Description
The Windham Weaponry Varmint Exterminator NOT CA LEGAL, 5.56/223 20″ SS Barrel CA Legal is a purpose-built AR-15 rifle designed for precision and reliability at longer ranges. It features a heavy stainless steel barrel for sustained accuracy, making it an ideal platform for varmint control, target shooting, and duty use where distance matters. This rifle ships to Missouri and compliant US states.
Key Features
- 20-inch heavy-profile stainless steel barrel for superior heat management and accuracy.
- Chambered in versatile 5.56 NATO/.223 Remington.
- Free-floated handguard minimizes point-of-impact shift and allows for accessory mounting.
- Mil-spec lower receiver ensures wide compatibility with aftermarket triggers and parts.
- Optimized for use with magnified optics, thanks to its flat-top upper receiver.
Specifications & Details
| Caliber | 5.56 NATO / .223 Remington |
|---|---|
| Barrel | 20″, Stainless Steel, 1:9 Twist, Heavy Profile |
| Overall Length | Approx. 39.5 inches |
| Weight | Approx. 8.5 lbs (unloaded) |
| Receiver | Forged 7075-T6 Aluminum, Hardcoat Anodized |
| Handguard | Free-float M-LOK |
I’ve put a few hundred rounds of mixed .223 and 5.56 through a similar setup, and the difference a quality, free-floated barrel makes is immediately noticeable. The rifle’s heft, coming in around 8.5 pounds, is a trade-off. It’s not a rifle you’d want to hump through the woods all day, but that mass soaks up recoil and makes it a rock-steady platform from a bench or bipod. The price point of $1016.41 positions it as a serious tool, not a budget plinker. Here’s the thing—Windham’s reputation for building rifles right means this is a system that fits out of the box and runs without fuss.
Who This Rifle Is For
This is for the shooter who needs to reach out and touch something small or make consistent hits on paper at 300+ yards. Think prairie dog towns, coyote patrols, or precision rifle courses. It’s also a solid choice for a designated marksman in a tactical training role. If your primary need is a lightweight home-defense carbine, look elsewhere—this rifle’s mission is precision at distance.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The stainless steel barrel offers excellent accuracy and longevity. The free-float handguard is modern and practical. Windham’s fit and finish are top-tier, and the mil-spec construction means it’s compatible with a huge array of AR-15 parts from brands like Geissele, LaRue, or BCM. It’s a dedicated, no-compromise platform for its intended role.
Cons: The weight and length make it less maneuverable in tight spaces. The 1:9 twist rate, while fine for lighter varmint bullets, may not stabilize the heaviest 77-grain match loads as well as a 1:7 or 1:8 barrel. You’re paying for specialized performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does “NOT CA LEGAL” and “CA Legal” mean in the product name?
A: This indicates the rifle is configured to be compliant with California’s complex firearm laws, often involving a fixed magazine or other featureless modifications. The “NOT CA LEGAL” tag clarifies it’s not for other restrictive states. Always verify your local laws, and remember an FFL transfer required for firearm purchases is the final step.
Q: Can I use .223 Remington and 5.56 NATO ammunition interchangeably?
A: Yes, this rifle’s chamber is designed to safely fire both .223 Remington and 5.56x45mm NATO rounds. The 5.56 chamber has slightly higher pressure tolerance. You’ll get the best accuracy by testing different brands and bullet weights to see what your specific barrel prefers.
Q: Is the handguard compatible with standard AR-15 barrel nuts?
A: Typically, free-float handguards like this one use a proprietary barrel nut system specific to the handguard manufacturer. Installation is straightforward but requires the correct armorers wrench. It’s not a drop-in replacement for a standard clamshell handguard without changing the barrel nut.
If you need a rifle built to deliver precision shots where they count, the Windham Weaponry Varmint Exterminator is a proven platform. See if it’s the right tool for your needs, available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.