Paging Dr. Fronkensteen. Call Your Dungeon.

by
posted on June 15, 2009
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
sinews.jpg (14)

Recently I was reminded of how the early bird gets the worm when fellow gun scribe Michael O. Humphries beat me to the punch with his evaluation of SIG Sauer's new 556 Classic Rifle for the August 2009 edition of Shooting Illustrated, The Definitive Source for the Modern Shooter.

Determined not to waste any more time, I contacted the manufacturer and made arrangements to evaluate SIG's new 556 Pistol for a future issue of Shooting Illustrated. What's more, it would also make a good base for a Short-barreled-rifle- (SBR) project—specifically a semi-automatic version of a SIG 552 Commando Carbine.

In the process of discussing the matter with a co-worker/556 Classic owner, I learned that SIG serializes their upper receivers instead of lower receivers like other U.S. rifle manufacturers. In addition to the $200 SBR registration, the only other key component needed to convert a SIG 556 Pistol into a semi-auto variant of the SIG 552 is the lower receiver assembly from a SIG 556 Classic.

My co-worker referred me to a gentlemen by the name of Michael Frost, CEO of MFI American Products. Frost not only confirmed what parts were needed, it turns out MFI produces an extensive line of accessories for various SIG rifles including duplicates of the SIG 552 handguard and 3-prong flash suppressor in order to make the 556 pistol look even more authentic.

And last but not least, the folks at SIG not only confirm what was needed to make it happen—they agreed to send me the necessary parts pending ATF approval.

Check back periodically to see how this new project of mine progresses.

"You know [Igor,] I'm a rather brilliant surgeon. Perhaps I can help you with that hump. [No? OK then, Pass the Form 1s.]"

For those brave enough to delve deeper into the mind of Bob Boyd, visit Boyd's Blog fan page on Facebook, or subscribe to its Twitter feed.

Latest

Steelhead Outdoors' Limited-Edition Founders Pistol Lock Box
Steelhead Outdoors' Limited-Edition Founders Pistol Lock Box

First Look: Steelhead Outdoors' Limited-Edition Founders Pistol Lock Box

Finished with in patriotic royale blue and crimson red colors.

Mechanical Advantage

There are two things which cause you to miss. Here's how to correct both of them.

First Look: Mission First Tactical 5L Achro Sling Bag

Keep your gear on you without standing out from the crowd.

First Look: Streamlight SL-SideSaddle Light

Add a little light to your hat or helmet.

NRA Foundation Grant Program Fueling the Future

In 2024 alone, The NRA Foundation awarded $8.6 million in state fund grants.

Interests



Get the best of Shooting Illustrated delivered to your inbox.