Description
The Franklin Armory Praefector-M, .308 Win, 20″, 30rd, Magpul PRS Stock, Black is a purpose-built, large-frame AR-10 platform rifle designed for precision at a distance. It combines a robust .308 Winchester chambering with a 20-inch barrel and a fully adjustable Magpul PRS stock to create a system that bridges the gap between a battle rifle and a dedicated long-range rig. For a price of $2533.10, it offers a compelling package that avoids the custom-shop premium while delivering serious capability.
Key Features
- 20-inch .308 Winchester Barrel: Optimizes velocity and accuracy potential for the 7.62x51mm NATO/.308 Win cartridge.
- Magpul PRS Gen3 Stock: Provides extensive length-of-pull and cheek weld adjustment for a custom fit, crucial for consistent precision shooting.
- 30-Round Magazine: Offers ample capacity for extended range sessions or tactical applications.
- AR-10 Platform: Leverages the familiar manual of arms and aftermarket support of the popular large-frame AR pattern.
- Black Finish: Durable, low-glashardcoat anodizing for reliable protection.
Specifications & Details
| Caliber | .308 Winchester / 7.62x51mm NATO |
|---|---|
| Barrel Length | 20 inches |
| Overall Length (Approx.) | ~40-44 inches (stock adjusted) |
| Weight (Approx.) | ~10.5 lbs (unloaded) |
| Magazine Capacity | 30 Rounds |
| Stock | Magpul PRS Gen3 |
The rifle’s 20-inch barrel is a smart middle ground. You gain significant muzzle velocity over a 16-inch carbine, which translates to a flatter trajectory and more energy downrange, without stepping into the unwieldy length and weight of a 24-inch varmint barrel. Weighing in around 10.5 pounds unloaded, it’s not a lightweight hiking companion, but that heft aids in stability from a bench or prone position. The real value play here is the inclusion of the Magpul PRS stock—a $250+ component often added separately to build a precision AR. It’s mil-spec compatible, which means a wide range of aftermarket triggers, grips, and controls will fit out of the box with no gunsmithing required.
Who This Rifle Is For
This is for the shooter who wants a do-it-all .308 that leans hard towards precision. Think of the hunter needing a confident 400-yard shot on open terrain, the long-range enthusiast working on fundamentals without a five-figure bolt-gun budget, or the prepared citizen desiring a capable defensive rifle for property. It’s not a run-and-gun carbine; it’s a deliberate, stable platform. Compared to building a similar rifle part-by-part, the Praefector-M at $2533.10 can represent a tangible savings when you factor in the assembly, headspacing, and sourcing of compatible parts—a common headache with the less-standardized AR-10 world.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The included Magpul PRS stock is a major value-add for precision shooting. The 20-inch barrel extracts strong ballistic performance from .308 Winchester. The complete-rifle package from a reputable maker like Franklin Armory ensures reliability and proper fit. It offers a clear upgrade path with standard AR-10 parts compatibility.
Cons: At over 10 pounds, it’s heavy for carrying long distances. The longer barrel makes it less maneuverable in tight spaces. The price, while competitive for the package, is a significant investment. You’ll need to budget for a robust optic and mount, which can easily add another $500-$1000 to the total system cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What type of magazines does this rifle use?
A: The Franklin Armory Praefector-M uses SR-25 pattern magazines. Common and reliable brands include Magpul PMAG .308 M118 LR/SR GEN M3 and Lancer Systems L7AWM. This is a key detail, as AR-10 magazine patterns are not universal.
Q: Is this rifle suitable for hunting in Missouri?
A: Absolutely. The .308 Winchester is a premier cartridge for Missouri whitetail deer and feral hogs. The 20-inch barrel provides excellent terminal performance at ethical hunting ranges. Just ensure you comply with all state and local regulations regarding magazine capacity for hunting.
Q: Can I mount a bipod on this rifle?
A: Yes. The handguard features a M-LOK attachment system, allowing you to directly attach a wide variety of M-LOK compatible bipods, like those from Magpul or Harris, or use a Picatinny rail adapter for even more options.
Look, if you’re in the market for a .308 that’s ready for serious work right from the start, the Praefector-M configuration makes a strong argument. It bundles high-quality, purpose-driven components into a single, reliable platform. This rifle is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, with an FFL transfer required for firearm purchases. See the full product page for current availability and ordering details.
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