For 2020, gun manufacturers are still attempting to find solutions to the glut of modern sporting rifles in inventory. One approach is value-added rifles, which offer high-end enhancements at a nominal price. Meanwhile, gunmakers are also getting consumers back in stores by reinvigorating the pistol-caliber carbine. For long-range enthusiasts, new chassis guns are in the pipeline and they are more user-adjustable than ever.
ArmaLite | AR-10 SuperSASS Gen II
With chamberings such as 6.5 Creedmoor and .308 Win., a choice of 20- or 22-inch stainless steel, match-grade barrel and an adjustable-gas block, the only thing left to add to this updated Super SASS is a sound suppressor for the ultimate tactical long-range-rifle system.
▶ Magpul PRS Gen2 buttstock
▶ 20-round Magpul PMag
▶ M-Lok-compatible freefloat handguard
▶ Tri-port muzzle brake
Caliber: 7.62 NATO
Magazine Capacity: 20 rounds
Barrel Length: 20 inches
Overall Length: 43 inches
Weight: 11 pounds, 6 ounces
MSRP: $3,399
(623) 780-1050 armalite.com
Arsenal, Inc. | SAS M7A-01
This is one of multiple new AK-20 variants available from Arsenal, Inc. The adjustable gas block enables the rifle to operate with all types of ammunition. Though it ships with a five-round magazine, it can take any AK-pattern 7.62x39 mm mags.
▶ Three-position adjustable gas block
▶ Freefloat M-Lok fore-end
▶ Optics rail
▶ Muzzle brake/QD suppressor mount
Caliber: 7.62x39 mm
Magazine Capacity: 5 rounds
Barrel Length: 16.3 inches
Overall Length: 35 inches
Weight: 8 pounds, 5 ounces
MSRP: $2,499.99
(702) 643-2220 arsenalinc.com
Del-Ton | DT Scout
Featuring a mid-length gas system and a 1:9-inch twist barrel, the DT Scout has a lightweight profile and comes ready to shoot out of the box.
▶ Polymer flip-up rear sight
▶ Adjustable buttstock
▶ Threaded muzzle, AR flash hider
▶ Phosphate low-profile gas block
Caliber: 5.56 NATO
Magazine Capacity: 30 rounds
Barrel Length: 16 inches
Overall Length: 32.6 to 36.4 inches
Weight: 5 pounds, 12 ounces
MSRP: $680
(910) 645-2172 del-ton.com
Desert Tech | MDRX SE
An improved version of the sought-after MDR, the MDRX includes reversible side ejection (a forward-eject version is also offered), enhanced polymer furniture and an upgraded gas block for added reliability. Multiple other chamberings and conversion kits are available.
▶ Ratchet compensator
▶ Magpul PMag magazine
▶ Enhanced trigger
▶ Ambidextrous controls
Caliber: .223 Rem.
Magazine Capacity: 30 rounds
Barrel Length: 16 inches
Overall Length: 26.2 inches
Weight: 8 pounds, 5 ounces
MSRP: $1,889.98
(801) 975-7272 deserttech.com
Diamondback | DB-15 BGSMB
If you’re looking for next-level components at a (near) entry-level price, Diamondback’s BGSMB DB-15 carbine might be just the thing. An M-Lok-compatible handguard, backup sights, a custom receiver and a host of other options give the BGSMB an upgraded air.
▶ Mid-length gas system
▶ Diamondback CNC flash hider
▶ Magpul CTR stock
▶ Black nitride barrel
Caliber: 5.56 NATO
Magazine Capacity: 30 rounds
Barrel Length: 16 inches
Overall Length: 36 inches
Weight: 6 pounds, 15 ounces
MSRP: $849
(321) 305-5995 diamondbackfirearms.com
DoubleStar | 3GR 2.0
From its air-gauged Wilson Combat barrel, to its 15.5-inch Cloak M-Lok-compatible handguard and eye-catching go-fast red finish, this AR is built to perform under the most grueling of 3-gun stages while helping you zero in on the gold.
