The Charter Arms AR-7 Explorer .22 LR rifle has earned a legendary reputation among survivalists, preppers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Its unique design, lightweight build, and surprising accuracy make it a compelling choice for various situations. This in-depth review will explore its features, performance, pros, cons, and overall value proposition.
What Makes the AR-7 Explorer Unique?
The AR-7's most striking feature is its break-down design. The rifle can be disassembled into its stock, receiver, and barrel, all fitting neatly into the stock itself. This makes it incredibly compact for storage and transport, easily fitting into a backpack or even a larger suitcase. This portability is a major factor in its appeal as a survival or emergency rifle.
Beyond the portability, several other factors contribute to its popularity:
- Lightweight: Constructed primarily from aluminum, the AR-7 is remarkably lightweight, reducing fatigue during extended use.
- .22 LR Caliber: The ubiquitous .22 LR ammunition is readily available, affordable, and relatively inexpensive to practice with. This is a crucial point for long-term preparedness.
- Simple Operation: The AR-7 is known for its simple and reliable bolt-action mechanism, requiring minimal maintenance and easy to learn, even for novice shooters.
- Floating Barrel: The floating barrel contributes to improved accuracy by minimizing vibrations and ensuring consistent shot placement.
- Durable Construction: While lightweight, the AR-7's aluminum construction proves surprisingly resilient in various conditions.
Performance and Accuracy
While not a precision benchrest rifle, the AR-7 delivers acceptable accuracy for its intended purpose. Many users report satisfactory accuracy at ranges up to 50 yards, suitable for small game hunting and self-defense scenarios. The accuracy is significantly impacted by ammunition quality, so using high-quality .22 LR ammunition is highly recommended.
Pros and Cons of the Charter Arms AR-7 Explorer
Pros:
- Exceptional Portability: The break-down design is unmatched in its class.
- Lightweight and Easy to Carry: Perfect for hiking, backpacking, or emergency situations.
- Affordable Ammunition: The use of .22 LR ammunition keeps operational costs low.
- Simple and Reliable Operation: The bolt-action mechanism is easy to master and maintain.
- Surprisingly Accurate: Provides acceptable accuracy for its intended uses.
Cons:
- Limited Range: Not ideal for long-range shooting.
- Plastic Sights: Some users find the plastic sights less than ideal, opting for aftermarket upgrades.
- Potential for Jams: While generally reliable, the AR-7 can be prone to jamming with certain types of ammunition. Careful cleaning and maintenance are crucial.
- Not Ideal for Aggressive Use: The lightweight construction may not be as robust as heavier rifles under extreme conditions.
The AR-7 in the Context of Survival and Preparedness
The AR-7's primary strength lies in its role as a survival rifle. Its portability, lightweight design, and the readily available ammunition make it an excellent choice for wilderness survival kits and emergency preparedness plans. It's a reliable tool to have on hand in situations where a more powerful, heavier rifle might be impractical or unwieldy.
Conclusion: Is the AR-7 Right for You?
The Charter Arms AR-7 Explorer is a niche firearm, but it excels in its niche. It's not intended to be a primary hunting or sporting rifle, but its unique characteristics make it an excellent choice for survival, backpacking, and emergency preparedness. If you prioritize portability and a lightweight, reliable rifle in .22 LR, the AR-7 deserves serious consideration. However, potential buyers should carefully weigh the pros and cons to ensure it meets their specific needs and expectations. Remember always to practice safe firearm handling and adhere to all applicable laws and regulations.
