Sturm, Ruger & Company closed out the year with a major move in the modern sporting rifle space, officially launching the Ruger Harrier™. The Harrier is a completely re-engineered AR-pattern platform built for modern shooters and manufactured in Ruger’s newly acquired Hebron, Kentucky facility.
Rather than a cosmetic refresh, Ruger is positioning the Harrier as a clean-sheet redesign focused on fit, function, durability, and aftermarket compatibility. Areas that matter most to today’s MSR buyers.
Two 5.56 Models at Launch
The initial Harrier lineup includes two rifles chambered in 5.56 NATO (fully compatible with .223 Remington). Each was built around a free-floated 15-inch M-LOK handguard but configured for different preferences:
- Model 28600
- Model 28601
- Carbine-length gas system
- Classic A2 grip
- M4-style collapsible stock
- Lightweight handguard without a full-length top rail
Both models are aimed squarely at shooters who want a reliable base rifle that’s ready to customize.
Built to Mil-Spec. And Then Some
At the heart of the Harrier is a forged 7075 aluminum upper and lower receiver set. The set is finished with Type III hard-coat anodizing for long-term durability. Ruger includes an integrated tension screw in the lower receiver, allowing users to fine-tune upper-to-lower fit. This is an appreciated feature for shooters who demand tight lockup.
Other core specs include:
- GI single-stage trigger and controls
- Mil-spec diameter carbine buffer tube with staked castle nut
- 16.1-inch black-nitride barrel
- 1:8″ twist button rifling
- 1/2″-28 threaded muzzle with A2 flash hider
The flat-top upper includes a forward assist, dust cover, brass deflector, and Picatinny rail, keeping the rifle fully compatible with modern optics and accessories.
Reliability-Focused Bolt Carrier Group
Ruger also paid close attention to the bolt carrier group. The bolt, carrier, and gas key are finished in black nitride, the firing pin is chrome plated, and the gas key is properly staked. Again, these details matter when rifles see high round counts or harsh conditions.
Ruger’s Vision for the Harrier Platform
“Introducing Harrier rifles marks an important step in advancing the quality and performance of our modern sporting rifle line,” said Todd Seyfert, Ruger President and CEO.
“Ruger Harrier rifles combine the rugged reliability Ruger is known for with modern adaptability, making them an ideal choice for shooters seeking precision, durability and customization—and this is only the beginning.”
At the End of the Day
With the Harrier, Ruger is making it clear it intends to be a serious player in the MSR market. Not by chasing trends, but by delivering a robust, American-made AR platform designed to be built upon.
For shooters looking for a dependable, upgrade-ready rifle from a legacy manufacturer, the Ruger Harrier is one to watch in 2026.
For more information, visit Ruger.com or check with your local independent Ruger dealer.
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