I went with longer barrel because of how light the SFAR is. Still lightweight and better ballistics than 16-inch barrel. Also, the rifle length gas system seems to be more reliable. It is the most accurate of my AR platforms, including Colt and DD. Strictly using this rifle for hunting.
I chose the 20" barrel for the same reason, hunting. I am stepping down from a 30-06 so I didn't want to give up any more power than I had to. Went to the range with 5 different loads of hunting ammo this last weekend and got a 3/4" group out of Federal Fusion 165 gr. It got a 1" group out of Federal Nosler Partion in 150 gr. Didn't do nearly as well with the other loads. So I am quite happy with the sub-MOA group and sighted in with the Fusions. Now if only a deer will step out in front of me this year.
You did not mention anything about the reliability problems with the 16 inch barrel rifle....how come.....this puts a great question mark on the reliability of your presentation.....I would not touch a 16 inch model with a 10 FOOT POLE.
Great comparison video. I just checked out the 16" at a shop near me and loved it immediately. Thanks, and wish people would keep negative comments to themselves...
Thanks for the great video. I bought the Sig 716 many years ago and it's been flawless but it's heavy. 12 lb bare. Just ordered the Ruger SFAR. Hope I have good luck with it. Thanks again.
@publicdefender77 I got the Ruger don't tread on me shirt & another one & some 20 round magazines with the discount coupon that came with my SFAR. I wear it alot!! LOL 🇺🇸
A big part of the increased recoil from the 20", is the significantly higher velocities. .308 and 7.62 really suffers out of carbine length barrels. It was never designed for them, and there were never any loads adapted for them either by the military or civilian side. 20" is definitely the way to go.
That makes perfect sense. In other applications, you would think the heavier gun would have less recoil, but not in this case. Thanks for sharing that info. Now you have me thinking I should do a chronograph video with both of these rifles. Thanks for sharing that.
There is a lot of research done on 308 in short barrels. 308 is one of the calibers that does best in shorter barrels. It looses a lot less speed than many other calibers. If you are only hunting and not shooting past 200-300 meters, you can go really short. I have hunted for years with a 15" 308 (bolt action).
This makes the most sense on this discussion. Part of the reason .308 is more accurate than 30.06 was the rate of burn. I feel like that extra 1/1,000 of a second before it leaves the bore is significant. I am 6’7” and 285lbs. I don’t know why I even questioned the 20” barrel.
I'm sure it post in here, but to me they need to do a 18in. 18in in 308 is the sweet spot for power/range and compactness. 18in Would definitely be my pick
Thanks for the comment. Yes, that seems to be a popular request or suggestion for the SFAR. Who knows, I could see Ruger making one down the road. I did a velocity test video between the two and the 16" was impressive with the speeds it generated.
Really wish there was a 18” version. Deciding between this or PSA offerings which have stainless barrels and have cheaper options. Lightweight rifles are ideal but heavier ones do eat some recoil. Decisions decisions…
One of each is my motto 😆. The recoil for a 308 is surprisingly very little. Especially now that I suppressed the 16" that seems like the perfect setup. It all depends on what you will be doing with it. You can't go wrong with any of the choices, including the PSA
Well now they released this rifle in 6.5 Creedmoor to add to the decision process. For me, I'm still leaning towards the 16" 308 as a battle/bugout rifle. Maybe down the road they'll make it so I can swap uppers and have a DMR setup as well. If money were no concern, I'd buy them both lol (16in 308-20in 6.5). Thanks for the vid btw!!
Thanks for the positive comment brother. 308/7.62 all the way. Ammo is less expensive and there is much more variety. Also for a bug out situation the 308 has more close range.
I did some side by side chronograph testing with these 2 rifles. Pretty interesting numbers. ua-cam.com/video/qCsf1JU6URQ/v-deo.htmlsi=r3i5C5SS4Jgs7RyA
@@publicdefender77 yup, as one would expect. Years ago a very wise and knowledgeable hunter told me that 308 should be shot out of a 20 to 24 inch barrel. anything less than 20 looses to much effectiveness and anything over 24 isn’t all that much better. If you’re going to be clearing structures in a shtf situation the 16 is good enough where no one on the receiving end will be able to tell that difference. But on the other hand if you are hunting with your sfar then the 20 might be a better choice for shots out to 700y, both for accuracy and energy. For me this is the perfect bear defense gun. Loaded with 10 or 15 rounds of heavy for caliber 308 is better than most eight shot 12gauge loaded with slugs. 308 in a bolt action would be a poor choice for bear defense, but in a reliable semi auto, now that’s some serious medicine. Thanks for the vid. Keep up the good work.
@the_watcher_abc you are exactly right. The energy with the quickness to get multiple shots with less recoil than a 12 gauge. It would be great for bear protection.
The POF Revolution is an amazing firearm but from what I have seen those run over double the price of the SFAR. Can buy a 16 and 20 for the cost of one and still have money left over.
I'd personally go with the 20 and use it as a long range tool that can also shift into a battle rifle/DMR role in a SHTF scenario. Then keep a PDW as a "primary" for things like home defense.
From what I understand the 16” version is having a high rate of issues. Gas ports the wrong size and over gassed. The 20” doesn’t seem to have those issues at all. It’s as if they used the gas system for the 20” on the 16” model. Anyway I’m rambling. I like the full length rail on the 20”.
They are both awesome guns. I just got done putting my 16 inch through a series of reliability tests today with all sorts of ammo. Shot 150 rounds with 0 hiccups. Hope to have a video out in a few days with the footage.
I bought the 20 inch in 6.5 Creedmoor. It's light, accurate and free of the aggravating feeding problems of the 16 inch. Ruger got the gas system worked out for the Creedmoor.
