The Shadow Systems U526 5.56 NATO rifle is a lightweight 16-inch semi-automatic rifle built as a complete system (Shadow Systems part no. SS-6039). Shadow Systems designed the barrel, gas system, handguard, trigger and furniture to work together, and the finished rifle weighs 6.2 pounds. It targets shooters who want a duty-style carbine for home defense, range work or training without the weight of a heavier build. The rifle is made in the USA, and its M-LOK handguard and ambidextrous controls suit most optics and accessories.

Key Specifications

• Chambering is 5.56 NATO, the standard military rifle cartridge with wide ammunition availability.
• Barrel length is 16 inches, a full-length rifle barrel that keeps this a standard rifle.
• The barrel is 4150 CMV steel with a hybrid profile, spiral fluting and a chrome-lined bore, which saves weight and resists wear.
• The twist rate is 1:7, a fast twist that stabilizes a wide range of 5.56 bullet weights.
• The action is semi-automatic, direct impingement with an intermediate-length gas system for smooth recoil.
• The gas block is cross-pinned 17-4 stainless steel, which holds alignment for the life of the rifle.
• The muzzle device is a Maelstrom three-prong flash hider that is compatible with Plan B suppressor mounting systems.
• The handguard is a lightweight, low-flex M-LOK design with an extended barrel nut for mounting lights and accessories.
• The trigger is an Elite two-stage duty trigger with a 3.5-pound total pull, giving a clean, predictable break.
• Controls are fully ambidextrous, including the bolt release, charging handle and a safety selector with a 60 or 90 degree throw.

Frequently Asked Questions

What caliber is the U526? It is chambered in 5.56 NATO, with a 1:7 twist rate and a 16-inch barrel.

Can I mount a suppressor on it? The Maelstrom flash hider is compatible with Plan B suppressor mounting systems, so it accepts that style of mount.

Is the U526 a pistol or a rifle? It is a rifle. It has a 16-inch barrel and a Shadow Systems stock, and Shadow Systems lists it in its rifle line.

Buy the Shadow Systems U526 5.56 NATO Rifle, 16-Inch Barrel

A light, ambidextrous 5.56 rifle with a two-stage trigger and a chrome-lined fluted barrel covers a lot of roles without extra upgrades. Order it from our Lubbock, Texas gun shop for fast, insured shipping to your FFL, and see more semi-auto firearms from the same shelf.