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AR-15Value Tier

Palmetto State Armory

PSA PA-15 16" Carbine

Budget-friendly AR-15 with solid reliability for the price point

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Key Highlights

  • Best entry-level AR platform
  • Proven reliability at budget price

Specifications

Price
$649
Weight
6 lb 8 oz
Calibers
5.56x45mm, .223 Rem
Rail Type
mlok
Best For
home defenserange trainingoutdoor defense

Capability Profile

0-10 Scale Across 8 Axes

Compatibility Tags

family: ar-patterninterface: picatinny-tophandguard: mlokbarrel: long

Overview

Palmetto State Armory's PA-15 platform represents the democratization of the AR-15 - making reliable, accurate rifles accessible to anyone regardless of budget. PSA has built its reputation on providing mil-spec quality at prices that seemed impossible just a few years ago, and they back every rifle with an industry-leading lifetime warranty that extends beyond the original purchaser. The PA-15 isn't trying to be a premium rifle; it's focused on being a dependable workhorse that delivers consistent performance without breaking the bank.

The 16-inch barrel is forged from 4150V Chrome Moly Vanadium steel with nitride finish for corrosion resistance and wear protection. The carbine-length gas system uses a mil-spec diameter chrome-lined gas tube and properly staked carrier key fastened with Grade 8 screws. The bolt is machined from mil-spec Carpenter No. 158 steel and shot-peened for enhanced durability. Both upper and lower receivers are forged from 7075-T6 aluminum to mil-spec dimensions and hard-coat anodized. PSA includes their Enhanced Polished Trigger (EPT) on many models - a subtle but appreciated upgrade over standard mil-spec triggers with a smoother 7.5-pound pull.

Where PSA truly shines is in real-world reliability and value. Reviewers consistently report the PA-15 works reliably with any ammunition in any condition - exactly what you need from a duty rifle. Testing through 400 rounds yielded no malfunctions and constant accuracy. While you might find minor finishing inconsistencies or shipping delays, the core functionality is there: the rifle shoots, it's accurate, and it keeps working. At prices frequently under $600, the PA-15 makes it possible for budget-conscious shooters to own a reliable AR-15 without compromising on critical features. This is the rifle that proves expensive doesn't always mean better, and that mil-spec done right is still mil-spec.

Key Features

  • 16" 4150V Chrome Moly Vanadium barrel, nitride finish
  • Carbine-length gas system with F-marked front sight base
  • Forged 7075-T6 aluminum receivers to mil-spec dimensions
  • Carpenter No. 158 steel bolt, shot-peened and MPI tested
  • Enhanced Polished Trigger (EPT) on many models
  • M16 profile bolt carrier group, chrome-lined and phosphated
  • Full lifetime transferable warranty
  • Hard-coat anodized per mil-spec Type III Class 2

Pros

  • +Outstanding value - reliable AR-15 under $600
  • +Full lifetime warranty transferable to future owners
  • +Consistent reliability with all ammunition types
  • +Mil-spec components properly manufactured and assembled
  • +Enhanced Polished Trigger improves over basic mil-spec
  • +Makes AR-15 ownership accessible to all budgets

Cons

  • Minor finishing inconsistencies vs. premium brands
  • Shipping delays occasionally reported
  • Standard mil-spec trigger adequate but not exceptional (non-EPT models)
  • Government profile barrel heavier than lightweight options
  • Basic furniture may prompt upgrades for some users

Detailed Specifications

caliber
5.56 NATO / .223 Rem (also .300 BLK, 7.62x39)
Barrel Length
16 inches
Overall Length
32 inches
weight
7 lbs
Gas System
carbine-length
Twist Rate
1:7
barrel
4150V Chrome Moly Vanadium, nitride finish, M4 profile
handguard
Various - M-LOK or standard carbine
trigger
EPT (Enhanced Polished) or standard mil-spec
stock
PSA M4 Carbine Stock, 6-position
msrp
$500-700

Compatible Components

+54 more

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