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AT3’s Ultimate AR-15 Guide – Everything You Need to Know

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Welcome to the AT3 Ultimate AR-15 Guide! We’re sharing the knowledge we’ve all gained over the years of making our own AR-15 mistakes, so you don’t make them on your own AR … because, trust us, that sucks.

If you were to guess how many swappable parts you have on your AR-15 …what’s your guess? If you answered more than 30, you’re pretty darn close! Luckily for you, whether it’s your first time building or buying an AR-15 or even your second or third, we’ve compiled a MOUNTAIN of AR-15 information.

So, get your popcorn ready and your best optical “cheaters” on, it’s time to breeze through the easiest AR-15 Guide you’ll ever meet. Here-We-Go!

Click Here For Full Playlist Here

Table of Contents

AR-15 Basics: 7 Reasons You Want One

The AR-15 is iconic for good reason. This modular semi-auto rifle dominates as America’s top-selling long gun. Customizable and versatile, it’s chambered for the common 5.56 NATO but can adapt to multiple calibers. With low recoil and high accuracy, the AR platform offers reliable performance that makes it a blast to shoot!

  • Low Recoil: Perfect rifle for beginners.
  • Dependability: Battle-proven design, easy to maintain.
  • Accuracy: Tight groupings at a variety of distances.
  • Magazine capacity: Standard AR-15 magazines hold 30 rounds of .223/5.56.
  • Portability: Aluminum & polymer components reduce weight; collapsible stock reduces length.
  • Ease of Operation: Ergonomic controls and suitable for right- or left-handed shooters.
  • Modular Design: The AR-15’s modular design allows endless customization to suit any need.

Buying vs Building an AR-15

Today, you get two choices for your first or next AR-15. Build one entirely from scratch, or grab an off-the-shelf AR. In many cases…off the shelf can wind up being lighter on the wallet. Brands like Smith & Wesson and their M&P Sport II rifle, Ruger with their AR556, or Springfield with the Saint series. Any would make a great do-all rifle. 

Buying “pre-made” may be cheaper, but building an AR15 will ALWAYS get you what you want at the end.

Just bought one? We have a rundown on how every control works and what makes them tick!

Looking to build an AR? Unsure where to start? Schedule a FREE build consultation with our experts!

best beginner ar-15
The Smith & Wesson M&P Sport II is made in America and in-house at S&W. They have fantastic customer service and warranty services!

More AT3 AR-15 Rifle Content: 

AR-15 Parts & Pieces

The AR-15 is built on an adaptable, mix-and-match platform. It is easy to swap out parts or disassemble for cleaning and maintenance. 

Let’s cover the 2 main assemblies – the upper and lower receiver groups – and then common accessories like sights, optics, magazines, and more. Looking for the US Army’s maintenance manual? Check out our FREE Army Service Manual for the AR-15/M4/M16!

The AR-15 Upper Receiver Assembly

The upper receiver houses the inner workings of the rifle. It is the “upper” portion of the gun. This will receive your barrel, bolt carrier group, charging handle, forward assist, dust cover, handguard, gas system, and muzzle device

Ar15 build
To forward assist or not to forward assist? When it comes to an AR-15 upper, that is the question.

If your bolt has trouble going into battery (fully seating in the barrel chamber), a handy push button called the forward assist is found on the side of most AR-15 pattern rifles and can be punched, pressed, or kicked in order to get things working.

Forward assists are a much-debated topic since they arguably do not offer a great deal of “real-world” sportsman usage. If your AR is having trouble, maybe check them out instead of resorting to the big button.

The AR-15 Barrel

When it comes to the AR-15, the barrel is arguably the most important part as it directly impacts accuracy and reliability. As for what to look for in your AR barrel, you really can’t go wrong with a standard mil-spec barrel – they just work great for most folks. AR barrels are available in countless other options of calibers, profiles, metals, and coatings, but don’t get too wrapped up in those details now. We’ve got a TON of AR-15 barrel content below to put any concerns to rest.

Over at our Youtube Channel, we covered the nitty gritty on AR-15 barrels!

Although you do have tons of barrel options to customize your AR-15 build… Just remember to keep legal requirements in mind – as of today rifle barrels need to be at least 16 inches. Choosing shorter barrels means you’ll be building your AR as a pistol or getting paperwork and money ready for a tax stamp.

Delve into the core of your AR’s accuracy with our more advanced barrel content:

AR-15 Gas Systems

The AR-15 is gas operated. Meaning: it is direct gas impingement operated which requires a gas port in the barrel in order to vent gas after the bullet passes by it. Those vented gasses go into the gas tube and contact the bolt carrier group which is flung to the rear and cycles back forward, picking up another round from the magazine. 


A product that has gained popularity is the adjustable gas block since it offers a greater degree of versatility. There are other options such as low-profile gas blocks, picatinny gas blocks, and skeletonized gas blocks to best trick out your AR build!

The chosen gas system length acts as a respiratory system for your AR build. In a sense, it literally breathes fire!

Master your AR’s respiratory system with our advanced gas system content:

AR-15 Handguards

The handguard acts as a protector. Its role is to keep the gas tube from damage as well as a heat shield between the hot barrel and the shooter’s hand. 

There are many different types of AR-15 handguards that offer their own pros and cons. The most popular option is the freefloat style handguard. The handguard is commonly used as an attachment point for accessories – flashlights, bipods, and more.

