M&P Sport or Ruger AR-556

[everarmed89]

I want to pick up an "extra" entry level AR and keep it in its stock form, ~ 6-7.5lb range.

Would like opinions on Ruger's AR556 compared to the Sport.

I like Ruger's 1:8 barrel twist over the Sport's 1:9, and the Ruger does have some different features than the Sport for the same money.

I should note I currently have a Sport and am very happy with it. It is now running an Eotech 517, quad rail, AVG etc, which suits its purpose, but has increased the weight.

Not too interested in the Del Ton Sport or DPMS Sportical, nor any of the carbon/polymer entry level options. Wanting to keep it aluminum.

Thank you

 

[Rastoff]

The M&P Sport can be had for $500. If you can find the Ruger for that price, I'd get the Ruger.

 

[Candrews86]

I have both and I'd go with the Ruger given you could get it for sub $600. The Ruger has the forward assist which the S&W does not. Not really a valuable feature as far as I'm concerned but it's there. I put a spring kit in my Ruger which lightened up the trigger a tad. Pretty accurate gun, lightweight, and great entry level AR. Best bang for your buck on an AR.

 

[Triathloncoach]

I saw the Sport on slickguns.com for $499 today.

Or the Ruger at $565

http://www.kygunco.com/ruger-ar-556-autoloading-rifle-556nato-161in-black-30-round-81700

 

[JaPes]

Would like opinions on Ruger's AR556 compared to the Sport.

Neither. You already have a factory complete rifle. Now is the time to build one yourself.

 

[cyphertext]

If you plan on having it as a spare, and keeping it stock, then get whichever one you find the cheapest.

The Ruger has the forward assist which the S&W does not. Not really a valuable feature as far as I'm concerned but it's there.... Best bang for your buck on an AR.

The Sport has a salt nitride treated barrel vs. the plain barrel on the Ruger. I'll go with something to provide longer barrel life over the forward assist and dust cover.

I also find it odd that the Ruger has an unshrouded firing pin... didn't think anyone went with that design anymore. Time will tell if it is an issue.

 

[crracer_712]

You've already got a sport, I'd get the Ruger. Give the Cold Hammer forged barrel a try

 

[everarmed89]

Thanks for the replies.

It sounds like I can't go wrong either way. I'm partial to S&W, I own several including other rifles and M&P handguns and they all function flawlessly, but I'm certainly not opposed to other brands..Ruger makes a decent product, and while the FA and dust cover aren't necessary for my use they would be nice, as well as the CHF barrel.

As far as a build, I just finished a PSA .308 18" AR10 from the ground up so I've gone thru the "build" experience.

For a bare bones gun that I'll basically leave in its stock form I'd rather just pick up a factory complete and call it a day.

I'll shop around for the best deal, whichever is better, I'll go with that one. Not in an immediate hurry, but definitely want to grab another one before election b.s. propagates.

 

[caleb4387]

I've been wondering same thing....think I'm gonna go ruger cause I want forward assist. not really needed but I think fun to have the look of it on the gun. classic AR look