NRA Gun of the Week: Ruger AR-556

American Hunter Staff

posted on April 11, 2016

Support NRA American Hunter DONATE

** 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

Will More States Protect Hunting in Their State Constitutions?

Nearly half of the states—24 to be precise—have some form of constitutional protections for hunting. When you consider that all 50 states have hunting seasons, just under half sounds low. This could change this year, as Ohio’s Senate is considering a proposal to establish a constitutional right to fish and hunt.

News, New for 2026

RCBS Sponsorship to Help Expand Youth Hunting Opportunities

RCBS, a leading manufacturer of precision reloading equipment, is sponsoring efforts by Pass It On—Outdoor Mentors to expand its outdoor mentoring program. Through the partnership, RCBS will support the organization’s mission of pairing young people, many of them first-time hunters, with trained volunteers who provide hands-on experiences in hunting, shooting sports and conservation education.

News, Ammo

Muzzleloader Turkey Tips

Looking to load up a black-powder scattergun to take a turkey this season? Here are a few tips for smoking gobblers the old way, with Mike Roux.

News, Muzzleloaders

New for 2026: Badlands Air Series

When temperatures climb and the miles stack up, staying cool becomes critical. With this reality in mind, Badlands has introduced its new Air Series, a collection of ultralight hunting apparel designed specifically for warm-weather environments and high-activity hunts.

News, Guns & Gear

Range Review: Bond Arms Rustic Ranger

This double-barrel pistol from Bond Arms provides a touch of class along with rugged reliability. Read on for B. Gil Horman's thorough review.

News, New for 2026

First Look: Browning Trail Cameras' Cellular Security Box

Browning Trail Cameras has expanded its 2026 product lineup with the introduction of the Cellular Trail Camera Security Box, a purpose-built solution engineered to safeguard cameras in demanding outdoor environments.

News, Guns & Gear