Free Float, Aluminum, Drop-in, Polymer, Quad Rail, Carbon Fiber, Retro? What is your Style?

Reimagine your AR’s tactical potential with our ultimate handguard upgrade intel:

AR-15  Bolt Carrier Group

The bolt carrier group is definitely the workhorse of the AR-15 – being a combination of parts handling everything from pulling a round from the chamber, firing the round, ejecting it from the receiver, and picking up another round from the magazine. 

These days it is tough to find a “bad” BCG (bolt carrier group). Unless you see a horrendous price difference it’s probably a quality part. For maximum reliability, however, most shooters stick to nickel boron-coated BCGs since they have greater wear resilience, heat tolerability, and friction resistance when things get messy.

Ar15 build
A thing of beauty. The AR-15 Bolt Carrier Group in all of its lovely pieces.

Attached to the AR-15 bolt carrier group would be the charging handle which is responsible for manually pulling the bolt to the rear.

You would be hard-pressed not to roll with the most popular style these days, the ambidextrous charging handle since it does most things very well. There are other options that concentrate on gas mitigation, ease of access, and even right-hand or left-hand only if you have a more personalized or job-specific AR-15 build.

Breek Arms and their Warhammer is a popular name in the game of AR charging handles!

Unlock your AR’s true accuracy potential with our precision upper component intel:

The AR-15 Muzzle Device

The end of an AR-15 barrel is threaded, which allows attachment of a “muzzle device”. Generally, muzzle devices serve one of three purposes – reducing the flash of light caused by a gunshot, reducing recoil, or reducing muzzle rise.

If your goal is to reduce recoil, a muzzle brake is the most effective tool!

The VG6 Epsilon 556 is affordable, effective, and one of our favorites!

The classic muzzle device is the A2 “birdcage” flash hider and is found on most AR-15 rifles sold off the shelf. The threads for 223/5.56 are standardized at 1/2×28 so there is an absolute ton of alternatives for more job-specific scenarios like the ones listed above.

The AR muzzle device possibilities are endless!

Transform your AR from mild to wild with more AT3 muzzle device content:

The AR-15 Lower Receiver Assembly

The lower receiver is the key part that the ATF considers the actual “firearm” portion of an AR-15. Lowers contain the trigger and fire control components that enable the rifle to shoot. 

Forged and polymer AR-15 lowers are common, but billet-machined aluminum lowers offer enhanced rigidity and customization. All lower receivers form the heart of your build, housing the essential fire control group that gives your rifle its shooting capabilities.

Ar15 build
Aero Precision products by far are amongst the most popular in the market.

Master the beating heart of your AR build with our more in-depth lower-receiver content:

AR-15 Lower Parts Kits

Inside the AR-15 lower receiver, you’ll find an assortment of pins, springs, and other parts that are used for the operation of the weapon – this includes the trigger, safety, magazine release, pivot pin, takedown pin, and more. 

Other upgrades include ambidextrous parts like safety selectors or bolt catches – making it easier for you left-handers to operate your AR.

Ar15 build
Generally, most of these internal parts are similar to any AR-15. Better yet they are often sold in kits!

AR-15 Triggers

A quality trigger improves accuracy through a clean, smooth pull. Common mil-spec triggers work, but upgrading is popular for enhanced precision. Drop-ins from CMC or Rise Armament offer tunable performance at a reasonable price. Don’t overthink it – a new trigger gives your shooting a serious upgrade.

Drop-in triggers are hands down some of the best AR-15 upgrades out there!

Keep enhancing your savvy on the click portion of the Click/Boom ratio: 

AR-15 Buttstock

The buttstock serves to stabilize and guide the bulk of the recoil. Today most AR-15s have adjustable stocks, which are handy for changing the ergonomics of the rifle and collapsing the rifle for easy transport. 

A good stock could be lightweight, have storage, or have multiple points of adjustment. Magpul’s Carbine stock is a very popular option that even comes stock (pun intended) on a bunch of off-the-shelf rifles.

Ar15 build
If you aren’t into the FAB Defense RAPS, we recommend the Magpul PRS!

Reinvent your AR’s ergonomics with our stock upgrade insights:

AR-15 Buffer Tube & Recoil System

The buttstock is attached to the buffer tube (AKA the receiver extension). Beyond serving as a place to put your stock, the buffer tube serves another purpose – it houses the recoil spring and buffer. 

Carbine buffer tubes are by far the most common AR-15 option. Rifle-length A2 tubes are the other primary variety. Beyond that, there are technical differences between mil-spec and commercial buffer tubes, but commercial types are quite uncommon today.

For most builders, sticking with a standard carbine or rifle buffer tube will suit your needs. Only those looking for very specific stock compatibility need to worry about the mil-spec versus commercial spec debate.

Ar15 build
Did you know that there are two different buffer tube types?

When the rifle fires, the bolt carrier group pushes back into the recoil buffer and spring, which reduces the forces of recoil, for the benefit of your shoulder and your rifle.

There are a bunch of different buffer weights and they are called H1, H2, and H3. These are easily changed out to suit your AR needs. Some need a heavier buffer and some need a lighter one. For those ultimate fine-tuned builds an adjustable buffer is the go-to so all problems can be solved ASAP.

Ar15 build
There are a bunch of different buffer weights and they matter! 

Fine-tune your AR’s rhythm with our buffer system tips and tricks:

AR-15 Pistol Grip

There isn’t much to an AR-15 pistol grip is there? Actually, there are a plethora of styles, features, grip angles, etc. There are pistol grips with storage in the base, grips with a less exaggerated angle, smooth, rubber, sandpaper feeling, and on and on and on. 

