SPRINGFIELD ARMORY 2020 WAYPOINT
Posted May 19, 2023
Springfield Armory is a legendary name in the firearms industry, and the introduction of the 2020 Waypoint proves why their reputation is more than deserved. It is an outstanding rifle, and with a MSRP of around $1,100, it still fits within the budget of many gun owners. The overall design is sleek and elegant, and its modern features make it a rifle that is both reliable and powerful. Whether you’re looking for a gun for hunting, self-defense, or just plinking, the Springfield Armory 2020 Waypoint is worth considering.
The 2020 Waypoint has an attractive exterior design, featuring a black anodized hardcoat finish, with a slim profile that is evocative of centuries-old lever-action rifles. The light weight of the gun is likely due to the lightweight free-floated M-Lok handguard, which aids in accuracy and allows for mounting of any accessories needed. The slim foregrip provides good control of the gun during recoil, and the ergonomic pistol grip allows for comfortable operation. The Waypoint also features an adjustable stock, which allows the shooter to fit the rifle to their body size for better accuracy and comfort.
The 2020 Waypoint features an 18-inch barrel made from match-grade 4140 chrome-moly steel. The barrel is button rifled with 6-groove, 1-in-8-inch twist rate, which is optimized for feeding reliable and accurate shots. The barrel is threaded at the muzzle and comes with an A2 flash suppressor to minimize muzzle flash and to reduce recoil. The barrel also features an adjustable gas block so that you can tune the gun to your desired performance level.
The Waypoint uses Springfield's proprietary Lightweight Enhanced (LGLE) bolt carrier group, which is a robust and well-designed system. The bolt is machined from Carpenter 158 steel and features a hard chrome finish which helps prevent corrosion. The LGLE also includes a replaceable extractor and an extractor spring, which ensures reliable extraction and ejection.
The Waypoint takes AR-style magazines, which makes it easy to find magazines and makes for faster reloading. It is chambered in 5.56mm NATO, so any standard magazine should work just fine. The gun also features a heat-treated trigger guard for added safety.
Now for the performance of the rifle, I found it to be excellent. The trigger is a short and crisp, two-stage trigger, and it broke perfectly at 4.5 pounds with no take-up whatsoever. The accuracy of the rifle was remarkable as well. At 100 yards, I consistently held groups of around 1 inch or less. Recoil is very minimal, and the lightweight free-floated M-Lok handguard does an admirable job of absorbing most of the felt recoil.
In conclusion, the Springfield Armory 2020 Waypoint is an incredibly reliable and accurate rifle. Its features, design, and performance make it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a mid-priced rifle. The only downside I can find in the Waypoint is the lack of customization options; however, aftermarket parts are available to enhance the rifle further. I highly recommend the 2020 Waypoint for anyone looking for a reliable, accurate firearm, whether it be for hunting, self-defense, or just plinking.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
• High quality construction and durability
• Adjustable length of pull and comb height
• Rotating bolt lock-up
• Low railed forend
• Lightweight
Cons:
• Expensive for entry-level rifle
• No side bolt release
• Limited aftermarket parts and upgrades
• Not ideal for left-handed shooters
• Single-stage trigger can be a bit gritty
Who Should Buy
Anyone who is interested in owning a high-quality rifle that is made with precision and accuracy should consider buying the Springfield Armory 2020 Waypoint. This rifle is designed with performance and durability in mind and comes with features like a single-stage trigger, adjustable handguard, and free-floating barrel.
However, anyone who doesn't have the proper training and knowledge on how to operate a firearm should not purchase this rifle. Additionally, anyone who is not legally allowed to own firearms should not buy the Springfield Armory 2020 Waypoint.
Comparisons
| Product | Weight (lb) | Overall Length (in.) | Twist Rate | Ammunition Capacity | MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SPRINGFIELD ARMORY 2020 WAYPOINT | 7.7 | 42 | 1/10-inches RH | 4 | $899 |
| Mossberg Patriot | 7.5 | 42 | 1/10 | 3/4/5 | $399 |
| Savage Axis | 7.25 | 44 | 1/9-inches | 4/5 | $479 |
| Remington 783 | 7 | 42 | 1/10-inches | 4/5/6 | $379 |
| Tikka T3X Lite | 6.4 | 43.3 | 1/11 | 3/4/5 | $699 |
Features / Specs
•6.5 Creedmoor
•20″ 1:8 twist stainless steel match grade barrel
•Threaded muzzle with thread protector
•16″ free floated M-LOK handguard
•Forged 7075-T6 upper and lower receivers
•MRO Optic Ready optics plate with flipping sights
•SB Tactical SBA3 Pistol Brace
•Nickel Boron Coated flat trigger
•3.5 lb. adjustable trigger
•A2 pistol grip
•20 round Magpul PMAG GEN3 magazine
Popular Accessories
The most popular accessories for the Springfield Armory 2020 Waypoint are optics and sights, Magazine extensions, and frame mounted lights. Additionally, many people like to customize their Waypoints by adding Pistol grips, Suppressors, Extended magazines, Specialized holsters, and trigger kits.
Accuracy
The Springfield Armory 2020 Waypoint is one of the most accurate rifles on the market today. The rifling and barrel construction are identical to the SAINT AR-15 rifle, and with the other features such as the Accu-tite tension system, adjustable gas block, and forged 7075 aluminum receivers, the accuracy of this firearm is exceptional. This gun is capable of putting shots on a one-inch group at 100 yards, and even further if one has the proper ammo and skill. With the combination of its quality of parts and accuracy, the Springfield Armory 2020 Waypoint is an ideal rifle for any shooter, from beginner to seasoned veteran.
