The AR platform has endured for several decades because of its modularity. The upper and lower receiver design allow shooters to change out their barrels, stocks, handguards, grips, triggers—you name it, and it can be done. This is why the AR accessory market is booming. Hundreds of companies offer every possible aftermarket product to enhance your AR and help you customize it to fit your needs.
Here are 49 new AR accessories coming out in 2016 that are worth looking into.
Aero Precision Enhanced M-LOK Handguards
Aero Precision’s Enhanced Handguards are now available in M-LOK configurations, offering more modularity than traditional handguards. Constructed from 6061-T6 aluminum for strength and light weight, these handguards come in 7-, 9-, 12- and 15-inch lengths. With an inside diameter of 1.8 inches, most muzzle devices and sound suppressors will fit. Flat Dark Earth and black models are available. (aeroprecisionusa.com; 253-272-8188)
Aimpoint’s New Magnifiers
Aimpoint’s new 3X-C is an affordable 3X magnifier for the commercial market while the 3XMag-1 and 6XMag-1 models are updated versions for military and law enforcement needs that offer 3X and 6X magnification, respectively. All three magnifiers are designed to work in line with most electronic reflex sights and have adjustable diopters. Each can use the Aimpoint Flip Mount, which allows the magnifier to be quickly flipped into or out of position, or removed from the firearm completely.
BCMGUNFIGHTER Mod 0 SOPMOD
Bravo Company’s new version of the BCMGUNFIGHTER stock offers a more pronounced cheekweld, plus all of the great features of the original Mod 0 stock. Using a patented internal latch system, the stock features an ambidextrous QD interface port, a web sling attachment slot, a built-in buttpad and the VBOS (Vehicle Borne Operations Sling) tab for securing a sling while not worn on body. (bravocompanyusa.com; 877-272-8626)
BCMGUNFIGHTER PKMR Handguards
Bravo Company has unveiled its new PKMR (Polymer KeyMod Rail) Handguards, which are made of polymer and offer three different KeyMod interfaces and heat shields. Models will fit carbine- or mid-length gas systems. (bravocompanyusa.com; 877-272-8626)
Beamshot Insider
The Insider is a multifunction laser light system incorporates two and can be configured with up to four different aiming and illumination combinations. It features a visible laser sight (red or green) with either an IR or white LED or an IR laser sight or laser illuminator. The light can be operated in momentary, constant-on, strobe and dimmer modes. The controls are ambidextrous, and the Insider will mounts to most ARs without modification. (beamshot.com; 888-532-2221)
Crimson Trace LiNQ
Crimson Trace’s new LiNQ light and laser system consists of two parts: an AR control grip and a rail-mounted light/laser module. The two components are connected wirelessly to eliminate any possible snag points. The grip uses a secure Crimson Trace-developed LiNQ interface system that can turn on both the 300-lumen light or laser, or both, as required. (crimsontrace.com; 800-442-2406)
Dead Air Armament Flash Hider
Dead Air Armament’s Flash Hider also works as a mount for the company’s Sandman series of suppressors. The Flash Hider features a unique patent-pending design of mass-shifted, equal-length tines, which translates to no “ping” sound when used with Dead Air suppressors. (deadairsilencers.com; 877-892-7544)
Dead Air Armament Pyro
The Pyro is a unique enhanced muzzle device utilizing the Sandman series QD attachment system. The Pyro is manufactured from the same rugged materials used in Dead Air’s award-winning Sandman series and features a Cerakote finish. The device allows operators to redirect muzzle flash away from the shooter and is particularly effective at redirecting muzzle blast in low-light and CQB situations. The Pyro is 2.9 inches long and weighs 5.5 ounces. (deadairsilencers.com; 877-892-7544)
Delta P Design Brevis II
Perhaps the most compact and certainly the most unconventionally manufactured suppressors available are the Bevis II series from Delta P Design. These short rifle suppressors are new to the market and are made with titanium or Inconel steel using 3D printing technology. This manufacturing method makes the unit one piece without any welds, seams or added parts. All Brevis II suppressors are thread mounted. The 5.56mm Brevis II is 2 inches in diameter, 3.7 inches long and weighs 11.5 ounces while the 7.62mm Brevis II is only 5.5 inches long and weighs 16 ounces. Both models are full-auto rated and made from Inconel. (deltapdesign.com; 503-487-0007)
Diamondhead T-Brake Muzzle Compensator