These days it walks the boundary of an accessory rather than a necessity. The Magpul MOE is an extremely common one and for good reason, but if you want to spice things up check out the Magpul MIAD which helps fit the grip to your hand and has some built-in storage.

Ar15 build
Are you more of a 15 or 25-degree kinda person? Did you know grip angles can range from zero degrees all the way to 35 degrees?!

Master the subtleties of grip ergonomics with our in-depth pistol grip content:

AR-15 Magazines

AR-15 magazines might not be the flashy superstar of your AR accessories, but they’re like that trusty sidekick that can make or break the mission. 

A good magazine will run like a well-oiled machine and make your build shine, but a bad one likely will cause more headaches than a Monday morning. So, unless you want to become a master at fixing magazine jams, it’s best to invest in reliable ones that won’t let you down. 

The hands-down knock-out champ of magazines has to be the Magpul Pmag but if you aren’t into the plastic stuff make sure to check out Duramag. Still, need help figuring out the perfect AR magazine for your build? Check out our guide to Choosing the best magazine for you.

Ar15 build
What will it be?! Pmags? Duramags? Hexmag?

Step up your AR’s firepower potential with our magazine secrets:

Enhancing Your AR-15 With Optics

AR-15 Optics are a must-have enhancement in almost every way you look at it. Faster target acquisition, magnification, accuracy at longer range, etc. Without them, you are stuck with an “optics-ready” setup which is basically useless.

AR-15 Backup Iron Sights

Backup iron sights do not need to be solely for “backup”. They can be and are often intended to be a primary optic in a rifle setup. Back-up sights specifically are very important to use an AR-15 as a defensive weapon. 

Optics can fail and batteries can go dead. You always want to be able to make accurate shots, no matter the situation.

Ar15 build
If you plan on using a red dot with iron sights you may want to look into the different types of co-witnessing!

Hone your fundamentals with our in-depth iron sights content – take your skills back to basics:

AR-15 Reflex Sights

Reflex sights have surged in popularity over old-school tubed red dots. The compact design, lightweight, and broad sight picture up their allure. Even better, most reflex sights work on rifles OR pistols for ultimate flexibility.

Ar15 build
Some reflex-style red dots like the AT3 ARO Micro can be mounted on top of other optics!

AR-15 Red Dot Sights

When considering a red dot sight, the image that typically comes to mind is that of a “tube-style” sight. This association likely stems from the familiar comfort of looking through a traditional scope tube. 

Tube-style models still have their place though. Their enclosed design makes them super rugged and durable – perfect for ARs facing harsh conditions.

Ar15 build
When it comes to tube-style red dots that are engineered for AR-15s the ALPHA takes the cake!

AR-15 Holographic Sights

Holographic sights, though they bear a resemblance to red dot sights according to our common understanding, function with certain deviations from traditional red dot optics.

They utilize a laser diode and reflective surfaces to produce a holographic reticle that appears to float. Why pick a holographic sight over a red dot or reflex sight? Holographic sights provide some distinct advantages with their technology that minimizes parallax distortion and visual issues like astigmatism. Additionally, holographic sights allow the user to focus on both the reticle and target simultaneously, providing an easier viewing experience.

EOTech has long reigned as the king of the holographic red dot sights.

Unlock rapid target acquisition with our AT3 AR-15 red dot optics content: 

AR-15 Magnifiers

Red dot sights excel up close, but sometimes you need a bit more range. That’s where magnifiers come in handy. These supplemental lenses enhance your red dot’s versatility. With the flip of a magnifier behind your red dot, you can toggle between CQB-ready speed and magnified precision for intermediate-range shots.

While magnifiers require slightly slower target acquisition, they expand your options. No need to choose exclusively between close-quarters agility and reach—with the right gear, your AR can handle both.

ar 15 basics
Get yourself a red dot magnifier that can flip to the side for easy range transitions.

AR-15 Scopes

Scopes specifically engineered for AR-15 rifles will typically be LPVOs (low-powered variable optic). This is because they mate the perks of a red dot with the perks of a scope. Traditional scopes work just fine on AR-15s but they may be a little too long or a little too tall in some cases.

ar 15 basics
There are dozens of LPVOs out there but we are partial to the Red Tail.

Unleash your AR’s long-range potential with our scopes and LPVO pro tips – take precision shooting to the next level:

AR-15 Accessories & Attachments for Customization

Customizing your AR-15 is half the fun. The possibilities are endless thanks to the platform’s modularity.

Add bipods for stability, new grips for control, slings for carrying, lights for low-light ops – the list goes on.

These attachments let you tailor your rifle to fit your needs and style. An AR is like a canvas, and accessories are your paint. Get creative and join the passion-filled community that loves building kick-butt firearms!

AR-15 Bipods

AR-15 bipods check all the boxes. They supply stability for accuracy, whether you’re prone or on the bench. With your rifle securely planted on a barricade or the ground, bipods reduce movement for enhanced precision.

No more wavering during long-range sessions. Bipods minimize fatigue too by literally taking the weight off your shoulders. Stability, accuracy, ergonomics – bipods bring it all together to make your AR a steady, precise shooting machine.

In recent years Magpul came out with a very simple minimalist bipod setup and it has found a large following.

ar 15 basics
Additionally, a bipod helps to minimize shooter fatigue by reducing the strain of holding the rifle for extended periods.

