Ruger AR556 Review - Entry Level Budget Ar-15 Rifle

736676085293 - Ruger 8529 AR556 Free Float Handguard
736676085002 - Ruger 8500 AR556 Standard Model
Please let us know in the comments your opinion and also like and subscribe, it would really help us out.

[@wuba-luba-dub-dub]

I got my Ruger AR15 3 years ago for $500. Loved it so much I immediately bought a second one. 3 years later and I haven't had a single problem. Great rifles.

[@postedinthecut1565]

They are $950 now at turners in california

[@noahjohnson932]

@@postedinthecut1565 yikes

[@napalmstickstokids5619]

@@postedinthecut1565 shit man i just got mine for $640

[@trajanuslarocque7572]

Why do you need a 2nd AR? What is the purpose? In case you need to use it, you aren't going to dual wield them. Seems a bit obsessive.

[@wuba-luba-dub-dub]

@@trajanuslarocque7572 You obviously don't know shit about AR15s so I'm not gonna dignify your stupid question with an answer.

[@magdump7380]

Bought one of these back when you could get them for under $500. A very underrated rifle.

[@williamjohnson6152]

Just bought one of these for my 1st ar style rifle. Thanks for the video. Answered my questions.

[@christurner8255]

I miss the days not so long ago when the Ruger and Smith and Wesson ARs were $499.99. I should have picked up several of each, not to sell, to enjoy because in hindsight that was such a good deal. I just paid $799 for my AR556 and was happy about it. In 2018 I decided on the M&P Sport 2 instead of Ruger and they were both 499 online now I have both. Both are a wonderful value.

[@Rolexenforcer]

My dealer wants $999 for an AR556 🥺

[@AtomaJava]

Im deciding between this and the mp sport 2. What do you suggest? This will be my first ever gun purchase

[@christurner8255]

@@AtomaJava I would go with the Ruger.

[@Rolexenforcer]

@@AtomaJava they are both equally nice but I give the slight edge to the Rugger 556, my only complaint on the 556 is the ruger proprietary grip, it’s s a bit slippery, change it out for a magpul and you’re good to go.

[@Ruger760]

@@Rolexenforcer I just got mine for that price :/

[@jamsionhodges786]

Just purchased 1 recently, thank you for your insight

[@ryanbales8116]

I've had mine since 2016. I haven't shot it as much as I would like, but it hasn't failed me yet. Great video.

[@ryanbales8116]

@Connor Fuller it's a great weapon. Just goes to show you don't need to spend an exorbitant amount of money on an AR.

[@brandonbeard8488]

I have one and love it, the only things I have done outside of putting on an Eotec and a bipod was an ambidextrous charging handle and a quad rail. I don't know how much they've changed what they do or don't on that rifle, but I have the one with the standard handguard and the castle nut on the buffer tube was not staked. I contacted Ruger and they said they don't stake the castle nut. Unfortunately my castle nut came loose, so I tightened and staked it.

[@matterickson5993]

Just got a Ruger 556 and after watching your video I bought the Damage Industries Enhanced Recoil Buffer Spring and Spikes T2 Buffer. I had no idea about either of those products but it sounds like it is a great and affordable upgrade. Appreciate the heads up! I don't know if you have a video dedicated to your favorite AR-15 upgrades but if not, you should do one for sure!

[@christurner8255]

These are great rifles. First I got a 556 MPR but there was a problem with the bolt or bcg so I had to send it to Ruger. Ruger customer service is excellent. Ruger had it back to me in a little more than a week and it's been fine since and that was about 2 years ago. I just recently got the 8500 model AR-556 and its been great. I would like to get this model as well it's at a local gun store but they want $1099.

[@anthonygerber8261]

I love the 8542. 16" barrel instead of 18". Mid length gas instead of rifle length.

[@NicolasXnarcotic]

I used mine for a frt build. And I laugh at the guys with multi thousand dollar guns that refuse to function, usually after it gets hot. I've ran STUPID amounts through my ruger and it eats anything. Changed buffer spring and went with a h2 weight. (Even before I decided to go the route of a torture build.) Vortex optics, and a bunch of lube. Some welding gloves and ears and eyes and it's an absolute riot. I would definitely recommend it. Especially when the average owner is not going to put the thing through what mines seen.

