It had been previewed early this year as the “Mohawk”: SIG Sauer is now officially introducing the SIG516 G3. After some 15 years from the first launch – and after the manufacturer even considered retiring it for good – the latest version of the SIG516 is the result of a design review that infuses new technology into "the venerable weapons system,” bringing “a decade of internal engineering know-how on similar rifle projects to create the most rugged, durable platform in its class”.
New SIG516 G3, the SIG516 rebooted
The “Gen 3” of SIG's AR-15 piston system rifle, the optimized SIG516G3 is something more than just an upgrade. The SIG516 original platform is a multi-caliber assault rifle capable of selective fire that fires from a closed bolt, based on a short-stroke piston system with an adjustable gas system. Chambered in in 5.56 NATO, the new SIG516 G3 has premium components and details – some of which derive from the MCX family of firearms, such as the bolt with tapered lugs and the rear and side non-reciprocating charging handle that allows the rifle to be easily operated.
Highlights include a new and easy-to-adjust valve lever, SIG Matchlite DUO curved trigger, SIG flash hider compensator, free-floating M-LOK alloy handguard and fully ambidextrous controls. Steel reinforced components for high wear areas support long-term operational use and extended reliability
The rifle comes standard with a 16-inch (406.4 mm) cold hammer-forged and chrome-lined barrel with a 1:7-inch twist rate. Stock is a 6-position Magpul DT type, and the reduced-angle pistol grip is AR-compatible. Magazine capacity is the usual 30 rounds.
SIG Sauer SIG516 G3 technical specifications
| Caliber: | 5.56 NATO |
| Barrel Length: | 16”/406.4 mm |
| Overall Length (w/Extended Stock): | 927 mm |
| Weight: | 3.5 kg |
| Operating System: | Short-stroke piston |
| Action Type: | Semi-auto |
| Stock: | 6-position Magpul DT |
| Adjustable Gas System: | Yes |