Plant your AR on solid ground with more expert-curated bipod content:

AR-15 Front Grips

A front vertical grip or angled grip, or even a hand stop, serve as useful accessories for AR-15 rifles, offering improved control and handling during shooting. 

These grips offer increased stability, reducing muzzle rise and recoil, which can aid in maintaining target acquisition and overall accuracy.

ar 15 basics
For individuals who engage in tactical shooting, competitive shooting, or even hunting, a front grip can be beneficial for optimizing rifle control.

Get a grip on enhanced rifle control with our in-depth front grip articles:

AR-15 Slings

Primarily, a sling allows the shooter to comfortably carry and transport the rifle while keeping their hands free. It aids in weight distribution, reducing fatigue during extended periods of carrying. 

Additionally, a sling enables quick and secure transitions between shooting positions, enhancing overall weapon control and maneuverability.

By far the Magpul MS4 is one of the most beloved slings out there. Another popular strictly two-point sling option is the Blue Force Gear Vickers 2-Point Combat Sling.

ar 15 basics
There are a ton of AR-15 sling options, but there are three main types: Single Point, Two Point, and Three Point.

Step up your AR game with enhanced comfort and limitless maneuverability from more of our sling content:

AR-15 Flashlights & Lasers

Flashlights and lasers unlock an AR-15’s potential for tactical and defense use. Quality lights can illuminate your surroundings, reveal threats, and provide you with faster target engagement when it counts

Lasers double down on rapid target acquisition, providing a visible guide to your bullet’s intended path, though don’t rely on them completely. They are to be used as a frame of reference, sort of a “your bullet will land somewhere around here”. No Hollywood BS where a laser is always sighted in perfectly at every distance.

Bottom line: Good lighting is crucial for assessing and engaging targets precisely in low-light conditions.

ar 15 basics
The combination of an AR-15 and a flashlight enhances safety, precision, and overall performance, making it a valuable accessory for those seeking to optimize their AR-15 platform.

For more AT3 flashlight content check out our video! 

AR-15 Conversion Kits

The primary purpose of a .22 conversion kit is to provide a cost-effective and versatile training solution. BUT they are loved and sought after for the fun that goes with high volume affordable shooting.

.22 LR conversion kits allow AR-15 owners to switch their rifles to fire inexpensive .22 LR rounds. This provides cost-effective practice with the same ergonomics and handling as shooting standard 5.56 ammo. Benefits include cheaper ammo costs, training newcomers with nonexistent recoil, and extended sessions improving marksmanship.

Conversion kits have a reputation for being finicky but this is usually due to the poor quality of 22 LR ammo. One of the most reputable and reliable .22 conversion kits on the market is made by CMMG.

ar 15 basics
22LR kits are also ideal for introducing new shooters to the AR platform since it’s much quieter and barely kicks.

More AT3 .22 Conversion Kit Content: CMMG Conversion Kit Update

Beyond AR-15 Accessories

There’s a lot more to customize your AR-15 beyond accessories. Some hardly cost you a dime, others are just best practice. The point of owning an AR-15 is 100% to make it your own. Get in there and try some things!

Origins of an Icon: AR-15 History

In 1955, Eugene Stoner, Chief Engineer at Armalite, eventually created the original AR-15. He first started with AR-10 prototype rifles. Although similar by today’s standards, they had a “Steampunk” appearance with brown-sh colored plastics, vent slots, and a concealed charging handle. Just two years later, the AR-10 was downsized and chambered for the popular .223 Remington varmint cartridge, resulting in the birth of the AR-15. 

ar 15 basics
For more information on the AR-10 rifles make sure to check out our series!

Initially, the AR-15 was nothing more than a scaled-down version of the AR-10 but eventually surpassed it in popularity. This caught the attention of the US military, leading larger-scale manufacturer, Colt, to take over the AR-15’s development as Armalite couldn’t keep up with demand nor afford to continue. This resulted in the M16, M4, and so on.

ar 15 basics
For more retro style AR-15 and AR10 furniture and parts check out Luth-AR’s selection!

More AT3 AR-15 Historical Content: M4 vs AR-15 vs M16 – The Ultimate Guide to AR-15 Types Plus A1, A2, A3, A4 M16 Variants

AR-15 Operation Manual

When it comes to America’s favorite rifle there can be a lot of misinformation out there. If you need assistance with a product, have any questions, or just want to reach out, please feel free. Speaking of free if you want an official manual on the AR-15 platform check out this FREE Army Service Manual!

ar 15 basics

We at AT3 Tactical just want to lend our thanks to anyone who tunes in for the AT3 Blog and YouTube channel. It is much appreciated and we are happy to continue to churn out quality and helpful content. It is an honor to be of service. Please let us know if you have any questions in the comments below. Be safe out there and we will catch you next time!

FAQs

Do AR-15s kick hard?

The short answer is no they do not. Your average run-of-the-mill 5.56 AR-15 will not kick much more than a 22 LR. It entirely depends on the cartridge that the AR is chambered in as well as the size of the package. If you have an AR pistol in a larger caliber it will likely kick a bit. 

Does the US military use AR-15s?

No, they do not. The M16 and M4 rifles are in the same family and were influenced by the commercial AR-15 but the US military does not use AR-15s. There are probably some small exceptions.

Is an AR-15 good for home defense?

