Ruger AR-556 8511 vs. Stag Arms 15 M4 HBAR

HTTR · Apr 2, 2018

The Ruger 556 8511 has a cold-hammer forged barrel and is lighter at 6.7 lbs. The Stag Arms 15 M4 (Model 1) is around 7 lbs, but has a 1/7 twist, a chrome lined barrel, a removable carry handle, and is supposedly mil-spec. I have seen both going for around the same price, so that really isn't an issue. For a first-time AR owner, which would be the better buy?

bkuether · Apr 2, 2018

HTTR said:
The Ruger 556 8511 has a cold-hammer forged barrel and is lighter at 6.7 lbs. The Stag Arms 15 M4 (Model 1) is around 7 lbs, but has a 1/7 twist, a chrome lined barrel, a removable carry handle, and is supposedly mil-spec. I have seen both going for around the same price, so that really isn't an issue. For a first-time AR owner, which would be the better buy?

I don't honestly believe you can go wrong with either.

The one thing you get with the Stag is a classic front sight. The Ruger sight is milled. Not really an issue, and to some degree may provide some relief from glare off the front. Also the front hand guard holder screws off on the Ruger. Still can use any furniture, just works slightly different.

HTTR · Apr 3, 2018

Do you have experience with either of them?

Z_Man · Apr 3, 2018

I own the ruger, it seems nice, but ive only put 20 rounds through it. It is definitely not a mil spec rifle. The bolt carrier is cut differently, ill have to take some pictures with it next to a colt as the differences are subtle and I cant paint pictures well with my words. I have 0 experience with the stag.

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clandestine · Apr 3, 2018

Of the 2 I would choose Ruger. Ruger was shipping some AR's with unshrouded Carriers for a time. Not sure if they are still doing that, but if the are, I urge people to install a fully shrouded Carrier.

See lots of problems with Stags QC as of late. Headspace issues, overtorqued barrel nuts are the most common.

TexDefender · Apr 3, 2018

I don't own the M4 version by Stag. But I do own a Model 4 Stag. Which is like a full length service rifle. I have never ever had a problem with it and it is a pleasure to shoot, even with a 20" barrel. I have often asked their customer service folks question and always got a prompted answer. I believe that Stag warranties their barrels for life, I would suggest that before you buy one from them you double check to see if they still do. I never had a Ruger so I can't offer any comment.

clandestine · Apr 3, 2018

TexDefender said:
I don't own the M4 version by Stag. But I do own a Model 4 Stag. Which is like a full length service rifle. I have never ever had a problem with it and it is a pleasure to shoot, even with a 20" barrel. I have often asked their customer service folks question and always got a prompted answer. I believe that Stag warranties their barrels for life, I would suggest that before you by one from them you double check to see if they still do. I never has a Ruger so I can't offer any comment.

Does Stag install aftermarket handguard as part of their warranty? I'll answer that, it's a no.

I have installed hundreds or more for me and when companies don't use Grease and add 150FT# or more torque on the barrel nut, it causes things to break (index pins )when trying to do a simple handguard swap.

TexDefender · Apr 3, 2018

clandestine said:
Does Stag install aftermarket handguard as part of their warranty? I'll answer that, it's a no.

I have installed hundreds or more for me and when companies don't use Grease and add 150FT# or more torque on the barrel nut, it causes things to break (index pins )when trying to do a simple handguard swap.

Sorry, I was talking to the OP not to you. I never had a problem with my Model 4 Handguards. Didn't know we had to run our opinions on firearm products past you. I have never had a problem with my Model 4, or its handguards or any part on it. I bought it a couple of years ago. Maybe their QC had a bad run, maybe it's better or maybe it worse. Maybe Ruger QC is going bad a well. You really need to take a chill pill.

clandestine · Apr 3, 2018

TexDefender said:
Sorry, I was talking to the OP not to you. I never had a problem with my Model 4 Handguards. Didn't know we had to run our opinions on firearm products past you. I have never had a problem with my Model 4, or its handguards or any part on it. I bought it a couple of years ago. Maybe their QC had a bad run, maybe it's better or maybe it worse. Maybe Ruger QC is going bad a well. You really need to take a chill pill.

You made a comment about Stags and I responded with experience working on both subject guns.

If you have a problem with me commenting about AR Technical posts, then too bad.

DutchV · Apr 3, 2018

I didn't like the Ruger because it had a few non-standard parts. Front sight base is not forged, and the delta ring was plastic. I don't have an opinion on Stag, but if Chad doesn't like it, there's a reason.

BossmanPJ · Apr 3, 2018

I have had the Stag Model 4 (HBAR). It was a nicely built rifle and I did not have any issues with it. Having said that.... it barely had any rounds through it and I certainly wouldn’t put it on par with my Colts. Between the two I would go Ruger. Pretty much EVERYTHING they are putting out lately is great and you don’t really hear of issues.

clandestine · Apr 3, 2018

DutchV said:
I didn't like the Ruger because it had a few non-standard parts. Front sight base is not forged, and the delta ring was plastic. I don't have an opinion on Stag, but if Chad doesn't like it, there's a reason.

Those are important points about the Ruger. Good points.

BossmanPJ · Apr 3, 2018

I will also add that if you can swing a Colt 6721 as your first AR you will not regret it.

Luigi2020 · Apr 3, 2018

I got a Ruger AR-556 and it's been great. It's my first AR so I don't have anything to compare it to but for a beginner, it's been perfect.

3paul10 · Apr 3, 2018

Well Chad, I want to hear every opinion you got on any AR.......so there.

woodline · Apr 3, 2018

Frankly I think Chad should be freer with his opinions. Especially now that he's super far away from me.

clandestine · Apr 3, 2018

3paul10 said:
Well Chad, I want to hear every opinion you got on any AR.......so there.

fbi_surveillance_van said:
Frankly I think Chad should be freer with his opinions. Especially now that he's super far away from me.

According to Combloc and Willtill, I don't know shit.

3paul10 · Apr 3, 2018

clandestine said:
According to Combloc and Willtill, I don't know shit.[/QUOTE

Oh yes you know.lots of shit.

And I want to know it.....chicken shit or shit on a shingle.

HTTR · Apr 3, 2018

BossmanPJ said:
I will also add that if you can swing a Colt 6721 as your first AR you will not regret it.

Would like to purchase a Colt but I believe they stopped producing HBAR variants, and with the recent panic I haven't seen many available.

HTTR · Apr 3, 2018

clandestine said:
Those are important points about the Ruger. Good points.

Is there any particular reason or reasons you would choose the Ruger over the Stag, other than quality control issues? I've heard of quality control issues on the Ruger as well (gas block pins falling out while shooting, improperly staked gas keys, etc.)

Ruger AR-556 8511 vs. Stag Arms 15 M4 HBAR

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