ArmaLite has just introduced its Defensive Sporting Rifle (DSR) series, which includes two 5.56mm NATO-chambered AR-platform rifles—the DSR 15 and the DSR 15F—as well as a 7.62mm NATO/.308 Winchester AR named the DSR 10, which I recently had the chance to test and evaluate.

With an MSRP of $999, the DSR 10 (officially catalogued as the “DEF10”) is an entry-level tactical carbine. However, it features a double-hand-lapped, 4140 chrome-moly steel barrel with a 1-in-11.25-inch twist rate that outperforms rifles costing twice as much. To help keep its price tag down, the DSR 10 comes with a standard, mil-spec trigger, M4-style handguards with heat shields and a collapsible buttstock.  It also comes without sights, but the Picatinny top rail allows shooters to mount sights and optics of their choosing.

During testing, the DSR 10 demonstrated its top-of-the-line accuracy and dependability.  The test rifle shot fantastic five0shot groups at 100 yards and never had a single malfunction despite being tested in the rain and mud.  Additionally, the DSR 10 offers a 7.62mm-chambered weapon in a platform with which most military and law enforcement are already very familiar.

With the addition of quality sights—either iron, electronic or magnifying—this weapon could fill a number of different roles for both law enforcement officers and military personnel. The end-user could easily add some upgrades, such as a free-floating forend and a white light, to make this a top-notch weapon ready for tactical duty. Accuracy and dependability are the cornerstones of ArmaLite’s new DSR 10 rifle.  Highly affordable, it’s an excellent weapon right out of the box and can easily be transformed for tactical or home-defense duty.

Check out this video to learn more and keep your eyes peeled for a full review of the DSR 10 in the upcoming January/February 2015 issue of SPECIAL WEAPONS FOR MILITARY & POLICE. To subscribe, visit Tactical-Life.com/subscribe.