Guns, Bows, Shooting Sports, and Hunting Used bushmaster xm-15 just purchased

[SNGLESHOT]

Friends: Not a weapon expert by a long shot. I just love them is all. I just purchased a used Bushmaster XM-15 E2s . 223-5. 56 cal, 15 inch barrel, telescoping stock. It is scratched up a little. No rail system. Has fixed grab handle on top and standard A1 type features and sights. No flash suppressor or bayonet lug. (ban era?) Has a strange finish to barrel, kind of rough and little sparkles in the finish. I got 3-30 round magazines and a 3x9 power scope but have no idea how to mount that or if it would be worthwhile as I dont plan to hunt with it. . just use it for yard varmints and HD.

Questions: I paid $500 for this weapon because I wanted to own one. I have not fired it yet but I am wondering if the price is in the right range? I realize it's a little late now, just wondering. Tried to find comparisons on the internet but too many variables to weed out.
What type of finish is this?
Thanks in advance.

 

[icman95]

Back in February I bought a similar one used for $650. Had scope already mounted and came with case, sling, and about 100 rounds of ammo. I suggest putting on the scope just for a better experience. If you don't already have it, you'll need a scope mount that fits into the top of the carry handle. Damn fine gun and you got it for a good price.

 

[WMonroe]

I'd say you got a very good deal compared to what they are going for now. Have fun with it, they're a blast to shoot.

Will

 

[sarj]

i wouldn't want to be a varmint in your yard. I'd be happy with that price. Take it out and run a few rounds in it... make sure it doesn't have any feed/eject issues, and you'll be good.

 

[MickeyMiller]

Hope that barrel length is 16"... . less than 16" requires special registration!

 

[SNGLESHOT]

About the barrel length. it is 15". Very short. in CA i know its illegal but then everything is I guess. Thank you all for the replies. Waiting to hear about the finish on the barrel now.

 

[The patriot]

If it is in fact the length you say, I'd go back and modify our posts, then get a flash hider perminently (sp?) installed on it ASAP.

A barrel length under 16" COULD BE legal, as long as you perminently attach a comp/flash hider to make it 16" + from the breech to the end of the barrel.

You STOLE it!

 

[SNGLESHOT]

Patriot: You are right. I re-measured it and I was not taking the tape all the way back to the breach. It is in fact 16 inches. Thanks! Any idea what the finish on the barrel could be?

 

[The patriot]

COOL!

The easy way to check is to get a wooden dowel, mark it at 16" (I'd add 1/16" just for insurance) and drop it in the bore with the bolt closed.

If you can see the mark, you need to do something.