The T-Brake Muzzle Compensator from Diamondhead is specifically designed for 5.56mm and 7.62mm barrels to reduce the muzzle signature through a proprietary triangular shape, which creates greater surface area on the bottom to apply downward pressure. The T-Brake is constructed from 4140 hardened steel. (diamondhead-usa.com; 413-739-6970)
Diamondhead VRS T-KeyMod-556 Free-Floating Handguard
The VRS T-KeyMod-556 Free Floating Handguard provides users flexibility when adding KeyMod-configured accessories. The uninterrupted rail extension and handguard are in perfect alignment with the host AR’s flattop receiver. The “T” rail replaces the factory delta ring and barrel nut. (diamondhead-usa.com; 413-739-6970)
EOTech Vudu Scopes
EOTech has launched its new series of Vudu scopes. These 1-6x24mm, 2.5-10x44mm and 3.5-18x50mm scopes feature EOTech’s illuminated, first-focal-plane Speed Ring reticles for fast target engagements. These scopes feature coated, XC High-Density, low-dispersion lenses; glass-etched reticles; and hardcoat anodized aluminum external bodies. The scopes are fogproof and resistant to water and shock. (eotechinc.com; 888-368-4656)
Ergo M-LOK WedgeLok Rail Covers
The new M-LOK WedgeLok rail covers from Ergo are designed to fit M-LOK slots on all AR handguards and provide a secure, comfortable grip. Made of pliable rubber, the strips can be customized as well as installed and removed without the use of tools. Four strips are included in each pack. (ergogrips.net; 877-281-3783)
FAB Defense AR Podium
The AR Podium is a polymer bipod the attaches to an AR’s magazine well and pistol grip to form a grip guard for use when shooting against a barrier and flip-down bipod legs when shooting in the prone position. (themakogroup.com; 631-843-049)
FAB Defense SPD
The SPD is a polymer magazine floorplate for FAB Defense polymer AR magazine. Attach the SPD to the magazine to speed up magazine loads. The device compresses the magazine spring to make it easy to load cartridges. (themakogroup.com; 631-843-049)
FAB Defense Ultimag Smart Load
The polymer Ultimag Smart Load magazine uses a ripcord for quick and easy magazine loading. Just pull the ripcord to compress the magazine’s spring, drop in cartridges and push the cord release button in the floorplate. Magazines take a fraction of time to load. (themakogroup.com; 631-843-049)
Galco BATTL 2 Sling
The BATTL 2 sling features an adjustable, 2-inch-wide shoulder strap for comfortable all-day carry of even a heavy weapon while still maintaining complete readiness. There is plenty of strap to fit over gear. (galcogunleather.com; 800-874-2526)
GG&G XDS-2C Tactical Bipod
With its quick-detach mount, the XDS-2C bipod from GG&G can be easily and quickly removed and installed on primary or other rifles. It pans 20 degrees to the left and right and cants 25 degrees left and right of center. Constructed of aluminum, the legs can be adjusted from 7 to 8.5 inches long, and they lock forward at 45 degrees for use on uneven terrain. (gggaz.com; 800-380-2540)
Hailey Ordnance AR Blast Deflector
Hailey Ordnance constructs its AR Blast Deflector out of stainless steel and is comparable with mil-spec threaded muzzles. When firing, the blast is projected out away from the shooter and those around them. (haileyord.com; 405-813-0700)
Hartman MH1
The new MH1 reflex sight was design for use on AR platforms and has the largest field of view compared to other reflex sights on the market. It also has a USB charging port so the sight can be recharged—no changing batteries and loosing zero. (hartman-il.com)
Hogue 15-Degree AR Grip
Hogue’s new 15-Degree AR Grip is ergonomically engineered for comfort and convenience while being lightweight. Compared to the standard 30-degree angle for AR-15 grips, the 15-degree angle allows for a comfortable and more natural hand position when entering combat, especially in CQB situations. This grip also weighs a mere 2.3 ounces thanks to its G10 construction. Additionally, there is a recessed dish behind the trigger that heightens comfort and creates a smooth transition for the finger to the trigger. The new grips come in Smooth or Piranha Grip finishes, and are available in Solid Black, G-Mascus Red Lava, G-Mascus Dark Earth and G-Mascus Green. (hogueinc.com; 800-438-4747)
Kaiser X-7 Stripped Receiver Set
The X-7 stripped receiver set from Kaiser Shooter Products is ready for your next AR build. Using super-tough polymer, the receiver set weighs 10.7 ounces. Aluminum inserts are used around pinholes for added strength, and the buffer tube mount is beefed up with 7071-T6 aluminum. Black and Flat Dark Earth models are available. (kaiserus.com; 520-561-8227)
LANTAC E-BCG
The LANTAC E-BCG (Enhanced Bolt Carrier Group) is an M16 full-auto-style unit for increased mass and lock time. The forward porting and unique shape help reduce pressure inside the upper receiver that can be caused by short-barrel rifles running suppressors. (lantac-usa.com)
