hornady ELD-X or Berger 140-grain loads, and you’ll be ringing steel at 1,000 yards with confidence and style.
Specs:
Barrel: 22" match-grade, 1:8 twist
Caliber: 6.5 Creedmoor
Trigger: Geissele SSA-E
Weight: 9.1 lbs
Ideal For: Shooters who want long-range performance without giving up semi-auto functionality.
4. Aero Precision M4E1 Enhanced 18" SPR
Affordable Entry into Precision Shooting
The Aero Precision M4E1 SPR proves you don’t need to drop $3,000 to get solid performance. Built around Aero’s Enhanced Series receivers, this rifle offers a monolithic feel without the weight penalty. The 18" stainless steel barrel is chambered in .223 Wylde, allowing safe use of both .223 Rem and 5.56 NATO, and it’s optimized for heavier match bullets.
It ships with a VG6 Precision muzzle brake that does a great job of taming recoil, and the rifle-length gas system ensures smoother cycling compared to mid-length or carbine gas setups.
Shooter's Note: Toss a good optic on here think Vortex Viper PST or Primary Arms GLx and you’ll have a sub-MOA shooter for under $1,500 all in.
Specs:
Barrel: 18" stainless, SPR profile, 1:7 twist
Trigger: Mil-spec (upgradable)
Gas System: Rifle-length
Handguard: Enhanced M-LOK 15"
Ideal For: Beginners or budget-minded shooters looking to break into long-range precision.
5. BCM Recce-16 Precision
Battle-Tested Meets Benchrest
The Recce-16 Precision by Bravo Company Manufacturing combines combat reliability with target-grade precision. Its 16" stainless steel barrel with a 1:8 twist is a sweet spot for versatility light enough for patrol-style handling but accurate enough for hits out to 500–600 yards.
BCM’s proprietary KMR handguard is ultra-lightweight, yet rigid enough for consistent zeroing. Paired with their PNT polished trigger and Mod 0 compensator, it’s a joy to shoot and easy to control, especially for those making fast transitions or working from barricades.
Shooter's Note: This is my go-to “do everything” rifle. From steel at 100 yards to coyotes at 400, it does it all and never misses a beat.
Specs:
Barrel: 16” stainless, 1:8 twist
Gas System: Mid-length
Trigger: BCM PNT single-stage
Weight: ~6.9 lbs
Ideal For: Shooters who want a rugged, reliable rifle that also performs at range.
What Makes a Long-Range AR-15?
When building or buying an AR-15 for long-range use, here’s what truly matters:
Barrel Quality & Length: Go for a stainless or cold hammer-forged barrel, preferably 16–20 inches.
Free-Float Handguard: Keeps your zero stable and allows better accessory mounting.
Trigger: Swap mil-spec triggers for something crisp, like a Geissele or Timney.
Twist Rate: A 1:7 or 1:8 twist is ideal for stabilizing heavier match bullets.
Caliber: .223 Wylde chambers maximize precision and flexibility. For more punch, consider 6.5 Grendel or 6mm ARC.
Final Thoughts
The AR-15 is no longer just a “short game” rifle. With the right setup, it’s an incredibly effective long-range platform, capable of delivering sub-MOA accuracy in the hands of a skilled shooter. Whether you’re dropping prairie dogs at 400 yards or competing in a DMR match, these rifles prove the AR-15’s true potential is far more than most people expect.