Very nice. I know those 6.5s work great. Those weren't even out uet when i made this video. The second generation gas blocks on the 308 seem to have solved the setting 2 issues
What is better rifle Ruger SFAR or PSA gen3 P10 in your opinion?! I am more inclined to PSA brend and it's cheaper significantly as for the hand guns - the PSA with it's PSA 5.7 Rock is a moster with twenty five round in your hand! As for 16" barrel I think that for 308 caliber it is not propper lenth for a sniper rifle - the 20" that is what the doctor prescribed with a good scope...
@yaroslavgorislabe3551 the PSA is a lot of gun for the money but the SFAR isn't that much more expensive. I would spend the extra and get the lighter option. Either way they are both nice options.
promagindustries.com/ar-308-308-40-rd-black-polymer/ You get what you pay for at this price. Mine runs great till the last 10 rounds. Spring is a little weak.
Really been trying to find someone to do a video on the browning bar 308 versus the 308 Ruger SFAR 20” barrel accuracy testing from 100 to 700 yards to see which groups better with different ammunition.
Can you give an idea of the difference in accuracy at 100 vs 500 yards? Or thereabouts? If the groups are within 3-4” at 500 yards, I’ll save a pound of weight. If it is 5”+, and stovepiping, I’ll take 20”.
Great video with useful info. I’m just not sold on how this 16 inch AR-10 complements my 16 inch AR-15. I don’t necessarily want 308 just for the overmatch
@toniwilson6210 I had a built DPMS AR 10 16" but fell in love with the lightness of this thing and had to have it (the 16"). Needles to say after shooting the 16" for 500+ rounds, the dpms was traded in on the 20" sfar version. The weight difference makes it so much more fun to shoot. Also the stock brake has both of these producing less recoil that the old AR 10 platforms with no brake. Here is my playlist with both of them starting at brand new. ua-cam.com/play/PL3jSjc0gMIZ8VsJvWiOasAb1tKDmx8iiQ.html&si=JnG-_2FBE9R9yQ6_
I have ordered the 20" version. If there was an 18" version, i would probably ordered that instead, as it would fullfill the minimum barrel length for hunting in my country. Plus you could still keep the rifle length gas system.. but we'll see. I suspect there will be a whole bunch of aftermarket barrels for the SFAR soon🙂
@@publicdefender77 , I can't wait to pick it up, I think it will be awesome🙂 I will use it both for hunting and DMR competitions, a brand new thing here in Sweden. Steel targets from 100 to up to 800 meters under time limit. I tried it with my AR-15 in .223, but at long distance, it's hard for the spotter to see if the plate even moves😄
When the SFAR came out they only offered 2 models in 308. They offered a 16" and a 20". A few months ago they came out with the 6.5 Creedmoor with a 20" barrel with different hardware combinations. Personally I would only go with the 308 versions.
Ya!, I went 4 20", Hunt/SHTF! ( there is 10-round mags, readily available) Sight-in@100yds=2 shots( boresighted @home/ wrote down EXACTadj= spot on!!) Love the trac-chart!!=2"low@100yds= dead-on@200yds=2"high@300yds!! Simple.( my hunt area generally limited to less than 350yd shots) Any longer=plenty of trac-charts available. All I need to do is dope the wind!!
You need the energy of the 7.62 out past 200 yards unless your targets are in vehicles or we'll barricaded. I decided not to go the 30 cal. Battle rifle path in favor of a bolt action 30 cal. If I'm on the move the AR is my choice.
I bought the POF Revolution DI 308 16.5” barrel about three years ago. Very happy with it. I’ve run around 5-6 hundred rounds through it with zero failures or issues other than a magazine issue. With 20 25 round magpul magazines and around 16 20 round magpul, that problem is resolved. I’ve been seeing quite a few people having feed issues with the Ruger version. With Ruger trying to duplicate what POF has done, maybe they need to look more in depth at POF’s extraction and feed. I have run many different ammunition manufacturers and bullet weights through it with no problem other than accuracy with one manufacturer and anything below 150 grains. It shoots 3/4 moa and half moa with Hornady Black 168 grain and a few other Hornady lines. Norma is another that shoots half moa groups which is good deer ammunition. I have almost all my 25 round magazines filled with the Hornady Black and the twenties I have a few different manufacturers for target shooting at a lower cost. I also bought a POF Minuteman for a backup for any SHTF scenario that may occur. Even the Minuteman has ran flawlessly besides being very accurate. The POF’s do cost a bot more but the only change I have made is the compensators which reduced the recoil even more.
It is great to hear firsthand from someone who has experience with the POFs . Thanks for sharing that. From what I have read they seem very nice. The price has been the only thing turning me off. Someday that may be an option though.
@@publicdefender77 I had to edit out some errors created by autocorrect. I agree that the cost is what turns most away from POF but if one wants reliability, accuracy, and longevity……. It will cost a bit more up front. The weight is what drew me to the POF Revolution. I wanted a battle rifle that I could also utilize for hunting. I did compare the Sig 716i 308 and a couple others but when you hold each of them together and think about carrying it all day long, the choice was obvious for me to spend almost double. If POF didn’t have the Revolution DI, I probably would have purchased the Sig 716. Ruger hadn’t come out with their version until a year or more later for I would have possibly of purchased it and might not be as happy as I am today. You have earned another subscriber and I wish you well.
At 100yards with 168 average grouping is around an inch maybe a little less. But I have spent more time at 200 and back with that one. I have shot mostly the Hornady Black vmax 168 and the federal 180 Blue box
I carried both the M16 and M4 in Iraq. There is no comparison in comfort of carry. The M4 was my choice for comfort. I may have felt differently in Afghanistan with the longer ranges required.
Unfortunately no, Ruger doesn't sell just the barrel. Maybe in the future that will be a possibility but right now Ruger wants you buying the whole gun.
I really want one but have seen many problems with reliability with the sfar 16". What do you think of all the issue people online and in videos have seen?
