Ruger AR 556 or Ruger SR 556E

[Roadhawk]

Looking to get my first AR and the Ruger 556 models might be the way I will go. I want to use the rifle for 3 gun matches. Does the piston system of the SR 556 make a big difference or would it be just as well buying the less expensive AR model?

 

[enefgee]

They'd both work just fine, it's pretty much a "regular, or extra crispy?" situation. Piston guns are slightly heavier and easier to clean. They have a slightly softer recoil impulse, but it's 556, so a DI gun isn't going to cause issues either. I have an SR, but I only bought it because I got a good deal and hadn't owned a piston gun. They're very nicely made, so I would assume the AR556 is too - the lowers are the same for both guns. The handguard on the SR-E is quite narrow, but if you want a quad rail set up, the accessory rails are quite expensive as add ons.

 

[drifter dave]

E is way lighter.
Quad rails are so 2009.

 

[Roadhawk]

I was looking to see if getting the 556E would justify the extra $400-$500 cost?? It sounds more like a personal preferance decision. I have no experience handling or shooting either gun but reviews on both have been good.

 

[drifter dave]

Traditionally the quad rail version is $500 more. Has a chrome lined bore.

E is the cheaper version.

https://www.canadaammo.com/product/search/?categories=&keyword=Ruger

 

[kinggeorge168]

For 3 gun matches use? get the SR556C

 

[Roadhawk]

Traditionally the quad rail version is $500 more. Has a chrome lined bore.

E is the cheaper version.

https://www.canadaammo.com/product/search/?categories=&keyword=Ruger

I've seen the At 556 for $899 and the Sr 556e for about $1400. That's the $500 difference I was trying to justify spending.

 

[Roadhawk]

For 3 gun matches use? get the SR556C

A little more than I want to spend. According to Ruger's website,they run about $2000.

 

[drifter dave]

I've seen the At 556 for $899 and the Sr 556e for about $1400. That's the $500 difference I was trying to justify spending.

Ahhh thought you meant the piston models.

 

[enefgee]

I got an SR556E for $1100 - look around, there's some old stock (pre dollar tanking) out there. Frankly, with the right muzzle device, a gas gun should be lighter and more controllable than a piston gun.

 

[jackrabbit000]

The "E" is discontinued. But a few dealers still have them around.

A little more than I want to spend. According to Ruger's website,they run about $2000.

That's only their MSRP. Also the "C" model has an integrated flash hider and fluted barrel.

 

[kinggeorge168]

For $835 at P&D. The Ruger AR556 in .223 Nato is a no brainier!. Its a awesome rifle!.

 

[Roadhawk]

For $835 at P&D. The Ruger AR556 in .223 Nato is a no brainier!. Its a awesome rifle!.

I've seen them for $899 in one of the local shops. Good price for a decent rifle.

 

[Roadhawk]

I got an SR556E for $1100 - look around, there's some old stock (pre dollar tanking) out there. Frankly, with the right muzzle device, a gas gun should be lighter and more controllable than a piston gun.

I have seen 1 for $1100 and others for about $1400

 

[ArcticHound]

I was looking at that AR556 from Ruger and ended up deciding on a Windham Weaponry model almost identical (barrel is 14.5 instead of 16). Price was pretty much the same, but I liked the idea of the old Bushmaster guys building new rifles.

 

[Tango33]

Look in the EE there are a few Ruger 556E's for sale there. Prices seem reasonable.

 

[Roadhawk]

Look in the EE there are a few Ruger 556E's for sale there. Prices seem reasonable.

Thanks. I'll look into it.

 

[Gunoholic]

I'd just love a Ruger AC556 select fire (SA, 3 shot burst, FA) but the government won't let me have one.
The little rectangular stubb on the right rear of the receiver is the selector switch.
Fired one in NH a few years ago - cool weapon.

 

[Roadhawk]

Went with the 556E. Great Canada Day deal from P&D!! $999.00.