Ruger has introduced the SR-556â„¢, a piston driven carbine. The rifles features a 16.125″ barrel with an overall length of 32.75″ – 36″ and weighs in at 7.92 lbs.
The operating system is a chrome-plated, two-stage piston paired with a four-position, chrome-plated gas regulator to facilitate tuning the rifle to specific ammunition or operating conditions. Additionally, the transfer rod is electroless nickel/Teflon coated. Ruger claims that the carbine is chambered in 5.56 but we are not yet able to verify this as promotional data states 5.56mm NATO/.223 Rem. The bolt, bolt carrier, and extractor are chrome plated and the SR-556 offers a cold hammer-forged, chrome-lined Mil-Spec 41V45 barrel. The barrel has a 1:9 twist and is capped with the AC-556 flash suppressor from the Mini-14. Additionally, the once-piece bolt carrier has an an integral transfer key.
Ruger has also incorporated Troy Industries Folding BattleSightsâ„¢ which co-witness with Mil-Spec optics and can be raised at the push of a button.
The furniture consists of a Troy Industries Quad Rail with three Troy Industries Rail Covers, a six-position telescoping M4-style buttstock, and Hogue® Monogrip® Pistol Grip. Troy developed the rail specifically for the SR-556. The rifle also comes with a lock, three 30-Round MAGPUL PMAG Magazines, and packed in a custom soft case.
Although the new rifle does include several extras it is a bit pricey, particularly for a new entry into the market.
The SR-556â„¢ is beginning to show up in gun stores. For more information visit Ruger.
