Ruger Harrier AR-15 Replaces AR-556, Hebron-Made, Priced $699-$749

Ruger Updates AR-15 Catalog Ahead of SHOT Show 2026

As the firearms industry approaches SHOT Show 2026, Ruger has announced a restructuring of its AR-15 offerings. The new Harrier series will replace the long-running AR-556 family, signaling a shift in both branding and feature set. At launch, the Harrier line consists of two rifle configurations built around a shared core platform, with differences primarily in furniture and rail setup.

Initial Models and Pricing Structure

Both Harrier models feature 16-inch barrels and free-floated M-LOK handguards. The base configuration is equipped with standard A2-pattern furniture, including an A2 pistol grip and M4-style waffle stock, and carries a listed MSRP of $699. A second variant, priced at $749, upgrades to Magpul furniture, specifically the MOE-K2 grip and DT Carbine collapsible stock. This model also adds a full-length Picatinny rail along the 12 o’clock position of the handguard, providing additional mounting space for optics and accessories.

Manufacturing Location and Background

Product images for the Harrier series display a “Proudly Made in Hebron, KY” watermark. Hebron was previously home to Anderson Manufacturing, a well-known AR-15 producer that ceased operations before being acquired by Ruger. The Harrier rifles appear to reflect the integration of Anderson’s manufacturing assets into Ruger’s production pipeline. In its final years, Anderson expanded its AR lineup and improved overall fit and finish, suggesting that the Harrier series may benefit from that experience combined with Ruger’s quality control standards.

Barrel, Receiver, and Finish Specifications

Both rifles use a 16.1-inch government-profile barrel with a 1:8-inch twist rate and six-groove rifling. The barrel is nitrided for corrosion resistance and longevity and is threaded 1/2x28 at the muzzle, fitted with a removable A2 flash hider. Upper and lower receivers are machined from 7075-T6 aluminum forgings to mil-spec dimensions and finished with Type III hardcoat anodizing. The lower receiver incorporates a tension screw designed to reduce play between receivers.

Operating Components and Compatibility

The Harrier series is configured around standard AR-15 components for broad compatibility. Each rifle includes a single-stage GI trigger, mil-spec selector, charging handle, carbine buffer, and spring. The bolt carrier group is nitrided, with a properly staked gas key. The upper receiver includes a forward assist, dust cover, and brass deflector. Ruger ships the rifles with one 30-round Magpul PMAG, positioning the Harrier line as a turnkey replacement for the outgoing AR-556 models.