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

Olsen Shooting Model 89 Takedown
Olsen Shooting Model 89 Takedown

#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.

Time to Apply for Pennsylvania Elk

This year, the window to apply for Pennsylvania's elk season starts on May 1 and goes to July 12.

Free Chance to Win One of 200 Suppressors

Silencer Central has launched Silencer Central’s 100 Days of Silence, a daily giveaway that will award 200 suppressors over 100 consecutive days. The campaign, which is the largest suppressor giveaway ever staged in the United States, began April 17 and runs through July 25, 2026.

Member's Hunt: Patience is Tough When You Shoot a Big Buck

My phone still in my hands, I texted my teenage son, who was hunting along the field not far away. Trying not to move any part of my body but my thumbs, I sent the message, “Got a buck down, but he’s still alive. Help!” Tucker texted back, “What do you want me to do?” I replied: “Come kill the bastard before he kills me!” Intrigued? Read on.

First Look: 2026 Spypoint Trail Camera Lineup

Spypoint's 2026 trail camera line-up features three new models designed to deliver on flexibility and control.

Hardware Review: Christensen Arms Evoke .375 H&H

A .375 H&H Magnum for less than $1,000 is a win for hunters on any continent, especially when it comes packed with features and has the sub-MOA accuracy potential of the American-made Evoke from Christensen Arms.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.