I have 1800 rounds through my 16" and close to 1000 on my 20". I have most of those rounds on video. It's running better than ever. Here is a Playlist I made. Honestly i love both of these. ua-cam.com/play/PL3jSjc0gMIZ8VsJvWiOasAb1tKDmx8iiQ.html&si=98xjw-XXxrQOKpHU
@@publicdefender77 thank you for the response and the video, out of 1800 rounds how many malfunctions do you think you have? Is it as reliable as a high- quality AR 15? Would you say out the box it was good enough to rely on a do or die situation?
@ahmada.thabata8615 I would say each of them had 20 to 30 total malfunctions, but that was only on the old gas block on setting 2. Out of the box they both ran flawlessly on setting 3. Dialing it in with different ammo on setting 2 is when there is room for some low pressure cycling issues. Remember these 308s have over twice the muzzle energy as a .556 so comparing is apples and oranges. One is for hunting coyotes and varmints, and the other is for large game whatever that may be.
@@2GUNZ99 I guess it depends on what you will be setting it up for. I purchased the 16" first, so if you were only going to get one, I would recommend the 16". Below is my playlist with both of them in action. Hopefully that helps you with your decision making. ua-cam.com/play/PL3jSjc0gMIZ8VsJvWiOasAb1tKDmx8iiQ.html&si=wMuMCbsSDuGcxVWx
@publicdefender77 ok perfect i was hoping that ! I was looking for a video that would shine light, on which if you only had to choose 1. 16 for the chosen ✨️
I have the 20in I changed the butt pad and the muzzle break and let me tell you Mann before I was bruised on the shoulder… my wife was afraid of my 308 until upgraded it’s muzzle break and butt pad.. I promise you she’s dropping more hogs than I am now😂.. try it on your 20in you’ll be 10/10 at any distance Magpul Rubber Recoil Pad for Synthetic Rifle Stocks Apollo Max muzzle break by ultradyne
Just smoked a buck with that 20in bout 75 yards with federal fusion 150 gr bro them bullets aren’t nooo joke but it was a heart shot but the other shoulder was fucked.. so I have to start neck and head shotsss🤣🤣😂😂😂 I need my meat
@RuKuS222 I agree 100%. Mainly, just a comparison between the 2 SFARs. My 16" is set up more for quick "closer" contact than the 20". 20 to 200 yards vs 100 to 1000 yards
The federal 150 sp 308 and the hornady 150 and 165 whitetail hunters have been solid past 400 yards. With a 3x magnifier my 16 is not set up to be a tack driver. Just hit the target quickly.
@publicdefender77 Ruger could bring the cost down significantly by selling the lower and upper separate. If they ship the entire firearm together, they pay a Firearms Tax on the entire thing. I was able to buy my Palmetto 308 lower for $200 shipped to the FFL. I then bought the 20" upper separate and had that ship to my house for $500. $700 for 20 inch AR-10 that has 17 adjustable gas positions and shoots 1 moa with Freedom Munitions. If you ever decide to get another AR-10, try one from Palmetto and do a comparison video.
I know you're not going to like my answer, but they have equally reliable. I have had more shots fired from the 16 and more malfunctions from the 16. Most of my videos show any malfunctions, as I try to keep it as real as possible.
@@publicdefender77 I’ve seen a lot of issues on line with the gas system and most are with the 16”. I was wondering if the 20” having a rifle gas system would be more reliable. I wish they had an 18”.
For heaven sake, if Ruger has not upgraded the regulator then why should anyone invest in this rifle? Great concept but I would not purchase one until it has been confirmed that Ruger has done the right thing.
@ewingh695 Ruger did upgrade the gas regulator. This video is a year old. I did several videos on it. I have a whole Playlist on both 308 versions and they run flawlessly. Now I run them suppressed and still flawlessly.
Intro music had me remembering the old porn vids. I went with the 16" as it's as accurate as I am out to 6-800 meters. I'll never be shooting farther than that. plus it's FAR more maneuverable than the 20" especially when I put my Surefire on. Also to note this kicks SOOOO much softer than my HK91 & PTR's and the weight feels like half!!
Yes, it is some classic porn music. Goes perfectly with firearms 😁Thanks for the info on your 16. Sounds like you fell in love with the same things I fell in love with. Did you put a suppressor on it? I'm still waiting on my approval.
Weight and size is an advantage for some people. I just made a couple videos with the 16 and 20 running different ammo through the chronograph. Very surprising results... you would think the 20 would be significantly faster.
Well I am pissed at ruger I bought the 16 to use as a hog gun I did not look close at the picture and did not notice the picatinny rail was not full length (my fault) I called Ruger to try to buy the full picatinny rail Ruger will NOT SELL the one that goes on the 20" because they will only sell what came on the gun The specs. Are identical EXCEPT for the rail I am using a clip on thermal that needs the pic space for mounting I HAVE NEVER HAD SO MUCH TROUBLE GETTING SOMEONE TO TAKE MY MONEY
Just bought the SFAR 6.5 CM variant and it is trash straight from the factory, BCG looks like it has 6000 rounds on it! Coating it worn on carrier and cam pin as well as brass speckles in the upper receiver. Quality Control is lacking to say the least. Every disappointed in this purchase. Definitely will not be buying RUGER from now on and will encourage others not to either.
@thatcrazyfamilynextdoor2762 Wow, that really sucks. Thanks for sharing. I made this video before the 6.5 came out and I haven't even shot one yet. Do you own any other Ruger firearms? Overall, I have been happy with them. Hopefully they fix your situation. Keep me posted.
Funny I liked the 16 SFAR so much I traded in my dpms ar 10 for the 20" SFAR. The 16 is not front heavy in any way unless you are hanging a heavy bipod or something on it. To each to thier own.
