The LMT NZ Reference Rifle (LMT Defense part no. MARSL16NZR) is a semi-auto 5.56x45mm AR that LMT describes as the closest you can get to the true New Zealand MARS-L rifle. It is built on the patented monolithic rail platform, with a 16-inch barrel and a direct impingement action. The feature list reads like a requirements document: metric flip-up sights, a bayonet lug, a SureFire Warcomp flash hider, an enhanced trigger guard and a QD receiver end plate. It ships with a 30-round PMAG, so it is ready for the range or a duty-style build out of the box. Shooters who want an issue-style LMT Defense rifle will find it a rare configuration.

Key Specifications

• Chambering is 5.56x45mm, the standard AR carbine cartridge with the widest ammunition selection.
• The barrel is 16 inches of chromoly, a patrol-length configuration for the caliber.
• Rifling twist is 1:7, which stabilizes the heavier bullets common in 5.56 loads.
• Operation is direct impingement, using a low-profile gas block and straight gas tube on the monolithic barrel.
• The CQB upper has a 16.25-inch Picatinny top rail with side and bottom rail space for accessories.
• The trigger is a two-stage design built into the MARS-L lower for a defined take-up and clean break.
• Capacity is 30 rounds, and a Magpul windowed 5.56 PMAG is included.
• Sights are LMT metric flip-up sights, which fold out of the way of an optic.
• The muzzle carries a SureFire Warcomp flash hider, which tames flash and keeps the sights visible.
• A bayonet lug is part of the configuration, matching the requirement features of the original contract rifle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this an exact copy of the New Zealand rifle? LMT calls it the closest you can get to the true New Zealand MARS-L rifle, and includes the requirement features: metric flip-up sights, a bayonet lug, a SureFire Warcomp flash hider, an enhanced trigger guard, a QD receiver end plate, an ambidextrous charging handle and the MARS-L ambidextrous lower.

What is in the box? The rifle comes with metric flip-up sights, a tactical two-point sling, three rail panel covers, a Magpul windowed 5.56 30-round PMAG, a torque wrench and an owner’s manual.

Is it piston or direct impingement? Direct impingement. The monolithic barrel uses a low-profile gas block with a straight gas tube.

Buy the LMT NZ Reference Rifle, 5.56, 16-Inch Barrel

Contract-spec rifles rarely reach the commercial market with their feature list intact. Order it from our Lubbock, Texas gun shop for fast, insured shipping to your FFL, and browse our other AR rifles when you are done.