Description
You’re on a Missouri farm at dusk, the coyotes are getting bold, and you need a tool that bridges the gap between a varmint rifle and a defensive carbine. That’s the exact scenario the Rock River Arms LAR-15 Predator Pursuit Mid Length AR-15 223/5.56 16″ Barrel Free Float M-lok, 2 Stage Trigger was built for. It’s a purpose-driven AR-15 platform rifle engineered for precision shot placement on small to medium-sized predators and versatile enough for ranch defense and recreational shooting. Chambered in 5.56 NATO/.223 Remington, it combines a reliable mid-length gas system with a match-grade two-stage trigger and a lightweight free-float handguard for a balanced, accurate, and highly adaptable firearm.
Here’s the thing—accuracy under field conditions isn’t just about the shooter. It’s about the rifle’s ability to manage recoil, dissipate heat, and provide a stable platform. Rock River Arms addresses this with a cold hammer-forged 16-inch chrome-lined barrel featuring a 1:9 twist rate, a sweet spot for stabilizing a wide range of .223 and 5.56 ammunition from lighter varmint loads to common 55-62 grain rounds. The mid-length gas system is the key to its smooth operation, offering a softer recoil impulse and reduced wear compared to a carbine-length system on a 16-inch barrel. This translates to faster follow-up shots when a second coyote appears. The rifle ships with a single 30-round Magpul PMAG, a proven standard in the industry, ensuring reliable feeding right out of the box.
The heart of the Predator Pursuit’s performance is its free-float M-Lok handguard and exceptional trigger. The aluminum handguard locks directly to the receiver, eliminating point-of-impact shift from sling pressure or bipod use, a critical detail for consistent accuracy. Its full M-Lok compatibility means adding a light, forward grip, or bipod is tool-free and secure. Then there’s the two-stage trigger. With a clean take-up, a distinct wall, and a crisp break, it provides the tactile feedback necessary for precise shot execution at distance. This isn’t an upgrade you plan for later; it’s the factory-installed core of the system. The total package weighs in at approximately 6.8 lbs unloaded, making it easy to carry on long patrols of your property line.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 5.56 NATO / .223 Remington |
| Barrel | 16″ Chrome-Lined, 1:9 Twist, Mid-Length Gas |
| Handguard | 15″ Free-Float Aluminum M-Lok |
| Trigger | Rock River Arms National Match Two-Stage |
| Weight (Unloaded) | ~6.8 lbs |
| Magazine | 1x 30-round Magpul PMAG |
Pros & Cons
The strengths of this rifle are clear: its outstanding out-of-the-box trigger, the versatile and rigid M-Lok platform, and the smooth-shooting mid-length gas system create a ready-made precision tool. The chrome-lined barrel ensures longevity with minimal maintenance. On the other hand, the 1:9 twist may not optimally stabilize the heaviest 77+ grain match bullets some precision shooters prefer, and the rifle does not include optics—this is a platform meant to be built upon. At $1206.67, it sits as a serious value proposition against custom-built rifles, offering premium features at a competitive price point.
Who is this rifle for?
This is for the landowner who needs to protect livestock, the hunter focused on predator control, or the shooter who demands accuracy from a practical, no-fuss AR. It’s for the person who understands that a good trigger isn’t a luxury—it’s essential for making ethical, one-shot stops. It’s also an excellent foundation for a modern general-purpose rifle; its compatibility with standard AR-15 parts and accessories means you can tailor it to your exact needs without gunsmithing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the two-stage trigger adjustable?
A: No, the Rock River Arms National Match two-stage trigger is not user-adjustable. It is factory-set to provide a consistent, reliable pull weight—typically around 4.5 pounds—with a clean, predictable break that is ideal for precision work.
Q: Can I mount a sling directly to the M-Lok handguard?
A: Yes, absolutely. The full-length M-Lok slots allow for direct attachment of M-Lok compatible sling mounts at any point along the handguard, giving you complete control over the rifle’s balance and carry position. This is a drop-in ready solution for a single-point or two-point sling setup.
Q: What optics would you recommend for this rifle?
A: That depends on your primary use. For predator calling in open country, a variable-power scope in the 3-9x or 4-12x range is ideal. For a more versatile ranch rifle setup, a low-power variable optic (LPVO) like a 1-6x or 1-8x provides both close-up speed and mid-range precision. The flat-top upper receiver is ready for any standard Picatinny-mounted optic.
Ready to put a dedicated tool to work on your Missouri property? This Rock River Arms Predator Pursuit rifle is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. An FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases.
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