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AR-10Mid-Range

Aero Precision

Aero Precision M5E1 .308 16"

Popular AR-10 pattern baseline with broad parts ecosystem and strong builder support.

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Key Highlights

  • Known quantity in the LR-308 pattern ecosystem
  • Balanced price-to-performance entry into AR-10 class rifles

Specifications

Price
$1,599
Weight
8 lb 8 oz
Calibers
.308 Win, 7.62x51 NATO
Rail Type
mlok

Capability Profile

0-10 Scale Across 8 Axes

Compatibility Tags

family: ar-patternfamily: ar-10interface: picatinny-tophandguard: mlokbarrel: long

Overview

The Aero Precision M5E1 16-inch profile is one of the more common starting points for shooters entering the AR-10/LR-308 ecosystem. It is frequently chosen because it balances a recognized parts environment, predictable handling, and a cost tier below many flagship .308 rifles.

Compared with lighter crossover platforms, the M5E1 lane generally prioritizes stability and modularity. It is a practical option for users who want an AR-10 that can serve as a general-purpose .308 while still supporting optic and accessory expansion over time.

For beginner AR-10 buyers, this platform works best when expectations are clear: you gain downrange energy and broader cartridge authority, but you pay for it in system weight, recoil, and ammunition spend.

Key Features

  • 16-inch .308/7.62x51 configuration in a widely used AR-10 pattern lane
  • M-LOK handguard and Picatinny top rail for common optic mounting workflows
  • Commonly referenced baseline in the Aero M5 ecosystem
  • Balanced mid-tier option between value and premium AR-10 price points
  • Suitable for both practical range and field-oriented setups

Pros

  • +Established large-frame AR ecosystem with broad user familiarity
  • +Strong modularity and upgrade headroom
  • +Good long-range capability relative to 5.56 platforms
  • +Mid-tier pricing compared with premium AR-10 options

Cons

  • Heavier system weight than small-frame rifle setups
  • Higher recoil and training fatigue compared with AR-15
  • Total ownership cost rises quickly once optics and ammo are factored in

Detailed Specifications

caliber
.308 Win / 7.62x51 NATO
Barrel Length
16 inches
Overall Length
Varies by stock position
weight
Approx. 8.4-8.8 lbs class
Gas System
Varies by factory/build configuration
handguard
M-LOK free-float style
railSystem
Picatinny top rail
msrp
Typically ~$1,500-1,800 configured range

Compatible Components

+291 more

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