Ruger’s AR-556 in .300 Blackout: Balanced, Tactical Excellence

Balance matters when the stakes are high. Whether you’re training on a square range, tuning a home-defense setup, or stepping into your first .300 blackout rifle, you want a carbine that runs clean, shoulders fast, and takes to accessories like it was built for them—because it was.

RUGER AR-556

This pre-owned carbine is chambered in 300 AAC Blackout and comes in very good condition. Expect honest handling marks—just a few small scratches—but more importantly, expect the stuff that counts: a clean bore and a tight action. The rifle ships with two 30-round metal magazines and lands squarely in the Semi Auto category that most shooters rely on for defensive work, training, and general utility. If you’re looking to grab it before it’s gone, you can Shop this product right now on our shop page.

Why .300 AAC Blackout for a Defensive Carbine

The 300 AAC Blackout caliber earns its keep by being adaptable. With supersonic loads, you get solid barrier performance and energy out of a compact platform. With subsonic loads—especially paired to a suppressor through the rifle’s 5/8×24 threaded barrel—you keep blast and flash down while maintaining reliable function. The 1:7 twist in this carbine is ideal for stabilizing heavy subsonic bullets while still playing well with common supersonic weights. That flexibility is what makes .300 blackout shine indoors, at close range, and in compact builds where every inch matters.

Key Features That Matter Under Pressure

16.1″ Barrel and 5/8×24 Threaded Muzzle

The 16.1-inch barrel keeps you legal and maneuverable, with the thread pattern you expect (5/8×24) for brakes, flash hiders, and suppressors. Pair with a quality muzzle device to tune recoil impulse and muzzle movement. In tight spaces, less blast equals more control, and the threaded barrel sets you up for that.

Flat Top Upper with Picatinny Rail

No sights are included, which is exactly what many of us want: a clean slate for optics. The flat top receiver with a full-length Picatinny rail lets you mount a dependable red dot, LPVO, or offset irons. Keep your height-over-bore consistent, torque your mounts properly, and you’re ready to zero.

11″ MAGPUL M-LOK Handguard

The 11-inch MAGPUL M-LOK handguard gives you real estate without the weight, and at 6.4 lbs overall, the rifle keeps its balance forward but not nose-heavy. Mount a white light on the support side for positive ID, add a sling QD where you need it, and consider a hand stop for index. M-LOK keeps the profile slim and snag-resistant.

Six-Position Telescoping Stock and Enlarged Trigger Guard

Fit matters. The six-position stock helps you size the carbine to your body, armor, or layers, and the enlarged trigger guard keeps trigger access comfortable, even with gloves. Overall length runs 33 to 36.25 inches, which is right in the sweet spot for vehicles, hallways, and fast transitions.

Ruger DNA: Reliable, Straightforward, Proven

Ruger’s AR-556 line (MFG Model No. 8530, UPC 736676085309) is known for straightforward reliability. The brand didn’t reinvent the AR; it built it to work, day in and day out, with parts that play well with the rest of your kit. The black hard coat anodized finish stands up to use, and this example’s tight action and clean bore tell the story of a rifle that’s been maintained rather than abused.

Controls, Capacity, and What You’ll Need

This carbine carries a 30+1 capacity and ships with two 30-round metal magazines, which is exactly what you want to start training right away. Because it ships with no sights, plan on picking an optic early. For a defense build, a duty-grade red dot keeps weight down and speed up. If you lean toward distance or hunting with supersonic loads, an LPVO will stretch your legs. Either way, lock your optic down on the flat top rail, confirm torque, and get a solid 50-yard zero for a practical balance of holds with .300 Blackout.

Handling and Balance in the Real World

Weight and balance dictate how a rifle drives from target to target. At 6.4 lbs, the gun moves fast and stops fast. The 11-inch handguard gives you a long support-hand grip for recoil control without overextending. That matters when you need to flow through multiple positions—standing to kneeling to prone—under time. In a dark hallway or on a cold range, the best rifle is the one that shoulders the same every single time.

