NRA Gun of the Week: Ruger AR-556

by
posted on April 11, 2016
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **

So, you don’t have $2,000 to spend on a switch-barrel, piston-driven Ruger SR-556? No problem, as Ruger’s AR-556 is a direct-gas impingement carbine that offers most of the features AR buyers are looking for at a little more than a third of the price. American Rifleman's Joe Kurtenbach discusses the AR-556's budget-friendly build in the latest edition of NRA's Gun of the Week. Check out the video embedded above for more information.

Specifications

Manufacturer: Sturm, Ruger & Co.
Caliber: 5.56x45 mm NATO
Action: direct-impingement, semi-automatic, center-fire rifle
Barrel:
 16.1”, 1:8” RH twist rifling
Sights: elevation-adjustable post front; windage-adjustable, flip-up rear
Trigger: 8-lb., 2-oz. pull
Stock: black synthetic; adjustable 
Magazine: detachable box; 30-round capacity, Magpul PMAG
Overall Length: 32.25” to 35.50”
Weight: 6.5 lbs.
MSRP: $800

For more information, go to Ruger.com.

Latest

001 10Mmb Cover 01 (1)
001 10Mmb Cover 01 (1)

10mm Auto Pistol Caliber Carbines: The 'Best' Outdoor Option?

Last year we posed the question, "Is the 10mm Auto PCC the next great outdoor carbine?" while taking a look at a few of the models currently in production. Since then, the selection has continued to grow. Are the PCCs chambered for 10mm Auto the most powerful options out there? The answer is yes, and no. It's a matter of context. Let's take a look at what these carbines have to offer compared to those chambered in other handgun calibers.

New for 2026: Updated Federal Upland Steel

Federal Ammunition has two new 12-gauge loads in its Upland Steel shotshell lineup. Built for consistent patterns and hard-hitting performance with non-lead shot, these new offerings are being delivered to retailers nationwide and expand the versatility of the Upland Steel product line.

New for 2026: ATN TICO 6 Thermal Clip-On

ATN Corp. has announced it's TICO 6 Thermal Clip-On, a next-generation thermal clip-on designed for hunters looking for a thermal upgrade to their favorite daytime scope.

Tips & Tactics: Hone Your Tiny-Tract Turkey Skills

Different is good despite what peers and friends may say about your contradictory ways. Staying the course as different could be your key strategy when hunting a small property for turkeys this spring. Curveball tactics, unexpected pop-ins and tossing time-honored tactics all could flow in your favor while hunting a tiny tract for turkeys.

First Look: Bond Arms 250th Anniversary Hand Cannon

Bond Arms has introduced its America 250th Special Edition Hand Cannon, a limited-edition heirloom created to commemorate the 250th Anniversary of American Independence.

#SundayGunday: Big Horn Armory Model 89 Take Down

There’s no denying lever-action rifles have a hold on American shooters. They have a storied history with modern application, and simply put, they are just cool. On this episode of American Hunter’s Sunday Gunday, we’re taking a closer look at a lever action rifle that adds to that appeal a big-bore 500 Smith and Wesson chambering, and the ability to be taken down into two parts for easy transport: The Model 89 500 S&W Take Down from Big Horn Armory.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.