Springfield Armory SA-35
Posted May 19, 2023
Springfield Armory SA-35: An In-Depth Review
For those looking for a firearm, few are as comfortable or consistent as the Springfield Armory SA-35. This semi-automatic, gas-operated rifle is a dream and an absolute must-have for any serious shooter. From its impressive accuracy to its reliable recoil system, this firearm will not disappoint. Let’s dive into the details and break down this impressive piece of machinery.
Appearance and Comfort
Upon first glance, the SA-35 is as sleek and stylish as any great weapon should be. Its matte black finish and thinner profile make it a striking sight. Even its non-functional areas, such as the ejection port and the gas regulator, remain slick and attractive. Its shorter barrel, which is just 18 inches, makes the weapon’s profile even slimmer and less intimidating.
But this rifle’s attractiveness isn’t merely skin deep. Where it really excels is comfort. Its slick design ensures that the gun fits in the hand perfectly and its lightweight properties make it an easy choice for hours of shooting. Springfield Armory certainly had comfort in mind when designing the SA-35, and it shows.
Accuracy
What’s the point of any firearm if it won’t hit its target? Thankfully, the SA-35 is as accurate as it is attractive. Its two-stage design, which includes dual-locking lugs and a short-stroke piston, ensures that it maintains an incredible level of accuracy regardless of the distance.
The SA-35 is also equipped with a muzzle brake which, as the name implies, helps reduce the recoil. This makes it easier to hit those more distant targets. Further, the SA-35 utilizes a free-floating barrel that reduces contact with the weapon’s body. This greatly reduces the chances of the barrel becoming warped from recoil, thus improving accuracy.
Ammunition
The SA-35 is chambered in the popular .308 Winchester cartridge, which is a popular choice among hunters and varmint shooters alike. This powerful cartridge ensures good knockdown power and is capable of picking off targets from incredible distances. The SA-35 is able to handle a variety of projectiles, such as hollow points and soft points, which makes it an even more versatile weapon.
When it comes to feeding the SA-35, Springfield Armory has provided a few different options. The first is a single-stack magazine that holds five rounds, making it great for those who prefer to carry fewer rounds. The mag also features a steel feed lip which increases its durability. There’s also the option to purchase a double-stack magazine which holds ten rounds and adds a bit of weight. Of course, this is entirely dependent on preference.
Manual of Arms
This is the part in which we discuss how well you can actually use the Springfield Armory SA-35. Like its other qualities, the SA-35’s manual of arms is nothing short of fantastic. This rifle features an appended charging handle which makes it easy to load and eject rounds. Its centrally-located safety lever is also easy to engage and disengage without having to move your hand from the firing position.
For those who enjoy shooting with optics, the SA-35 has you covered. Its flat-top upper receiver includes a Picatinny rail for mounting various optics. There’s also a forward assist and brass deflector which should make it easy for owner to clear jams if necessary.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, the Springfield Armory SA-35 is an all-around great firearm. Whether you’re a hunter, competitive shooter, or any other type of shooter, you can be sure that this powerhouse will get the job done. Its lightweight frame and impressive accuracy make it a rifle that is no stranger to the shooting bench. From its stylish look to its reliable performance, you can be certain that the SA-35 won’t let you down.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
-High-quality construction and reliability
-Excellent accuracy for a semi-automatic rifle
-Attractive design
-Wide range of calibers
-Affordable price
Cons:
-Heavy recoil
-Limited magazine capacity
-Relatively long trigger pull
-Length and weight hinder portability
-Limited aftermarket parts
Who Should Buy
Those who should buy Springfield Armory SA-35 are those who are looking for an entry-level firearm that offers robust features and reliable performance. It is designed for anyone looking for an easy-to-use gun that won’t break the bank.
Those who shouldn’t buy Springfield Armory SA-35 are those who are looking for a rifle that packs a real punch. The SA-35 is designed to be a lightweight and low-caliber rifle, and so it won’t offer much in terms of stopping power or accuracy beyond short and medium ranges.
Comparisons
| Model Name | Barrel Length | Overall Length | Weight | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SA-35 | 14.5 in | 34.8 in | 7.9 lbs | 5 Round Mag |
| MCX Rattler | 11.5 in | 24.5 in | 5.3 lbs | 30 Round Mag |
| Sub-2000 | 16.1 in | 30.5 in | 4.25 lbs | 17 Round Mag |
| AR-15 Sporter | 16 in | 36 in | 6 lbs | 5 Round Mag |
| M&P 15-22 | 16 in | 31 in | 4.5 lbs | 25 Round Mag |
Features / Specs
• Semi-automatic, gas-operated, .35 Remington bolt-action rifle
• 22” barrel
• 7-lb, 13-oz empty weight
• 4+1 capacity magazine
• Pleasant-looking walnut stock with a checkered pistol grip
• Weather-resistant matte black finish on all metal surfaces
• Adjustable open sights
• Soft rubber buttpad for improved comfort and recoil control
Popular Accessories
The most popular accessories for Springfield Armory SA-35 include:
- Magazines
- Sights, including scopes, red dots, reflex sights, etc.
- Grips
- Slings
- Rails and mounts
- Recoil buffers and compensators
- Muzzle brakes
- Lights
- Laser aiming devices
- Holsters
Accuracy
Springfield Armory SA-35 is known to have incredible accuracy. With its 18-inch heavy barrel and wide forend, this gun provides an exceptionally stable shooting platform with minimum recoil giving you pinpoint precision. The rear sight flipping aperture gives you an edge when aiming at close and distant targets, and the smooth action of the gun allows for spot-on shot placement in the least amount of time. Springfield Armory SA-35 also utilizes a harder steel in its receiver which allows for a more precise and accurate fit of moving parts. Additionally, its adjustable trigger allows you to customize your shot for the best accuracy. All of these factors help to make the Springfield Armory SA-35 a reliable and accurate rifle to fire a round.