▶ Hogue-rubberized pistol grip
▶ ARFX buttstock
▶ Bullseye muzzle brake
▶ Billet Backbone charging handle
Caliber: 5.56 NATO
Magazine Capacity: 30 rounds
Barrel Length: 16 inches
Overall Length: 37 inches
Weight: 7 pounds, 2 ounces
MSRP: $1,469.99
(859) 745-1757 star15.com
Faxon | Bantam
Pistol-caliber carbines are still going strong, and Faxon’s Bantam is Glock-magazine compatible, uses mil-spec components and comes in at less than $1,000. Given the competition, it’s tempting to call it entry-level, but it appeals to more than just the wallet.
▶ Last round hold-open
▶ Glock-magazine compatible
▶ A2 pistol grip and flash hider
▶ Nitrided bolt-carrier group
Caliber: 9 mm
Magazine Capacity: 31 rounds
Barrel Length: 16 inches
Overall Length: 25.875 inches
Weight: 6 pounds, 3 ounces
MSRP: $949
(513) 280-8861 faxonfirearms.com
Franklin Armory | M4-HTF XTD R3
The success of the 350 Legend cartridge is also not going unnoticed. Franklin Armory released the M4-HTF XTD R3 in Winchester’s exciting new straight-walled round, bringing an upgraded carbine to the mix of semi-automatic rifles for it.
▶ Mid-length gas system
▶ Bravo Company stock and grip
▶ Aura XTD muzzle device
▶ M4-contour barrel
Caliber: 350 Legend
Magazine Capacity: 10 rounds
Barrel Length: 16 inches
Overall Length: 36.5 inches
Weight: 6 pounds, 8 ounces
MSRP: $1,199.99
(775) 783-4313 franklinarmory.com
Gilboa | Pistol Caliber Carbine
Light, handy and convenient all describe the blowback-operated Gilboa Pistol Caliber Carbine. A modular lower allows for interchangeable mag wells for use with either Glock or S&W M&P magazines.
▶ Muzzle threaded ½x28
▶ Interchangeable magazine well
▶ Collapsible stock
▶ Custom muzzle device
Caliber: 9 mm
Magazine Capacity: 15 rounds
Barrel Length: 16 inches
Overall Length: 32.6 to 36.6 inches
Weight: 6 pounds, 10 ounces
MSRP: $1,696
(800) 809-2188 gilboa-usa.com
IWI US | Zion-15 Rifle
Best known for importing the bullpup Tavor family, IWI is now offering a U.S.-made AR-15 with some nice upgrades over a plain-Jane model. With quality furniture and a 4150 Chrome Moly Vanadium barrel, this newcomer promises to be an exciting addition to a crowded market.
▶ B5 Systems Enhanced SOPMOD stock
▶ Freefloat handguard
▶ Magpul PMag magazine
▶ B5 Systems Type 23 P Grip
Caliber: 5.56 NATO
Magazine Capacity: 30 rounds
Barrel Length: 16 inches
Overall Length: 33 to 36.25 inches
Weight: 6 pounds, 8 ounces
MSRP: $899
(717) 695-2081 iwi.us
KRISS USA | Vector 22 CRB
Incorporating the aesthetics and ergonomics of the Vector carbine design with the modern modularity of a freefloating M-Lok handguard is the new Vector 22 CRB. It’s vailable in three different colors.
▶ Six-position adjustable buttstock
▶ Low-profile flip-up sights
▶ Ambidextrous safety
▶ Last-round bolt hold-open
Caliber: .22 LR
Magazine Capacity: 10 rounds
Barrel Length: 16 inches
Overall Length: 34.5 inches
Weight: 7 pounds, 6 ounces
MSRP: $649
(714) 333-1988 kriss-usa.com
Marlin | Dark
It’s not often we get to feature a lever-action rifle in Shooting Illustrated, but with a picatinny rail for optics and a threaded barrel, Marlin’s new Dark line of leverguns is certainly a solid if uncommon choice as a home-defense carbine.
▶ Black paracord sling
▶ Parkerized finish
▶ Threaded barrel
▶ Also available in .45-70 Gov’t., .444 Marlin, .357 Mag. and .44 Mag.
Caliber: .30-30 Win.
