I recently came across a video by Modern Tactical Shooting, where Jeff Gervit — a retired Special Forces veteran and competitive shooter — ranks AR-15 manufacturers based on his personal experience and industry insight. The tier list caught my attention because, for the most part, I think he’s spot-on.
Here’s the tier list he shared:
Jeff breaks manufacturers into five categories:
- God Tier: Innovative, reliable, great QC, and accessible price points.
- Would Buy: Solid value for the money.
- Good: Respectable rifles, but with one or two drawbacks.
- Needs Improvement: QC or pricing issues that keep them from being a strong recommendation.
- Pass: Too many problems to recommend right now.
My Take as an FFL
Overall, I agree with most of his placements. He focuses on performance, features, and reputation — not necessarily price — and that’s where I think some brands deserve a second look if budget matters.
For instance, Aero Precision lands in “Needs Improvement” on his list due to recent quality control and customer service concerns. While I get that, I think Aero still holds a strong value position, especially for the price. I’ve seen many customers walk away happy after building rifles using Aero parts, and for the money, it’s hard to beat.
On the flip side, I’m completely with him on Geissele, LMT, and LWRC in the God Tier. They’re rock-solid across the board. Geissele’s Super Duty series, in particular, hits that sweet spot of high-end quality without being unattainably priced.
A few other thoughts from my side:
- Sons of Liberty Gun Works: Solid choice in “Would Buy.” Their rifles are well-built and have earned their reputation.
- PSA (Palmetto State Armory): I get why he put them in “Pass.” Quality control has always been a sticking point. They are improving, but other brands at similar prices often offer better consistency.
- Colt and Daniel Defense: “Good” is fair — both are reputable, but you’re paying a bit extra for the name.
Final Thoughts
This is a useful list — especially for anyone navigating the wide AR-15 market. Just keep in mind: not every model from a given brand fits neatly into one category. Some manufacturers have standout rifles or components even if the rest of their catalog is hit-or-miss.
If you’re shopping for an AR — whether you’re just starting out or you’re looking to upgrade — stop by the shop or give us a call. I’m happy to help you sort through the options and find the right rifle that fits your needs and budget.