Ya idk about that it's not any more front heavy then most ar15s I've held unless u have a pencil berral wich is tho only way the pof can get its weight down to rugers weight. Wile being more expensive. Pluse the ruger can take most ar15 parts, triggers, hand guards, charging handels ect. And it is the same weight and same size recever as standard ar15. 556 is all but dead to me. Really, I spend the money I have on 308 and 9mm. To me 556 is really only ideal on 2 legs or varmints not saying u can't take deer with it but I could do the same thing with a 9mm glock on a brace like (20/20 recovery tack, fab defense cobra) and call it a day wile being less then 3 lbs loded. And if the deer are wearing soft armor, some sold copper 9mm can take that on in spades and if they have rifle armor well u may need more then just your rifle unless u have ap wich isint good for anything else and expensive and harder to acquire. Just my 2 cents 😅
Do you want an unreliable gun in 16 inch or 20 inch? Both might work some of the time in stock configuration. Ruger lost me wholly with the SFAR release. These don’t even run after they go back to Ruger to get “fixed”. Spending an additional 500 dollars on gas system parts makes them quasi reliable as long as you don’t fire anything but 7.62x51 ball ammo? Bravo Ruger. Bravo.
@cameljoe212 Mine have been working great both in stock form. 2000 rounds out of my 16" and 1200 rounds out of the 20". For the money I have been very satisfied. Just got done today shooting my 16" at 800 yards. So much fun.
Wish they made an 18"
I went with longer barrel because of how light the SFAR is. Still lightweight and better ballistics than 16-inch barrel. Also, the rifle length gas system seems to be more reliable. It is the most accurate of my AR platforms, including Colt and DD. Strictly using this rifle for hunting.
IMO for hunting, you chose the better option. So many things to like about this platform. Thanks for sharing!
I chose the 20" barrel for the same reason, hunting. I am stepping down from a 30-06 so I didn't want to give up any more power than I had to. Went to the range with 5 different loads of hunting ammo this last weekend and got a 3/4" group out of Federal Fusion 165 gr. It got a 1" group out of Federal Nosler Partion in 150 gr. Didn't do nearly as well with the other loads. So I am quite happy with the sub-MOA group and sighted in with the Fusions. Now if only a deer will step out in front of me this year.
@@gregmacklem if you can find some Norma ammunition, try it! I was very impressed.
@@gregmacklem looks like I should grab some fusion
You did not mention anything about the reliability problems with the 16 inch barrel rifle....how come.....this puts a great question mark on the reliability of your presentation.....I would not touch a 16 inch model with a 10 FOOT POLE.
Great comparison video. I just checked out the 16" at a shop near me and loved it immediately. Thanks, and wish people would keep negative comments to themselves...
Thanks for the great video. I bought the Sig 716 many years ago and it's been flawless but it's heavy. 12 lb bare. Just ordered the Ruger SFAR. Hope I have good luck with it. Thanks again.
You need to get a Ruger T shirt
That I do! Ruger should send me some swag!
@publicdefender77 I got the Ruger don't tread on me shirt & another one & some 20 round magazines with the discount coupon that came with my SFAR. I wear it alot!! LOL 🇺🇸
@@dabears52501 I'm going to get one of those. I own 7 of thier firearms. The most of any one company.
Lmfao...was totally gonna say that...
😂
A big part of the increased recoil from the 20", is the significantly higher velocities. .308 and 7.62 really suffers out of carbine length barrels. It was never designed for them, and there were never any loads adapted for them either by the military or civilian side. 20" is definitely the way to go.
That makes perfect sense. In other applications, you would think the heavier gun would have less recoil, but not in this case. Thanks for sharing that info. Now you have me thinking I should do a chronograph video with both of these rifles. Thanks for sharing that.
@@publicdefender77 I would love to see a chronograph video on these two guns shooting the same ammunition.
There is a lot of research done on 308 in short barrels. 308 is one of the calibers that does best in shorter barrels. It looses a lot less speed than many other calibers. If you are only hunting and not shooting past 200-300 meters, you can go really short. I have hunted for years with a 15" 308 (bolt action).
This makes the most sense on this discussion. Part of the reason .308 is more accurate than 30.06 was the rate of burn. I feel like that extra 1/1,000 of a second before it leaves the bore is significant. I am 6’7” and 285lbs. I don’t know why I even questioned the 20” barrel.
Love 16inch barrel 400yards hit it. 168g. Thank you sir! 👍
I'm sure it post in here, but to me they need to do a 18in. 18in in 308 is the sweet spot for power/range and compactness. 18in Would definitely be my pick
Thanks for the comment. Yes, that seems to be a popular request or suggestion for the SFAR. Who knows, I could see Ruger making one down the road. I did a velocity test video between the two and the 16" was impressive with the speeds it generated.
Really wish there was a 18” version. Deciding between this or PSA offerings which have stainless barrels and have cheaper options. Lightweight rifles are ideal but heavier ones do eat some recoil. Decisions decisions…
One of each is my motto 😆. The recoil for a 308 is surprisingly very little. Especially now that I suppressed the 16" that seems like the perfect setup. It all depends on what you will be doing with it. You can't go wrong with any of the choices, including the PSA
I have the 20" in 308 and it kicks about like a 556 real easy on recoil.
@clarkrowland6513 Yes, both of these are very light compared to other AR10s. The muzzle brake does wonders.
Well now they released this rifle in 6.5 Creedmoor to add to the decision process. For me, I'm still leaning towards the 16" 308 as a battle/bugout rifle. Maybe down the road they'll make it so I can swap uppers and have a DMR setup as well. If money were no concern, I'd buy them both lol (16in 308-20in 6.5). Thanks for the vid btw!!
Thanks for the positive comment brother. 308/7.62 all the way. Ammo is less expensive and there is much more variety. Also for a bug out situation the 308 has more close range.
Longer barrel means better powder burn, thus more recoil, more velocity, more energy, better performance from the .308.
