The Shadow Systems U526 16-inch 5.56 rifle is a lightweight semi-automatic rifle with a black receiver and a full-length barrel (Shadow Systems part no. SS-6040). Shadow Systems built it around a spiral-fluted, chrome-lined barrel and an intermediate-length gas system, and the complete rifle weighs 6.2 pounds. It fits a range or training role as well as home defense, and the M-LOK handguard takes lights and accessories without adapters. Ambidextrous controls and a Shadow Systems stock round out a rifle meant for either hand.

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

Is the U526 chambered for 5.56 NATO? Yes. Shadow Systems lists the U526 in 5.56 NATO with a 16-inch barrel and a 1:7 twist rate.

Does the U526 have ambidextrous controls? Yes. The bolt release, charging handle and safety selector are ambidextrous, and the selector can be set to a 60 or 90 degree throw.

What muzzle device does it use? It uses a Maelstrom three-prong flash hider that is compatible with Plan B suppressor mounting systems.

Buy the Shadow Systems U526 16-Inch 5.56 Rifle, Black Receiver

Weight, trigger and handguard are the three upgrades most shooters chase on a stock carbine, and the U526 arrives with all three addressed. Order it from our Lubbock, Texas gun shop for fast, insured shipping to your FFL, and browse more semi-auto firearms while you are here.