HECKLER & KOCH MR 556 A1

Posted May 19, 2023

The HECKLER & KOCH MR 556A1 is a modern rendition of the iconic light machine gun used by the German military. The original Heckler & Koch G36 is one of the most iconic assault rifles of all time and now the MR556A1 offers users an updated adaptation of this classic with modern tactical and ergonomic improvements. The most notable features of the MR556A1 are its ability to handle higher ammunition loads, its compatibility with various aftermarket parts and accessories, and its versatility in a multitude of applications. In this comprehensive review, we'll cover the MR556A1 from head to toe and provide an in-depth look at this classic rifle.

The Heckler & Koch MR556A1 is just one of many variants of the HK 416 series, all of which are based on Heckler & Koch’s original G36 design. The entire 416 series is a collective of gas-operated, selective-fire weapons, which had been designed for stability and accuracy as well as reduced radiated heat signatures seen from both the shooters and the target at close ranges. The 416 series is also renowned for its use of short-stroke gas piston action and for its reciprocating bolt carrier group.

The H&K MR556A1 is a slightly lightened version of the 416, which was designed with the intention of being an entry-level carbine and the first of its kind in the HK lineup. It comes in both carbine and SBR variants and is built around a barrel length of 14.7”, a 7.25” optics rail, and a removable four-inch forward handguard.

The H&K MR556A1 has several features that make it stand out from the rest of the 416 family. It features an aluminum quad rail handguard with four MIL-STD 1913 Picatinny rails on each side for mounting sights and other accessories, a free-floating barrel, and a floating bolt carrier group for increased durability and improved accuracy. The bolt carrier group and upper receiver are machined from a single piece of aluminum, and the HK 416 system has been designed to be extremely easy to disassemble and clean.

The MR556A1 is chambered for the 5.56x45mm NATO round, with a 16” chrome-lined barrel, and is capable of firing at velocities of up to 3,000 fps. It also has a folding adjustable length stock and an adjustable front sight. The MR556A1 comes standard with a windage adjustable diopter rear sight and a steel flash suppressor. It has a 10.5-inch Picatinny rail on the top of the receiver for mounting aftermarket sights and other accessories, and it also has an M1913 Picatinny rail on the bottom of the receiver for mounting a sling.

The MR556A1 has become the preferable choice for militaries and law enforcement agencies due to its accuracy, reliability, and compatibility with a wide range of aftermarket accessories. Since the MR556A1's 1991 launch, the variety and quality of its aftermarket parts have increased, which is why it is now even more appealing to users who require custom-made gear and special components.

The MR556A1 is reliable in the harshest of environments, and its ability to take high-pressure cartridges makes it an ideal choice for special forces use. The rifle’s ability to take a variety of ammunition makes it ideal for use in different types of environments, from urban warfare to desert combat. It is reliable and accurate and can be used effectively in any weather. This also makes it an ideal choice for hunters, who can select different loads depending on their animal of choice.

The MR556A1 is the lightest of the H&K 416 rifles and is designed to be easy to transport and handle in the field. It is also designed to accept a variety of accessories, including lights and lasers, and can be customized to suit the user's needs. The rifle also has an integrated suppressor for those who require it for covert operations.

Overall, the Heckler & Koch MR556A1 is a reliable and accurate rifle that is suited to various applications. Its ability to handle higher ammunition loads, its compatibility with aftermarket parts and accessories, and its ease of transport make the MR556A1 a popular choice for militaries, law enforcement, hunters, and recreational shooters alike. It is reliable, accurate, and capable of handling any situation.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

High accuracy and reliability.

Relatively light weight.

Available with an ambidextrous safety/selector switch.

Features the popular H&K cold hammer-forged barrel for improved accuracy.

An array of add-on optics systems, sights, grips, and rails are available for customization and flexibility.

Cons:

High price tag.

Not compatible with all aftermarket parts.

A “long stroke” piston system is used which can cause increased fouling of the piston and barrel.

The gas block is not removable which can limit the ability to tune the rifle for suppressor use.

Who Should Buy

Anyone who is an avid gun enthusiast and has proper licensing and permission to buy a gun should consider buying the HECKLER & KOCH MR 556 A1. It is a military-style rifle that is lightweight and made of high-quality components, making it durable and reliable.

People who are not comfortable with a military-style rifle or who have no need for heavy duty firearms should not buy the HECKLER & KOCH MR 556 A1. This is a gun that is designed for trained professionals and those with a great deal of shooting experience.

Comparisons

Product	Caliber	Length	Weight	Barrel Length
HECKLER & KOCH MR 556 A1	5.56mm	28.5 in	6.9 lbs	16.5 in
Ruger AR-556	5.56mm	35.25 in	6.8 lbs	16.1 in
POF P415 Gen 3	5.56mm	32 in	6.6 lbs	16.5 in
Daniel Defense DDM4 V7 Pro	5.56mm	32.25 in	7.1 lbs	16 in

Features / Specs

•Caliber: 5.56x45 mm NATO

•Operating Principle: Gas Operated

•Overall Length: 33.8 in

•Barrel Length: 16.5 in

•Height (with Magazine): 9.5 in

•Weight (Unloaded): 6.8 lbs

•Rate of Fire: 8 (Cyclic)

•Muzzle Velocity: 3,030 fps

•Barrel Twist: 1 in 7”

•Capacities: 10, 20, 30 Rd Magazines

•Finish: Black Anodized Aluminum/Matte Black Duotone

Popular Accessories

Sling

Magazines

Optics

Flashlight/Laser

Iron or Back-up Sights

Bipod/Foregrip

Muzzle Brakes/Flash Hiders

Grip Enhancer/Overmold

Buttstock/Cheek Riser

Rail System/Scope Mount

Accuracy

The HECKLER & KOCH MR 556A1 is an incredibly accurate 5.56 NATO rifle. Its barrel, manufactured by Heckler & Koch, is crafted from cold-hammer forged steel for superior strength and precision. The MR 556A1 features a free-floating quad rail handguard, a chrome-lined bore, and a durable corrosion-resistant finish. This rifle is renowned for its accuracy and reliability in all conditions – especially when it comes to precision shooting. The trigger has a smooth, predictable pull with enough length for target shooting situations. This rifle will easily and accurately deliver 3-4 inch groups at 200 meters with match grade ammunition - impressive results given the fact that this is a semi-automatic rifle.