What Is the AR 12, and Is It Worth It?

The AR 15-style rifle family, including the AR 15’s large-caliber cousin, the AR 10, is one of the most popular firearms platforms in history. Among the three most popular AR-style rifles, the least well-known is the lone shotgun in the family, the AR 12. Many people, even gun enthusiasts, know very little about the AR 12, while others might be curious how it stacks up against legendary tactical shotguns like the Benelli M4 or Mossberg 590. That begs the question: What exactly can you expect from the AR 12, and is it worth it? Here are a few considerations if you are thinking about picking up an AR 12.

What to Expect From the AR 12

The AR 12 is a semi-automatic box-fed style shotgun that closely resembles AR-style rifles. While the internal mechanisms of the AR 15/AR 10 and the AR 12 are different in many ways, they share a variety of external features, often including Picatinny rails and M-LOK furniture. The AR 12, as the name suggests, is exclusively chambered for 12-gauge shotgun shells.

How the AR 12 Compares to Other Shotguns

If you are looking for a shotgun to use for hunting, you may want to consider something like the legendary Remington 1187 or Beretta A400. There are probably scenarios in which an AR 12 would prove effective for hunting, but it is better known for other applications. AR 12s fill a specific niche in the shotgun world with a higher level of modularity, capacity, and accessory compatibility than the great majority of shotguns.

Benefits of the AR 12

The niche that the AR 12 fills provides various benefits for users, like giving people who are familiar with the all-popular AR-style long gun another platform they can be comfortable using. The layout and construction of AR 12s also effectively reduce their recoil in comparison to other shotgun design styles. Reduced recoil can make a big difference during and after a day of firing a shotgun. The Picatinny rails and M-LOK furniture also allow you to attach optics, lights, and other accessories that likely no other shotgun platform can match.

What the AR 12 Is Used For

In addition to their tactical applications, AR 12s have gained significant popularity among gun enthusiasts, including competitive shooters. The efficient profile and facility for ultra-fast follow-up shots make high-quality AR 12s, like the Rock Island VR80, competition favorites. That same capability for fast follow-ups and their high capacity has also contributed to their increased popularity as a bear defense option in Grizzly country.

Is the AR 12 Worth It for You?

Given its popularity, there is no question that the AR 12 is worth having for thousands of gun enthusiasts around the country. Only you can determine whether or not it is worth adding to your collection. If competition shooting, defense from bears, and so on are not high priorities for you, another possible consideration could sway you—fun. With its high capacity, low recoil, and a world of accessories available, the AR 12 is notoriously fun to shoot. That is definitely a factor worth considering.

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