I did some side by side chronograph testing with these 2 rifles. Pretty interesting numbers.
ua-cam.com/video/qCsf1JU6URQ/v-deo.htmlsi=r3i5C5SS4Jgs7RyA
@@publicdefender77 yup, as one would expect.
Years ago a very wise and knowledgeable hunter told me that 308 should be shot out of a 20 to 24 inch barrel. anything less than 20 looses to much effectiveness and anything over 24 isn’t all that much better.
If you’re going to be clearing structures in a shtf situation the 16 is good enough where no one on the receiving end will be able to tell that difference. But on the other hand if you are hunting with your sfar then the 20 might be a better choice for shots out to 700y, both for accuracy and energy.
For me this is the perfect bear defense gun. Loaded with 10 or 15 rounds of heavy for caliber 308 is better than most eight shot 12gauge loaded with slugs. 308 in a bolt action would be a poor choice for bear defense, but in a reliable semi auto, now that’s some serious medicine.
Thanks for the vid. Keep up the good work.
@the_watcher_abc you are exactly right. The energy with the quickness to get multiple shots with less recoil than a 12 gauge. It would be great for bear protection.
Another great video. Thanks for sharing your comparison! Hitting those balloons in the breeze looks like fun!
Thanks buddy. I am definitely going to do more of those balloon shoots. Where I am winter doesn't make it easy to shoot comfortably.
Make video Ruger SFAR 20 inch versus AUG Steyr 24 inch accuracy competition.
Looks just like Ruger's 556 MPR. I'm wondering if it makes sense to save a little more money for the POF Revolution. Not quite as small as the SFAR.
The POF Revolution is an amazing firearm but from what I have seen those run over double the price of the SFAR. Can buy a 16 and 20 for the cost of one and still have money left over.
I'd personally go with the 20 and use it as a long range tool that can also shift into a battle rifle/DMR role in a SHTF scenario. Then keep a PDW as a "primary" for things like home defense.
Good point!
Im getting 16 308 iron sights 1-6 lpvo and light and that will be under 8 pounds for a 308 fully setup is amazing
From what I understand the 16” version is having a high rate of issues. Gas ports the wrong size and over gassed. The 20” doesn’t seem to have those issues at all. It’s as if they used the gas system for the 20” on the 16” model. Anyway I’m rambling. I like the full length rail on the 20”.
They are both awesome guns. I just got done putting my 16 inch through a series of reliability tests today with all sorts of ammo. Shot 150 rounds with 0 hiccups. Hope to have a video out in a few days with the footage.
Excellent review. Thanks for posting.
I appreciate that.
I bought the 20 inch in 6.5 Creedmoor. It's light, accurate and free of the aggravating feeding problems of the 16 inch. Ruger got the gas system worked out for the Creedmoor.
Very nice. I know those 6.5s work great. Those weren't even out uet when i made this video. The second generation gas blocks on the 308 seem to have solved the setting 2 issues
Thanks for this, you answered my questions! The 16" is for me. I'm leaning towards the M&P 10 Sport though.
Glad it helped with your decision. Not an easy one to make.
I’m sure it’s too late now, but the Smith is probably better in every aspect except weight.
What is better rifle Ruger SFAR or PSA gen3 P10 in your opinion?!
I am more inclined to PSA brend and it's cheaper significantly as for the hand guns - the PSA with it's PSA 5.7 Rock is a moster with twenty five round in your hand!
As for 16" barrel I think that for 308 caliber it is not propper lenth for a sniper rifle - the 20" that is what the doctor prescribed with a good scope...
@yaroslavgorislabe3551 the PSA is a lot of gun for the money but the SFAR isn't that much more expensive. I would spend the extra and get the lighter option. Either way they are both nice options.
@@publicdefender77 If you want lighter version you should choose the standart AR-15 5.56 mm, the AR-10 is for a long range clinking.
@yaroslavgorislabe3551 I have ar 15 not enough energy past 400 yards. This just beats that in every category and is slightly heavier.
I own both, if you're looking to buy one, skip the 16 if you are accuracy driven.
Awesome. What do you have them set up for?
Thank you for that tip.
My 16 inch is one of the most accurate AR platforms I have
Thanks for the tip
Who sells the 40 round mags? I am looking to get my brother a present!😁😁
promagindustries.com/ar-308-308-40-rd-black-polymer/
You get what you pay for at this price. Mine runs great till the last 10 rounds. Spring is a little weak.
Really been trying to find someone to do a video on the browning bar 308 versus the 308 Ruger SFAR 20” barrel accuracy testing from 100 to 700 yards to see which groups better with different ammunition.
16" definitely if moving and running suppressed. Both great options though!
Yes its good to have good options. The 16" is the better option to utilize for power to weight or bug out.
For the close combat, i would recommend IWI Galil Ace, 2 gen, 308, with a foldable stock
That is a good option. My "close quarter" comment really meant less than 100 yards.
Can you give an idea of the difference in accuracy at 100 vs 500 yards? Or thereabouts? If the groups are within 3-4” at 500 yards, I’ll save a pound of weight. If it is 5”+, and stovepiping, I’ll take 20”.
@@JAutomated are you asking for the difference between the 16 and the 20 at 500 yards? I don't think there really is a big difference at all.
