Springfield Armory Saint: A Top-Selling AR-15

by
posted on August 12, 2020
springfield-armory-saint.jpg

Springfield Armory introduced its first Saint in November 2016 and has rolled out two other versions in the line since. It was the fourth-highest selling semi-auto rifle among retailers using the services of Gunbroker.com during 2019. It’s a big move up for this AR-platform rifle, because it didn’t make the top-10 in 2018 and placed a distant ninth in 2017.

There’s no doubt an AR-10 version and added features in new models helped the semi-autos catch the attention of enthusiasts. The first Saint model was chambered in 5.56 NATO and had a 16" barrel with a 1:8" twist.

The mid-length gas system featured the familiar front sight and gas block. The trigger was nickel-boron coated, with made the single-stage system a lot more friendly to precise shot placement. In an early review by American Rifleman, which wrote, “Overall, the Springfield Armory’s first foray into the AR market has yielded a platform that is light, trim, and well-equipped. There’s not a lot of differentiation to be had in today’s crowded AR market, but I think Springfield did a great job with the small details.”

Today there are three families of models in the Saint line. The base Saints, chambered in 5.56 NATO, have an MSRP of between $943 and $972. All have M-LOK compatible handguards, pinned gas block and weigh 6 lbs., 11 ozs.

For enthusiasts who prefer a choice in bigger chambering, the company offers the Saint Victor lineup. They come in either .308 Win. or 5.56 NATO with a free-floated MLOK compatible handguard. Most versions come in a black color scheme, but there are some in OD Green, FDE, Gray. MSRPs run from $1,079 to $1,399.

The Saint Edge features a match-grade trigger, Melonite-treated barrel, SopMod buttstock and lightens the load at only 6 lbs., 3 ozs. Its handguard is also free-floated and the 5.56 NATO comes in at $1,299.

Latest

380 ACP
380 ACP

The .380 ACP: History & Performance

Despite disagreements surrounding the .380 ACP cartridge's performance, its history shows it to be a popular, effective round, because people have always enjoyed small, easy-to-carry pistols that can be quickly deployed.

New For 2023: Aero Precision Solus

Designed as an "out-of-the-box" shooting system that can be configured and customized according to the needs of the end user, the Aero Precision Solus is a contender for today's popular Precision Rifle Series circuit.

Gun Of The Week: Davidson's Winchester Model 1895 Texas Rangers Edition

Watch American Rifleman staff on the range this week with the Winchester Model 1895 Texas Ranger's 200th Anniversary Edition, a Davidson's Exclusive rifle that commemorates the storied history of Texas law enforcement.

The Armed Citizen® March 24, 2023

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Elbert Searle's Prototype Savage Squeeze-Cocker Pistol

Elbert Searle isn't one of the most well-known firearm designers, but his Savage Model 1907 and its derivatives were popular guns in their time. Now, a unique prototype pistol of his has been discovered, illustrating what else could have been in Savage's early 20th-century handgun lineup.

Spring Sales, Savings & Sweepstakes Ongoing

Special incentives from Hornady, Smith & Wesson and Beretta have already been come and gone, but they were just the first. Things have accelerated since.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.