Windham Weaponry R16SLFTT .223/5.56 NATO Superlight AR-15 Rifle: Your Versatile, High-Performance Modern Sporting Rifle

Are you in search of a reliable, accurate, and remarkably lightweight AR-15 platform rifle that excels in a variety of shooting disciplines? Look no further than the Windham Weaponry R16SLFTT, chambered in the versatile .223 Remington/5.56 NATO caliber. This modern sporting rifle is meticulously engineered to deliver exceptional performance, whether you're engaging in competitive shooting, honing your skills at the range, or seeking a dependable firearm for personal protection and home defense. With its "Superlight" designation, this rifle is designed for maneuverability and reduced fatigue, making it an ideal choice for both seasoned enthusiasts and those new to the AR platform.

Who is the Windham Weaponry R16SLFTT Designed For?

The Windham Weaponry R16SLFTT is a prime example of a multi-purpose firearm, answering the call for a high-quality AR-15 that can adapt to diverse needs.

• For the Discerning Shooter Seeking a Lightweight Solution: If you prioritize ease of handling, quick target acquisition, and reduced carry weight for extended periods, the R16SLFTT's sub-6-pound design (5.85 lbs without magazine) makes it an exceptional candidate. It’s perfect for scenarios where every ounce counts, such as tactical training, patrolling, or simply enjoying longer range sessions without arm fatigue.
• For Newcomers to the AR-15 Platform: This rifle offers a user-friendly experience with its standard controls, reliable gas impingement system, and readily available ammunition. Its adaptability for optics makes it easy to set up for comfortable learning and progression. Many beginners ask, "What is a good AR-15 for a first-time owner?" The R16SLFTT provides a solid, dependable answer that builds confidence.
• For Sport Shooters and Plinkers: Whether you're hitting paper targets, participating in 3-gun competitions, or enjoying casual plinking, the 16-inch barrel and 1-in-9-inch twist rate provide ample accuracy for various projectile weights commonly used in .223/5.56 NATO. Its 30+1 capacity ensures extended shooting fun between reloads.
• For Home Defense and Personal Protection: The semi-automatic action, combined with the proven .223/5.56 NATO cartridge, makes the R16SLFTT a highly effective tool for home defense. Its compact size when the stock is collapsed (32.5 inches) allows for better maneuverability in confined spaces, while its reliability offers peace of mind.
• For Enthusiasts Who Value Customization: With its flat-top upper receiver and lack of integrated iron sights, the R16SLFTT is explicitly designed to be optics-ready. This provides the freedom to choose your preferred red dot sight, holographic sight, magnified optic, or backup iron sights, tailoring the rifle precisely to your shooting style and application. If you’re wondering, "How do I set up an AR-15 for optimal performance with an optic?" this rifle provides the perfect blank canvas.

Why Choose This Rifle? Unpacking Its Core Advantages and Features

The Windham Weaponry R16SLFTT stands out due to a thoughtful combination of high-quality materials, precision engineering, and user-centric design.

Lightweight Design for Optimal Maneuverability

At a mere 5.85 pounds (2.65 kg) without a magazine, the R16SLFTT truly lives up to its "Superlight" designation. This significant weight reduction, achieved through careful component selection, translates directly into several benefits:

• Reduced Shooter Fatigue: Longer shooting sessions are more comfortable, whether standing, moving, or holding the rifle in various positions.
• Enhanced Agility and Responsiveness: The lighter weight makes the rifle quicker to bring to bear, transition between targets, and maneuver in dynamic shooting environments.
• Increased Portability: Easier to carry over extended distances, making it ideal for range trips, hunting small game, or tactical training exercises.

Unwavering Reliability with Proven Gas Impingement System

At the heart of the R16SLFTT's operation is a time-tested semi-automatic, direct gas impingement system. This widely adopted and proven operating mechanism ensures reliable cycling of ammunition, shot after shot. The system's simplicity contributes to the rifle's overall light weight and balance, offering a smooth shooting experience. Windham Weaponry's commitment to quality ensures that this critical component is perfectly tuned for consistent performance.

Precision and Durability: The Barrel Story

The rifle features a 16-inch (406.4mm) barrel, a popular length that strikes an excellent balance between ballistic performance and maneuverability.

