4 Ruger 556 Problems That You Probably Didn’t Know Before

To make this AR-15-style rifle affordable, Ruger had to compromise a few things. Hence, it is normal if you are experiencing some Ruger 556 problems previously mentioned by the users.

Among the most common issues, problematic triggers, stuck bolt carriers, jamming, and feeding failure are worth your attention.

The solutions to the problems I have described in this article are to help you keep the gun smooth. Let’s not waste any more time and get started. 

Features & Specifications of Ruger 556:

Barrel Length16.10″
Magazine Capacity30 rounds
Overall Length32.25″ – 35.50″
Caliber5.56 NATO
Twist Rate1:8″ RH
Rear SightAdjustable Ruger® Rapid Deploy
Front SightAdjustable Post
SafetyManual Switch
Weight6.5 lb.
Length of Pull10.25″ – 13.50″
Trigger Pull4.5 pound
Common Ruger 556 problems and Solutions
Ruger 556

Common Ruger 556 Problems and Solutions

ProblemsSolutions
Trigger MalfunctionReplace the trigger pin, trigger spring, or the whole trigger assembly.
Jammed Bolt CarrierSend the gun to Ruger, or try cleaning the gun.
JammingClean the gun properly, replace the magazine and action spring, and change the ammo.
Feeding FailureTry brass casing bullets, clean and lube the gun, or send it to Ruger.

1. Problematic Trigger

In this problem, the bolt stops from closing.

Possible Reasons

From the nature of this Ruger AR-556 trigger problem, I can say that it is probably the cause of a half-cocked trigger.

Studying this particular case, it has been clear that the pin holding the trigger in its position is gone. And the spring is also not its place.

The Fix

Replacing the trigger pin solves this issue. Also, if you find that the spring has become weak, you will have to change it too.

But it is possible that you still are facing a similar issue. And, I am afraid you would have to replace the whole trigger assembly to fix it.

If the gun is still under warranty, sending it back to Ruger will be the best thing to do.

2. Jammed Bolt Carrier

Your AR556’s bolt carrier may get suddenly locked back.

Possible Reasons

This is the classic case of a very common Ruger AR-556 bolt catch problem. There are other symptoms too.

After a careful inspection, some users have seen that the back of the gas key is wedging by slamming itself into the charging handle.

Such situations occur due to the mishandling of the user.

The Fix

The best solution to this problem is to send the gun to Ruger if the firearm is still under warranty.

But you can try cleaning the gun and testing whether the problem is still there or not.

3. Jamming Issue

after jamming, you may notice that the target is off and there is a gouged casing.

Possible Reasons

A Ruger AR-556 jamming problem can become serious as the ammo sometimes doesn’t leave the gun. Here, you would see a bent bullet with a gouged casing.

There are some possible reasons to explore before one sends the gun to Ruger.

Check whether you are providing enough energy for proper cycling. Also, inspect the condition of the magazine and whether it is functioning properly.

After that, check the strength of the action spring. Furthermore, out-of-spec ammo and wrong lubrication can cause this issue too.

The Fix

Once you have ensured that your actions have nothing wrong to cause this problem, you can move on to the next step.

First of all, disassemble the rifle, and check the mentioned parts while cleaning them.

Try changing the magazine, and action spring if necessary. It should improve the condition. 

Lastly, consult with an expert about the ammo brand and the lubrication you are using. 

4. Feeding Problem

Feeding failure is a problem that is directly connected to the ejection issue. Your AR556 rifle may have both extraction and feeding problems.

Possible Reasons

The reason for Ruger AR-556 feeding problems is a few. Among them, not cleaning the gun and the wrong kind of ammo are the most common.

The Fix

First of all, you have to try the gun after cleaning and lubricating it properly. Also, try a different brand of ammunition.

Pro Tip: Don’t use steel case bullets in your AR as it gets stuck most of the time; a brass case is better. And, clean the gun following the instructions from your user manual.

The extractor and the bolt come with packing grease from the factory. So, you need to clean them right after unboxing.

User Feedback on Ruger 556

Lightweight construction, great accuracy, and affordable pricing make the AR-556 a great entry-level firearm.

There are many reasons to like the Ruger AR556 rifle. A good trigger, accurate cold hammer forged barrel, and SL stock are a few among them.

At such reasonable pricing, you won’t get another competitor model matching the performance of a Ruger 556 firearm.

Some users say that the quality of the trigger needs some improvements. Otherwise, it is a great rifle for target practicing and other purposes.

Top 3 Alternative Guns of Ruger 556

Knowing the Ruger AR556 problems, it is normal to look for alternatives. Here are 3 firearms that are worth your consideration.

Palmetto State Armory 10.5″ PA-15 AR Pistol

30 rounds of capacity and lots of practical features are present in this firearm. And, you don’t have to pay a lot to buy one.

Daniel Defense MK18 AR Pistol

Enough rail space, better looks, premium finish, and reliable performance are the reasons for MK18’s huge demand in the community.

Springfield Armory Saint Victor 5.56 SBA3 Pistol

I like this one because of its effective muzzle device, and practical hand guard design.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the Ruger AR-556 a good rifle?

Yes, it is one of the most reliable ones in the market.

Can you shoot 223 ammo in a Ruger AR-556?

Yes

Does Ruger still make the AR-556?

Yes; SR-556 is discontinued.

What is the range of a Ruger AR-556?

Good accuracy within 100 yards

What is the difference between Ruger AR-556 and SR-556?

An AR-556 has a single Picatinny rail whereas an SR-556 has quad Picatinny rails.

Conclusion

That is all about the Ruger 556 problems, possible reasons, and fixes.

According to online expert reviews, it is an inexpensive entry-level gun yet very reliable.

For cost-cutting reasons, the company had to cut some corners; hence, the issues.

Share your experience with the AR-556, and tell me about the problems you have faced.

1 comment
  1. I got one month ago shot 2 and half mags then the ejector broke I sent it to ruger to fix can it be trusted as battle rifle with better components

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