By: NxTC1275

NxTC1275 — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 16:42:00 +0000

I’ve had the exact issue as described in the article, induced easily by rapid-fire operation. Steel-cased/lacquered ammo has NEVER been used in my rifle. Various brands of both domestic & imported .223 AND 5.56mm varieties tested with the same results – a ‘shop stopper’ every few dozen rounds. This condition has continued through multiple cleanings & thorough lubrication. Rifle has been left on gas setting ’2′ at all times & only new ammunition used. Failures to extract/sticking/case rims ripped off by extractor & spent cartridges having to be driven out from the muzzle with a rod. Early signs of carrier-tilt already after only a few hundred rounds (wearing stop pin ahead of buffer tube). Buffer tube is getting REALLY abraised by the carrier. After giving the SR-556 the ‘benefit of the doubt’ for 4-5 shooting sessions spanning 10 months it has exhibited consistent failures, I’ve called Ruger technicians & they’ve paid for UPS picking to ship for repair. Preliminary chatter on the web seems to indicate a new bolt-carrier design is being installed ‘as needed’ but of course you won’t be able to easily purchase it – independent tof the Ruger repair shop. I also feel the magnesium coating of the gas block/barrel is ‘burning off’ & wearing abnormally/unevenly & prematurely for a $1,500 rifle. This much money was spent for the perceived ‘creme de la creme’ of modern gas-piston AR’s & this is what I got. If it functioned normally, I’d be quite happy with my purchase (I think). But these kind of malfunctions can get a man killed. And the problems with my particular gun have NOTHING to do with my choice of ammo. Failures are consistent across all bullet grains & loads, multiple name-branded American ammunition. Soooo… Ruger has a chance now to make it right & I’ve advised them in the letter to take all the time necessary. Considering the severity, I should receive a new serial numbered upper as opposed to any kind of bandage treatment, & also considering the problem with the barrel finish, etc.

Comments on: Ruger SR-556 Gas Piston/Op-Rod AR Carbine User Feedback: Case Extraction Problem and Solution.

By: NxTC1275