RUGER SR-556
Posted Jun 13, 2023
The Ruger SR-556 is an AR-style rifle platform available in both semi-automatic and fully automatic variants. Ruger has been producing firearms since 1949, and their firearms have become some of the most iconic and trusted by law enforcement, the military, and civilians alike. The Ruger SR-556 is no exception.
First off, the Ruger SR-556 is constructed from quality materials. The upper and lower receivers are made of high-quality aluminum alloy and the trigger housing is constructed from hardened steel. The Ruger SR-556 utilizes a two-stage adjustable gas-piston system, which reduces felt recoil and adds stability when shooting. The bolt is constructed from chrome-moly steel and is designed to be highly reliable and durable with minimal maintenance requirements. The stock components of the Ruger SR-556 are constructed from anodized aluminum, and the entire firearm has a matte black finish that is applied so expertly that it looks like it was born that way.
The Ruger SR-556 is the ideal firearm for the weekend shooter looking to make their penny count. On the range, the Ruger SR-556 offers all of the features needed for a successful day at the range. The rifle comes with a number of features that make shooting it comfortable, like a soft rubber butt plate, and is simple to operate for the novice shooter. The adjustable two-stage gas-piston system can be easily manipulated to adapt the rifle to your shooting style and the environment. The trigger may force the shooter to adjust to its 8.5-pound trigger pull, but that is a minor issue when held against the rifle’s reliability.\
The Ruger SR-556 offers versatility when it comes to customization. The rifle easily accepts aftermarket accessories, such as scopes, stocks, grips, and other components. Whether you’re looking to customize looks or functionality, the Ruger SR-556 can easily be adjusted to fit your needs. The adjustable gas-piston system allows the shooter to tune the rifle for either soft or hard recoil, making the firearm suitable for both seasoned veterans and new shooters alike.
When it comes to performance, the Ruger SR-556 performs incredibly well, even in the most adverse conditions. The rugged construction of the rifle makes it ideal for the most demanding environments, and the gas-piston system ensures that the firearm functions reliably and efficiently. The trigger is crisp and the overall accuracy of the rifle is good for its class.
Overall, the Ruger SR-556 is an impressive AR-style rifle that offers a combination of quality construction, affordability, and versatility. It is a reliable and durable rifle capable of handling the most adverse conditions, and it can easily be customized for the needs of the user. The Ruger SR-556 may not have the same level of aftermarket support as other AR-style rifles, but the rifle itself is highly reliable and accurate.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- High Quality Design: The Ruger SR-556 is made with high-quality materials and parts, making it a reliable rifle.
- Accurate Shooter: With its 16.1-inch chrome-lined barrel and its two-stage piston-driven operation, the Ruger SR-556 provides an accurate and consistent shooter.
- Versatile: The SR-556 is compatible with most aftermarket accessories, making it versatile for different shooting needs.
Cons:
- Heavy: The Ruger SR-556 is quite heavy, weighing in at 7.75 lbs.
- Costly: The Ruger SR-556 is an expensive rifle, with some models costing up to $2,000.
- Not Suitable for Long-Distance Shooting: The Ruger SR-556 is not suitable for long-distance shooting, as it is a close quarters combat rifle.
Who Should Buy
Anyone who is legally allowed to own a firearm can purchase the Ruger SR-556. However, it is important to note that due to the rifle's size and weight, the SR-556 may not be suitable for those who lack physical strength or shooting experience. Additionally, the SR-556's price point makes it best suited for those who are willing to invest in a higher-end semi-automatic rifle. Those who are looking for an entry-level firearm would be better served by other options.
Comparisons
| RUGER SR-556 | SPRINGFIELD ARMORY HELLION BULLPUP | PALMETTO STATE ARMORY PA-10 | PALMETTO STATE ARMORY PSAK47 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .223 / 5.56 NATO | .223 Wylde | .308 Winchester | 7.62x39mm |
| Barrel Length | 16" | 18"1:8 twist | 18" Stainless | 16.5" Hammer Forged |
| Overall Length | 32.25" (Collapsed) | 31" | 38.5" | 31.5" (Collapsed) |
| Weight | 7.1 lbs. | 7 lbs. | 7.9 lbs. | 7.9 lbs. |
| Stock | Six-Position Telestock | Bullpup Design | Adjustable | Side-Folding AKM-Style |
| Magazine | 30 Rounds | 30 Rounds | 20 Rounds | 30 Rounds |
Features / Specs
•Caliber: 5.56 NATO/.223 Remington
•Action: Gas Piston Operated Rotating Bolt
•Barrel Length: 16.12"
•Sights: Folding Iron Sights (Front Post/Rear Aperture)
•Finish: Matte Black
•Stock: 6-Position Telescopic
•Overall Length: 32.75 - 36”
•Weight: 7.95 lbs.
•Magazine Capacity: 30 Rounds
Popular Accessories
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- Optics: Red Dot Sight, Scope, Magnifier
- Grips: Ergonomic Foregrip, Vertical Foregrip, Standard Pistol Grip
- Bipod: Benchrest Bipod, Tactical Bipod, Folding Bipod
- Magazines: 10-Round Magazine, 20-Round Magazine, 30-Round Magazine
- Slings: Tactical Slings and Sling Adapters, 3-Point Slings, Single-Point Slings
- Rails: Picatinny Rail Sections, KeyMod Rails, Rail Covers
- Chambers: Flash Hider, Suppressor, Muzzle Brake
Accuracy
The Ruger SR-556 is an extremely accurate rifle, thanks to its hammer-forged, chrome-lined barrel. The barrel is paired with a two-stage piston system, making it a highly accurate system with a long-stroke gas-piston system and chrome-lined bore. The combination of components results in a system that offers an ideal blend of soft recoil and accuracy. It has the capacity to fire groups that range from 0.25” to 1.25” at 100 yards, with some users reporting even smaller groups. In addition to its precision, the Ruger SR-556 also offers a long service life since it’s made with corrosion-resistant alloy steel and other high-quality materials. It’s no surprise that it’s highly popular among enthusiasts, hunters, and military personnel alike.