Great video with useful info. I’m just not sold on how this 16 inch AR-10 complements my 16 inch AR-15. I don’t necessarily want 308 just for the overmatch
@toniwilson6210 I had a built DPMS AR 10 16" but fell in love with the lightness of this thing and had to have it (the 16"). Needles to say after shooting the 16" for 500+ rounds, the dpms was traded in on the 20" sfar version. The weight difference makes it so much more fun to shoot. Also the stock brake has both of these producing less recoil that the old AR 10 platforms with no brake. Here is my playlist with both of them starting at brand new.
ua-cam.com/play/PL3jSjc0gMIZ8VsJvWiOasAb1tKDmx8iiQ.html&si=JnG-_2FBE9R9yQ6_
I have ordered the 20" version. If there was an 18" version, i would probably ordered that instead, as it would fullfill the minimum barrel length for hunting in my country. Plus you could still keep the rifle length gas system.. but we'll see. I suspect there will be a whole bunch of aftermarket barrels for the SFAR soon🙂
You will enjoy it. The 20 will be a great hunting rifle. I think im going to chronograph them both too see how much faster the 20 is
@@publicdefender77 , I can't wait to pick it up, I think it will be awesome🙂 I will use it both for hunting and DMR competitions, a brand new thing here in Sweden. Steel targets from 100 to up to 800 meters under time limit. I tried it with my AR-15 in .223, but at long distance, it's hard for the spotter to see if the plate even moves😄
@@mikaeljonsson2078 that sounds like fun!!
You could have your 20 cut to 18
@@gablackngoldit’ll be an expensive procedure to cut and rethread
I would like to purchase the scope and magnifier you have on the 16-inch model.
Can you provide the manufacturer and model numbers?
Thank you.
They are Eotech hws xps2 with a Eotech g33 magnifier. Hope that helps.
I see like 8 different models .308 16" 20" and 6.5 16" 20" thats 4 models but there are many other models more expensive what are those?
When the SFAR came out they only offered 2 models in 308. They offered a 16" and a 20". A few months ago they came out with the 6.5 Creedmoor with a 20" barrel with different hardware combinations. Personally I would only go with the 308 versions.
Ya!, I went 4 20", Hunt/SHTF! ( there is 10-round mags, readily available) Sight-in@100yds=2 shots( boresighted @home/ wrote down EXACTadj= spot on!!) Love the trac-chart!!=2"low@100yds= dead-on@200yds=2"high@300yds!! Simple.( my hunt area generally limited to less than 350yd shots) Any longer=plenty of trac-charts available. All I need to do is dope the wind!!
You can't go wrong with that. I love them both 😁. Good luck with yours brother.
You need the energy of the 7.62 out past 200 yards unless your targets are in vehicles or we'll barricaded. I decided not to go the 30 cal. Battle rifle path in favor of a bolt action 30 cal. If I'm on the move the AR is my choice.
@cosmiccharlie8294 exactly. Lb for lb I think it's the winner.
I bought the POF Revolution DI 308 16.5” barrel about three years ago. Very happy with it. I’ve run around 5-6 hundred rounds through it with zero failures or issues other than a magazine issue. With 20 25 round magpul magazines and around 16 20 round magpul, that problem is resolved. I’ve been seeing quite a few people having feed issues with the Ruger version. With Ruger trying to duplicate what POF has done, maybe they need to look more in depth at POF’s extraction and feed. I have run many different ammunition manufacturers and bullet weights through it with no problem other than accuracy with one manufacturer and anything below 150 grains. It shoots 3/4 moa and half moa with Hornady Black 168 grain and a few other Hornady lines. Norma is another that shoots half moa groups which is good deer ammunition. I have almost all my 25 round magazines filled with the Hornady Black and the twenties I have a few different manufacturers for target shooting at a lower cost. I also bought a POF Minuteman for a backup for any SHTF scenario that may occur. Even the Minuteman has ran flawlessly besides being very accurate. The POF’s do cost a bot more but the only change I have made is the compensators which reduced the recoil even more.
It is great to hear firsthand from someone who has experience with the POFs . Thanks for sharing that. From what I have read they seem very nice. The price has been the only thing turning me off. Someday that may be an option though.
@@publicdefender77 I had to edit out some errors created by autocorrect. I agree that the cost is what turns most away from POF but if one wants reliability, accuracy, and longevity……. It will cost a bit more up front. The weight is what drew me to the POF Revolution. I wanted a battle rifle that I could also utilize for hunting. I did compare the Sig 716i 308 and a couple others but when you hold each of them together and think about carrying it all day long, the choice was obvious for me to spend almost double. If POF didn’t have the Revolution DI, I probably would have purchased the Sig 716. Ruger hadn’t come out with their version until a year or more later for I would have possibly of purchased it and might not be as happy as I am today. You have earned another subscriber and I wish you well.
@@anthonybrown2426 Thank you brother. I appreciate that. Hopefully I you find some useful content from me.
What was your grouping sizes with the 20" and what gr you find it liked the best?
At 100yards with 168 average grouping is around an inch maybe a little less. But I have spent more time at 200 and back with that one. I have shot mostly the Hornady Black vmax 168 and the federal 180 Blue box
Great video . thank you for posting.
Thank you! I'm glad you found it useful.
Can i put a 16" barrel into a 20" rifle to get the full gas system and longer rail?
You would have to have that custom made. The gas port on the 16" barrel would not line up with the 20" gas system.
Please use a lav mic for better audio. Thr audio is a but difficult to hear.
@m60user Yea. That old camera had a poor mic. I appreciate the suggestion. Thank you.
Could you tell me what kind of 5 round magazine you have in the 20 inch?
That is a 10 round magpul
I carried both the M16 and M4 in Iraq. There is no comparison in comfort of carry. The M4 was my choice for comfort. I may have felt differently in Afghanistan with the longer ranges required.
Thank you for your service brother!! Yea, that shorter M4 would have been my choice as well. Always good to have options.
I bought the 20". Love it.
Great gun!
Can you swap out the different barrel lengths , and have just one lower?
Unfortunately no, Ruger doesn't sell just the barrel. Maybe in the future that will be a possibility but right now Ruger wants you buying the whole gun.
I really want one but have seen many problems with reliability with the sfar 16". What do you think of all the issue people online and in videos have seen?
