Description
The Del-Ton SIERRA 316 AR-15 M-LOK A3 5.56/223 16″ Barrel Optic Ready, A2 Front Sight 30rd Mag is a no-frills, ready-to-run AR-15 rifle built for reliability. It’s a carbine that prioritizes function over flash, offering a solid foundation for home defense, range training, or as a first AR. With a 16-inch barrel and a classic A2 front sight post, it’s a straightforward platform that gets you in the game without breaking the bank.
Key Features
- Optic-Ready Flat-Top Upper: The A3-style upper receiver has a Picatinny rail for mounting your choice of red dot, prism scope, or magnified optic. No need to remove the fixed front sight.
- M-LOK Handguard: The lightweight, free-float M-LOK handguard provides ample real estate for mounting lights, lasers, foregrips, or other accessories directly to the rifle.
- Classic A2 Front Sight: A durable, fixed front sight post gives you an immediate iron sight reference point. It’s a proven design that’s always there when you need it.
- 16″ Barrel Chambered in 5.56 NATO: This versatile barrel length balances maneuverability in tight spaces with effective velocity for the 5.56x45mm NATO/.223 Remington cartridge. The rifle ships with one 30-round magazine.
- Mil-Spec Compatibility: Built to widely accepted standards, this rifle accepts a vast array of aftermarket AR-15 parts and accessories. Upgrades are straightforward.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 5.56 NATO / .223 Remington |
| Barrel Length | 16 Inches |
| Handguard | M-LOK Free-Float |
| Sights | A2 Fixed Front, Optic-Ready Flat-Top Rear |
| Magazine Capacity | 30 Rounds (1 included) |
| Overall Length | Approx. 32-35″ (stock dependent) |
Who This Rifle Is For
This is the rifle you grab when you need a dependable tool, not a showpiece. It’s for the Missouri homeowner who wants a capable home defense platform that’s ready to customize. It’s for the new shooter seeking a first AR that’s simple to learn on and easy to upgrade. It’s also for the seasoned shooter who appreciates a reliable, budget-conscious backup or training rifle. When it comes to building a foundational kit, this Del-Ton provides the core. At a price point of $667.48, it represents a significant value for a fully functional AR-15 platform.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The primary advantage is immediate utility. The optic-ready upper and M-LOK handguard mean you can configure it for your specific needs right away—attach a Streamlight ProTac or a Sig Sauer Romeo5 and you’re operational. The fixed front sight is rugged and provides a consistent index. Being mil-spec compatible means parts and knowledge are ubiquitous. Here’s the thing—it fits out of the box and runs. No gunsmithing required for basic setup, just add your optic and ammo.
Cons: As an entry-level rifle, some components are basic. The trigger is a standard mil-spec single-stage, which is serviceable but often a first upgrade. The handguard is functional but may not have the premium fit and finish of higher-end brands. You’ll need to supply your own rear sight or optic, as the flat-top rail comes bare.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does this rifle come with any sights installed?
A: It comes with a fixed A2 front sight post. The upper receiver is a flat-top design with a Picatinny rail, but you must provide your own rear iron sight or optical sight. This allows you to choose the sighting system that best fits your use case and budget.
Q: Is the handguard truly free-float?
A: Yes. The M-LOK handguard is free-floated, meaning it does not contact the barrel. This improves accuracy by eliminating pressure points on the barrel that can shift point of impact and is a notable feature at this price point, typically found on more expensive builds.
Q: What is the barrel’s twist rate?
A: While specific data can vary, Del-Ton typically uses a 1:9 or 1:7 twist rate in their 16″ barrels. A 1:9 twist stabilizes a wide range of common .223 and lighter 5.56 ammunition well. For definitive specs on a specific unit, confirming at the time of purchase is recommended. This rifle is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, with an FFL transfer required for firearm purchases.
Ready to configure your foundational AR-15 platform? The Del-Ton Sierra 316 provides a reliable, customizable starting point.
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