[@Mydrivinglife]

Thank you for not talking to us new AR owners like we are complete idiots. Nobody knows about these weapons without being taught. A lot of KZbinr’s channels are just complete ass’s about they talk to new owners. Thanks again.

[@Blap552]

Yup,I ran the chamber brush down the barrel after I shot it the first time,then called ruger and they said don't sweat it. I won't condemn myself,Gods' peace!

[@djackson2560]

I dont even shoot that much but was able to keep a super tight group even when rapid firing even though I have a high end red dot on it which I'm sure helped but still this ar is badass

[@saulsaucedo9286]

What red dot are you running

[@venerapqd]

Thanks for the review. Good job 👍

[@williampeck7879]

I just called my local gun store and they informed me that their number one selling AR 15 is the ruger AR 556. And they sell a lot of guns at rule king.

[@johnwilliams8654]

I just got one on sale for $699! The barrel sold me over getting the S&W Sport2. The threaded delta ring is nice too!

[@alexramz1515]

Sportsman Warehouse sale? XD

[@DannyCasino]

Yeah man I have both and there both pretty Good when I bought them Illinois labeled and illegal to have so what did I do I moved to Indiana...hahaha I'm the smartest man alive

[@divadonroda5]

Great info thanks for the review.

[@curtis3854]

Build! Build! Build!! I own the Ruger and the S&W S2, both are nice solid guns but my home build's which I have a lot less money in run just as good if not better.

[@beardalaxy]

I bought a Ruger handgun in 2020 for my first firearm ever, and it's done pretty well for me so far! So when I was browsing around for ARs and saw this one I was definitely intrigued. Thanks for the super in-depth video! Not sure if I'm going to get one yet or not but if I do, it'll be because of this.

[@MultiStrings123]

Ay it was my first gun too

[@sjl9942]

I have only one complaint about my Ruger Ar556, the takedown pins are still stiff and I've owned it since 2016 but other than that I've shot over 400 rounds in one range trip with only 2 failure to extract issues after 300 rounds. This rifle is a real tack driver I highly recommend it to anyone who is looking for their first or next AR-15

[@jeremymcintyre7812]

Ruger is one of my favorite brands they have been around 60+ years, guns are responsibly priced and they work. And the last 10 years they have released alot of new and some old styles. Example ruger have the new 5.7 and 9mm carbines.

[@TheRealEMURSE]

My first ar

[@Dirty2Clean1980]

Just got one that was almost brand new with sig romeo five red dot & magnifier, plus a 3 stage for grip. For 600 bucks flat. Cant beat it and its never even been shot until i purchased it. Im gonna change the trigger, and barel and thats it for this one. Great AR foe the price. Runs just as good as my DD that i paid 2300 for.

[@arcticfoxvikingseaking2206]

Good review, I was going to spend 500 more but ended up getting this and a hunting rifle

[@Sim_ulation7]

It is excellent I have the talo special edition white-out and love it just going to swap the stock and the hand guard because I hate that triangle front sight so it's getting a stinger handguard and I'll re ceracoat it white

[@hugocarmelo6903]

A trick: you can watch movies at Flixzone. Been using them for watching loads of movies these days.

[@daviswilson5637]

@Hugo Carmelo yea, been watching on Flixzone} for since november myself =)

[@carpentryandguns6752]

Bolt, Barrel, trigger. That’s the important parts of an AR for those wondering. That said, replace the trigger in this bad boy, put a ambi charging handle and a better stock on it and you’ve got one hell of a rifle.

[@JamesgnuoY1]

I agree. I havent changed anything and it is far more accurate than anything I was issued during a 22 year career in the US Army as an Infantryman.

[@dtogo4286]

I've heard the barrel and the bolt were both lacking.

[@carpentryandguns6752]

@@dtogo4286 Not sure who told you that. Barrel is cold hammer forged, same as what Daniel Defense uses. As for the bolt, it’s 9310 steel with a 8620 steel bolt carrier. The trigger is a 8lb pull. I personally don’t like the trigger or stock but for the money it’s a hard rifle to beat.

[@dtogo4286]

@@carpentryandguns6752 It's not chrome-lined or melonited; I'm under the impression this will leave it more prone for rust.

