Ruger SFAR .308/7.62 NATO 16.1″ 20rd M81
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 7.3 pounds—1.7 lbs lighter than a DPMS AR-10
- 16.1-inch barrel keeps OAL to 34.5 inches collapsed
- Includes two 20-round Magpul PMAGs ($50 value)
- M81 Woodland finish for immediate camouflage use
Trade-offs
- No iron sights included—add $150+ for backup sights
- 2 MOA combat accuracy—not for precision shooting
- M81 finish is purely cosmetic, no IR reduction
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the Ruger SFAR .308/7.62 NATO 16.1″ 20rd M81? It's a small-frame autoloading rifle chambered in .308/7.62 NATO that delivers full-power .308 ballistics in a package nearly 2 pounds lighter than most AR-10 platforms. Built with targeted reinforcement in critical areas, it maintains reliability while shaving weight, and comes with Magpul furniture and M81 Woodland finish for immediate field readiness.
What is the Ruger SFAR used for?
This is a compact .308 battle rifle designed for tactical applications, medium-game hunting, and defensive use where intermediate cartridge rifles fall short. The 16.1-inch barrel keeps overall length at 34.5 inches collapsed, making it viable for vehicle or structure work, while the .308 cartridge maintains ethical takedown power on deer and hogs out to 400 yards. It bridges the gap between 5.56mm carbines and full-size .308 rifles where both mobility and terminal performance matter.
How does the Ruger SFAR compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The SFAR is a semi-auto .308 weighing 7.3 pounds, while the Stevens 334 is a bolt-action at 6.5 pounds. The SFAR delivers faster follow-up shots and higher capacity—20 rounds versus 3+1—but the Stevens 334 offers superior accuracy for precision shooting at 1 MOA versus the SFAR's 2 MOA practical combat accuracy. Choose the SFAR for rapid engagement; choose the Stevens for deliberate shots.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight is 7.3 pounds (1184 grams), with an overall length of 34.5 inches collapsed and 37.8 inches extended. The barrel is 16.1 inches with a 1:10 twist rate, and the rifle stands 8.1 inches tall including optics rail. This puts it nearly 1.7 pounds lighter than a typical DPMS-pattern AR-10 and 2.3 inches shorter overall when collapsed.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle isn't for precision long-range shooters needing sub-MOA accuracy or NFA applicants unwilling to file Form 1 for an SBR. The 16.1-inch barrel sacrifices approximately 75 fps velocity compared to a 20-inch .308 barrel, making it less ideal beyond 600 yards, and the semi-auto action will never match the consistency of a bolt gun like the Stevens 334 for benchrest shooting. It's a tool for mobility and volume of fire, not tiny groups.
What's in the box?
You get the rifle, two 20-round Magpul PMAGs, a single-point sling attachment point, and Ruger's lifetime warranty paperwork. No optics, sights, or cleaning kit are included—plan another $400-$2000 for a capable optic and mount. The M81 Woodland finish is purely cosmetic; it doesn't include camouflage performance coatings or anti-reflective treatments.
Is the Ruger SFAR worth it at $1119.99?
At $1119.99, it's competitively priced against other small-frame .308 rifles like the POF Revolution, which starts at $1899. You're paying for Ruger's reliability and a 7.3-pound platform that handles like an AR-15 but hits like an AR-10. If you need a lightweight .308 for tactical or hunting use and don't require match-grade accuracy, it's a solid value. If you're chasing sub-MOA groups or already own a full-size .308, save the money.
Key attributes
| upc | 736676056224 |
| manufacturer | Ruger / Sturm, Ruger & Co. |
| manufacturer part number | 05622 |
| capacity | 20 |
| caliber/gauge | .308 / 7.62 NATO |
| barrel length | 16.1" |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| color | M81 Woodland |
| model | SFAR |
| product type | AR |
| sights | Flat Top |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with AR-10 magazines?
- No, it uses SR-25 pattern magazines like Magpul PMAGs, not DPMS or Armalite AR-10 mags. The included 20-round PMAGs are SR-25 spec, and aftermarket options from Lancer or KAC work without modification. Standard AR-10 magazines will not seat properly.
- Does it fit in a standard AR-15 case?
- Yes, it fits most 36-inch AR-15 cases when collapsed. Overall length is 34.5 inches with stock fully retracted, and width is identical to an AR-15 at 2.5 inches across the receiver. You'll need a case rated for .308 rifles, not 5.56-specific bags.
- How long does shipping take?
- FFL shipments take 3-5 business days after processing, plus your FFL's transfer time. We use UPS Ground for lower 48 states, and signature is required upon delivery. Alaska and Hawaii add 2-3 additional days transit time.
- Can I return it if it doesn't cycle properly?
- No, firearms are final sale unless defective per Ruger's warranty. If it fails to cycle, Ruger will repair it under their lifetime warranty—typically a 2-week turnaround. We don't accept returns on functioning firearms, only warranty claims.
- Does this work with a .308 suppressor?
- Yes, the 5/8x24 threaded muzzle accepts standard .30 cal suppressors like the SilencerCo Omega 300 or Dead Air Sandman-S. Threads are clean and concentric, but always check alignment with a rod before firing—suppressor damage isn't covered under warranty.