ARES Defense SHRIKE 5.56 Advanced Weapons System

by
posted on May 10, 2012
** 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. **
2012510105525-ares-shrike-5.56_f.jpg

ARES Defense Systems has released the SHRIKE 5.56 Advanced Weapons System, which is designed to fit any MIL-SPEC AR-15/M16/M4-type lower receiver.

In addition to providing semi-auto fire on all standard AR-15 lowers, the SHRIKE is capable of being configured to accept belt-fed ammunition when attached to fully automatic military lowers, providing compatibility to meet the needs of any military mission with the firepower (625 to 800 rounds per minute) of a U.S. M249 Squad Automatic Weapon (SAW) at nearly half the weight of the current SAW.

The SHRIKE 5.56 features a quick-change barrel that allows users to swap barrels quickly, and a design that allows users to perform most operations without having to remove their hand from the pistol grip. It also has a self-regulating gas-piston system, co-planar hand guard and MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny Rails on the top cover for mounting optics and accessories.

“We have spent countless hours refining and perfecting the SHRIKE design, ultimately leading to the unique offering available today,” said Geoffrey Herring, president of ARES Defense Systems, Inc. “Our research and development team is confident that the mission-configurable SHRIKE 5.56 delivers on our promise of an innovative weapons system that will exceed the performance standards required by users in the field.”

Built of American-made materials on CNC machinery, the SHRIKE is compatible with a variety of rifle and ammunition feeds without requiring modification to the lower, and features an anodized, non-reflective finish that resists wear and corrosion, providing a system that lasts for years.

Latest

Stenzel SAK 21 01
Stenzel SAK 21 01

The Stenzel Industries SAK-21: A Uniquely American AK

More than an American-made AK, Stenzel Industries calls the SAK-21 “a modular, purpose-built firearm, developed to meet the demands of special operations forces and professional shooters.”

Review: Browning Citori 825 Field

For hunting and sporting use, Browning’s latest Citori 825 Field shotgun is more than up to the task.

The Armed Citizen® April 27, 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.

Growth in Youth Shooting Sports Signals Bright Future for the 2nd Amendment

Judging by the record number joining clubs and teams, mass-media’s disinformation and political rhetoric are losing their luster with today’s youth, who are making time to head to the range.

Go-Bag Essentials: 5 Key Products for Your Escape Kit

These five products will help you remain comfortable and safe should you need to bug out in a hurry due to natural or man-made disasters.

10 Things You (Probably) Didn't Know About The Smith & Wesson Model 29

Without a doubt, the Smith & Wesson Model 29 is one of the 20th century’s most shootable, collectible "superstar" revolvers. Here are a few little-known facts about the gun.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.