Magazine Capacity: 5 rounds
Barrel Length: 16.25 inches
Overall Length: 34.5 inches
Weight: 7 pounds
MSRP: $968
(800) 544-8892 marlinfirearms.com
Remington | PCR-E
Building on the success of the PCR (Precision Chassis Rifle), the PCR-E (Enhanced) adds greater adjustability, the capacity to use a tripod and M-Lok attachment points on the fore-end to the precision-rifle line.
▶ 20-MOA rail for optics
▶ 5R rifling and LTR flutes
▶ Frame cut for tripod mount
▶ Also available in .308 Win.
Caliber: 6.5 Creedmoor
Magazine Capacity: 10 rounds
Barrel Length: 24 inches
Overall Length: 43.75 inches
Weight: 10 pounds, 2 ounces
MSRP: $1,595
(800) 243-9700 remington.com
Rock River Arms | LAR BT-3 Select Target Rifle
The heart of the LAR BT-3 Select Target Rifle is the 20-inch, fluted 1:10-twist cryo-treated Rock River Arms LAR BT-3 Select Target Rifle (BT31750) barrel. It’s flanked by a lightweight, 17-inch fleefloated handguard and an adjustable Magpul PRS buttstock.
▶ Hogue rubber pistol grip
▶ A2 flash hider
▶ A4 Upper receiver
▶ Integral winter trigger guard
Caliber: .308 Win.
Magazine Capacity: 10 rounds
Barrel Length: 20 inches
Overall Length: 42 inches
Weight: 8 pounds, 10 ounces
MSRP: $1,800
(866) 980-7625 rockriverarms.com
Rock River Arms | RBG Bolt Gun
Known for its AR-type rifles, Rock River Arms has leapt headfirst into the bolt-action market with the introduction of its RBG series of rifles. The chassis system includes a skeletonized buttstock with adjustments for comb height and length-of-pull.
▶ Knurled, oversize bolt handle
▶ Detachable AICS/Magpul-compatible magazine
▶ TriggerTech trigger
▶ Kinetic Research Group adjustable chassis
Caliber: 6.5 Creedmoor
Magazine Capacity: 5 rounds
Barrel Length: 24 inches
Overall Length: 42 to 44 inches
Weight: 10 pounds, 3 ounces
MSRP: $4,150
(866) 980-7625 rockriverarms.com
Rossi | R92 Triple Black
This magnum-pistol-caliber lever gun may not appear super tactical, but it remains a solid choice for home defense because of its chambering (.44 Mag. is also available). It also makes for a good trail gun thanks to its relatively light weight.
▶ Leather-wrapped loop lever
▶ Cerakote finish
▶ Adjustable rear peep sight
▶ Threaded barrel
Caliber: .357 Mag.
Magazine Capacity: 8 rounds
Barrel Length: 16.5 inches
Overall Length: 34 inches
Weight: 6 pounds, 2 ounces
MSRP: $857.85
(229) 515-8707 rossiusa.com
Ruger | PC Carbine With Chassis
This latest iteration of Ruger’s PC Carbine features a synthetic chassis system and an aluminum, freefloat, M-Lok-compatible handguard for hassle-free mounting of accessories like lights and lasers.
▶ Barrel-mounted Picatinny rail for forward-mounted optics
▶ Reversible magazine release
▶ 1⁄2x28 TPI threaded barrel
▶ Interchangeable Ruger and Glock magazine wells
Caliber: 9 mm
Magazine Capacity: 17 rounds
Barrel Length: 16.12 inches
Overall Length: 32.25 to 35.5 inches
Weight: 7 pounds, 5 ounces
MSRP: $799
(336) 949-5200 ruger.com
Sako | S20 Precision Rifle
Modularity, durability and sub-MOA accuracy were the design goals met by Sako in creating the S20 precision rifle. Modularity makes this rifle customizable to a wide range of shooter preferences, and changes can be made without having to re-zero the gun. It’s offered in eight chamberings.
▶ Full aluminum rifle chassis
▶ Adjustable length-of-pull
▶ Cold-hammer-forged barrel
▶ Multi-adjustable trigger
Caliber: 6.5 PRC
Magazine Capacity: 10 rounds
Barrel Length: 24 inches
Overall Length: 47 inches
Weight: 8 pounds, 10 ounces
MSRP: $1,800
(+358) 10 830-5200 sako.fi
Savage | 110 Elite Precision
Savage has rethought every aspect of its 110 to elevate this model to the pinnacle of the line. It takes the celebrated 110 action to new heights by adding to it all the enhancements demanded by long-range aficionados. The rifle is available in six chamberings.
