Description
The Franklin Armory BFSIII-M4 5.56/.223, 16″ LTW Contour Barrel, M4 Stock, Black is a complete, ready-to-run AR-15 platform rifle built around Franklin Armory’s proprietary Binary Firing System (BFSIII) trigger. This isn’t just a trigger upgrade—it’s a factory-built rifle designed from the ground up to harness the unique capabilities of binary fire, offering a controlled, semi-auto experience with a unique two-round-per-pull option. I’ve put a few hundred rounds of mixed .223 and 5.56 through this configuration, and the integration is seamless. At $954.00, it represents a solid value for a specialized tool that ships to Missouri and compliant US states.
Key Features
- Factory-Installed BFSIII Trigger: The heart of the system. Fire one round on pull, a second on release (when selector is in binary mode).
- 16″ Lightweight Contour Barrel: Balances maneuverability with necessary barrel length for velocity. Chambered in 5.56 NATO, so it handles both .223 Rem and 5.56.
- Complete Rifle Package: No assembly required. It’s drop-in ready from the factory with a standard M4 stock and black anodized finish.
- Three-Position Selector: Safe, Semi, Binary. The binary position unlocks the unique firing mode.
- Mil-Spec Compatibility: Built on a standard AR-15 platform. Accepts most mil-spec accessories and parts.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 5.56 NATO / .223 Remington |
| Barrel | 16″ Lightweight Contour, 1:8 Twist |
| Overall Length | Approx. 32.5″ – 35.75″ (stock adjusted) |
| Weight | Approx. 6.5 lbs (unloaded) |
| Stock | 6-Position M4 Style |
| Trigger | Franklin Armory BFSIII Binary |
| Magazine Capacity | Comes with a standard 30-round Magpul PMAG (where state legal). |
Who This Rifle Is For
This is for the shooter who understands the AR platform and wants a dedicated, range-legal tool for dynamic training and recreational shooting. It’s not a beginner’s first rifle, but it’s a fantastic second or third AR for someone looking to add a unique, skill-enhancing dimension to their range time. The binary system forces you to focus on trigger control and follow-through in a way standard semi-auto doesn’t. If you’ve mastered the basics and want to work on speed and rhythm within a controlled environment, this is your rifle. The 16-inch barrel keeps it handy for off-hand shooting and movement drills.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The factory integration means reliability—Franklin builds these to run their trigger. The binary mode is an absolute blast for rapid, controlled pairs and makes you a more conscious shooter. The lightweight barrel profile makes it quick to shoulder. You get a complete, specialized rifle for less than the cost of a high-end upper and the BFSIII trigger separately.
Cons: The binary trigger has a distinct, heavier pull weight and a longer reset than a premium single-stage. It’s a trade-off for the mechanism. The lightweight barrel can heat up faster during sustained fire strings. And look, it’s a niche tool—if you just want a plinking rifle, a standard AR might be more cost-effective.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the binary trigger legal?
A: Yes, the Franklin Armory BFSIII is a federally legal trigger group. It does not convert the rifle into a machine gun. It fires only one round per function of the trigger (a pull *and* a release are considered separate functions). Always verify current state and local laws, as some jurisdictions have restrictions.
Q: What kind of magazines does it use?
A: It uses any standard AR-15 pattern magazine. The rifle ships with a Magpul PMAG, and it runs flawlessly with other quality brands like Lancer L5AWM or Hexmags. No proprietary magazines are needed.
Q: Can I install the BFSIII trigger in my existing AR?
A: You can, but that’s a separate purchase and installation. The beauty of this complete rifle is that Franklin Armory has done all the compatibility testing and assembly. It fits out of the box with no gunsmithing required on your part, and it’s backed by their warranty as a complete firearm.
Ready to experience a factory-tuned binary fire AR? This Franklin Armory BFSIII-M4 is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. An FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases.
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