Shooting Ruger's AR556

posted on October 9, 2014
** 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. **
rugerar556.jpg

The first firearm designed and built in Ruger's Mayodan, N.C., plant, the AR556 is a step in a new direction for the firm's AR-15-inspired carbines. It's also one of the most budget-friendly offerings from a major U.S. manufacturer.

The trimmed-down carbine features a 16" cold-hammer forged barrel with 1:8" twist, a gas block with integral front sight, bayonet lug and QD port, a polymer flip-up rear sight and an innovative barrel nut and delta ring assembly that replaces the traditional spring-tensioned design.

Although the rifle's suggested retail price is $749, expect to see in-store models priced right around the $600 mark. Ruger is able to achieve this wallet-friendly price point by building the lion's share of the gun's components in-house. The firm has invested a lot of time and effort into streamlining and economizing manufacture, the AR556 is a product that will pass the savings on to consumers.

Watch the video below for more, and be sure to visit Ruger.

Latest

The Armed Citizen Podcast Savani F
The Armed Citizen Podcast Savani F

What This Huge NFA Ruling Means for Gun Owners

The recent ruling in Jensen v. ATF and the subsequent lack of an appeal by the U.S. Department of Justice has left many gun owners with questions about purchasing NFA items. Here is some guidance.

Gun of the Week: Smith & Wesson Model 386 Night Guard

In partnership with Lipsey's, Smith & Wesson recently re-introduced two of its classic Night Guard revolvers, the Models 386 and 396, which are chambered for the .357 Magnum and .44 Special, respectively.

The Armed Citizen® Aug. 14, 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.

A (Slightly Confusing) History of Colt's Police Positive Revolver

For one of the most popular law-enforcement revolvers ever made, the history of the Colt Police Positive isn't nearly as linear as one would think it'd be.

Honoring America’s 250th and Those Who Defend It

Winchester Ammunition and Bass Pro Shops logos were both featured on the No. 3 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet in the 2026 Coca-Cola 600 race in May.

I Have This Old Gun: Walther P38

On the eve of World War II, the German military sought a new sidearm that was easier to manufacture than the P08 Luger. Its answer was the P38.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.