MGF

I think I might be missing something. As I read around the Web, there seems to be a thread among threads -- not dominant, but persistent -- that the 551-A1 is something other than a good 5.56 x 45 rifle. I've seen it called a "Swiss fanboy" rifle.

OK, first admission. I'm not a serious rifleman. I do far more shotgun (clay sports) and handgun (paper punching) shooting than I do rifle shooting.

Still, when looking around for my first 5.56, I was sort of captured by the 551-A1. It came from a company I respect, looked like a solid build, operator controls looked straightforward, most reviews seemed good, if not excellent.

So, I pay $1,390 for mine. With five extra mags and a single-point sling and shipping, my total layout for this rifle, 7 mags and a sling was $1,670.

Again, I'm a newb to 5.56. But on the first brief run out to the range, I'm making bowling pins dance at 50 yards and getting some hits on the same at 100 (I need some time to get this rifle zeroed). It handled well, operated easily, and ran smooth as butter. The only "surprise" was the utter ease of operation and truly negligible recoil. In short, it got everything done that I expected. I could use another inch of stock length, but hell, life's not perfect.

And, truly, for what I paid, I think the gun's a pretty good buy. I don't think I'll really have any use for the sling, but it can go in the "spares" bag with all the other stuff I don't happen to be using lately.

I guess I don't understand some people's dislike for this $1,400 rifle, other than the $50 mags. But I guess some people always need something to hate on. I just don't get it though.

Siggybaby  

A lot of the negative you hear on the interwebs is sourced in jealousy. If you're happy with it, that is all that matters.

They are nice rifles, imo. Enjoy !

MGF

What a shame to be jealous of another fellow's fine firearm. I've shot custom-built Italian best at skeet ranges just because their owners' said, "Here, have a go."

I can't afford one, and probably wouldn't drop the cash for one if I could (other priorities), but WTH...the other guy did well, so I should be mad?

I just shoot 'em and say, "Thanks!"

Now, I would like my own basic Perazzi sporting clays gun, but that's a different story.

arclight610

The AR-15 does the exact same thing in a lighter and more inexpensive package. Typically, the AR-15 is more accurate and mags and parts cost less. These points cannot be argued. However, EVERYONE owns an AR-15. They are on the front of every gun magazine. It's all AR-15 this and AR-15 that. The Sig 551 is unique, and it probably makes the fanboys angry.

My friend has an MSAR STG-556 (Steyr AUG copy), and it turns heads when he busts it out at the range. I'm sure it also gets crap from the AR fanboys too. I have an AR-15, but I also lust after the SIG 551. Have fun with your cool rifle.

DoMdrty

On internet forums people feel they have to voice their own opinions especially if they dislike/disagree with something. I have notice people on gun forums tend to be far worse.

txshurricane

Yes, it is a fanboy rifle. In fact, all of my Sigs are fanboy Sigs. But that's because I'm a Sig fanboy. Screw the haters.

Kenny D

What's Up txs-Fanboy-hurricane?

I finally made it out to Carters Country's rifle range. That's a pretty nice set up they have. Finally got to set my "battlesight Zero" on my AR today. Gonna try to make it there next Saturday for the First Annual "National take your daughter to the range day" June 9. My 12yr old is dying to get some range time with my guns.

Smith3466

Seems like you got a good rifle MGF, just enjoy it. Shoots good, functions good, what more could anyone ask for.

txshurricane

Man, I'll be out of town that day. Otherwise, I'd bring my daughter, too. Bummer.

Yeah, their setup is nice at Carter's. It's just their prices that hurt.

Vetteguy904

I agree. most are Colt fanbois who are just jealous

in the ar world the Colt fanbois are as bad as the Kimber fanbois in the 1911 world