• Melonite QPQ Finish: The barrel boasts a Melonite QPQ (Quench-Polish-Quench) finish. This advanced salt bath nitride treatment is not merely a coating; it chemically alters the surface of the steel, making it significantly harder, more corrosion-resistant, and more lubricious than traditional chrome lining. This translates to extended barrel life, easier cleaning, and consistent accuracy.
• 4150 Chrome Moly Vanadium Steel: The barrel material is high-grade 4150 Chrome Moly Vanadium 11595E steel. This alloy is known for its superior strength, toughness, and resistance to wear and heat, making it an excellent choice for a rifle barrel that will endure thousands of rounds.
• M4 Feed Ramps: The barrel incorporates M4 feed ramps, which are crucial for reliable feeding of ammunition, especially during rapid firing. These extended feed ramps help prevent stoppages and ensure smooth operation.
• 1-in-9-inch Right-Hand Twist Rifling: This rifling twist rate is a versatile choice for the .223 Remington/5.56 NATO caliber, effectively stabilizing a broad range of common bullet weights, typically from 45-grain to 69-grain projectiles. This versatility makes the rifle suitable for plinking, target shooting, and various hunting applications.
• A2 Flash Suppressor: Capping the barrel is a classic A2 flash suppressor. This device effectively mitigates muzzle flash, reducing the shooter's visual signature and preserving night vision, particularly important in low-light conditions.

Built to Last: Forged Receiver Construction

The foundation of any robust AR-15 lies in its receivers. The Windham Weaponry R16SLFTT features receivers crafted from forged 7075 T6 aircraft aluminum, an industry standard for strength and durability.

• Forged Construction: Forging is a manufacturing process that compresses the aluminum, aligning its grain structure and creating a stronger, more resilient receiver compared to cast or billet alternatives. This ensures the rifle can withstand the rigors of extensive use.
• Hardcoat Black Anodize Finish: The receivers are treated with a hardcoat black anodize finish. This durable surface treatment provides excellent resistance to abrasion, corrosion, and wear, ensuring the rifle maintains its aesthetic appeal and structural integrity even in harsh environments.
• Aluminum Trigger Guard: An integrated aluminum trigger guard offers enhanced durability compared to plastic alternatives, preventing flex or breakage.

Optics Ready for Unmatched Customization

One of the standout features for modern shooters is the flat-top type upper receiver. This design eliminates traditional fixed front and rear sights, providing a continuous Picatinny rail along the top.

• Unlimited Optics Choices: This "optics ready" configuration empowers the user to mount virtually any type of sighting system they prefer – from a precision rifle scope for long-range accuracy, a quick-acquisition red dot sight for close-quarters engagements, or a holographic weapon sight for versatile shooting scenarios.
• Personalized Sight Picture: The ability to choose your own optics ensures you can achieve the most comfortable and effective sight picture for your individual needs and shooting style. Many users seek answers to "What is the best scope for an AR-15?" or "How do I mount a red dot sight on my rifle?" The R16SLFTT provides the ideal platform for these explorations.

Ergonomics and User Experience

Thoughtful ergonomic details contribute significantly to the R16SLFTT's comfortable and intuitive handling.

• 6-Position Telescoping Buttstock: The rifle is equipped with a 6-position telescoping buttstock, featuring the distinctive Windham Weaponry logo. This adjustable stock allows shooters of different sizes, or those wearing varying layers of clothing or body armor, to quickly achieve a comfortable and stable shooting position. It also aids in making the rifle more compact for storage or transport.
• A2 Black Plastic Pistol Grip: The classic A2 black plastic pistol grip provides a familiar and comfortable handhold, offering excellent control and promoting proper trigger discipline. Its ergonomic design is well-suited for extended shooting sessions.
• Single-Layer Heat Shield Handguard: The forend features a single-layer heat shield handguard. This component protects the shooter's hands from barrel heat during prolonged firing, enhancing comfort and safety. Its design also contributes to the rifle's lightweight profile.

Detailed Specifications: A Closer Look at the R16SLFTT

Understanding the precise specifications helps to fully appreciate the engineering and capabilities of the Windham Weaponry R16SLFTT.

