Description
You’re glassing a bean field at 350 yards, the crosshairs steady on a target that’s just a bit too far for your .223. You need a round that bucks the wind, carries energy, and makes the shot count without the weight and cost of a heavy magnum. That’s the scenario where the Radical AR-15 6.5 Grendel 20″ Barrel 1:9 Twist, Black MFT Stock, Pepper Pot Muzzle Brake, 15″ RPR M-LOK Handguard, 15rd Mag isn’t just an option—it’s the answer. This is a purpose-built, mid-range hunting and precision AR platform chambered in the efficient 6.5 Grendel cartridge, designed to deliver superior external ballistics from a standard AR-15 frame.
Here’s the thing—this rifle bridges a critical gap. The 20-inch barrel with a 1:9 twist rate is optimized to stabilize a wide range of 6.5 Grendel projectiles, from lighter varmint loads to the heavier 120+ grain hunting bullets that truly unlock the cartridge’s potential. That longer barrel allows the round to reach its designed velocity, translating to a flatter trajectory and more retained energy downrange. The rifle ships with a single 15-round magazine, giving you ample capacity for a day in the field or on the line. At $921.94, it presents a focused value for a dedicated tool.
Built for Control and Customization
Recoil management is critical for fast follow-up shots, whether on game or steel. The included Pepper Pot muzzle brake is a workhorse device that aggressively redirects gas upward and to the sides, significantly reducing felt recoil and muzzle rise. This keeps you on target. Up front, the 15-inch RPR M-LOK handguard provides a massive real estate for a solid grip, bipod, or lighting system. Its full-length top Picatinny rail ensures your optic mounts securely, while the M-LOK slots at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock offer modern, lightweight attachment points. The Black MFT Stock offers a compact, snag-free profile that’s ideal for a solid cheek weld when you’re behind a magnified optic.
Specifications & Details
| Caliber | 6.5 Grendel |
| Barrel | 20″, 1:9 Twist, 4150 Steel |
| Handguard | 15″ RPR M-LOK |
| Stock | MFT Minimalist (Black) |
| Muzzle Device | Pepper Pot Brake |
| Magazine | 15rd 6.5 Grendel (Included) |
Pros: The 6.5 Grendel chambering offers excellent ballistic performance beyond 300 yards, outperforming .223/5.56 in energy and wind resistance. The 20-inch barrel is the sweet spot for this cartridge. The platform is mil-spec compatible, meaning a vast universe of AR-15 triggers, grips, and accessories will fit out of the box. The M-LOK handguard and effective brake are premium features at this price point.
Cons: Ammunition is more specialized and less common than 5.56 NATO, so cost and availability can be a factor. The 20-inch barrel makes for a less maneuverable rifle in tight quarters compared to a 16-inch carbine. Magazine options are more limited than standard AR mags.
Who This Rifle Is For
This Radical AR is for the hunter who needs ethical reach for whitetail, hog, or predator control in open country. It’s for the precision shooter wanting to stretch an AR’s legs on a budget, or the prepared individual who values a versatile, hard-hitting cartridge in a reliable platform. It works with standard AR-15 lowers, so if you have one, you’re already halfway there. This rifle is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the 6.5 Grendel good for deer hunting in Missouri?
A: Absolutely. With proper 120-130 grain hunting ammunition, the 6.5 Grendel from a 20-inch barrel delivers more than enough energy for ethical whitetail harvests at typical Midwestern ranges, offering a significant advantage over .223 in both power and shot placement confidence.
Q: Can I use my existing 5.56 magazines with this upper?
A: No. The 6.5 Grendel cartridge requires specific magazines due to its different case geometry. The rifle includes one 15-round magazine, and others are available from brands like ASC and C-Products. Standard 5.56 bolts and magazines will not function correctly.
Q: What kind of optic should I put on this?
A: This rifle begs for a variable-power scope (e.g., a 3-9x or 4-12x) to take full advantage of its effective range. A 1-6x or 1-8x LPVO is also an excellent choice for faster target acquisition at closer ranges while still providing magnification for distance. The full-length top rail gives you plenty of mounting options.
Ready to add serious mid-range capability to your arsenal? See the full details and availability on our product page.
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