It can be yes. Typically if the AR-15 is in a smaller more maneuverable configuration and in a cartridge such as 300BLK it is suited for home defense. 5.56 works just fine too but it has a habit of over-penetrating so in a home environment a bigger or at least slower bullet is ideal.

Is an AR-15 a good beginner gun?

Yes! The AR-15 platform is great for beginners. They do have a lot of buttons and things poking out every which way so it could be a little overwhelming but it is low recoiling, easy to manipulate, and highly adjustable to the shooter.

Is an AR-15 easy to use?

Yes! They are very easy to operate. They have the potential to be a little overwhelming since they have a lot of controls but most are passive and not constantly being used. 

One Last Tip

If there’s anyone that knows the AR-15 platform, it’s the US military. As a special offer for our readers, you can get the Official US Army Manual for AR-15/M4/M16 right now – for free. Click here to snag a copy.

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Last Updated: January 5, 2022

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All firearms sales are final, non-refundable, and cannot be returned to AT3 without prior authorization. If a firearm must be returned due to a failed background check or similar reason, we will charge a 15% restocking fee that will be deducted from the refund. AT3 reserves the right to modify its policies related to firearm sales through the Website at any time, without notice, and in its sole and absolute discretion.

Payment for all orders placed through the website must be made at the time of ordering. You agree that you will pay all applicable taxes or charges imposed by any governmental entity anywhere in connection with your use of the Website or purchase of goods through the Website. All costs and fees are quoted and payable in United States Dollars and you acknowledge and agree that AT3 is not responsible for any transaction fees or other fees charged to you by your financial institution or by AT3’s payment processor. You agree that you will not initiate any chargebacks to AT3 unless otherwise authorized by AT3 in writing. You understand and agree that you will be responsible and required to pay for any costs associated with any chargebacks that you have initiated against AT3.

Note to Alabama customers: AT3 Tactical will collect the Simplified Sellers Use Tax (SSUT) of 8% on taxable customer transactions delivered into Alabama. The tax will be remitted on the customer’s behalf to the Alabama Department of Revenue. The Seller’s program account number is SSU-R010896575

e. Returns and Refunds

Our returns and refunds policy is available here at the below URL.
AT3 Returns Policy

f. Product Pricing and Availability

While AT3 strives to provide accurate prices for its products and to have regular access to sufficient inventory, it is possible that AT3 may, from time to time, mistakenly list a product’s price or stock. If this occurs, AT3 will contact you within a reasonable time frame to advise you of the mistake. You understand and agree that the price or availability of a product displayed through the Website does not guarantee that the product will be in stock, sold at the listed price, or that your order can be immediately fulfilled by AT3.

g. Shipping

All products purchased through the Website are shipped Free Carrier (F.C.A.) and the risk of loss and title passes to you upon delivery to the carrier. AT3 will pay for the shipping costs of returning a non-firearm product to AT3 if the product in question is defective. If you return a product that was not defective, AT3 reserves the right to deduct the cost of return shipping from the amount refunded to you.

You understand and agree that products sold through the Website are shipped and sold in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and regulations. Many items sold through the Website may be restricted or prohibited in your area and you are advised to research your local and state regulations before ordering.

Further policy details can be found at the below URL.
AT3 Shipping Policy

AT3 reserves the right to modify its shipping policies at any time, without prior notice, and within its sole and absolute discretion.

h. Trademarks

You acknowledge and agree that any and all trademarks, trade names, design marks, or logos displayed on the Website by AT3, including but not limited to AT3, are common law or registered trademarks owned by or licensed to AT3. You are expressly prohibited from using the trademarks of AT3 to cause confusion in, to cause mistake in, or to deceive consumers, or from falsely designating the origin of, the source of, or the sponsorship of your goods or services. You are further prohibited from using the trademarks of AT3 in domain names, in keyword advertisements, to trigger keyword advertisements, or in meta tags. All other trademarks, trade names, design marks, or logos are the property of their respective owners.

i. Term and Termination

The term of this Agreement will begin upon your first accessing of the Website and will continue until the earlier of the following: (i) AT3 terminates your access to the Website; or (ii) you cease using the Website and terminate your Account. AT3 reserves the right to terminate the Website or your access to the Website in its sole and absolute discretion and without prior notice.

j. Disclaimer of Warranties and Limitation of Liability

YOU ACKNOWLEDGE AND AGREE THAT THE WEBSITE IS PROVIDED ON AN “AS-IS” BASIS AND WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, WARRANTIES OF TITLE, MERCHANTABILITY, ACCURACY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, SECURITY, AND NON-INFRINGEMENT. WHEREVER PERMITTED BY LAW, YOU ACKNOWLEDGE THAT AT3 WILL NOT BE HELD RESPONSIBLE OR LIABLE FOR ANY CLAIMS, DAMAGES, JUDGMENTS, CHARGES, OR FEES ARISING OUT OF OR RELATED TO YOUR USE OF OR ACCESS TO THE WEBSITE, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, COMPENSATORY DAMAGES, CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, SPECIAL DAMAGES, INCIDENTAL DAMAGES, PUNITIVE DAMAGES, EXEMPLARY DAMAGES, COSTS, AND ATTORNEYS’ FEES, DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF ERRORS OR OMISSIONS, AND DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF THE UNAVAILABILITY OF THE WEBSITE OR DOWNTIME. YOU ACKNOWLEDGE THAT YOUR USE OF THE WEBSITE IS AT YOUR SOLE RISK AND THAT AT3’S LIABILITY IS LIMITED TO THE AMOUNT THAT YOU PAID TO USE THE WEBSITE OR $1000, WHICHEVER IS LESS.

