Just before the ball dropped, signifying the closing of 2025, Ruger decided to release one last product: the new Harrier line of AR-15 rifles. At first glance, a new entry-level AR-15 isn’t particularly exciting, but I believe this is an exception. This marks the first Ruger product manufactured in Hebron, Kentucky.
If you didn’t know—or perhaps blacked out for most of 2025, which is understandable—Ruger acquired Anderson MFG on July 1, 2025, or at least that’s when the sale was announced. The reason: to scale production and capabilities. Anderson was essentially a one-trick pony (pun intended), and unfortunately for them, the budget AR market was collapsing. Their leadership recognized the shift and chose to sell before their value plummeted. Sometimes it pays to be ahead.
And now we have the Harrier, a rifle that looks eerily similar to the AM-15, but with Ruger touches.
SPECS
There are two models, one featuring Magpul furniture and the other Mil-Spec. The standard specs are as follows:
- Model(s): 28600, 28601
- Caliber: 5.56 NATO
- Capacity: 30-round magazine
- Sights: Optic Ready
- Optic Cut: N/A
- Handguard: Fully Picatinny with M-LOK slots, Partial Picatinny with M-LOK slots.
- Barrel Length: 16.1”
- Overall Length: 35.87”
- Barrel Twist: 1:8
- Thread Pitch: 1/2×28
- Gas Length: Mid-Length, Carbine-Length
- Height: 7.50”
- Weight: 6.8 lbs, 6.6 lbs.
- Price: $749.00 & 699.00 MSRP
FEATURES
Ruger’s new Harrier rifles feel more like a statement of purpose than just a product launch, signaling a new chapter in the company’s AR lineup. As mentioned earlier, the Harrier is built at Ruger’s Kentucky facility.
The Harrier combines familiar AR ergonomics with thoughtful refinements that matter. These include forged receivers, a free-floated M-LOK handguard, a tensioning screw, and durable nitride finishes. Of the two options, one features a mid-length gas system with modern Magpul furniture. Likewise, the other is a more traditional carbine configuration with Mil-spec furniture and a carbine gas system.
On the new Harrier line, Ruger CEO, Todd Seyfert, had this to say: “Ruger Harrier rifles combine the rugged reliability Ruger is known for with modern adaptability, making them an ideal choice for shooters seeking precision, durability, and customization – and we are excited that this is only the beginning.”
Zooming Out
I’m unsure what Harrier’s introduction signifies for the legacy AR-556 line. Ruger already had models that resembled these. I suspect most of the AR manufacturing will relocate to the Hebron, Kentucky, facility so Ruger can concentrate on new ventures and increasing production of the Marlin and Glenfield lines. The Harrier effectively eliminates the AR-556 (which appears to no longer be on Ruger’s website).
