4 Known Ruger AR 556 Problems – A Solution Guide

Introduction

The Ruger AR-556 is a budget-friendly, semi-automatic rifle that delivers reliable performance and solid craftsmanship. It’s a popular choice among both novice and seasoned shooters thanks to its accessibility, ease of use, and compatibility with AR-15 parts. But like any mass-produced firearm, it’s not without its quirks.

In this guide, we’ll break down four known problems with the Ruger AR-556 and offer practical solutions for each. Whether you’re new to the platform or a regular user, understanding these issues can save you time, money, and a lot of range-day frustration.

Overview Of Ruger AR-556 Problems & Its Solution

The AR-556 performs well out of the box, but it’s important to recognize that not all rifles roll off the line identically. Some problems stem from break-in periods, others from component compatibility or manufacturing tolerances. The most commonly reported issues include:

• Double feeding
• Bolt problems
• Slide lock malfunctions
• Gas system inefficiencies

Let’s dive into each issue, identify the causes, and explore the most effective fixes.

1. Double Feeding Issue & Its Solution

The Problem:
Double feeding occurs when two rounds attempt to enter the chamber simultaneously, causing a jam that halts shooting entirely. This issue is frequently reported in new AR-556 rifles and can result from magazine problems, extractor wear, or even rough chamber tolerances.

Symptoms:

• Two rounds jammed at the chamber entrance
• Failure to eject spent casing
• Bolt failing to return to battery

Solutions:

1. Inspect Your Magazines:
   The most common culprit is a faulty or worn magazine. Switch to a known quality mag like Magpul PMAGs or Lancer Advanced Warfighter mags. Ruger’s factory magazine is decent, but not flawless.
2. Clean the Chamber Thoroughly:
   Carbon buildup and tight tolerances can cause poor ejection. Give the chamber a deep clean and lightly oil it afterward.
3. Check the Extractor and Ejector:
   A weak or broken extractor might not be removing spent casings efficiently. Replacing the extractor spring with a stronger one can enhance ejection.
4. Upgrade the Bolt Carrier Group (BCG):
   If the issue persists after checking the basics, consider upgrading the BCG. A mil-spec or enhanced BCG can provide smoother cycling.

2. Bolt Problem & Its Solution

The Problem:
Several Ruger AR-556 owners have complained about bolt sticking or failing to lock properly. This problem may emerge after extended shooting or as a result of poor maintenance.

Symptoms:

• Bolt gets stuck during cycling
• Bolt fails to lock open after last round
• Trouble charging the rifle manually

Solutions:

1. Proper Lubrication:
   A dry bolt is a malfunctioning bolt. Keep your bolt well-lubricated, especially around the cam pin and bolt lugs.
2. Inspect Bolt Carrier Group:
   Look for signs of wear or burrs. If the bolt carrier isn’t moving smoothly, polish the contact points lightly and re-test.
3. Check Buffer and Spring:
   A worn or mismatched buffer spring can cause bolt cycling issues. Replace the buffer with an H1 or H2 weighted buffer to improve recoil management and cycling.
4. Replace Faulty Bolt Components:
   If you notice cracked lugs or deformation, replace the bolt head entirely. Ruger will often cover defective parts under warranty.

3. Slide Lock Problem & Its Solution

The Problem:
A common but frustrating issue involves the slide (or bolt) failing to lock back after the last round is fired. This can disrupt your shooting rhythm and indicates a mechanical hiccup that needs attention.

Symptoms:

• Bolt does not stay open after magazine is emptied
• Slide lock seems inconsistent
• Happens with multiple magazines

Solutions:

1. Check the Magazine Follower:
   A weak or out-of-spec follower might not push the bolt catch high enough. Try switching to another magazine.
2. Clean and Oil the Bolt Catch:
   Carbon buildup can slow the bolt catch mechanism. Scrub it gently and apply a drop of oil for smooth action.
3. Test Ammo Quality:
   Low-pressure rounds or reloads may not provide enough gas force to cycle the bolt fully. Use factory-grade, brass-cased ammo for consistency.
4. Upgrade to an Enhanced Bolt Catch:
   Some aftermarket bolt catches are designed to provide better contact and retention. Brands like Geissele or BCM offer reliable upgrades.

4. Gas Issue & Its Solution

The Problem:
Gas-related issues can lead to short-stroking, light ejection, or failure to feed the next round. This often traces back to inconsistencies in the gas block, tube alignment, or ammo performance.

Symptoms:

• Short-stroking (bolt doesn’t fully cycle)
• Weak ejection
• Failure to feed after firing

Solutions:

1. Inspect Gas Block Alignment:
   The AR-556 uses a pinned gas block, which is usually solid. But on some models, the alignment may be off. Verify the port is fully uncovered by the gas block.
2. Check for Carbon Leakage:
   Carbon stains around the gas block or tube connection suggest poor sealing. Reseating or replacing the gas block may be necessary.
3. Upgrade to an Adjustable Gas Block:
   If you’re using suppressors or custom loads, consider installing an adjustable gas block to fine-tune pressure for reliable cycling.
4. Use Proper Ammo:
   Underpowered ammo can starve the gas system. Stick with reputable brands and avoid steel-cased rounds unless your rifle is tuned for them.

FAQs – Ruger AR-556 Problems

Q: Is the Ruger AR-556 reliable overall?
Yes. Despite a few common issues, the AR-556 is generally reliable, especially after a break-in period and some minor upgrades.

Q: Does Ruger offer warranty support?
Absolutely. Ruger has strong customer service and often repairs or replaces defective parts at no charge.

Q: Can I upgrade the AR-556 like other AR-15s?
Yes. The AR-556 is highly modular, and most AR-15 components—including triggers, stocks, rails, and optics—are compatible.

Q: How often should I clean my AR-556?
Ideally after every range session, especially if you’ve fired more than 200 rounds or used steel-cased ammo.

Conclusion

The Ruger AR-556 offers a dependable platform at a great price point, but it’s not immune to mechanical hiccups. Most problems—double feeds, bolt issues, slide lock failures, and gas inefficiencies—can be addressed with simple diagnostics and affordable upgrades.

Whether it’s better magazines, an enhanced BCG, or just routine cleaning, a little attention goes a long way in making the AR-556 run like a champ. By understanding these known issues and applying the right solutions, you’ll extend the life of your rifle, improve performance, and make your time at the range a whole lot more enjoyable.