Ruger Goes Small in a Battle Rifle Caliber

Ruger long made an SR-25/AR-10 style 7.62 NATO-chambered rifle, the SR762. However, like most guns in that caliber, it was heavy, pushing almost 9 pounds unloaded and without optics, even with a short 16-inch barrel.

Well, the company is back with something much more interesting now in the Small-Frame Autoloading Rifle or SFAR. Introduced in both a 16-inch and 20-inch model, both run in the 7-ish pound range and include lots of features. The upper and lower receivers are both CNC-machined from 7075-T6 forgings and feature an oversized magazine well, forward assist, dust cover, and brass deflector.

Barrels are cold hammer-forged with 5R rifling, a 5/8”-24 muzzle thread, and finished with black nitride for accuracy, longevity, and easy cleaning. CNC-machined from high-strength super alloy steel, the bolt and barrel extension feature tapered lugs that strengthen the breech by adding material in key areas.

A 4-position regulated gas block helps the user dial in when using a suppressor. Ruger’s Elite 452 trigger is standard.

They use lots of AR-15 standard parts including the stocks, grips, and some internals. The asking price is $1,299.