Rebuilding a Classic: SA-16

Trends hit the gun world hard. Once something starts and gains momentum, everyone tries to jump on for the ride. In the sports world, we refer to this as “bandwagoning”—tagging along just because it is the mainstream thing to do. For manufacturers that do this, it’s usually a cash grab—they are just trying to make a quick buck. Conversely, for a few, it’s a sensible release that’s well thought out. Even more convoluted, it can be both, a cash grab, and a sensible release. This might be the case with the Springfield SA-16 A2.

Background

With the sunsetting of the Assault Weapons Ban, the American consumer was reintroduced into the world of AR-15s. In the two decades since the AR-15 has become the unequivocal American rifle. Its popularity, modularity, and familiarity have sustained mass sales while an untold number of companies have sprung up to support the system. Whereas everyone wants the latest and greatest, there has been a trend that’s reached the mainstream with buying “retro” or “clone” style ARs that represent their brethren in the Armed Forces. What started as a novelty has grown to heights never thought of. Part of it may do with the influx of veterans after two decades of sustained combat, while the other has to do with the growth of gun culture and the access to information for the firearms enthusiast.

I’m not sure when or exactly who introduced the world to this concept, but I remember when Brownells released their Retro line of rifles and parts that it was here to say. Since then, almost everyone with a name that is synonymous with the AR-15 is bringing a rifle to market. The latest is Springfield Armory and the SA-16 A2.

The Rifle

As of this moment, we don’t have a lot of information on the gun, other than it is coming soon and the price. For some diligent folks, this rifle isn’t new. And that’s true. Springfield debuted a prototype earlier this year at SHOT Show (there are videos on YouTube showcasing the gun), however, Springfield has remained hush on it.

What is it, then? Well, as the name suggests, it’s a civilian clone of the M16A2 rifle. And from the highly stylized pictures, it looks correct, even down to the “Property of U.S. Govt.” markings on the receiver. The A2 “Birdcage” flash hider, a heavier barrel profile, a 1/7-barrel twist (presumable), a 20” barrel, a bayonet lug, plastic furniture, and a fixed carry handle are all present and should be familiar to the older veterans of GWOT (or Global War on Terror).

What Does This Mean?

Is the SA-16 A2 a cash grab? Sure. This rifle is being introduced at a time when other similar ones are already out there. For example, FN, Colt, Harrington & Richardson (via Palmetto State Armory), Aero Precision, and Brownells, all make rifles or offer components to make clone rifles.

Do I think the SA-16 A2 will be a well-thought-out rifle? Also, yes. The Saint series of AR-15 rifles are solid guns and show that Springfield knows how to source and build an above-average rifle. I also think the SA-16 A2 is on-brand for them. The company already makes other classics such as the M1A (the commercial version of the M14), Browning Hi-Power (SA-35), and the 1911A1, so the next logical step was to tackle the AR market. At a retail price of $1249.99, it’s on par with many other options (however, look out for sales). If anything, I hope this drives more companies to build clone rifles and components while simultaneously keeping the pricing on the affordable side of things.