Addressing Ruger AR-556 MPR Problems: Solutions & Tips

When it comes to semi-automatic rifles, the Ruger AR-556 MPR is a popular choice among firearms enthusiasts. Boasting high accuracy, versatility, and reliability, this modern sporting rifle has become a favorite for both novices and experienced shooters alike. However, as with any technical product, the Ruger AR-556 MPR is not without its share of problems. In this blog post, we delve into some of the common issues faced by users of the Ruger AR-556 MPR and provide detailed, step-by-step solutions to help you address these issues and enhance your overall shooting experience.

1. Failure to Feed

One of the most common issues faced by Ruger AR-556 MPR owners is failure to feed. This can manifest in several ways; the rifle may not chamber a round, the round may not be properly seated, or the bolt may not lock into place.

Possible Causes and Solutions

  • Incorrectly seated or damaged magazine: Make sure the magazine is correctly seated and locked into place. Examine the magazine for any damages or deformities that may affect feeding. If damaged, consider replacing the magazine.
  • Dirty or worn feed ramp: Inspect the feed ramp for dirt and debris, as this may hinder the round from properly entering the chamber. A thorough cleaning and lubrication should resolve the issue. If the feed ramp appears excessively worn, contact Ruger customer service for advice or replacement.
  • Weak or damaged magazine spring: A weak or damaged magazine spring may not provide enough tension, causing poor feeding. Inspect the spring for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage. If present, consider replacing the magazine spring with a new one.

2. Failure to Fire

Another issue that can arise with the Ruger AR-556 MPR is a failure to fire. This can be frustrating and potentially dangerous, as it can leave you with a live round in the chamber.

Possible Causes and Solutions

  • Incorrect or damaged ammunition: Inspect the ammunition for signs of damage or improper manufacturing. If any issues are found, discard the affected ammunition and replace it with high-quality factory-made ammunition.
  • Dirty or misaligned firing pin: A dirty or misaligned firing pin may cause light strikes or prevent the pin from striking the primer at all. Clean and inspect the firing pin for signs of wear or damage. Replace if necessary.
  • Weak or broken hammer spring: A weak or broken hammer spring can cause light firing pin strikes, which may not be enough to ignite the primer. Inspect the hammer spring for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage. If present, replace with a new hammer spring.

3. Failure to Eject or Extract

Failure to eject or extract spent casings from the Ruger AR-556 MPR can lead to a variety of issues, including jamming or double feeding. This can greatly affect the reliability and performance of the rifle.

Possible Causes and Solutions

  • Dirty or damaged extractor: Inspect the extractor for dirt, debris, or damage. Clean, lubricate, and reassemble if necessary. If the extractor appears excessively worn or damaged, contact Ruger customer service for advice or replacement.
  • Weak or damaged extractor spring: A weak or damaged extractor spring may prevent the extractor from properly gripping the spent casing, leading to failures in ejection or extraction. Inspect the spring for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage. If present, replace with a new extractor spring.
  • Incorrect gas system operation: If your Ruger AR-556 MPR is consistently failing to eject or extract casings, the gas system may be the culprit. Inspect the gas tube and gas key for damage, alignment issues, or blockages. If the issue persists, contact Ruger customer service for further assistance.

4. Bolt Carrier Group Issues

Some users may encounter issues with the bolt carrier group (BCG) in their Ruger AR-556 MPR, such as excessive wear or improper cycling.

Possible Causes and Solutions

  • Dirty or improperly lubricated BCG: Ensure that the BCG is clean and properly lubricated, as dirt and debris in the BCG can lead to improper cycling. Regular cleaning and lubrication should prevent most BCG-related issues.
  • Worn or damaged components: Inspect the BCG for signs of excessive wear or damage, paying particular attention to the bolt, carrier, cam pin, and gas key. If any issues are discovered, replace the affected components as necessary.
  • Incorrect buffer or spring: The use of an incorrect buffer or spring may cause cycling issues with the BCG. Verify that you are using the correct buffer and spring for your Ruger AR-556 MPR. If necessary, consult Ruger customer service for guidance on which buffer and spring are compatible with your rifle.

5. Trigger Issues

Lastly, some Ruger AR-556 MPR users may experience trigger-related problems, such as a gritty or heavy pull, or misfires due to trigger inconsistencies.

Possible Causes and Solutions

  • Dirty or damaged trigger components: Inspect, clean, and lubricate the trigger components, paying particular attention to the trigger, hammer, and disconnector. If necessary, replace any worn or damaged parts.
  • Improper trigger adjustment: The Ruger AR-556 MPR features an adjustable trigger. If you are experiencing trigger issues, refer to the rifle’s user manual for guidance on proper adjustment, or consult a qualified gunsmith for assistance.

Conclusion

While the Ruger AR-556 MPR is a reliable and accurate rifle, occasional issues may arise. By following the detailed troubleshooting tips provided in this blog post, you can quickly and effectively address any problems and get back to enjoying your shooting experience. Proper maintenance and care play a vital role in preventing these issues, so be sure to regularly inspect, clean, and lubricate your Ruger AR-556 MPR. If in doubt, always consult Ruger customer service or a qualified gunsmith for assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions on Ruger AR-556 MPR Problems

1. Is the Ruger AR-556 MPR a good gun?

Yes, Ruger AR-556 MPR is a reliable and accurate firearm that has received several positive reviews from users and gun experts.

2. What is the twist rate on a Ruger AR-556 MPR?

The twist rate on a Ruger AR-556 MPR is 1:8 inches, which means that the bullet will rotate once every 8 inches of barrel distance.

3. Is the Ruger MPR reliable?

Yes, the Ruger MPR is known for its reliability and durability. It is designed to withstand heavy usage and remain accurate over long periods.

4. What kind of problems do Ruger AR-556 MPR users face?

Some users have reported magazine feeding issues, trigger problems, and occasional malfunctioning.

5. Are there any recalls or fixes for Ruger AR-556 MPR?

The latest model of Ruger AR-556 MPR does not have any significant recalls or fixes. However, if you face any problems, Ruger offers reliable customer support to help you fix the issue.

6. Is it easy to clean and maintain a Ruger AR-556 MPR?

Yes, Ruger AR-556 MPR is easy to clean and maintain. It comes with a user manual that explains the cleaning and maintenance process in detail.

7. Can the Ruger AR-556 MPR be customized?

Yes, the Ruger AR-556 MPR can be customized with aftermarket parts and accessories. You can customize it with optics, barrels, stocks, and handguards according to your preference.

8. Is the SR 556 discontinued?

Yes, the SR 556 has been discontinued, and Ruger AR-556 MPR is the current model available on the market.

9. Is the Ruger AR-556 MPR legal in all states?

Most states allow Ruger AR-556 MPR to be used for lawful purposes like hunting, self-defense, and target shooting. However, we recommend that you check your state’s laws before purchasing the Ruger AR-556 MPR.

10. What is the warranty offered with Ruger AR-556 MPR?

Ruger offers a limited lifetime warranty on the Ruger AR-556 MPR to the original purchaser. Ruger will repair or replace any defect caused by a manufacturer’s error free of charge.