Ruger SR-556 review by Nutnfancy, Pt 1

PART 1 of 2 /////////////// I grew up with Ruger...so did millions more. Ruger guns are tough, usually reasonably priced, well-designed, fun, and continue to stand the test of time. With the introduction of their piston-driven AR-15, the SR-556, their new direction in the acceptance of tactical guns is solidified. This overcomes a past Bill Ruger-era disdain for the such guns in the hands of civilian, a misguided policy that has long since been overturned. Because of this, the mere fact the SR-556 is a Ruger makes it something special. The good news is that the gun does not disappoint even when subjected to extensive shooting and evaluation as we did at TNP. In tactical Run N Guns the SR performed well: accurate, fast shooting, well-equipped, and reliable. It won over all the shooters, including me. Fifty yard accuracy with an unmagnified red dot was impressive with some groups but opened up some at 100 yards. The gun overall showed about a 2 MOA capability at 100 yards with regular ball ammo. Some 1 MOA groups with this regular ammo were achieved but were non-standard. With match grade ammo and careful benchresting, I think the gun might be 1 MOA capable. A better trigger should aid this quest for max accuracy of the SR-556. The design seems sound and squared away with a nice selection of supporting accessories. With a trim proprietary Troy Industries 10 quad rail and included covers, Troy BUIS, 3 30-rd Magpul PMAGs, Hogue grip, CAA collapsible stock, and Ruger soft case, the 2009 SR-556 is feature laden. All these quality accessories provide high value for its cost. But they would mean nothing if the Ruger piston design didn't work. But it does: the bolt carrier remains clean and cooler (but not the front of the gun!), gas regulator adjustments are easy to make, and like other quality piston AR-15s it promises greater reliability with shorter barrels, under high rates of fire, and debris-free suppressor use. The gun showed perfect reliability with brass cased FMJ ammo of different brands but it was spotty at times, like other piston guns, with steel cased Wolf ammo (which saves the shooter much money in training). Use care around the gas block and forend after heavy fire sequences as it gets hot (more so than a DI gun I have found). The bolt carrier, bolt, cam pin, piston, regulator, and transfer rod are matte chrome finished for easier cleaning and better lubricity. One downside of the gun is similar to other piston AR-15s: its heavier. With its heavy profile 16 ¼" chrome-lined barrel, a full ten inch rail, and the regulator, piston, gas block, transfer rod components add weight, As such the SR-556 swings noticeably slower into action versus a comparable DI AR-15. For most POUs, I still like a lighter weight DI option. But for some this weight is a non-player with promise of piston benefits. Also note a another downside might be the non-compatibility with .22 LR Conversion kits for cheaper and more frequent training. This may change with widespread sales of the SR-556. Assuming we are effective in thwarting anti-self defense laws, I expect future variations of the SR-556 will appear, keeping the sales of this quality and innovative Ruger offering chugging along. But as it stands today, the SR is a feature laden, high value, reliable tactical carbine that will endear itself to the responsible civilian or law enforcement officer for defensive or recreational use. If your system can accept its slightly increased weight, the gun will serve you well. ///////////// Nutnfancy Likeability Scale: 8.5 out of 10 ////////////// Music: http://www.archive.org/details/Torley_Wong_-_The_Final_Selection

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[oeyesea]

Ruger always gives you a lot of gun for the money, so does Savage & Marlin.

[icehellions]

Good review, crap music.

[DontClickOurURL]

I went with a Rock River Arms over this, just because of the price. Ruger makes great guns, they are just priced super high.

[slopothacrop]

@DirtyRed703  S&W m&p 5.56

[xxpentekxx]

i have to say, im very un impressed with his "tactical shooting" in the beginning of the video

[wickedrebel512]

Finally a quality youtuber with a review on this gun! Been looking for a while for a good review on this quite elusive weapon.

[runngunr21]

Any update from doodle on his sr556? I'd love to hear how it has been since these few short months since this video was posted. Thanks

[TheWhmaxwell]

Very nice AR and excellent review, as always man. It is good to know that the front rail is not meant to be removed... I like the option to switch things out so I won't be getting this one.

[BBerglund666]

I LOVE my SR556, ive gone through 2500 rounds with only one hiccup and that was the brass fault, not the gun.

[dschinkal]

Does Brown Bear or Silver Bear ammunition have the same characteristics as wolf ammo or is one better than the other? (I know, both suck, but which one sucks less?)