AT3 EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ANY RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY DAMAGE, INJURY, HARM, COST, EXPENSE, OR LIABILITY ARISING OUT OF OR RELATED TO YOUR USE OR MISUSE OF PRODUCTS PURCHASED THROUGH THE WEBSITE. EXCEPT FOR THE WARRANTIES SPECIFICALLY STATED IN THIS AGREEMENT, PRODUCTS PURCHASED THROUGH THE WEBSITE ARE PROVIDED WITHOUT EXPRESS, IMPLIED, OR STATUTORY WARRANTIES, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PUPOSE, TITLE, ACCURACY, NON-INFRINGEMENT, OR QUALITY. SOME JURISDICTIONS DO NOT ALLOW AN EXCLUSION OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES. IF YOU ARE LOCATED IN SUCH A JURISDICTION, YOU ARE ADVISED TO SEEK LEGAL ADVICE TO DETERMINE IF THIS EXCLUSION APPLIES TO YOU.

AT3 WILL NOT BE LIABLE TO YOU UNDER ANY LEGAL THEORY, WHETHER IN WARRANTY, CONTRACT, STRICT LIABILITY, TORT, PERSONAL INJURY, OR NEGLIGENCE, FOR ANY DAMAGES, CLAIMS, INJURIES, JUDGMENTS, COSTS, OR LIABILITIES OF ANY KIND ARISING OUT OF OR RELATED TO YOUR USE OR MISUSE OF PRODUCTS PURCHASED THROUGH THE WEBSITE, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, PERSONAL INJURY, DAMAGE TO PROPERTY, DEATH, LOSS OF BUSINESS, LOSS OF INCOME, SPECIAL DAMAGES, INCIDENTAL DAMAGES, CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, PUNATIVE DAMAGES, OR EXEMPLARY DAMAGES, WHETHER FORESEEABLE OR UNFORESEEABLE. YOU ACKNOWLEDGE THAT YOUR USE OF PRODUCTS PURCHASED THROUGH THE WEBSITE IS AT YOUR SOLE RISK AND THAT AT3’s LIABILITY IS LIMITED TO THE AMOUNT THAT YOU PAID FOR THE PRODUCTS OR $1000, WHICHEVER IS LESS.

k. Indemnification

You agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless AT3, its officers, shareholders, directors, employees, subsidiaries, affiliates, and representatives from any and all losses, including, but not limited to, costs and attorneys’ fees, arising out of or related to (i) your use of the Website, (ii) your purchase of products through the Website; (iii) your use or misuse of products obtained through the Website; (iv) your violation of any term or condition of this Agreement; (v) your violation of the rights of third parties, including, but not limited to, intellectual property rights or other personal or proprietary rights; and (vi) your violation of any law, statute, ordinance, regulation, or treaty, whether local, state, provincial, national or international. Your obligation to defend AT3 will not provide you with the ability to control AT3’s defense, and AT3 reserves the right to control its defense, including its choice of counsel and whether to litigate or settle a claim subject to indemnification.

l. Choice of Law and Stipulation to Jurisdiction

You and AT3 agree that any dispute arising out of or related to this Agreement or your use of the Website, including, but not limited to, your purchase or use of products from or through the Website, will be governed by the laws of the State of Minnesota, without regard to its conflict of laws rules. Specifically, the validity, interpretation, and performance of this Agreement will not be governed by the United Nations Convention on the International Sale of Goods. Except for claims for injunctive relief by either party, you and AT3 agree that any dispute or controversy arising out of, in relation to, or in connection with this Agreement or your use of the Website including, without limitation, any and all disputes, claims (whether in tort, contract, statutory, or otherwise) or disagreements concerning the existence, breach, interpretation, application or termination of this Agreement, will be resolved by final and binding arbitration pursuant to the Federal Arbitration Act in Hanover, Minnesota or, at the option of the party seeking relief, by telephone, online, or via written submissions alone, and be administered by the American Arbitration Association (“AAA”) under the then in force Commercial Arbitration Rules by one arbitrator appointed in accordance with such rules. Such arbitration will be independent and impartial. If the parties fail to agree on the arbitrator within twenty (20) calendar days after the initiation of the arbitration hereunder, AAA will appoint the arbitrator.

This arbitration will be conducted in the English language. The decision of the arbitrator will be final and binding on the parties and judgment on any award(s) rendered by the arbitrator may be entered in any court having jurisdiction thereof. Nothing in this section will prevent either party from seeking immediate injunctive relief from any court of competent jurisdiction, and any such request shall not be deemed incompatible with the agreement to arbitrate or a waiver of the right to arbitrate. The parties undertake to keep confidential all awards in their arbitration, together with all confidential information, all materials in the proceedings created for the purpose of the arbitration and all other documents produced by the other party in the proceedings and not otherwise in the public domain, save and to the extent that disclosure may be required of a party by legal duty, to protect or pursue a legal right or to enforce or challenge an award in legal proceedings before a court or other judicial authority. The arbitrator shall award all fees and expenses, including reasonable attorney’s fees, to the prevailing party. Any judgment rendered by the arbitrator may be entered in any court of competent jurisdiction.
ANY DISPUTE RESOLUTION PROCEEDING ARISING OUT OF OR RELATED TO THIS AGREEMENT OR THE PURCHASE OR USE OF PRODUCTS FROM OR THROUGH THE WEBSITE, WHETHER IN ARBITRATION OR OTHERWISE, SHALL BE CONDUCTED ONLY ON AN INDIVIDUAL BASIS AND NOT IN A CLASS, CONSOLIDATED OR REPRESENTATIVE ACTION, AND YOU AND AT3 EXPRESSLY AGREE THAT CLASS ACTION AND REPRESENTATIVE ACTION PROCEDURES SHALL NOT BE ASSERTED IN NOR APPLY TO ANY ARBITRATION PURSUANT TO THESE TERMS.
Any claims must be brought within one year of each applicable invoice or will otherwise be barred.
m. Force Majeure

