As modern and adaptable as the AR platform has become, there are still plenty of us who appreciate the aesthetic of its original configuration. New for the retro market in 2024 is the Springfield Armory SA-16A2.

SA-16A2: Quick Specs:

• Caliber: 5.56x45mm NATO
• Capacity: 30+1
• Sights: A2
• Action: Direct gas semi-automatic
• Barrel Length: 20 inches
• Overall Length: 39.5 inches
• Weight: 7 lbs. 8 oz. unloaded

The new SA-16A2 is a semi-automatic-only version of the M16A2 that was adopted in the mid-1980s along with the 5.56 NATO round to replace the previous M16 models in .223 Remington. It wears a 20-inch chrome-lined 4150 steel barrel with a 1:7 twist rate to stabilize all manner of bullet weights. It uses an A2 rifle-length gas system and features an A2 front post and a carry-handle rear. To round out the package, the SA-16 features the familiar aluminum shrouded handguard and fixed buttstock that defined the A2 platform.

“The SA-16A2 takes what made the A2 upgrade of the M16 rifle so great and adds some subtle — but significant — enhancements for today’s shooters,” said Steve Kramer, Springfield’s VP of Marketing. “If you want a rifle that exudes classic appeal yet delivers modern performance, the SA-16A2 is the right choice.”

This new model features forged 7075 T6 aluminum upper and lower receivers, with the only departure from the A2 being the incorporation of M4 feed ramps and a burst option on the safety switch that is nonfunctional. The SA-16A2 ships with a carrying case and a 30-round GI magazine. The package has an MSRP of $1,249.