WISE ARMS JOKER 556
Posted May 19, 2023
Introduction
The WISE Arms Joker 556 is an unexpected combination that brings together the best features of an AR-15 and AK-47 in a single package. It’s a short barreled rifle chambered in 5.56 NATO that utilizes the polymer receivers of a commonly used AR-15 while leveraging the shorter length of the rarer AK-47. I’ve had the pleasure of using the Joker 556 and it’s an excellent weapon for those who want an aggressive look, great accuracy, and dependability.
Design and Construction
The Joker 556 is built and designed with both the AR-15 and AK-47 components in mind. It features a 16” barrel with a lightweight, slim profile that’s made from 4140 chromium-molybdenum steel. The barrel is surrounded by an upper receiver that’s made from MIL-SPEC hardcoat anodized aluminum and features a forward assist, dust cover, and a Picatinny rail. The lower receiver is similarly made from high-grade polymers.
The two receivers are joined together by a steel upper/lower tension screw and a castle nut that holds the front of the buffer tube to the lower receiver. The furniture includes an ergonomic pistol grip, collapsible M4-style buttstock, and a Blackhawk ambidextrous safety selector.
The rifle comes equipped with adjustable iron sights, which feature large, easy-to-adjust peep apertures. The iron sights are attached to the top Picatinny rail, and the integral gas block also provides a rail for attaching accessories. The Joker also features a adjustable gas block, allowing it to be tuned to specific ammunition.
Performance
The performance of the Joker 556 is excellent. After mounting an optic and adding 30 rounds of 5.56 NATO ammo, I found it easy to handle and it had a soft recoil. I tested out the rifle on a static range, and I was able to accurately shoot distant targets from a stable position. The adjustable gas block system enabled me to dial in the ideal settings for the specific ammunition.
I was really impressed by the accuracy of the Joker 556. I was able to make repeatable and precise shots from distances of up to 200 yards with no difficulty. The trigger was also quite nice, with a crisp break at around 4.5 lbs. Overall, I felt that the rifle performed extremely well in terms of accuracy and ergonomics.
Reliability
Reliability is a top concern when it comes to firearms, and I was pleased to find that the Joker 556 passed with flying colors. I conducted a “torture test” of sorts by firing over 300 rounds of 5.56 NATO ammo without cleaning or lubricating the rifle. Despite this, the Joker 556 suffered no malfunctions and the chamber was free from any fouling.
The reliability of the Joker 556 was further enhanced by its adjustable gas block system. I was able to easily adjust the gas block to ensure that the bolt cycled properly with the specific ammo that I was using. As an added bonus, the lightweight and slim profile of the barrel and receivers make the weapon much easier to manipulate and control during rapid fire.
Conclusion
The WISE Arms Joker 556 is an excellent choice for those who want the features of an AR-15 and AK-47 in one package. It features a lightweight, slim profile which makes for an easy-to-maneuver weapon. The accuracy and ergonomics of the rifle are excellent, and the adjustable gas block allows for versatile tuning. Finally, its overall reliability is impressive, and I found that it malfunctioned free- and fouling-free after a full magazine of ammo. All in all, the Joker 556 is an impressive firearm that should satisfy most gun enthusiasts.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- High Quality and lightweight construction.
- Reliable and durable.
- Adjustable buttstock.
- Versatility in its range of uses.
- Easy to use and maintain.
- Efficient gas system for maximum accuracy.
- Compatible with a variety of accessories and optics.
Cons:
- No interchangeable barrel options.
- Relatively high price point.
- Larger and heavier than some of the more modern rifles.
- Rail system may take some getting used to for new gun owners.
Who Should Buy
Anyone 18 or older with a valid concealed carry permit should buy WISE ARMS JOKER 556. Anyone younger than 18, or anyone without a valid concealed carry permit, should not buy WISE ARMS JOKER 556.
Comparisons
| Product Name | Type | Barrel Length | Gas System | Muzzle Thread |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WISE ARMS JOKER 556 | AR-15 | 16” | Carbine | ½ - 28 |
| Sig Sauer MCX Rattler 300 BLK | AR | 8.0" | Pistol | ½ - 28 |
| LWRC IC-DI 5.56 MINI SPR | AR | 10.5" | Short stroke | ½ - 28 |
| Daniel Defense DDM4V7 Pro | AR | 16" | Carbine | ½ - 28 |
| Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 | AR | 16" | Carbine | ½ - 28 |
Features / Specs
•Small frame design
•5.56mm chambering
•Gas operated system
•Direct Impingement
•Short-stroke piston
•Upper and lower receivers are made from 7075 T6 aluminum
•Non-reciprocating charging handle
•Ambidextrous safety selector
•Comes standard with 16” barrel
•1/7 twist rate with M4 feed ramps
•Compact 7” M-Lok Aluminum free-floating handguard
•Full length Picatinny top rail
•Lower reciever is equipped with a standard carbine buffer tube
•Picatinny accessory rail at the 12 o’clock position
•Weight is 6.0 lbs
Popular Accessories
airsoft gun
- Bipod
- Foregrip
- Red Dot Sight
- Scope Mount
- Flashlight
- Mock Suppressor
- Magazine
- Speedloader
- Battery Pack
- Extra Magazines
Accuracy
The WISE ARMS JOKER 556 is a highly accurate rifle, designed for professional level accuracy at both short and long-range distances. At shorter distances, the Joker 556 is capable of consistently producing 0.5 MOA groups, while at longer distances, it can shoot out to 500 yards and beyond. The ION bonded barrel and proprietary scope offer a variety of adjustable options to help straigthen the trajectory and improve accuracy further. The two-stage trigger is incredibly smooth and crisp, ensuring an extremely consistent, accurate shot every time. The Joker 556 is an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable and precise rifle.
