Ruger AR-556 AR-15 Review: Is It Good, Great, or Junk?

Published on October 3, 2017
Duration: 24:29

This expert review by Mrgunsngear provides a comprehensive four-month evaluation of the Ruger AR-556, firing nearly 1,000 rounds. It details accuracy with various ammunition types, barrel specifications (including a note on potential rust due to the lack of melonite/chrome lining), and internal components. The review concludes the AR-556 is a strong budget contender against rivals like the Smith & Wesson M&P Sport II, while suggesting barrel finishing improvements.

Quick Summary

The Ruger AR-556 is a budget-tier AR-15 typically priced under $700, tested over four months with nearly 1,000 rounds. It showed high reliability with only two failures to fire and achieved a 1-inch group at 100 yards with Fiocchi 77gr MatchKing. Key specs include a 16.1-inch 4140 barrel with 1:8 twist, but it lacks melonite/chrome lining, potentially leading to rust.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Overview
  2. 03:04Accuracy Testing
  3. 07:54Muzzle and Barrel Specifications
  4. 10:34Gas Block and Handguards
  5. 13:07Receivers and Internal Components
  6. 18:24Final Assessment and Value

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical price range for the Ruger AR-556?

The Ruger AR-556 is positioned as a budget-tier AR-15, typically retailing for under $700, with a street price often around $599.00, making it a competitive option in the entry-level market.

How reliable is the Ruger AR-556 based on testing?

During a four-month evaluation involving approximately 1,000 rounds, the Ruger AR-556 demonstrated high reliability, experiencing only two failures to fire, which is a positive indicator for a budget firearm.

What are the key barrel specifications for the Ruger AR-556?

The Ruger AR-556 features a 16.1-inch barrel made from 4140 cold hammer-forged steel with a 1:8 twist rate and a carbine-length gas system. It is not chrome-lined or melonited.

How does the Ruger AR-556 perform in terms of accuracy?

Accuracy testing at 100 yards showed varied results depending on ammunition. The rifle achieved a 1-inch group with Fiocchi 77gr MatchKing, a 1.25-inch group with Gorilla 55gr Sierra BlitzKing, and a 2.25-inch group with Freedom Munitions 69gr.

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