American Rifleman Television - Ruger AC556

Published on October 14, 2015
Duration: 5:10

This expert-level entry details the Ruger AC556, a select-fire variant of the Mini-14. It covers the rifle's development, design philosophy inspired by traditional American rifles, and its technical specifications including select-fire modes, barrel options, and available finishes. The entry also touches upon its market competition and legacy, drawing insights from NRA Publications' American Rifleman Television.

Quick Summary

The Ruger AC556 is a select-fire variant of the Mini-14 rifle, chambered in .223 Remington/5.56mm NATO, designed for law enforcement and military use. It features semi-automatic, 3-shot burst, and full-automatic modes, along with an 18-inch barrel, flash suppressor, and bayonet lug on the 'GB' model.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Ruger AC556
  2. 00:22Development History
  3. 00:46Design Philosophy
  4. 01:18Technical Features and Variants
  5. 02:16Folding Stocks and Stainless Models
  6. 03:42Market Competition and Legacy

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Ruger AC556?

The Ruger AC556 is a select-fire variant of the Ruger Mini-14 rifle, chambered in .223 Remington/5.56mm NATO. It was designed for law enforcement and military use, offering semi-automatic, 3-shot burst, and full-automatic firing modes.

What are the key features of the Ruger AC556?

Key features include select-fire capability, an 18-inch barrel on the 'GB' model, a flash suppressor, and a bayonet lug. Variants like the AC556F offered folding stocks, and stainless steel finishes were also available.

When was the Ruger AC556 produced?

Development began in the early 1970s, with production of the AC556 running until 1999. Factory service for the model ceased in 2009.

Why did the Ruger AC556 not achieve major military contracts?

The AC556 arrived on the market after the AR-15 platform had already secured significant military contracts, limiting its opportunities for widespread adoption by major armed forces.

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