Ruger has just introduced a cheaper model of the SR-556 called the SR-556E. It will retail for $1369, over $600 cheaper than the standard and compact SR-556 models. Other than the price, its most notable point of difference is a cheaper handguard that has only a 12 o’clock rail. Rails can be purchased that will screw into the 3, 6 & 9 o’clock positions.

Ruger is not clear on what the ‘E’ (‘Essential’ or maybe ‘Economy’) version of the SR-556 lacks compared to the standard SR-556 and SR-556C. From what I can make out looking at the photo, it lacks the following …

• Quad rail & rail covers
• Troy Folding BattleSights
• Barrel and chamber are not chromed
• Bolt carrier, bolt & extactor are not chromed.
• Houge pistol grip.
• Ships with only one P-Mag magazine (the standard model ships with three)

Note, it does ship with the soft case and the gas system is chromed (chrome-lined gas block, chrome-plated piston and regulator).

It weighs a fraction less than the SR-556C and 0.58 lbs less than the standard SR-556. The SR-556 is well known for being heavy.