Leapers UTG PRO M-LOK Handguards
Leapers is now offering American-made UTG PRO M-LOK handguards for AR-platform rifles that are super slim in hand and free-float the AR’s barrel. Dozens of M-LOK slots are positioned around the handguard, while the full-length Picatinny rail makes it easy to add sights and optics. Shooters can choose from 13-, 15- and 17-inch models. (leapers.com; 734-542-1500)
Leapers UTG Recon 360 Bipods
The Recon 360 bipods are available in three sizes and feature multi-axial tilting bases. The legs lock in five positions, and each bipod mounts via a Picatinny-style base. (leapers.com; 734-542-1500)
Leapers UTG S-Series AR Stocks
The S1 stock is a six-position polymer stock with a full cheek pad, ambidextrous sling mounts and battery storage compartments. The S2 model is similar but slightly smaller. The S3 is a minimalist six-position stock designed to be compact and highly maneuverable. (leapers.com; 734-542-1500)
Lightforce Pred3X
The Lightforce Pred3X is a weapon light that easily mounts to any AR rail. The light beam reaches out to 87 yards and uses a 220-lumen LED that maximizes output and battery life. The Pred3X can be recharged via a USB port. (lightforce.com)
Lion Gears SP-SC08 Bipod
The SP-BC08 is a heavy-duty bipod designed for maximum stability. It has dual-axis pivot and swivel features, five locked positions, pull and retract legs, and a quick-detach mount for any Picatinny or Weaver rail. (liongears.com; 800-618-8770)
LPA MAS7 & T-MAS7 Sights
This folding adjustable sight set is designed for AR-platform rifles equipped with a Weaver or Picatinny-style rail. The MAS7 rear sight features a fast opening and closing mechanism and four ghost rings of different diameters. The T-MAS7 front sight is adjustable and available with a red fiber optic or black. (lpasights.com)
Mack Brothers MB556FAL
The MB556FAL is a full-auto rated suppressor. The suppressor housing is constructed of Grade 9 titanium while the blast chamber and front end cap are Grade 5 titanium. The MB556FAL weighs 17 ounces, is 8 inches long and reduces noise by 34 decibels. (macbros.com; 605-720-0002)
Magpul MOE SL-S Carbine Stock
Magpul’s new MOE SL-S stock is a storage-capable version of the Magpul MOE SL stock with an O-ring-sealed storage area that is waterproof to 10 meters. It also features an enhanced cheekweld for secure shouldering. (magpul.com; 877-462-4785)
Magpul PRS GEN3 Rifle Stock
The next-generation PRS (Precision Rifle/Sniper) stock offers aluminum detent knobs that make it easy to adjust the length of pull and cheekpiece height. The PRS GEN3 is intended for semi-automatic sniper or varmint-type rifles and installs on rifle-length receiver extensions as well as mil-spec and A5-length carbine receiver extensions. (magpul.com; 877-462-4785)
Maxim Defense CQB Stock
The Maxim CQB Stock is a new kind of PDW stock. Fully collapsed, the CQB Stock adds less than 5.5 inches to your AR-15’s overall length. But what good is a compact stock if you can’t shoot it comfortably? Fully extended, the Maxim CQB Stock is the length of a standard carbine stock. And with four total length- of-pull positions, you can adjust your rifle for multiple scenarios and maximum comfort. The stock uses an exclusive cut- down JP Silent Capture Spring, allowing you to use your own bolt carrier group and break down the rifle as you normally would. (maximdefense.com; 239-580-7800)
Meopta ZD 6-24x56mm RD
The new ZD 6-24x56mm long-range scope was developed for sniper rifles. The MilDotII illuminated reticle, with its integrated range-finding markers, is located in the second focal plane. The scope use a one-piece 30mm tube and has 0.25-inch-per-click turrets. (meoptasportsoptics.com)
MFT Mag Floor Plates
The new Mag Floor Plates from Mission First Tactical (MFT) are available in four colors for use on MFT’s 10- and 30-round magazines. Color coding allows shooters to easily recognize what ammo is loaded in the magazine. A paint pen dot matrix on the bottom also allows users to mark each magazine. Six Mag Floor Plates come in a pack. (missionfirsttactical.com; 267-704-0001)
MFT Tekko Free-Float KeyMod Handguards
The new Tekko Free-Float KeyMod Handguards from Mission First Tactical (MFT) feature KeyMod mounting slots at the 3, 6 and 9 o’clock positions while the top Picatinny rail offers plenty of space for sights and optics. Made of lightweight 6061-T6 aluminum, various handguard lengths are available. (missionfirsttactical.com; 267-704-0001)
Mid-Evil Industries 360 VFG
The new 360 VFG is a vertical foregrip that adjusts 360 degrees at any angle with a simple locking handle. It can be mounted on bottom or side rails for optimum user comfort and control. The 360 VFG is available for Picatinny, M-LOK and KeyMod rails. (mid-evilindustries.com; 844-556-4747)
