The AR-15 can be deemed the finest close-quarters-battle weapon. Downsized from the heavy AR-10 chambered in 7.62 NATO, the .223 AR-15 has been deemed “America’s rifle” and is a popular civilian rifle. And many rely on the versatile AR platform for all their rifle needs, from home defense to competition. However, while the .223 is a fine cartridge, it has limitations. It isn’t well-suited to medium game or long-range use like a .308 rifle. But moving to the .308 generally means a heavier rifle. To solve the problem of weight, Ruger introduced the Small-Frame Armalite Rifle (SFAR). This rifle, on an AR-15 frame, is chambered for the .308 Winchester cartridge.
Ruger enjoys a hard-won reputation for reliable gear and excellent customer service. The new SFAR is entering a crowded market of AR-15 and .308-caliber rifles, so it had to offer a lot for the money. And it does just that at an MSRP of $1,329. The rifle got my attention a few months ago when it was introduced. After shuffling assets and a fair trade, I had the SFAR in hand.
About the Ruger Small-Frame AR
There are no surprises in the layout of the safety, magazine catch, bolt release and trigger assembly. It is all standard AR-15. The rifle features Ruger’s custom 425 trigger. This trigger is available as an aftermarket upgrade for all AR-15 rifles. The SFAR trigger is advertised at 4.25 pounds. My example breaks at a clean 4.0 pounds. A single SR 25 magazine with a 20-round capacity is supplied.
The SFAR is available with both a 16.1- and 20-inch barrel. My SFAR features a 16.1-inch barrel. The handguard is well done and offers significant real estate for adding lasers or lights. It isn’t difficult to mount a red dot or optic on the top rail. The barrel boasts a 1:10 twist. It isn’t a heavyweight but is plenty accurate.
The SFAR utilizes a two-port “Boomer” muzzle brake to redirect gas and reduce felt recoil. It was no louder than most .308 rifles. At 6.8 pounds without optics, the rifle is light enough. And it’s closer to 8 pounds with an optic mounted. This is light enough to use as a hunting rifle or an all-around tactical rifle for those who prefer a .308 chambering.
Gas Block and Ammo Loads
An adjustable gas block ensures function with a wide range of loads.
The SFAR incorporates an adjustable gas block into the design. Gas block adjustments come in many forms including the FN FAL with multiple gas block adjustments to the Springfield Saint with screw-in regulators. The SFAR features a four-position gas adjustment. Gas pressure is regulated by turning the valve with a wrench stored in the pistol grip. The default setting from the factory works with factory ammunition. Follow directions for lighter handloads or for suppressor use. You may even turn off gas operation completely and use the rifle as a manually operated repeater. Study the owner’s manual and determine if the load in question demands the regulator be adjusted.
For quick reference, if the rifle doesn’t hold open on the last shot, the load is too light. But if the bolt slams shut and ejects the case an unusual length from the rifle, the load is too hot. A dirty rifle might need more gas as well. And there is always a chance of off-spec rounds. However, if you keep the rifle reasonably clean and use factory ammunition,you will have no need to adjust the gas block.
If you enjoy handloading and wish to load light loads (.30-30 WCF level), you may do so with gas adjustment. My Ruger SFAR functions fine with 120- to 175-grain factory loads and even 220-grain handloads. This small-frame AR adjusts from the side. It’s a considerable improvement in safe and practical AR operation over the rifles that require gas adjustment from the muzzle end.
Shooting the Ruger SFAR
Since the AR-type rifle features good ergonomics, it doesn’t take long to find a groove with the SFAR. I hit the ground running. Balance isn’t that different from the AR-15 .223 rifle until you load a magazine with those big .308 cartridges. But it is good. The rifle swings quickly on target and offers modest recoil.
I used the rifle with first a quality red-dot scope and later the SIG Buckmaster 3x9x40mm rifle scope. The Buckmaster is one of the best buys on the market. Mine has ridden on half a dozen test rifles. After the initial evaluation of the rifle’s combat capabilities, I settled down on a benchrest for accuracy evaluation. The MTM Caseguard K Zone rest was used for stability. I used first the Black Hills 152-grain load and then the Hornady 178-grain Superformance. I fired two 3-shot groups with each load. The 152-grain load averaged below 2 inches. The best group was a 1.2-inch three-shot group at 100 yards with the Hornady. That is very good and will serve most pursuits.
The .308 caliber is often preferred because when something is hit with the .308, it stays hit. In the face of persistent violence, this is a rifle that offers a counterpoint. If you are not happy with the .223 or wish to obtain a more tactical hunting rifle, the Ruger SFAR is a logical progression. The SFAR hits hard, hits fast and offers enough power for hunting game or personal defense. The SFAR is a reliable and accurate rifle well worth its price.
Specifications
Barrel length: 16.1 inch
Thread pattern: 5/8 inch – 24
Twist: 1:10 RH
Capacity: 20
Overall Length: 34 to 37.25 inches
Length of pull: 11 to 14.25 in.
Weight: 6.8 pounds
MSRP: $1,329
Ruger: Ruger.com