[@carpentryandguns6752]

@@dtogo4286 Its possible if you don’t keep it dry and clean it every so often. Don’t forget this rifle is selling for less than $700. I’m not saying it will stack up to an ADM or a Knights. I’m saying that the rifle you get is worth more than what you pay. Most folks aren’t going to drop over $2000 on an AR. This and the Saint are the two best sub $1000 AR’s in my opinion.

[@Jerry-Parker]

Excellent Review !👍

[@Bubba_Fett_]

imagine what the prices will be like in 10years!

[@chiefinspectorlee3324]

Just bought this yesterday cant wait to shoot it, thanks for the video!

[@cxzb]

How much did you pick it up for?

[@mydolcegabbana1986]

I have 2 of them zero malfunctions so far after 4k rounds and I only shoot steel case wolf ammo

[@SuperNova4111]

Got mine for 875 at my local gun store

[@jack-yy2gr]

Aye um looking to get it is the rail plastic?

[@eastkoutdoors3847]

@@jack-yy2gr No it’s not I would definitely get it I just picked one up today

[@TheArmedScotsman]

Great review! ;)

[@pmh1nic]

Thanks for the review.

[@juanpagan706]

Gracias me asia falta este video soy nuevo en ar 15..

[@jeffjefferson2853]

My Ruger AR556 came with an out of spec lower and a barrel that attracts rust like a vacuum. Crazy thing is you can currently buy a BCM upper complete and a PSA complete lower for only 100$ more than these budget guns currently go for, and you don't have to worry about barrel rust either.

[@james.a.a]

Not necessarily, I have a BCM 11.5" enhanced lightweight upper and it attracts rust forward of the gas block.

[@jejdjejsjejdjdjdjd8058]

@@james.a.a provide a picture of a rugar barrel and ill believe you...you probably bought a rugar lower, and somebody tossed on an upper and a barrel... you wouldn't be the first to buy a "fake" AR. they are out there...Ive seen some gems over the years.

[@james.a.a]

@@jejdjejsjejdjdjdjd8058 I built the 11.5" Upper myself with the help of thoroughbred armament LLC, it's definitely a BCM barrel and gas block that attracts rust lol.

[@james.a.a]

I'm just saying that not all BCM builds are also 1000% flawless, that being said, 2.5k rounds through the 11.5" BCM in the last year and besides some rust forward of the gas block, no issues whatsoever

[@dtogo4286]

The barrel concerns me. Did you replace yours?

[@EZOunces]

Good video quality and details, and yeah there’s other expensively built ar15s, but by all means this ar is not the definition of budget nor entry level. Excellent yes, but there is nothing that comes on the gun attachment/upgrade wise except the free float,, basically have to outfit it yourself. if we’re talking the most budget friendly and entry level ar made by ruger, it’d have to be the standard ar with magpul furniture,, you don’t have to research as much about outfitting the gun unlike with the free float, the idea of getting the free float over the other means you have to know the benefits. A great platform to build off though, so that could also correlate to how it’s a good entry level gun👍

[@USARightPatriot1]

Admittedly I have an ar 556 with wh a2 post and sport 2 but I want this one too. Already have parts ready for the simple upgrades.

[@bigfootaintreal5454]

I bought my Ruger AR556 in 2016 for cheap. I believe I paid $450. I LOVE it. Its became my go to rifle. Bed side at night, deer, hog, what ever ! I really like the 1in8 twist on the barrel, you can shoot anything through and it dead on. I use an LPVO , Monstrum, I paid $80 or $90 bucks for it .LOVE IT !

[@phonymex3340]

You use a AR for deer?

[@bigfootaintreal5454]

@@phonymex3340 yes sir ! Hornady55 grain spire point. I hunt the Ozark and Ouachita Mt. and about 100 yards is all you can see. It lays them down!

[@michaelburns3693]

Same setup I just got used from a store in Waco Texas.

[@believejesusislord578]

Great review Thank you

[@ItsdaFittySimp]

Found it for $750 at rural king Picking it up Tuesday!

[@brandonknight431]

Good review, i have the same rifle. Im upgrading the hell out of it.

[@Wesmancan]

Why. Upgrades don t make it a better gun.

[@ItsdaFittySimp]

@@Wesmancan but it’s a great gun

[@urbanmeyer9725]

@@Wesmancan because he wants to obviously

[@chrisbunn3272]

I have a Ruger AR556, and I did quite a few upgrades to it. Mostly just to increase accuracy.