I have 1800 rounds through my 16" and close to 1000 on my 20". I have most of those rounds on video. It's running better than ever. Here is a Playlist I made. Honestly i love both of these.
ua-cam.com/play/PL3jSjc0gMIZ8VsJvWiOasAb1tKDmx8iiQ.html&si=98xjw-XXxrQOKpHU
@@publicdefender77 thank you for the response and the video, out of 1800 rounds how many malfunctions do you think you have? Is it as reliable as a high- quality AR 15? Would you say out the box it was good enough to rely on a do or die situation?
@ahmada.thabata8615 I would say each of them had 20 to 30 total malfunctions, but that was only on the old gas block on setting 2. Out of the box they both ran flawlessly on setting 3. Dialing it in with different ammo on setting 2 is when there is room for some low pressure cycling issues. Remember these 308s have over twice the muzzle energy as a .556 so comparing is apples and oranges. One is for hunting coyotes and varmints, and the other is for large game whatever that may be.
Wait did you weigh it with the scope ON??
Yep. Both of them
Where is your gas set on the 16”
I run it on setting 2 since I primarily shoot 308. If I am shooting 7.62 I run it on 3.
Great video
Thank you brother!
Great video. Subbed
Thanks brother!
We still didn't learn which one is the best 😢😮
@@2GUNZ99 I guess it depends on what you will be setting it up for. I purchased the 16" first, so if you were only going to get one, I would recommend the 16". Below is my playlist with both of them in action. Hopefully that helps you with your decision making.
ua-cam.com/play/PL3jSjc0gMIZ8VsJvWiOasAb1tKDmx8iiQ.html&si=wMuMCbsSDuGcxVWx
@publicdefender77 ok perfect i was hoping that ! I was looking for a video that would shine light, on which if you only had to choose 1. 16 for the chosen ✨️
nice tee shirt! :) for a ruger test
What is the grain and make of the the bullet that runs best in your 20in?
I have mine set up to run 168s. The Hornady Black's run great. Lately I have found the rifeline 165s have been very tight for the money.
What scope an scope rings are on the 20" barrel?
Nikon M308 BDC. I love it. Took it off my DPMS AR 10. Too bad nikon doesn't make them anymore
I have the 20in
I changed the butt pad and the muzzle break and let me tell you Mann before I was bruised on the shoulder… my wife was afraid of my 308 until upgraded it’s muzzle break and butt pad.. I promise you she’s dropping more hogs than I am now😂.. try it on your 20in you’ll be 10/10 at any distance
Magpul Rubber Recoil Pad for Synthetic Rifle Stocks
Apollo Max muzzle break by ultradyne
Thanks for that info!! I'm going to look into those. Pretty crazy how much more recoil a 180 grain has over a 150
@@publicdefender77 yea that sfar 20in out the box wasn’t playing 😂😂 the upgrades you’ll love
What muzzle break did you change to?
@@unsatisfiedcustomer4279 Apollo max by ultradyne 308 break
Just smoked a buck with that 20in bout 75 yards with federal fusion 150 gr bro them bullets aren’t nooo joke but it was a heart shot but the other shoulder was fucked.. so I have to start neck and head shotsss🤣🤣😂😂😂 I need my meat
Good informative video. 👍 Subscribed
A 16" 308 with a muzzle brake would not be my choice for QCB.
@RuKuS222 I agree 100%. Mainly, just a comparison between the 2 SFARs. My 16" is set up more for quick "closer" contact than the 20". 20 to 200 yards vs 100 to 1000 yards
What scope do you have mounted on your 20''?
Nikon M308
Have you had more malfunctions out of the 16 or the 20?
More out of the 16" only because have shot that 2x as much. The percentage is the same.
A .308 for close quarters?
100yards and under. In a bug out situation I feel there are not many shots past 100
M&P 10 beats that 16in by 2lb?
Stock unloaded SW M&P AR 10 is 7.71 lbs and Ruger SFAR is 6.8 lbs
these rifles with optics are still 2-5 pounds lighter than most all other ar10s
What ammo u using to hit targets at 700yds i have the 16" sfar and havent found a very acvurate load yet 1" to 1.5" is best yet
The federal 150 sp 308 and the hornady 150 and 165 whitetail hunters have been solid past 400 yards. With a 3x magnifier my 16 is not set up to be a tack driver. Just hit the target quickly.
ua-cam.com/video/2hb9xdS2Soc/v-deo.htmlsi=FhWuNyW5CHgpVchk
I have 16inch barrel. Try 125g or 130g ballistic 👍
Higher velocities and more energy with the 20".
For sure. More knock down power. Not like that really matters but it's a nice difference.
This did not help me decide which one I should get, so now I have to buy both. Thanks a lot bro, my wallet hates you. 😂
😆 I'm sorry but you are right. You do need both
I completely agree 😂
Does Ruger just sell different uppers?
Nope. That would make make it to easy to swap out barrels.
@publicdefender77
Ruger could bring the cost down significantly by selling the lower and upper separate. If they ship the entire firearm together, they pay a Firearms Tax on the entire thing.
I was able to buy my Palmetto 308 lower for $200 shipped to the FFL.
I then bought the 20" upper separate and had that ship to my house for $500.
$700 for 20 inch AR-10 that has 17 adjustable gas positions and shoots 1 moa with Freedom Munitions. If you ever decide to get another AR-10, try one from Palmetto and do a comparison video.
That’s silly. The 20” is the way to go. This is a reach out rifle. Not a “bug out” rifle.
20" is a reach out rifle.
ua-cam.com/video/vIjfys8xG2E/v-deo.htmlsi=UJnb8MdcdSUj3ZKy
Which has been more reliable?
I know you're not going to like my answer, but they have equally reliable. I have had more shots fired from the 16 and more malfunctions from the 16. Most of my videos show any malfunctions, as I try to keep it as real as possible.
@@publicdefender77 I’ve seen a lot of issues on line with the gas system and most are with the 16”. I was wondering if the 20” having a rifle gas system would be more reliable. I wish they had an 18”.