AT3 will not be responsible for any delay or failure in performance of the Website or its associated products arising out of any cause beyond AT3’s control, such as acts of God, war, riots, fire, terrorist attacks, pandemics, power outages, severe weather, or other accidents.

n. Survivability

The representations, warranties, duties, and covenants made by you under this Agreement will survive the termination of this Agreement, your Account, or the Website, including, but not limited to, your duty to indemnify and defend AT3.

o. Interpretation

This Agreement will be deemed to have been drafted by both parties, and the terms and conditions of this Agreement will not be interpreted against its drafter.

p. Assignment

You are expressly prohibited from assigning your rights and duties under this Agreement. AT3 reserves the right to assign its rights and duties under this Agreement, including in a sale of AT3 or its Website.

q. Waiver and Integration

No term or condition of this Agreement or breach of this Agreement will be deemed to have been waived or consented to unless said waiver is writing and signed by the party to be charged. This Agreement is the entire agreement between the parties and supersedes all previous agreements or representations between the parties.

One Last Tip

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AT3 Tactical, LLC Privacy Policy

AT3 Tactical Privacy Policy

Last Updated: August 7, 2020

AT3 Tactical, LLC (“AT3”) values the privacy of its users and believes that you should know what kind of data we collect from you, how we use it, and how you can have control over, and stop the collection of it. We make every attempt to be transparent in our data collection efforts and to provide you with information that you need to make decisions about our collection of data from you.

When you use the AT3 Website, even if you are just browsing, we may collect some basic data from you such as the type of device that you are using, your geographical location, and your IP address. If you choose to complete a purchase through the Website, you share additional data with us, which is outlined below. We also provide you with the ability to limit the data that we collect from you and how we use it. We also may use your interactions with the AT3 Website to show you more relevant content.
If you have any questions about our privacy policy, how we collect data from you, how we use your data, or how you can control your privacy settings, you can contact us at any time at support@at3tactical.com.

Data You Share with Us

We may collect data from you when you voluntarily share it with us. This may include the following data:
Transaction Data. When you purchase a product through the Website, you provide us information needed to complete your purchase, such as your name, phone number, address, billing address, email address, city, state, zip code, and any notes you provide to AT3. This data is used to help us contact you, complete your purchase, and ship products to you that you have purchased through the website.
Public Data. Some of the activity on the Website is public. We may use this public data to provide you with the services requested, to provide you with more relevant content, to tailor content to your preferences, to keep records of communications between us and you, and to defend against legal claims.
Private Communication Data. We may use your contact data, such as any data that you voluntarily provide to us like your phone number, address, and email address, to authenticate your purchase, to communicate with you, to respond to communications sent to you by us, to keep records of our communication, to fulfill your orders, or to pursue or defend against legal claims. We may store and process your private communications with us and data related to them to scan for malicious content, to review content for violations of our terms of use agreement, or to respond to legal process or law enforcement inquiries.

Additional Data We Receive From You

We may also collect data from you automatically when you use the Website. This may include the following data:
Location Data. We may collect data about your location by collecting and processing your IP address and device settings. We may use this data to tailor our offerings to your geographic location, respond to law enforcement requests, or to provide you with content that is relevant to your geographic location.
Technical Data. We may collect technical data about your use of the Website, such as your IP address, your device IDs, your phone number, pages visited, referring web page, your mobile phone model, mobile charrier, search terms, cookie data, your operating system, your geolocation, and your time zone. We may use this data to analyze your use of the Website, to administer and secure our services, to determine how we should allocate resources to our Website, and to understand the technical load on our servers.
Marketing Data. We may collect your IP address, your device IDs, your geographical location, your phone numbers, pages visited, referring web page, mobile phone model, search terms, cookie data, Google Advertising IDs, and Apple Advertising IDs to provide advertisements to you through third-party ad networks. We may use your data to provide advertisements to you, to provide remarketing advertisements to you after you previously visited the Website, to determine the relevance of advertisements, to measure the effectiveness of advertisements, and to help make those advertisements more relevant to your preferences.
Use of Cookies
We may also collect data from you through the use of cookies and other technologies. This helps us understand how you use the Website and to understand any patterns that may be associated with your use of our services. This aids us in developing or improving our services in response to your needs or wants.
We may use session or persistent cookies. Session cookies are only stored on your computer or mobile device during your use of the Website and are automatically deleted when you close your web browser. Persistent cookies are stored as a file on your computer or mobile device that remain on your computer or mobile device even after you close your web browser. Persistent cookies can be read by the website that created the cookie when you revisit it again. We may use persistent cookies when we utilize Google Analytics or other analytics providers, which are intended to track the origin and behavior of traffic to the Website. We may also, from time to time, receive data from third parties including analytics providers or advertising networks such as Google, Facebook, or Apple.
Marketing Communications
We may send you marketing communications if you have asked us for information concerning our services or if you have agreed to, and have not opted out from receiving marketing communications from us. You may ask us to stop sending you marketing messages at any time by following the opt-out link in any marketing message sent to you.

