Preview: Rock River Arms FES Light Predator2L Rifle

by
posted on February 22, 2021
** 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. **
rraeichler.jpg
New for 2021, Rock River Arms (RRA) continues an industry partnership that created the latest Fred Eichler Series (FES) rifle — the Light Predator2L. This culmination of RRA’s manufacturing ability and working relationship with Eichler bolsters a tried-and-true platform to provide sportsmen and sportswomen with a great predator-hunting tool. Fred Eichler is a conservation steward as well as a successful bowhunter and host of Predator Nation TV.

RRA builds its Light Predator2L on forged receivers; the lower unit comes patterned after the company’s LAR-15M blueprint and the upper is of the A4 style. RRA pairs its upper receiver with a 16” stainless steel, lightweight profile that is further fluted and cryogenically treated. The RRA FES Light Predator2L is chambered for .223 Wylde, a match-grade chambering that blends .223 Rem. with 5.56x45 mm NATO for a chamber dimension that safely allows the use of both ammunition types. Rifling is twisted one turn in 8”, a middle-of-the-road measurement that further allows hunters and target shooters to enjoy myriad bullet offerings with sufficient accuracy. A RRA FES muzzle brake comes standard to mitigate recoil for follow-up shots on wily game. RRA notes that the FES Light Predator2L will provide at least 1-m.o.a. accuracy at 100 yds.

The versatility of the AR-15 blueprint allows companies such as RRA to design and market niche-specific alterations that can further be tailored to a users needs. With the help of Fred Eichler, this latest iteration features a FES carbon fiber handguard that is free floating and ventilated by way of animal paw prints along its sides. The full-length handguard features Picatinny rail along the top’s entirety with a section below for additional accessories such a bipod.

Black is the standard color option, but users can opt to dress the Predator2L from the factory in a Gunmetal Gray finish for a nominal up-charge. RRA sources Bravo Company MFG, Inc., for its BCMGUNFIGHTER charging handle. An adjustable RRA Operator CAR buttstock is included with appointments for slings and storage. A rubber pad caps the butt.

RRA’s two-stage varmint trigger comes standard. This trigger is known to provide crisp and consistent breaking points between 3.5 and 4 lbs. The chrome trigger also has a non-reflective shoe. In addition, the continued use of matte finishes throughout is thoughtful. Ambushing nature’s predators requires supreme camouflaging, which usually includes the use of gloves, so RRA includes its winter trigger guard to accommodate gloved hands and uninterrupted transition to the trigger. RRA provides its Star Safety selector here, too.

For more information on the RRA FES Light Predator2L, please visit the company website HERE.

Latest

001 22VSD LCPII Cover 01
001 22VSD LCPII Cover 01

Have .22 LR Handguns Finally Become Viable Options for Self-Defense?

Although .22 LR pistols and revolvers are plentiful and affordable, they still have notable limitations when it comes to self-defense applications. 

Aero Precision Returns with New Owners

An investment group comprised of family members passionate about firearms and the outdoor sports has purchased Aero Precision, Ballistic Advantage, Stag Arms and VG6.

The Ladies Discover Sporting Clays Experience

The Ladies Discover Sporting Clays Experience, a specially tailored clinic designed to help new female shooters become familiar with the basics of firearm safety, shotgun-handling and sporting-clays shooting.

New for 2026: Bersa B-Series Suppressors

Bersa USA has updated its suppressor lineup in 2026 with its new B-Series cans, which cover the range from .22 LR all the way up to .300 Win. Mag.

Here for the Boom: How I Learned to Love the Big-Bores

A fear of recoil can turn into a longing for more kick. The author is proof of that.

Steiner Optics Debuts Overwatch Program to Support First Responders

With its new Overwatch Program, Steiner Optics now offers special pricing on select products for qualified military members, law-enforcement officers, first responders, corrections personnel and court officials.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.