ArmaLite and the AR name
The origin of the AR name and why historical designations should be read in context.
The name comes from ArmaLite
The book connects the AR name to ArmaLite, the company associated with the original AR-10 and AR-15 designs. ArmaLite's own history identifies AR as ArmaLite Rifle. This is useful naming context; it does not determine the legal classification of a particular firearm.
OPEN FULL SIZE ↗An overview photograph from the book, accompanying the platform introduction.
Source image: Real Avid, Top AR15 Mods, ©2021. PDF page 2.Historical labels need a model reference
The book introduces A1, A2, A3, A4, carry-handle, and flat-top terminology. These labels describe historical configurations and are also used in commercial descriptions. Treat them as descriptive clues and consult the actual model documentation rather than assuming a complete set of specifications from the label.
Historical vocabulary explains a design's background. Current model documentation explains the firearm in front of you.