First Shots: Springfield Armory SA-16A2 Rifle

Return with us now to those glory days of yesteryear.

by
posted on May 1, 2024

New from Springfield Armory is the SA-16A2, a semi-automatic “retro” take on the classic M16-A2 rifle. Just like its iconic forebearer, the SA-16A2 has a 16 inch barrel with a 1:7 inch right hand twist, with a gas block with a front sight post and bayonet lug near the front. The barrel is covered with a polymer fore end with integrated aluminum heat shield, and at the muzzle end there is an A2 flash hider. 

The upper receiver is a big part of any A2 style rifle and the SA-16A2 has the traditional carry handle receiver with an integrated peep sight. The lower receiver has a slightly enlarged magazine and the Springfield Armory logo on it, neither of which is found on most 30+ year old A2 style AR-15s. The grip is A2-style, and there is, of course, a fixed, A2- style stock. 

Springfield Armory SA-16A2 Specifications 

  • Caliber: 5.56 NATO
  • Color: Black
  • Barrel Length: 20 inches
  • Barrel Material: 4150 CMV, chrome lined
  • Barrel Twist: 1:7 inch right hand
  • Sights: A2
  • Upper Receiver: Forged 7075 T6 aluminum, Type III hardcoat anodized, forward assist, M4 feed ramps
  • Lower Receiver: Forged 7075 T6 aluminum, Type III hardcoat anodized, Accu-Tite™ tension system
  • Bolt Carrier Group: Enhanced M16 W/ 9310 steel bolt, Mil-spec phosphate and hard chrome finish
  • Gas System: Direct impingement rifle-length, A2 pinned gas block
  • Handguard: A2 Polymer w/ integral heat shield
  • Stock: A2 Fixed
  • Trigger: Mil-Spec
  • Muzzle Device: A2 flash hider
  • Receiver Extension: Mil-Spec rifle length
  • Receiver End Plate: Mil-Spec
  • Buffer Assembly: Rifle
  • Charging Handle: GI Style
  • Safety Switch: Single side 90 degree
  • Trigger Guard: Mil-Spec
  • Grip: A2
  • Magazines: GI Aluminum 30 round
  • Weight: 7 pounds, 8 ounces
  • Length: 39.5 inches

MSRP for the SA-16A2 is $1,249, and more information on this rifle and other products from Springfield Armory is available at springfield-armory.com.

Latest

.300BLK Mini-14
.300BLK Mini-14

First Look: Davidson's Exclusive Mini-14 Rifle

Chambered in .300 BLK with a Samson folding stock.

Pro Shop: Vehicle Gear

Keep you and your gear safe, secure and prepared for whatever awaits down the road.

First Look: G9 Defense 126 Grain Subsonic 9mm Ammunition

Built with an external hollow point bullet for improved penetration.

Straight Talk: Looking Back

The origins of some gear and techniques may surprise you.

First Look: Wilson Combat Division 77 Project 1

The brainchild of a new "skunk works" branch of Wilson Combat.

Near to Far Marksmanship Practice

We won't get to choose the distance a lethal force encounter.

Interests



Get the best of Shooting Illustrated delivered to your inbox.