The Ruger AR-556 chambered in .350 Legend has gained popularity for its potent cartridge and reliable platform. However, like any firearm, it can experience issues. This guide dives deep into common problems encountered by Ruger AR-556 .350 Legend owners, offering practical troubleshooting advice and preventative measures.
Common Ruger AR-556 .350 Legend Problems and Solutions
Several recurring problems plague Ruger AR-556 .350 Legend owners. Let's address them systematically:
1. Feeding Issues: Failure to Feed or Failure to Eject
Symptoms: Rounds fail to fully chamber, causing jams. Spent casings fail to eject reliably, leading to stoppages.
Causes: This is often linked to magazine compatibility, ammunition quality, or improper lubrication. The .350 Legend's relatively short, stout cartridge can be sensitive to magazine tolerances. Low-quality ammunition might not feed smoothly. Insufficient lubrication can cause friction, hindering reliable cycling.
Solutions:
- Magazine Selection: Use magazines specifically designed for the .350 Legend. Ruger factory magazines are generally reliable, but aftermarket options may require testing for compatibility.
- Ammunition Selection: Try different brands and types of .350 Legend ammunition to find what your rifle feeds most reliably.
- Cleaning and Lubrication: Regularly clean and lubricate your rifle, paying close attention to the bolt carrier group and feed ramp. Use a high-quality gun lubricant designed for semi-automatic firearms.
- Inspect the Feed Ramps: Ensure that the feed ramps on both the upper and lower receivers are clean, smooth, and free of debris. Any burrs or imperfections can interfere with reliable feeding.
2. Extraction Problems: Stuck Cases
Symptoms: Spent casings are difficult or impossible to extract, sometimes requiring excessive force.
Causes: This often stems from over-tightening the gas block, excessive fouling, or using ammunition with excessively high pressure. An improperly seated gas key can also contribute.
Solutions:
- Gas Block Adjustment: If the gas block is excessively tight, it can impede the extraction process. Loosen the gas block slightly (following the manufacturer's instructions) to find the optimal setting.
- Cleaning: Thoroughly clean your rifle, focusing on the chamber and bolt face. Burnt powder residue can cause excessive friction and hinder extraction.
- Ammunition Review: Consider testing different brands of .350 Legend ammunition to identify if a particular type is causing excessive pressure.
3. Accuracy Issues: Poor Grouping
Symptoms: Shots consistently land far from the point of aim.
Causes: This can be a result of several factors, including poor ammunition quality, improper sighting, a dirty barrel, or an improperly installed or damaged barrel. Also, user error, such as improper shooting technique, can significantly impact accuracy.
Solutions:
- Ammunition Consistency: Use high-quality, consistent ammunition designed for accuracy.
- Sighting and Zeroing: Accurately zero your rifle's sights or optic at a suitable distance.
- Barrel Cleaning: A clean barrel ensures optimal accuracy.
- Professional Inspection: If the problem persists, have a qualified gunsmith inspect the rifle for any potential damage or malfunctions.
4. Bolt Carrier Group (BCG) Issues: BCG malfunction
Symptoms: The BCG may not fully cycle, leading to malfunctions.
Causes: A damaged or improperly lubricated BCG is a common culprit.
Solutions:
- Inspection: Carefully examine the BCG for any signs of damage, such as wear, cracks, or deformations.
- Lubrication: Ensure the BCG is properly lubricated.
- Replacement: If the BCG is damaged, it needs replacement.
Preventative Maintenance for Optimal Performance
Regular preventative maintenance is crucial for maximizing the lifespan and reliability of your Ruger AR-556 in .350 Legend. This involves:
- Regular Cleaning: Clean your rifle after each shooting session to remove fouling.
- Proper Lubrication: Apply a high-quality lubricant to all moving parts, including the BCG and trigger mechanism.
- Storage: Store your rifle in a clean, dry environment.
By understanding these common problems and implementing the suggested solutions, you can enjoy a more reliable and accurate shooting experience with your Ruger AR-556 chambered in .350 Legend. Remember, consulting a qualified gunsmith is always advisable for complex or persistent issues.