[@kristijanmedved6066]

Like what? I just bought it and was thinking about some upgrades

[@chrisbunn3272]

@@kristijanmedved6066 Match grade trigger, better stock, foregrip, upgraded the bolt carrier group, etc.

[@jeremiah7855]

Great ar15 gonna buy one has to be heavy barrel in my state of md if I wanna go complete rifle...I can get lower and upper separate but I don't wanna go that route again

[@dtexan4118]

I love mine!!! I got 1k + rounds with no malfunctions the only thing that sucks is the trigger its like 9lbs but the rifle is awesome

[@joanleonard427]

Hello enjoyed this vid

[@rolandonavarro7622]

Bought one with my second stimulus check for 750

[@CosmoE12]

I’m not sure how or why, but I just purchased one from PSA for $599… I’m fairly certain they marked the price wrong or something of the sorts because I checked multiple other credible online gun stores and they all had them marked at $800+

[@Robin6512]

My MPR shoots as good as my mates DanDef what costs more than double. For I do with it it’s a great and reliable rifle. About 1K rounds per year

[@landasales1]

Nice!

[@zzaher91]

I love Rugers so much bang for the buck. solid firearm and it does the job well.

[@gundeals]

For sure.

[@BIGPUN521]

Is there a longer handrail available that would be compatible with the barrel nut already installed?

[@blazinhot6873]

The thing about this model AR that I havent seen anyone speak about, is that Ruger uses a rubber o-ring instead of a spring for the extractor. Im not sure if its a good or bad design change though. Anyone know?

[@sjl9942]

Mine came with the tiny rubber o-ring and the spring and plunger in the extractor, although I put a bcm upgraded extractor spring in it for 5 bucks and it made my spent casings really fly

[@mnrodriguez]

Entry level! Funny!

[@jshepard152]

I've not seen that particular Ruger AR-556 model with the free-float handguard. It looks more like the Ruger MPR rifle.

[@luishigaredajr3102]

Is the diameter of the free floating rail guard big enough to house over-barrel suppressors?

[@tylerdurden4618]

What are the Ruger AR 15 556 That has the fixed Ironed Sites.?

[@legionmartin]

My so called entry level Ruger Magpul 5.56 has gone up in value by approximately $500.00. I guess all it needs to do is make an entry-level hole in something.

[@nickbrockman5753]

I've had many issues with my Ruger AR556 since getting it, barrel nut wouldn't come off no matter what I did, so I sent it to Ruger to remove it for me but they literally just put another handguard on there like it comes with and sent it back to me. So I just took it to cut the barrel nut off, then after a few weeks it was failing to fire every other round so I sent it in to be fixed, Ruger sends it back to me with my m lok handguard crooked and barrel nut impossible to get off YET AGAIN. Finally today I got that barrel nut cut off and put a new B.A.D m lok handguard on there and it works fine. Budget for sure but will get the job done like almost any gun will. I was gonna sell it and buy a PSA AR but thought to just stick with my current ar.

[@andrewkiesling3334]

i just picked up a new ruger 5.56 for $699, new

[@thefncowboy8051]

If you bought one of these stock, watch specific modifications or upgrades would you consider to make it a higher speed ar? obviously stock and grips already considered. Just appreciate your opinion?

[@b.w.22]

Hey bud - I know you asked this a while ago, but I recently got an AR 556, the carbine one with the tall front-sight and the more classic foregrip. This guy goes through a lot of important things, but in my research, these Rugers are pretty solid all the way around. If there were anything aside from personal preference things like grips or stocks, the trigger seems to be the one item who’s improvement will really upgrade the rifle. At the end of the day, this thing is mil-spec all the way around. Maybe if you shoot a ton, a chrome-lined barrel might be a thing.

[@tonyhidalgo3558]

Little correction, it's an 11" hand guard for sure. I'm putting a 16.5" guard on mine with a blast diffuser

[@carpentryandguns6752]

They make different models. AR 556 with 15” 11.5” free float guards m lok MR556(magpul furniture) and a base AR556 with the old school heat shield.

[@kentcthahauler5354]

4th of July sale they say have these at my Local store for $599 guess I'll get one today, when I get off since they were $799 smh.....

[@bnferguson9827]

Are they still at that price range and if so where?