• Caliber: .223 Remington/5.56 NATO. This dual-designation means the rifle can safely and effectively fire both commercial .223 Remington ammunition and military-spec 5.56 NATO rounds, offering maximum ammunition versatility.
• Action: Semi-Automatic, Gas Impingement System. This ensures reliable and consistent operation with each pull of the trigger.
• Capacity: 30 + 1 rounds. The rifle ships with one durable 30-round magazine, providing ample capacity for various shooting activities without constant reloading.
• Safety: Manual Lever with Indicator Markings on Both Sides of Receiver. This ambidextrous safety lever allows for easy and quick manipulation, accommodating both right-handed and left-handed shooters.
• Receiver Material: Forged 7075 T6 Aircraft Aluminum with Aluminum Trigger Guard. This choice of material and manufacturing process underscores the rifle's robust and durable construction.
• Receiver Finish: Hardcoat Black Anodize Finish. A resilient and attractive finish that protects against wear and corrosion.
• Trigger: Standard Mil-Spec Trigger. A reliable and consistent trigger pull, offering a solid foundation for both casual shooting and precision work.
• Bolt Material: Carpenter 158 Steel. This high-strength alloy is specifically chosen for critical components like the bolt, ensuring exceptional durability and longevity under the stress of repeated firing cycles.
• Barrel Material: 4150 Chrome Moly Vanadium 11595E Steel with M4 Feed Ramps. A premium barrel material that contributes to accuracy, longevity, and reliable feeding.
• Weight: 5.85 lbs. (2.65kg) without magazine. This is a key differentiator, making it one of the lightest full-size AR-15s available.
• Length: 32.5 inches (825.5mm) with the stock closed; 36.25 inches (920.75mm) with the stock open. This adjustable length offers flexibility for storage, transport, and various shooting stances.
• Packaging: Hard Plastic Gun Case with Black Web Sling & Operators Manual. The rifle comes complete with practical accessories, including a durable hard case for safe transport and storage, a web sling for carry, and a comprehensive operator's manual for proper use and maintenance.
• SKU: R16SLFTT. This internal identifier helps in precise product identification.

Maintaining Your Windham Weaponry R16SLFTT Rifle

Like any precision firearm, the Windham Weaponry R16SLFTT benefits from regular cleaning and maintenance. Utilizing a quality cleaning kit designed for AR-15 platforms, along with appropriate solvents and lubricants, will ensure the rifle operates reliably for many years. Pay particular attention to the bolt carrier group, barrel bore, and gas system components. The Melonite QPQ finish on the barrel significantly reduces the effort required for cleaning, as carbon and copper fouling are less likely to adhere aggressively to the hardened surface. Following the guidelines in the included operator's manual is key to preserving your investment.

Where to Purchase Your Windham Weaponry R16SLFTT Rifle

For those seeking to acquire this exceptional lightweight AR-15, the Windham Weaponry R16SLFTT (UPC: 848037055477) is available through reputable firearms retailers like DEGuns. As a leading provider of firearms and accessories, DEGuns offers a wide selection and commitment to customer service, ensuring you receive a genuine Windham Weaponry product with confidence. Visit deguns.com to explore current availability and complete your purchase.

In conclusion, the Windham Weaponry R16SLFTT rifle offers an outstanding blend of lightweight design, robust construction, and versatile performance. It's a testament to quality American manufacturing, providing a dependable and customizable platform for a wide range of shooting applications. Whether your primary concern is reduced weight for extended carry, a reliable option for home defense, or a precise tool for target practice, this rifle is engineered to exceed expectations.

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Windham Weaponry R16SLFTT Specifications

Feature	Description	Detail
Caliber	223 Remington / 5.56 NATO	Versatile for both commercial and military ammunition
Action	Semi-Automatic	Gas Impingement System
Capacity	30 + 1 Rounds	Ships with one 30 Round Magazine
Receiver	Forged 7075 T6 Aircraft Aluminum	Flat Top Upper, Hardcoat Black Anodize Finish
Barrel	16" (406.4mm) Superlight	Melonite QPQ Finish, A2 Flash Suppressor
Barrel Material	4150 Chrome Moly Vanadium 11595E Steel	With M4 Feed Ramps
Rifling	1 in 9" - Right Hand Twist	Stabilizes common bullet weights
Stock	6-Position Telescoping Buttstock	With Windham Weaponry Logo
Weight	5.85 lbs. (2.65kg)	Without magazine
Overall Length	32.5" (Stock Closed) / 36.25" (Stock Open)	825.5mm / 920.75mm
UPC	848037055477	Unique Product Code for Identification