Ruger AR-556 (Model 8500) 5.56 NATO AR-15 Carbine, 16.10 in Cold Hammer-Forged Threaded Barrel, A2 Front & Folding Rear Sight
This Ruger AR-556 Model 8500 is a classic AR-15 carbine configuration made in Mayodan, North Carolina, with a 16.10 inch cold hammer-forged 4140 chrome-moly steel barrel and a 1/2x28 threaded muzzle capped by the Ruger birdcage flash suppressor. It features forged 7075-T6 aluminum receivers with Type III hard-coat anodizing, a pinned A2 front sight base, and a Ruger Rapid Deploy folding rear sight on the flat-top Picatinny rail. Chambered in 5.56 NATO and compatible with .223 Remington, this example is in excellent condition and includes the factory box, manual, and a Magpul PMAG.
Condition
Overall Condition: Excellent condition, showing only faint signs of any prior use or handling.
Bore Overall Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Bore Rifling: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: Minor superficial scratches and blemishes are present on exterior surfaces. Overall appearance is clean and well kept.
What's Included
- Ruger factory cardboard box with end label (Model 08500)
- Ruger AR-556 instruction manual
- 1x Magpul PMAG Gen M2 MOE 30-round polymer magazine
Built in Ruger's Mayodan, North Carolina facility, this AR-556 follows the proven carbine pattern with a flat-top receiver featuring a Picatinny rail, forward assist, and ejection-port cover. The forged 7075-T6 aluminum receivers wear a Type III hard-coat anodized finish for durability.
The 16.10 inch cold hammer-forged 4140 chrome-moly steel barrel uses a versatile 1:8 twist to stabilize a wide range of bullet weights. It is threaded 1/2x28 and fitted with a Ruger birdcage flash suppressor. M4 feed ramps and a carbine-length gas system support smooth function with 5.56 NATO and .223 Remington ammunition.
Sighting is classic and straightforward: an A2-style pinned front sight base with bayonet lug and elevation adjustment, paired with a windage-adjustable Ruger Rapid Deploy folding rear sight mounted on the receiver rail. The rifle includes a manual safety selector.
Furniture is lightweight and practical, including a carbine-length two-piece ribbed polymer handguard and a 6-position M4-style collapsible stock with sling loop. Overall length is approximately 32.25 to 35.5 inches with an adjustable length of pull from 10 to 13.25 inches, and weight is about 6.5 pounds. Capacity is 30+1.