Ruger Harrier – 5.56 NATO, 16.1" Government Barrel, Mid-Length Gas, Magpul Furniture (28600)

This is the Harrier configured the way most people building an AR in 2026 would build one: mid-length gas, a full-length STANAG-spec top rail on a 15" free-float M-LOK handguard, and Magpul MOE-K2 grip with a Magpul DT Carbine stock. Underneath is Ruger's re-engineered MSR platform — 7075 forged receivers, a black nitride bolt carrier group with a staked gas key, and a 16.1" Government profile nitride barrel. Ruger model 28600, UPC 736676286003.

Mid-Length Gas Is the Feature

On a 16" barrel, moving the gas port forward to mid-length gives the bullet more time to leave the bore before the system unlocks. The practical result is lower port pressure, a longer and softer recoil impulse, and reduced wear on the bolt and extractor. It is the configuration most serious builders specify on a 16" gun, and it is the meaningful difference between this rifle and the 28601 — not the furniture.

Full-Length Rail, Free-Float Handguard

The 15" free-float M-LOK handguard carries a full-length STANAG-spec Picatinny top rail, so a magnifier, night vision, or backup irons can sit anywhere along the length in a continuous plane with the upper. M-LOK slots run at 3, 6, and 9 o'clock with eight additional slots at the muzzle end, and there are QD sling sockets on both sides.

Magpul Furniture, Factory Fitted

• Magpul MOE-K2 grip — a steeper, more vertical grip angle that suits a modern squared-up shooting stance.
• Magpul DT Carbine collapsible stock, with a 10.75"–14.00" length-of-pull range.

The Build Details

• 7075 forged upper and lower, mil-spec dimensions, Type III hardcoat anodized, with an upper/lower tension screw.
• Staked gas key on a black nitride bolt carrier group, chrome-plated firing pin.
• 16.1" Government profile barrel, black nitride, 1:8" button-rifled, threaded 1/2"-28 with a removable A2 flash hider.
• Flat-top upper with forward assist, dust cover, and brass deflector.
• Mil-spec carbine buffer tube with a staked castle nut.

Ruger Harrier 28600 Specifications

28600 or 28601?

Barrel, chamber, twist, receivers, BCG, trigger, buffer system, and magazine are identical.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does mid-length gas matter?
Moving the gas port forward on a 16" barrel lowers port pressure and stretches out the recoil impulse. The rifle feels softer and the bolt and extractor see less abuse. It's the preferred configuration on a 16" AR.

Can I shoot .223 Remington?
Yes. Ruger states the Harrier is 5.56 NATO chambered and compatible with both 5.56 NATO and .223 Remington.

Does it come with sights?
No. Flat-top Picatinny upper plus a full-length handguard rail for your choice of optic and backup irons.

Is the furniture real Magpul?
Yes — a Magpul MOE-K2 grip and a Magpul DT Carbine stock, factory fitted.

All firearm purchases must ship to a licensed FFL dealer. Manufacturer specifications are subject to change without notice.