NcSTAR AR-15 Triangle Handguards
The new AR-15 Triangle M-LOK and KeyMod handguards from NcSTAR are triangular triangle for a comfortable grip and feature either KeyMod or M-LOK slots for attaching accessories. These handguards are made of lightweight aluminum and wear a black anodized finish. NcSTAR offers 8.9- and 10.6-inch models, and they come with mounting bolts and tools. (ncstar.com; 866-627-8278)
See All Open Sight
The See All Open Sight is a one-piece unit utilizing a single-element lens that automatically centers the crosshair reticle, allowing a shooter fast target acquisitions and precise shot placement. No batteries are required, and the sight is fully adjustable. (seeallopensight.com; 208-680-3672)
Sig Sauer Romeo4
The Romeo4 is the ultimate red dot sight when fast, accurate target acquisition is a must. The sights come in four configurations for different applications, but all come with two mounts, flip-back lens covers and 50,000 hours of continuous run time. The Romeo4C is solar powered and works without a battery while the Romeo4M is tested to mil-spec water depth and thermal extremes. Three of the sights can switch between a 2-MOA dot or 65-MOA circle/2-MOA dot, and all run off a CR2032 battery. (sigsauer.com; 603-610-3000)
Sightmark Wolverine CSR & FSR
Sightmark is now offering tough, rubber-coated aluminum CSR and FSR variants of its Wolverine reflex sight, and both are submersible to 3 feet. The sights deliver an average run time of 50,000 hours using just a single AA battery. The 1x23mm CSR sports a 4-MOA red-dot reticle with a 23mm objective lens and weighs only 10.3 ounces. The 1x28mm FSR is specifically built for the AR platform with a 2-MOA red dot and weighs only 12.3 ounces. (sightmark.com com; 817-225-0310)
Trijicon MRO
Designed for professional and sport shooters who want a fully capable reflex sight, the new MRO (Miniature Rifle Optic) from Trijicon has a 2-MOA red dot with six visible and two IR settings. It will run for five years on a single CR2032 battery life and is waterproof down to 100 feet. The MRO provides the user 0.25-MOA adjustments with positive-click reticle movement as well as ambidextrous brightness controls. Three mounts of various heights are available for the MRO. (trijicon.com; 800-338-0563)
Trinity Force P1812 FW Handguard
The P1812 FW rail system was designed to be extremely light while remaining comfortable. Unlike many other ultra-light rail systems on the market, the oversized cutouts and KeyMod slots allow for a wider cross-section profile, thus ensuring a more positive grip when firing. With a solid lower half and heat-dissipating CNC cutouts on the top, you can rest assured the FW rail can handle anything you throw at it. (trinityforce.com; 626-330-6630)
Trinity Force Siege Grip
The vertical Siege Grip offers shooters a wide variety of grasping and bracing options for better stability and control. Skeletonized for ultra light weight, the Siege Grip uses KeyMod locking pegs, and is only compatible with KeyMod rail systems. (trinityforce.com; 626-330-6630)
Troy/VTAC M-LOK Handguard
The new Troy/VTAC M-LOK handguard is Troy’s popular VTAC series rail reconfigured for popular M-LOK compatibility, allowing for greater flexibility when attaching accessories. Troy is offering 7.2-, 9-, 11-, 13-, and 15-inch models for 5.56mm ARs and 13- and 15-inch models for .308/7.62mm ARs. (worldoftroy.com; 866-788-6412)
United Armory AR Modular Drop-In Trigger
The AR Modular Drop-In Trigger from United Armory is a single-stage unit with a pull weight that is user-adjustable from 2.5 to 4.5 pounds. The trigger units are available with gold or black finishes. (unitedarmory.com)
Vortex Spitfire Prism Scopes
Vortex’s new Spitfire Prism Scopes are built for AR-platform rifles and feature a DRT (Dual Ring Tactical) reticle in red or green. The built-in mount co-witnesses with iron sights. The scope has a run time of 250 hours set at maximum brightness and 3,000 hours at the minimum setting. (vortexoptics.com; 800-426-0048)
Yankee Hill Machine Blast Deflector
Yankee Hill Machinei is now offering 5.56mm and .30-caliber Blast Deflectors that work with the company’s QD muzzle brakes and lock on just like the company’s suppressors. Blast Deflectors are made from 4140 chrome-moly steel and given a Melonite finish. (yhm.net; 877-892-6533)
Yankee Hill Machine KeyMod Vertical Grip
The KeyMod Vertical Grip from Yankee Hill Machine (YHM) mounts on any KeyMod rail and provides the user with a grip or barrier brace for better control. The grip is made from 6061-T6 aluminum and features a knurled texture for better traction. A version with a built-in storage compartment is also available. (yhm.net; 877-892-6533)