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

Ledeinterior Department
Ledeinterior Department

Funding Authorized to Conserve Critical Wetland Habitat

The Department of the Interior has announced that $44.79 million in North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) funds have been approved by the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission. They will provide the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service—and its partners—the ability to conserve, restore or enhance 185,203 acres of critical wetland and associated upland habitat for migratory birds across the United States.

Behind the Bullet: The .30-378 Weatherby Magnum

Curious about one of the original wonder cartridges? A cartridge that literally broke the 6000 fps mark with specialized, lightweight options? Follow along with Phil Massaro as he dives into the .30-378 Weatherby Magnum.

New for 2026: Muddy Cloak OZ3 and OZ5 Ozone Generators

Muddy Outdoors has launched the Cloak OZ3 and OZ5 Ozone Generators—two high-output scent control solutions designed to give hunters a true edge in the field.

Varmint Hunting 101: Tips and Overview

Looking for a way to spend your offseason that scratches your hunting itch? Try varmint hunting. Follow along with Tim Hovey as he discusses how to get into the pursuit, and some basic tips to get you rolling.

MDT Expands ACC Elite Compatibility to Savage 110 Short Action and CZ 457 Platforms

MDT has expanded its ACC Elite chassis system, adding compatibility for the CZ 457 and Savage 110 short action platforms.

Looking for Hogs vs. Hunting Wild Boars

There is no right or wrong way to hunt hogs. But in the author’s opinion there are methods that are more rewarding than others if sporting challenge, and not merely eradication, is the goal.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.