The Shadow Systems E526 is an 11.5-inch, 5.56 NATO AR-pattern pistol in an FDE anodized finish with a black bolt carrier group (Shadow Systems part no. SS-6018). It weighs 5.4 pounds and is built around a hybrid-profile, spiral-fluted, chrome-lined 4150 CMV barrel and a carbine-length gas system. An ambidextrous control layout, an Elite two-stage duty trigger and a low-flex M-LOK handguard make it quick to set up for home defense or range work. The 30-round capacity and a Plan B-compatible flash hider round out a compact, light package.

Key Specifications

• The chambering is 5.56 NATO, a widely available cartridge that suits both defensive and range use.
• The barrel is 11.5 inches of chrome-lined 4150 CMV steel with a hybrid profile and spiral fluting, trimming weight without giving up durability.
• The twist rate is 1:7, a fast twist that stabilizes a wide range of bullet weights.
• The gas system is carbine length, tuned for reliable cycling in an 11.5-inch platform.
• The bolt carrier group uses a C158 MPI-tested bolt with a low-friction surface treatment, finished black on this version.
• The trigger is an Elite two-stage duty trigger with a 3.5-pound total pull for a predictable, clean break.
• The handguard is a lightweight, low-flex M-LOK design with an extended barrel nut for accessories and a firm mounting platform.
• The muzzle device is a Maelstrom three-prong flash hider compatible with Plan B suppressor mounting systems.
• The bolt release, charging handle and safety selector are ambidextrous, and the selector can be set up with a 60 or 90 degree throw.
• The pistol weighs 5.4 pounds, light for an 11.5-inch 5.56 platform.

Frequently Asked Questions

What finish does this E526 have? This version is FDE anodized with a black bolt carrier group. Shadow Systems also offers the E526 in black.

Does the E526 come with a brace? Yes. It uses the Shadow Systems proprietary stabilizing brace, with sling attachment points built into the brace and an angled M-LOK sling mount on the handguard.

Can I mount a suppressor on the E526? The Maelstrom flash hider is compatible with Plan B suppressor mounting systems, so a Plan B-pattern mount can be installed in its place.

Buy the Shadow Systems E526 5.56 NATO Pistol, FDE

The E526 trims weight where it counts and keeps the details that matter on a working carbine-length pistol: a pinned gas block, a chrome-lined barrel and a duty-grade trigger. Order it from our Lubbock, Texas gun shop for fast, insured shipping to your FFL, and see more semi-auto handguns in the catalog.