Franchi expands its Momentum line of rifles with the MULE—designed as a go-anywhere, do-anything rifle for hunters and property owners alike. This new carbine is engineered to be always ready for whatever rifle task the shooter might have in mind, and to do it well. For 2026, Franchi adds that kind of rifle to the Momentum family with the all-new Momentum Utility Lite Elite, better known simply as the MULE. The MULE is Franchi’s idea of a true general-purpose carbine. It’s designed to be the kind of rifle that rides in the truck or UTV and waits at the ready by the back door. Engineered to be a dual-purpose long arm for both hunting and defense, the MULE delivers scout-rifle versatility with the kind of reliability that can be trusted to protect the homestead.
For 2026, the MULE will be available in .308 Win. and .223 Rem., featuring a suppressor-ready 16.25-inch threaded barrel. Franchi’s proven Evolved Ergonom-X stock is finished in VEIL TAC Black Camo and is paired with an attractive, durable Graphite Black Cerakote on all metal components, keeping this rifle tough, understated and ready for whatever the day (or night) might bring. At slightly more than 7 pounds and measuring 38.25 inches overall, the MULE handles easily and stows without fuss—whether in a pickup, four-wheeler or tractor cab. A factory-installed, one-piece Picatinny rail makes optic mounting simple, while flip-up adjustable sights are included for shooters who prefer to keep things light and straightforward.
Like every Momentum rifle, the Momentum Utility Lite Elite feeds from a removable, straight-feed polymer-box magazine built for quick loading and real-world reliability. Capacity is eight rounds in .308 Win. and 10 in .223 Rem., striking the right balance between capability and simplicity. Inside, the MULE carries the same proven Momentum DNA: a three-lug fluted bolt with a fast 60-degree throw, Franchi’s adjustable single-stage Relia trigger and the TSA recoil pad, which reduces felt recoil by up to 50 percent—saving shoulders, whether on the range or in the field.
The MULE is designed to be the modern workhorse of rifles—compact, reliable and ready for anything life demands. From long days in the field to everyday readiness at home, it delivers the accuracy, adaptability and rugged strength shooters expect from a true general-purpose rifle. MSRP is $1,559.