Pre-Owned, Vetted, and Priced to Move

At $649.99, this pre-owned example delivers the features you actually use—threaded barrel, M-LOK, flat top, adjustable stock—without draining your budget for the optic, light, sling, and ammo that complete the system. It’s listed in the Semi Auto category and ships at 8.65 lbs, packed and ready. The listing notes that the photos are the best statement of condition; review them closely and you’ll see exactly what we saw: light cosmetic wear, clean bore, and correct fitment. If you want a closer look or are ready to move, you can View product details and pricing on our shop page.

Setup Tips for a Purpose-Built .300 Blackout

Optics and Zero

Pick a reputable red dot or LPVO suited to your mission. For defense, a robust red dot with a lower-1/3 co-witness mount keeps your heads-up posture and sight picture clear. Confirm your zero with the ammo you’ll actually run.

Light and Sling

Mount a reliable white light on the M-LOK handguard at 10 or 2 o’clock. Run a two-point sling, adjusted for quick tighten/loosen transitions. When you need both hands, the sling keeps control. When it’s time to move, it keeps the rifle pinned and stable.

Muzzle Device and Ammo

With 5/8×24 threads, pick a device that supports your plan: flash hider for low-light, brake/comp for flat shooting, or a suppressor mount if you’re going quiet. Supersonic loads for range and reach; subsonic for suppression. The 1:7 twist stabilizes heavy bullets well, which is what you want for subsonic accuracy.

Who This Carbine Serves Best

If you’re stepping into .300 blackout for the first time, this is a clean, reliable way to get into the caliber with room to grow. If you’re building a suppressed home-defense carbine, the threaded barrel and light weight put you a few parts away from a highly controllable setup. If you’re a seasoned shooter who wants a dedicated .300 platform beside a 5.56 gun, the controls and manual of arms will feel instantly familiar.

Specs at a Glance

– Action: Semi-Auto
– Caliber: 300 AAC Blackout
– Barrel: 16.1″, 1:7 twist, 5/8×24 threaded
– Handguard: 11″ MAGPUL M-LOK
– Receiver: Flat top with Picatinny rail
– Stock: Six-position telescoping
– Weight: 6.4 lbs (shipping weight 8.65 lbs)
– Capacity: 30+1; includes two 30-round metal magazines
– Finish: Black hard coat anodized
– Extras: Enlarged trigger guard
– OAL: 33″ – 36.25″

Training Notes from the Field

Run it slick for the first 200 rounds. Confirm reliability with both supersonic and subsonic loads. Once it’s proven, add your light, sling, and optic one at a time—and re-test. Keep a logbook for round counts and malfunctions. Clean and lube lightly; the tight action and clean bore on this pre-owned rifle show it’s been cared for, so keep that standard going. When your rifle handles like an extension of you, that’s when you’re ready.

If you’re ready to gear up, you can Check current availability and move straight to the shop page to purchase from the retailer.

The bottom line is simple: this rifle is balanced where it counts. Clean bore, tight action, and the right features for a modern .300 blackout build—all at $649.99. If it fits your mission, don’t wait. Shop this product here and lock in your setup.

People Also Ask

What makes this product stand out from competitors?

This product offers superior quality and innovative features that set it apart in the market. Its design focuses on both performance and reliability, making it a top choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Is this product suitable for beginners?

Yes, this product is designed with user-friendly features that make it accessible to beginners while still offering advanced capabilities for experienced users.

What warranty or support is available?

The product comes with comprehensive warranty coverage and excellent customer support to ensure your satisfaction and peace of mind.

How does this compare to similar products in its price range?

This product offers exceptional value for its price point, providing features and quality that typically cost significantly more in comparable alternatives.

What maintenance is required?

Minimal maintenance is required thanks to the product’s durable construction and quality materials. Regular cleaning and occasional inspections will keep it performing optimally.