SIG Sauer SIG556R

by
posted on July 29, 2013
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
sig_556r_f.jpg

Built off of the SIG556 platform, which itself is a modified version of the legendary Swiss SIG550 military rifle, the SIG556R is chambered in 7.62x39 mm and can take most standard AK-47-type magazines.

Thanks its SIG550 lineage, the 556R has a folding stock, which, when folded, cuts the rifle’s overall length to a mere 26 inches, making storage and maneuverability a cinch.

The piston-operated 556R’s charging handle is on the right side of the rifle, just like on an AK, but its safety selector is located above and in front of the pistol grip, similar to that of an AR, which is far more ergonomic.

Learn more about the SIG556R in the video below, hosted by Shooting Illustrated's Ed Friedman.

Technical Specifications:

Caliber: 7.62x39 mm

Action: semi-auto, rotary bolt, two-position adjustable-gas piston

Receiver: aluminum

Barrel: 16”

Rifling: 1:9.5” RH twist

Magazine: single 30-round polymer

Sights: none; mini red-dot sight

Trigger: 7.15 lbs.

Overall Length: 35.875”; folded 26”

Weight: 7 lbs. without magazine

MSRP: $1,332

Multimedia:

Latest

Icarry DD H9 1
Icarry DD H9 1

I Carry: Daniel Defense H9 in an ANR Designs Holster

In our latest “I Carry” segment above, we’re taking a closer look at the Daniel Defense H9, a unique, striker-fired design that borrows popular features from several different handguns. 

A Surprising Conversation on Just How Far an Anti-Gun State Can Go

In Massachusetts this fall, ballot question 9 is an effort to repeal 2024 legislation known as “An Act Modernizing Firearm Laws,” a complex package of fees, red tape, training requirements, and other burdens placed on law-abiding gun owners. 

The Armed Citizen® Oct. 2, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Are Snub-Nose Revolvers Still Relevant?

In a world of micro-compact handguns, does the venerable snub-nose revolver still have a place? Here are four reasons why you might still consider carrying a snubby.

Behind Federal's 7 mm Backcountry Cartridge

In 2025, Federal Ammunition introduced its new 7 mm Backcountry cartridge, which operates at higher pressures than any previous commercial ammunition offering.

New for 2026: Beretta 94X Performance

The latest step in the evolution of Beretta's 90 series of handguns is the 94X Performance, a handgun that the company calls “the ultimate evolution of the Beretta competition pistol for IPSC and USPSA.”

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.