[@SayLessMadeit]

Lovely

[@michaelmurphy7241]

i was in the army bruh anything is better than nothing you can always change the parts out if the spec are the same as every other ar 15 just get one and hook it up

[@DavidFontanari]

Good review but No words on accuracy, wich is very, I mean Very important

[@connerwilson5161]

whats a good price for them today in texas? one at the shop for 650

[@Watthead80]

Looking to get my first AR. As I'm new to this style of rifle (grew up on bolt actions or single shot shotguns). Which would you recommend the M&P15 sport 2 or the AR556? I'm not worried about adding all the tactical stuff, I see no need for flashlights or multiple optics. Any info would be great. Thanks in anldvance

[@menomisespeanut]

They're both pretty similar, so at this point whichever is cheaper is good to go. I got the Ruger because it was cheaper than the S&W. I hardly shoot mine anyway because I'm too lazy to clean my rifle and I hate carrying it around, but mine shoots very good. No regrets.

[@bradynarze6213]

Go with the AR556, the M&P looks nice but it's not built as well as the Ruger. You'll be better in the long run with the Ruger

[@b.w.22]

Hey man - if you haven’t done it yet, I too recommend the Ruger. For all the “budget” talk, nearly everything is mil-spec and they didn’t skimp out on things like the dust cover or forward assist. The only thing that makes this thing “entry level” or “budget” is the price and absence of chrome barrel lining. The dong-measuring in the AR world is out of hand: if one can’t be good with this rifle as it sits, a $4000 rifle won’t make one better.

[@hairydogstail]

@@bradynarze6213 Better how?

[@bradynarze6213]

@hairydogstail the Ruger MPR AR556 is amazing. It's built so you can modify it to be either long range, or a AR pistol or just stock all from one platform

[@saulsaucedo9286]

What red dot sight do you recommend for this

[@jimh527]

Good, well made base rifle for upgrades. Gun snobs are hilarious.. Shit hits the fan, kind of like wearing gold chains and driving sports cars. You don't want to be the center of attention.

[@cjsteele9594]

They spent 3000$ on an AR and regret it.

[@broduscrowell537]

💯

[@MichelKeis]

I was 90% sure the camera was going next during the intro =)

[@Burna43]

Does it have a milspec trigger guard?

[@jessekeller6465]

Hey guys! I’m new to ARs but I have a question, are you able to mount a vertical grip on the weapon or do I need to buy a rail to put it on?

[@gundeals]

as long as the grip is mlock compatible, yes you are!

[@jessekeller6465]

@@gundeals thank you so much!

[@miguelceja6210]

What up grads can you do to it

[@ConnerWilson-zo6gv]

What’s a good price for one today ?

[@nickpaulo5202]

Can you change the stock?

[@amirjohnson8035]

Just got mine in chads ford pa 839

[@grifffinrowwwell3312]

what optic do you have??

[@adriannarobeson4758]

Just got mine AR556 the other day Christmas 🎄 gifts 🎁 now all I need to do is head up to Pennsylvania and get my 30 round Magazine's, since Maryland only has a 10 Magazine' restriction which is totally asinine with a city of Baltimore that is extremely dangerous to live in because criminals aren't being prosecuted they are repeated violent felons..

[@HectorPerez-jp1jx]

Would have been nice to see the bolt carrier group! Is it chrome-lined, is it full auto??

[@ShootaMcG]

Theres ruger -ar 556 and the mpr 2 different rifles

[@marcopolo9521]

Just put money down on a used one in great condition with a vortex red dot for $800. I have a PSA AR so I’m curious on the differences between the two

[@Wesmancan]

That’s a new gun price.

[@marcopolo9521]

@@Wesmancan yeah they seemed to have dropped prices on everything. I bought my PSA upper and lower for roughly $1,000 with just MBUS sights. Now I’m hearing they’re down to like $600 complete. But the Ruger is still $900 new? It’s confusing

[@maverick4462]

know this is a year old but cool I looked at one today for 600 used.

[@gundeals]

nice, not a bad pickup.

[@bnferguson9827]

Where?

[@maverick4462]

@@bnferguson9827 a buddy, he moved out of country, couldn't take it with him.

[@bnferguson9827]

@@maverick4462 thank you for responding

[@85nlacy]

I really want a ddm4v7 but its just sooo expensive 😩

[@gundeals]

true!

