SIG was actually considering retiring the 516 but when they did a design review, the decision was made to incorporate lessons learned and best features from their other rifle offerings on a third generation of the rifle. The result is the new 516 G3 MOHAWK.
For instance, this new version of the popular 516 incorporates a steel cam pathway reinforcement insert into the upper receiver along with steel feed ramps, both found on the MCX.
The carbine also uses the MCX bolt with its tapered lugs and firing pin latch which helps prevent slam fire. Additionally, like with the MCX, the forward assist can be removed and a plug out in place.
Another feature which found its way over from the MCX line is the left-side non-reciprocating side charging handle. The side charger is removable and they’ll offer an insert to fill the slot. Likewise, you can remove the t-handle charger and replace it with a clamp to seal the rear of the receiver, eliminating gas in the face.
They’ve retained the 516 G2’s short stroke piston system, but production models will have a new valve lever with three wings in order to make it easier to manipulate between the three gas positions.
The carbine’s 16” chrome lined hammer forged barrel has a 1:7 twist and features a muzzle device which eliminates flash as well as climb and is compatible with SIG’s suppressors. Expect an 11.5” option as well.
To improve ergonomics they have incorporated a set of fully ambidextrous controls as well as installing a right side, side lock/release. Meanwhile, it has a SIG Matchlite DUO curved trigger.
Another major improvement is the new free-float handguard. Gone is the old “cheese grater” full length Picatinny rails which have been replaced with M-LOK slots.
With all of these improvements, the 516 G3 might be a good candidate for the UK’s upcoming Project Graeburn, the SA80 replacement.
The gun was very flat shooting, even on full-auto, and has soft recoil making it very controllable and easy to quickly transition targets. If I was going to buy another AR, it would be this one.
Look for the SIG 516 G3 MOHAWK winter 2025.
