Guns ADCOR Defense’s Innovative “Elite” Rifle System David Reeder March 25, 2014 Join the Conversation At RECOIL, we review every product fairly and without bias. Making a purchase through one of our links may earn us a small commission, and helps support independent gun reviews. Read our affiliate policy. Find out more about how we test products. ADCOR Defense is the manufacturer of an AR described as the “world's only AR platform with a non-reciprocating, ambidextrous forward charging handle.” Here's a look at it on the range. A more detailed video with an excellent (and simply put) explanation of the weapon system is below. I think it's worth watching, particularly for the everyman, as it explains some fundamentals common to all rifle systems. ADCOR's A-556 Elite rifle utilizes a ringless, gas-driven piston that is built into the top of the forward rail system so it doesn't touch the barrel; it also has an adjustable cyclic rate and no carrier tilt and a free floating barrel. The non-reciprocating forward ambi charging handle (meaning from the side, far forward of traditional charging handles). The charging handle detaches without special tools and returns to locked position once used (folding forward into a recess) and can be easily switched from side to side. It only engages when the weapon is charged or cleared. The rail system is also interesting, as it is “button operated” for attach/detach. it is available with barrels in 10.5 in., 14.5 in., 16 in., 18 in. and 20 in. lengths. The A-556 GI Elite is a gas impingement rifle with similar features to the Elite; it uses a multi-position gas regulator with removable gas tube, is available with or without the ambi forward charging handle. It is available with 16in. or 18in. barrels. I haven't personally had an Elite on the range, so I cannot attest to how it performs. I like what I've seen so far, though my biggest concern after 2 1/2 decades of “traditional” charging handle use would be habit and muscle memory. I suspect I'd have difficulty (under stress) remembering to go forward to clear a stoppage – that's a training issue, though, and nothing to do with what seems to be a very well designed rifle. Learn more about ADCOR online, on Facebook, on YouTube or Google +. Why you can trust RECOIL Since our founding in 2012, RECOIL remains the premier firearms lifestyle publication for the modern shooting enthusiast. We deliver cutting-edge coverage of guns, gear, accessories and technology. We go beyond basic reviews, providing no B.S. buyer’s guides, hands-on testing and expert analysis on everything from firearms and survival equipment to watches and vehicles. Our reviewers are the backbone of our operation and come from diverse shooting backgrounds: Former law enforcement, military veterans, competitive shooters, seasoned hunters and plain old firearms enthusiasts. Furthermore, we’re not just gun experts, but dedicated journalists who adhere to the strictest standards of our profession. At RECOIL, editorial independence is the foundation of everything we publish and the cornerstone of reader trust. Our editors, writers and content creators make all editorial decisions independently, free from outside influence. That boils down to: advertisers don’t dictate our coverage, the outcomes of our reviews or what we recommend in our buyer’s guides. First and always, our commitment is to our audience—ensuring every review and article is accurate, unbiased, and driven by real-world experience. Whether you’re selecting your next firearm, upgrading your gear, or exploring the latest innovations in the shooting world, RECOIL provides the trusted insights you need to make informed decisions. Learn more about our Editorial Standards and how we review products. NEXT STEP: Download Your Free Target Pack from RECOILFor years, RECOIL magazine has treated its readers to a full-size (sometimes full color!) shooting target tucked into each big issue. Now we've compiled over 50 of our most popular targets into this one digital PDF download. From handgun drills to AR-15 practice, these 50+ targets have you covered. Print off as many as you like (ammo not included). Get your pack of 50 Print-at-Home targets when you subscribe to the RECOIL email newsletter. We'll send you weekly updates on guns, gear, industry news, and special offers from leading manufacturers - your guide to the firearms lifestyle.You want this. Trust Us.
