ArmaLite is a pioneer in the firearms industry with a rich heritage spanning over 70 years. Specializing in high-quality small arms, ArmaLite designs firearms known for their precision, reliability, and innovation. These firearms serve diverse purposes, including home defense, tactical engagements, competition, and sport shooting.
ArmaLite - The Originator of AR10 and AR15
One of the most common misconceptions is that AR stands for “Assault Rifle.” Nope! It actually stands for Armalite Rifle, named after the company that became the birthplace of one of the most influential rifles of all time.
Before the AR-15, there was the Armalite AR-10, designed by Eugene Stoner in the late 1950s. This revolutionary rifle was lightweight (compared to the M1 Garand), featured innovative aluminum and fiberglass parts, and fired a 7.62x51mm NATO cartridge. While it didn’t become standard-issue in the U.S. military at the time, the design laid the groundwork for what would come next.
After the AR-10, Armalite developed a smaller, .223 caliber version of the rifle, dubbed the Armalite AR-15. This design caught the eye of Colt, a major firearm manufacturer, which acquired the rights to the AR-15 in 1959. Colt saw its potential as both a military and civilian rifle.
The AR-15 soon became the Colt M16A1, which the U.S. military adopted in the 1960s. And thus, the M16 military rifle we know today came to light. It made its combat debut during the Vietnam War.
ArmaLite Today
Today, ArmaLite continues its tradition of excellence from its home in College Station, TX, as part of the Strategic Armory Corps family. With cutting-edge production techniques and a focus on quality, ArmaLite rifles - the AR10 and M15 designs - are crafted to meet the highest standards. Beyond traditional AR-style rifles, Armalite offers its 50 BMG bolt action rifle - the AR-50.
