Springfield Armory Free-Float Handguard Saint Now in California-Compliant Model

by
posted on September 14, 2017
springfield-saint_lede.jpg
The Springfield Armory Saint with free-float handguard is now available in a fully California-compliant version.

Factory-equipped with state-approved stock, 10-round magazine and muzzle brake, the new California-edition Saint does not require registration as an "assault rifle" and does not demand questionable aftermarket modifications.

The California model of the Saint featuring a free-float handguard is a "featureless" firearm, with no components that might call compliance into question.

Instead of the standard Saint six-position buttstock and Bravo Company Mod 3 pistol grip, the California Saint has a rigid Survivor System Option Zero stock and Tango Down BG 16 grip. The stock feels and fits like a sporting rifle, and the angled "back paddle" grip keeps the thumb on one side of the firearm—a shooting position that's easily adopted, accurate and state-compliant.

A 10-round Magpul PMAG Gen M3 magazine replaces the standard 30-round version. Instead of a typical AR-15 flash hider, the California Saint sports a proprietary Springfield Armory muzzle brake that dampens barrel jump and meets state specs.

"This is not a stripped-down Saint or a band-aid fix," Springfield Armory CEO Dennis Reese said. "The California Saint is a ground-up, factory-engineered response to some of the tightest regulations in the country. It gives California shooters an AR-15 they know is compliant and know they can count on. This Saint is a solution—not a sacrifice."

Nor will Saint shooters sacrifice comfort or flexibility. Add-on buttpads let operators easily fit stock length to their liking. The stock holds a second mag, keeping fresh rounds close at hand. The textured grip provides a secure hold that quickly feels natural. An ambidextrous safety lever sits just below the thumb, providing both peace of mind and shooter's thumbrest.

Aside from state-approved stock, magazine and muzzle brake, this California Saint AR-15 is identical to the 49-state version, well equipped and ready to shoot out of the box. At 7 lbs., 4 oz. unloaded, the new SAINT is nimble and well balanced. 

"California shooters deserve a premium firearm that meets every challenge they face," Reese said. "With the California Saint, we're proud to offer them exactly that."

MSRP: $1,135

For more information visit springfield-armory.com

Latest

KelTec PR57 black gun pistol left-side view on white background
KelTec PR57 black gun pistol left-side view on white background

6 New Handguns For 2025

Several of the nation's biggest names in firearm manufacturing have released new models ahead of SHOT Show 2025. Here's a rundown of the features that each of them offer.

Boys To Riflemen: Aiken’s Volunteers During The British Attack on Plattsburgh

In September 1814, Americans once again stood against the might of the British military, as their forefathers had done during the Revolution. A small group of teen boys proved their valor in the face of a British attack and earned a special presentation rifle for their efforts.

The Armed Citizen® Jan. 20, 2025

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 Gas-Operated M1903 Conversion That Never Was

The U.S. government's never-ending quest for a more effective shoulder-fired arm to equip its military has, naturally, resulted in more prototypes than production models. This semi-automatic Model 1903 Springfield conversion was one such dead-end.

Preview: Burris BTS35 v3

The author joined industry professionals for a coyote hunt that went well into the evening hours using thermal imaging from Burris. Read field notes from that hunt using the BTS35 v3.

Review: LWRCI IC-9 Carbine

This delayed-blowback 9 mm carbine has a few tricks up its sleeve that you won't find on other guns in this class.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.