Disclosure of Personal Data

We only share your personal data in limited circumstances.
We may share or disclose your personal data with your consent or at your direction.
We may also share your data with certain third parties to aid us in operating the Website. For example, we may share your personal data with third parties, such as analytics providers, to utilize their software tools and measure the effectiveness of our Website or advertisements. We may also share personal data, such as device IDs, with third party advertisers to help them determine whether they should serve an ad to you. The data that we share with these third parties does not include your email address, name, phone number, or username, but it may include your geographical location.

We may also share your personal data with our accountants, auditors, insurers, or attorneys where doing so is necessary to protect the interests of AT3 or to comply with any law or regulation.

We may also share your personal data with government or law enforcement agencies when we are required to report our data processing activities, upon receipt of an exigent circumstances request, upon receipt of a duly authorized subpoena or court order, to comply with any law or legal process, to comply with government or regulatory requests, or where doing so is necessary to protect our users, our employees, our contractors, third parties, or property.

Finally, we may share your personal data to a third party if we sell, transfer, or merge any part of our business or assets. In the event that we share your personal data in the sale, transfer, or merger of any part of our business or assets, this Privacy Policy will continue to apply to your personal data when transferred to the new entity.

Management, Protection, and Retention of Your Personal Data

To stop our collection and use of your data, you need only cease using Website and clear your web browser’s cookies and cache.

We put data security measures into place to protect your personal data. We allow access to your personal data only by employees and service providers who have a need to know or access your personal data on our instructions. We will notify you and any regulatory body of any breach of your personal data or our security measures if and when we are legally required to do so.

We will only retain your personal data for so long as necessary to fulfill the purposes for which it is collected under this Privacy Policy or for the purposes of satisfying any legal, accounting, or reporting requirements.

Third Party Links
Our services may include links to third party websites and applications. By clicking on third party links, you may allow third parties to collect or share data about you. We do not control these third-party links and you are advised their respective privacy policies.

Responding to Do Not Track Signals
You can generally opt-out of receiving personalized ads from third party advertisers and ad networks, such as Google and Facebook, who are members of the Network Advertising Initiative (NAI) or who follow the Digital Advertising Alliance’s Self-Regulatory Principles for Online Behavioral Advertising by visiting the opt-out pages on the NAI website and DAA website. Our websites are not currently set up to respond to browser do-not-track signals, but you can configure your browser settings to reject all cookies or prompt you before a cookie is set.

California Privacy Rights
California residents have a right to request that we disclose what personal information we collect from you and whether, and how, we disclose or sell that personal information. California residents may also request that we delete any personal information collected or maintained by us from you.

AT3 collects personal and personally identifiable information from you when you visit the Website. AT3 may provide this personal and personally identifiable information to third parties to deliver ads tailored to your interests.

California residents may also have the right to opt out of the sale of their personal information by clicking a link or icon associated with an advertisement. Specifically, this link or icon may state “Do Not Sell My Personal Information” or “Do Not Sell My Info.” By selecting this link or icon, you “Opt Out,” which means that you have opted out of the sale of your personal information as set forth in the California Consumer Privacy Act. However, even though you may have opted out, you may still see interest-based advertisements. To learn more about interest-based advertising across websites and additional opt-out choices, you can visit http://optout.aboutads.info. If you opt-out of the sale of your personal information but do not opt out of interest-based advertising more generally, you may still receive ads tailored to your interests based on personal information that was not sold by us, personal information that was sold to downstream participants at least 90 days before you opted out, or personal information that was sold by other sources from which you have not opted out.

To submit a request for a list of the categories of personal information collected from you or to request that AT3 delete your personal information, please email us at support@at3tactical.com, or send a letter to our US-based legal counsel at the following address:
AT3 Tactical, LLC Privacy Request
c/o Revision Legal, PLLC
444 Cass St., Suite D
Traverse City, MI 49684
United States of America

To verify your request, we may request certain information from you to confirm that you are an AT3 user, such as your phone number, username, email address, city, state, or geographic location. You may also designate an authorized agent to make a request to AT3 to disclose or delete your personal information. To do so, you must provide AT3 with proof that the individual or business has been appointed as your agent, such by providing a a signed power of attorney form, and provide accurate responses to any information requested by AT3 that may be necessary to confirm that you are an AT3 user, such as your phone number, username, email address, city, state, or geographic location. California residents have a right not to receive discriminatory treatment by AT3 for their exercise of these rights conferred under California law.

Notification of Changes

Whenever we change our Privacy Policy, we will post those changes to this Privacy Policy and other places that we deem appropriate. Your use of the Website following these changes indicates your consent to the practices described in the revised Privacy Policy.

Contact Information
If you have any questions or suggestions regarding our Privacy Policy, or if your personal information is not accurate or complete, please contact our Data Protection Officer at:
Zachary Plansky, support@at3tactical.com

One Last Tip

If there’s anyone that knows the AR-15 platform, it’s the US military. As a special offer for our readers, you can get the Official US Army Manual for AR-15/M4/M16 right now – for free. Click here to snag a copy.

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