NRA Gun of the Week: Steyr AUG A3 M1 Rifle

by
posted on May 7, 2016
** 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. **

The Steyr Armee-Universal-Gewehr, or more commonly and formally known as “AUG,” is a bullpup, 5.56x45 mm NATO, select-fire rifle that has proven itself through myriad foreign forces over the years. The AUG A3 M1 reviewed in this week's NRA Gun of the Week video is a semi-automatic variant with a telescopic 3X sight, Picatinny top rail and external bolt release. Its bullpup configuration provides for a shorter overall and compact length. A folding vertical foregrip aids in control and the rifle’s adjustable short-stroke gas-piston operation removes heat and carbon fowling from the action while providing user-adjustable gas flow.

Manufacturer: Steyr Arms, Inc.
Caliber: 5.56x45 mm NATO (.223 Rem.)
Action: short-stroke, gas-piston-operated semi-automatic center-fire rifle
Receiver: aluminum
Magazine: polymer detachable box, 30-round capacity
Barrel: 16” quick-change, chrome-lined steel, phosphate finish
Sights: integral 3X Meopta riflescope
Trigger: single-stage, 10-lb., 4-oz. pull
Stock: olive drab green synthetic
Weight: 8 lbs., 15 ozs.
MSRP: $2,599

Latest

man inspecting a cartridge with a magnifying glass
man inspecting a cartridge with a magnifying glass

The Drawbacks of Being a Numbers-Oriented Gun Guy

Like any hobby or pastime that is in any way even vaguely related to machines or technology, firearms attract a (possibly) disproportionate number of “right-brained,” STEM-oriented personalities who like numbers.

First Look: MDT Hand Cannon Slingshot

Slingshots are fun, but they can also be a legitimate backup defensive tool—in 2023, a 13-year-old Michigan boy saved his 8-year-old sister from being kidnapped by using a $3 slingshot to fire a marble and a rock at the assailant, striking him in the chest and head.

The LCP Meets Magpul: Ruger's LCP Max with Magpul's EHG

Over the years, Ruger has enhanced its LCP with the introduction of the LCP II and LCP Max. New for 2026, Ruger is offering a new version of the LCP Max with the addition of a Magpul Enhanced Handgun Grip.

Review: 945 Industries Q.A.P. Series Off-Body Carry Bag

Off-body carry can be somewhat controversial, but choosing the right gear can go a long way toward successful carry. One good option is the Q.A.P. Series of bags from 945 Industries.

At 75, CCI is Offering Even More

In 2026, CCI Ammunition—formally Cascade Cartridge, Inc.—marks its 75th anniversary with a fitting tribute to innovation and American ingenuity.

Gun of the Week: Powder River Precision Rubicon Icon

Powder River Precision has taken the basic Ruger 10/22 rifle concept and enhanced it with its Rubicon Icon design.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.