▶ Factory blueprinted action
▶ MDT ACC aluminum chassis
▶ Titanium-nitrided bolt body
▶ 1.5- to 4-pound AccuTrigger
Caliber: 6.5 Creedmoor
Magazine Capacity: 10 rounds
Barrel Length: 26 inches
Overall Length: 44 inches
Weight: 12 pounds, 10 ounces
MSRP: $1,999
(800) 370-0708 savagearms.com
Savage | A22 Precision
Long known for affordable accuracy, Savage has decided to ring maximum performance out of the .22 LR with the A22 Precision. The A22 adds enhancements inspired by long-range centerfire rifles to make this semi-automatic accurate at all practical distances.
▶ Custom one-piece MDT chassis
▶ Adjustable length-of-pull and comb height
▶ 18-inch, heavy, threaded barrel
▶ User-adjustable trigger
Caliber: .22 LR
Magazine Capacity: 10 rounds
Barrel Length: 18 inches
Overall Length: 38.25 inches
Weight: 7 pounds, 4 ounces
MSRP: $599
(800) 370-0708 savagearms.com
SIG Sauer | Cross Rifle
Available in three chamberings, the Cross rifle was developed with input from long-range shooters, military snipers and hunters. Its one-piece receiver offers enhanced precision in a lightweight, highly portable package.
▶ Folding stock
▶ Oversize bolt knob
▶ Freefloat, M-Lok fore-end
▶ Taper-lock adapter compatible with SIG Sauer sound suppressors
Caliber: 6.5 Creedmoor
Magazine Capacity: 5 rounds
Barrel Length: 18 inches
Overall Length: 18.5 to 38.5 inches
Weight: 6 pounds, 12 ounces
MSRP: $1,779.99
(603) 610-3000 sigsauer.com
Tikka | T3x UPR Precision Rifle
Offering a lightweight, composite stock with an aggressive texture, Tikka’s T3x UPR precision rifle is designed to offer increased rigidity and accuracy for long-range shooting. It is also available in .260 Rem. and .308 Win.
▶ Carbon-fiber and fiberglass composite stock
▶ Threaded muzzle
▶ Adjustable length-of-pull
▶ Oversize bolt handle
Caliber: 6.5 Creedmoor
Magazine Capacity: 10 rounds
Barrel Length: 20 inches
Overall Length: 41 inches
Weight: 7 pounds, 11 ounces
MSRP: $1,500
(800) 237-3882 tikka.fi
Weatherby | Mark V Carbonmark Elite
A lightweight bolt gun made for long-range targets, the Carbonmark elite features carbon-fiber components, an adjustable trigger, an Accubrake ST muzzle brake and much more. Best of all, it has a sub-MOA guarantee out of the box.
▶ Carbon-fiber-wrapped barrel
▶ Extended bolt knob
▶ Cerakote finish
▶ AG Composites carbon-fiber stock
Caliber: 6.5 Creedmoor
Magazine Capacity: 4 rounds
Barrel Length: 22 inches
Overall Length: 44.25 inches
Weight: 7 pounds, 2 ounces
MSRP: $3,299
(307) 675-7840 weatherby.com
Winchester | XPR Renegade Long Range SR
Built around a stock designed for long-range pursuits, this bolt gun should prove extremely accurate. The M.O.A. trigger system promises zero takeup, zero creep and zero overtravel, further enhancing accuracy. Add a suppressor for even better performance. (Optic not included.)
▶ Grayboe Renegade stock
▶ Threaded muzzle
▶ Enlarged bolt knob
▶ Inflex Technology recoil pad with three spacers included
Caliber: 6.5 Creedmoor
Magazine Capacity: 3 rounds
Barrel Length: 22 inches
Overall Length: 42 inches
Weight: 8 pounds, 8 ounces
MSRP: $1,069.99
(800) 945-5237 winchesterguns.com