The 6.5 is cool…
Did you have any problems with the 20 inch?
No, it has been running great. Some ammo has given me an occasional hiccup, but for the most part it's been great!
@publicdefender77 what gas regulator did you get. I'm really thinking about getting this.
@justusbryant7366 It's the stock regulator.
@publicdefender77 thought you said you got new ones. You had a video installing it
@justusbryant7366 Yes, those are the 2nd generation ones from Ruger. The new guns come with those already installed.
I love this gun, but trusting it not to break in a SHTF is more than the risk I am willing to take.
Have you had issues with yours?
20” for sure, get smaller caliber for short barrel
For heaven sake, if Ruger has not upgraded the regulator then why should anyone invest in this rifle? Great concept but I would not purchase one until it has been confirmed that Ruger has done the right thing.
@ewingh695 Ruger did upgrade the gas regulator. This video is a year old. I did several videos on it. I have a whole Playlist on both 308 versions and they run flawlessly. Now I run them suppressed and still flawlessly.
20 inch
Intro music had me remembering the old porn vids. I went with the 16" as it's as accurate as I am out to 6-800 meters. I'll never be shooting farther than that. plus it's FAR more maneuverable than the 20" especially when I put my Surefire on. Also to note this kicks SOOOO much softer than my HK91 & PTR's and the weight feels like half!!
Yes, it is some classic porn music. Goes perfectly with firearms 😁Thanks for the info on your 16. Sounds like you fell in love with the same things I fell in love with. Did you put a suppressor on it? I'm still waiting on my approval.
@@publicdefender77 I did, The Socom Rc2 as it's low back pressure. I've had it a few years so it wasn't purchased especially for the SFAR.
20” rules the roost. The 16” has no discernible advantage at all.
Weight and size is an advantage for some people. I just made a couple videos with the 16 and 20 running different ammo through the chronograph. Very surprising results... you would think the 20 would be significantly faster.
helpful
Well I am pissed at ruger I bought the 16 to use as a hog gun I did not look close at the picture and did not notice the picatinny rail was not full length (my fault) I called Ruger to try to buy the full picatinny rail Ruger will NOT SELL the one that goes on the 20" because they will only sell what came on the gun The specs. Are identical EXCEPT for the rail I am using a clip on thermal that needs the pic space for mounting I HAVE NEVER HAD SO MUCH TROUBLE GETTING SOMEONE TO TAKE MY MONEY
That sucks!! Sorry you are dealing with that. Maybe in a year or two they will have interchangeable parts.
Just get an aftermarket carbon fiber full picatinny rail like I did for mine. I dropped 8 ounces in weight for one I put one on mine.
@charleslangley6036 good call! That is a big weight savings
That's funny that you are wearing a Smith & Wesson shirt while doing a review on Ruger rifles. LOL
Yea, I like all gun manufacturers 😁. If Ruger wants to throw me some shirts I would wear them 😉
music @ the beginning loud like hell and then when you speak I can barelly hear your voice, dude do some adjustment before go public
Thanks for the advice! I need that. Please subscribe and give me advice on my other videos. I want advice on how to improve my content. Thanks
Looks like couldn't decide either he has both lengths ha
Exactly. Get them both and you will be twice as happy 😁
Just bought the SFAR 6.5 CM variant and it is trash straight from the factory, BCG looks like it has 6000 rounds on it! Coating it worn on carrier and cam pin as well as brass speckles in the upper receiver. Quality Control is lacking to say the least. Every disappointed in this purchase. Definitely will not be buying RUGER from now on and will encourage others not to either.
@thatcrazyfamilynextdoor2762 Wow, that really sucks. Thanks for sharing. I made this video before the 6.5 came out and I haven't even shot one yet. Do you own any other Ruger firearms? Overall, I have been happy with them. Hopefully they fix your situation. Keep me posted.
The 80s porno music is so 🔥
😅😅 like that. I thought it was fitting.
Buyer beware…
Did you have issues with yours? Of the 3 brand new ones i got to set up I got lucky with very few hiccups.
@publicdefender77 mines been great to, got the 16 when they first came out. Its really the only rifle I like shooting these days.
Sfar is a joke. Very front heavy, feels worse than my 8lb normal size ar10.
Funny I liked the 16 SFAR so much I traded in my dpms ar 10 for the 20" SFAR. The 16 is not front heavy in any way unless you are hanging a heavy bipod or something on it. To each to thier own.
Your opinion is a joke.
Ya idk about that it's not any more front heavy then most ar15s I've held unless u have a pencil berral wich is tho only way the pof can get its weight down to rugers weight. Wile being more expensive. Pluse the ruger can take most ar15 parts, triggers, hand guards, charging handels ect. And it is the same weight and same size recever as standard ar15. 556 is all but dead to me. Really, I spend the money I have on 308 and 9mm. To me 556 is really only ideal on 2 legs or varmints not saying u can't take deer with it but I could do the same thing with a 9mm glock on a brace like (20/20 recovery tack, fab defense cobra) and call it a day wile being less then 3 lbs loded. And if the deer are wearing soft armor, some sold copper 9mm can take that on in spades and if they have rifle armor well u may need more then just your rifle unless u have ap wich isint good for anything else and expensive and harder to acquire. Just my 2 cents 😅
Do you want an unreliable gun in 16 inch or 20 inch? Both might work some of the time in stock configuration. Ruger lost me wholly with the SFAR release. These don’t even run after they go back to Ruger to get “fixed”. Spending an additional 500 dollars on gas system parts makes them quasi reliable as long as you don’t fire anything but 7.62x51 ball ammo? Bravo Ruger. Bravo.
@cameljoe212 Mine have been working great both in stock form. 2000 rounds out of my 16" and 1200 rounds out of the 20". For the money I have been very satisfied. Just got done today shooting my 16" at 800 yards. So much fun.