Ruger's AR-556 rifle has gained popularity among shooters, but like any firearm, it's not without potential issues. This article delves into common problems reported by Ruger AR-556 owners, offering insights and potential solutions. We'll cover everything from minor malfunctions to more serious concerns, providing you with the information you need to troubleshoot and maintain your Ruger AR-556 effectively.
Understanding the Ruger AR-556
Before diving into potential problems, let's briefly understand the Ruger AR-556. It's a semi-automatic rifle chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO/.223 Remington, designed for reliability and accuracy. It's known for its relatively affordable price point compared to some competitors. However, this affordability sometimes comes with trade-offs in terms of component quality and manufacturing tolerances. This isn't to say the AR-556 is a bad rifle, but awareness of potential issues is crucial for any owner.
Common Problems With the Ruger AR-556
While the Ruger AR-556 generally functions reliably, several common problems have surfaced among users. These range from minor annoyances to issues that can affect performance and safety.
1. Gas Block Issues
One frequently reported problem is related to the gas block. Some users have experienced issues with the gas block becoming loose or improperly aligned, leading to malfunctions like:
- Failure to cycle: The gas system may not properly cycle the action, resulting in failure to eject spent casings and feed new rounds.
- Double feeds: Inconsistent gas pressure can cause double feeds, where multiple rounds are pushed into the chamber simultaneously.
- Stovepipes: The failure to properly eject a spent round results in a stovepipe malfunction, where the casing is jammed against the ejection port.
Solution: Regularly check the gas block for tightness and alignment. If loose, properly tighten it. If misalignment is suspected, professional gunsmithing might be necessary.
2. Magazine Compatibility
While the Ruger AR-556 is designed to work with standard AR-15 magazines, compatibility issues have been reported. Certain brands or types of magazines may not feed reliably, causing:
- Feed failures: The rifle may fail to feed rounds from the magazine due to inconsistencies in magazine dimensions or follower design.
- Misfeeds: Rounds may be fed into the chamber at an incorrect angle, resulting in jamming.
Solution: Experiment with different brands of magazines to find those that feed consistently in your specific rifle. High-quality magazines from reputable manufacturers are generally recommended.
3. Bolt Carrier Group (BCG) Issues
The bolt carrier group is a critical part of the AR-15's operation. Problems with the BCG in the Ruger AR-556 can manifest as:
- Excessive wear: Early models of the AR-556 showed some reports of premature wear on the BCG. Regular cleaning and lubrication are vital in mitigating wear issues.
- Extractor failure: Inconsistent extraction of spent casings can occur, leading to failures to eject or even broken extractors.
Solution: Thorough cleaning and lubrication of the BCG are essential. If extractor issues persist, consider replacing the extractor or the entire BCG. This is best handled by a qualified gunsmith.
4. Trigger Issues
Some users have reported concerns with the trigger pull, describing it as gritty or heavy. A problematic trigger isn't just uncomfortable, it can also affect accuracy.
Solution: Trigger job (professional modification to improve the trigger feel) might be considered, but it's crucial to consult a professional gunsmith experienced with AR-15 modifications.
5. Forward Assist Issues
While less common, some users have experienced issues with the forward assist, which is the lever used to assist in chambering a round. This issue often involves the forward assist being too tight or sticky.
Solution: If the forward assist is excessively tight, it should be inspected by a gunsmith.
Maintenance and Prevention
Regular maintenance is crucial to prevent problems. This includes:
- Regular Cleaning: Clean the rifle after each use, paying attention to the BCG, gas tube, and barrel.
- Lubrication: Use a high-quality gun lubricant to ensure smooth operation.
- Inspection: Regularly inspect all components for wear and tear, loose parts, or damage.
Conclusion
The Ruger AR-556 is a relatively affordable and accessible AR-15 platform, but it’s important to be aware of potential issues. Addressing problems early through regular maintenance and, when needed, professional gunsmith assistance, is critical for ensuring your Ruger AR-556 functions reliably and safely. Remember to always prioritize safety and follow proper firearm handling procedures.