Ruger Announces the AR-556 Modern Sporting Rifle

by
posted on September 29, 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

Ruger has announced the AR-556 semi-automatic, M4-style, direct impingement Modern Sporting Rifle, and is proud to report that all major components are being machined at the company's Mayodan, N.C., facility.

"The AR-556 is the first firearm designed and built in our Mayodan, North Carolina, facility, and we couldn’t be more thrilled with the finished product,” said Ruger President and Chief Operating Officer Chris Killoy. "Through extensive design review and product testing, our Mayodan team has delivered a solid rifle that our customers will be proud to own—and and we are proud to call a Ruger."

The AR-556 is constructed from forged 7075-T6 aluminum upper and lower receivers, and a cold hammer-forged chrome-moly steel barrel with M4 feed ramp cuts. Chambered in 5.56 NATO, the AR-556’s carbine-length, flat-top, M4 design is fully configured with a Ruger Rapid Deploy folding rear sight, milled F-height gas block with post front sight, forward assist, dust cover, and brass deflector.  Other features include a telescoping six-position stock, improved trigger-reach grip, enlarged trigger guard and one 30-round Magpul PMag.  Standardized M4/AR components are utilized throughout, so the AR-556 can be customized easily.

The Ruger AR-556 was extensively tested during its development, with over a quarter million rounds expended during the final validation, endurance, and Ruger “jury” testing. MSRP is $749.

For more information and technical specifications on the Ruger AR-556, visit Ruger.com. To find accessories for the AR-556 or other Ruger firearms, visit ShopRuger.com.

Latest

2025
2025

Prices On Rifles, Ammo, Optics & Suppressors Dropped In 2025, According To Retail Report

The average price enthusiasts paid for ammunition, rifles, optics and suppressors dropped in 2025, according to a recently released RetailBI Report.

Preview: A-Zoom Snap Caps Instructor Pack

Firearm safety is a primary concern for all gun owners, which is a substantial part of what your NRA strives to ingrain into the shooting public, and products like Snap Caps help make this training both easier and safer.

Review: Yugoslavian Zastava M70 .32 ACP Pistol

This tough little all-steel semi-automatic from AIM Surplus is an enjoyable option for military surplus pistol fans.

Henry Adds Adjustable-Sighted "Deadeye" Models To Revolver Lineup

The Deadeye versions of Henry’s Big Boy and Golden Boy revolvers add a fully adjustable rear sight and fixed front post sight with fiber-optic insert.

Gun of the Week: Chiappa Rhino 60 DS Revolver in 10 mm

Chiappa has launched a large-frame version of its unique revolver, including one chambered in 10 mm.

The Armed Citizen® Feb. 20, 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.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.