[@__boo]

400 dollars for my AR556 purchased privately directly from the gun owner. I got so lucky

[@intimidate4339]

I hate you

[@bnferguson9827]

Hey do you know if it is possible anywhere to get one for $350 I ain't got much money but if you come across one could you let me know

[@__boo]

@@bnferguson9827 Nah i got lucky

[@bnferguson9827]

@@__boo thank you for replying

[@jackhohenwarter7362]

Reading all these comments about people getting a “great deal” is starting to make me wonder if I made the wrong decision in purchasing this firearm. I paid $890 not including tax at the local gun store.

[@sarcomere1]

I just paid $950 here in Maryland before tax. There may be a run on guns due to the Ukraine situation. Retailers told be it got really busy 48 hours prior to the invasion.

[@calaabo]

These days that still a good deal. The war on guns in America has made the prices sky rocket, so yes in todays terms you certainly got a deal

[@robeyreddzz4568]

I literally just bought mine last night here in md for $850. Also it's bullshit we have to go.out of state to ger the 30 rd mags that are legal to have but not buy here in Maryland smh

[@MLinktheprophet]

Nice video, but how many times can you say "entry level"?

[@williampeck7879]

Really" I hate that term it puts us regular Joes in a box and I don't like it !!

[@royalmorehead2110]

What is the model # of the Ruger 556 in this review?

[@johncope1793]

Looking at Rugers site I believe it is 8529 except ruger says the free float handguard is 11inches compared to the video saying it’s 13inches. Maybe ruger changed the length since the video or he misspoke when he said the length.

[@michaelm7422]

I have 4 NIB , only $400 each at the time yrs ago 🤦🏻‍♂️

[@TheShortYautja]

I got my Ruger for 849 and it’s got magpul moe furniture

[@Sims5.0]

Great video.. a little hard to hear ya tho

[@vito769]

Interesting pin hole))

[@JackieSampsel]

Great rifle, but hardly a budget or entry level one, even in our inflated times here in 2022 (or back in 2021 when video was released). IMHO, budget/entry level implies $500 or less.

[@ricobaby555]

I know right that kill me with budget talk it’s $720+ and u need mags and bullets and sights! All that out the door it’s 1k

[@JGD185]

AR15s are sold out everywhere but I found this one online for $950. Is that an ok price or too much?

[@im7055]

Just paid 899 for one, so that sounds about right

[@brandonknight431]

@@bcovington358 i got mine from dunhams in michigan for 800 on sale from 900

[@brandonknight431]

@@im7055 thats the price ive seen, i got mine on sale for 800

[@arp_tweezie8184]

For that price I’d go with a PSA save some money and buy some ammo

[@ianege4752]

I just paid 789.99 for mine. Came to 840ish after tax

[@clinteastwood666]

I remember when this was about 500$

[@bnferguson9827]

Do you think it well come down to that price range again due to the fact that most people own them now. Maybe a surplus price because I'm looking to own one but ain't got that kind of cash I'm really limited on how much I can spend.

[@hairydogstail]

So tell me the difference between an entry level budget and a so called 1st tier professional rifle...Why do you think PSA is not a good entry rifle..

[@wyrdscynce]

is that a glasgow accent?

[@RAYRAY-yt3hz]

👍🇺🇸🗽

[@Mck499]

Im gonna buy one before they get banned

[@jtaylorb88]

Man anybody ever tell you you look just like the guy on prepper junkie? It's uncanny 😆

[@N1StreetArt9494]

Now that's a Bad Bit**

[@Wesmancan]

American tactical is a fine gun that you can buy for 300 less. Usd

[@carpentryandguns6752]

ATI barrel is not great. They really skimp out on their barrels and bolt carriers which are basically the two most important components.

[@kyleleffew7287]

Is the barrel threaded?

[@aslamc9288]

Yes, it is. 1/2-28

[@jacepalermo6053]

8:00 Thanos snap

[@michaelharris2502]

Lost me at being disappointed about the butte not having a rubber pad...

[@harrisonclark4382]

Is that an Irish accent architect?

[@itzxsblast]

Just picked one up for $670 after tax !!!!

[@ChatGPT1111]

Midway USA now has them for $739 as of June 2023. Get em now before the next round of Bydenn drunken sailor spending. 😂😂