One interesting note about new rifles released in 2020 is the wide variety of options. Bullpups, lever-action rifles, pistol-caliber carbines and rimfire offerings were all in the mix this year, representing a wider range of new products and innovation from manufacturers. If you've been thinking about expanding your horizons, this might just be the perfect time.
Arsenal, Inc. | SAS M7A-01 This is one of multiple new AK-20 variants available from Arsenal, Inc. The adjustable gas block enables the rifle to operate with all types of ammunition. Though it ships with a five-round magazine, it can take any AK-pattern 7.62x39 mm mags.
▶Three-position adjustable gas block ▶Freefloat M-Lok fore-end ▶Optics rail ▶Muzzle brake/QD suppressor mount
Desert Tech | MDRX SE An improved version of the sought-after MDR, the MDRX includes reversible side ejection (a forward-eject version is also offered), enhanced polymer furniture and an upgraded gas block for added reliability. Multiple other chamberings and conversion kits are available.
Faxon | Bantam Pistol-caliber carbines are still going strong, and Faxon’s Bantam is Glock-magazine compatible, uses mil-spec components and comes in at less than $1,000. Given the competition, it’s tempting to call it entry-level, but it appeals to more than just the wallet.
▶Last round hold-open ▶Glock-magazine compatible ▶A2 pistol grip and flash hider ▶Nitrided bolt-carrier group
Gilboa | Pistol Caliber Carbine Light, handy and convenient all describe the blowback-operated Gilboa Pistol Caliber Carbine. A modular lower allows for interchangeable mag wells for use with either Glock or S&W M&P magazines.
KRISS USA | Vector 22 CRB Incorporating the aesthetics and ergonomics of the Vector carbine design with the modern modularity of a freefloating M-Lok handguard is the new Vector 22 CRB. It’s vailable in three different colors.
Marlin | Dark It’s not often we get to feature a lever-action rifle in Shooting Illustrated, but with a picatinny rail for optics and a threaded barrel, Marlin’s new Dark line of leverguns is certainly a solid if uncommon choice as a home-defense carbine.
▶Black paracord sling ▶Parkerized finish ▶Threaded barrel ▶Also available in .45-70 Gov’t., .444 Marlin, .357 Mag. and .44 Mag.
Rossi | R92 Triple Black This magnum-pistol-caliber lever gun may not appear super tactical, but it remains a solid choice for home defense because of its chambering (.44 Mag. is also available). It also makes for a good trail gun thanks to its relatively light weight.
▶Leather-wrapped loop lever ▶Cerakote finish ▶Adjustable rear peep sight ▶Threaded barrel
Ruger | PC Carbine With Chassis This latest iteration of Ruger’s PC Carbine features a synthetic chassis system and an aluminum, freefloat, M-Lok-compatible handguard for hassle-free mounting of accessories like lights and lasers.
▶Barrel-mounted Picatinny rail for forward-mounted optics ▶Reversible magazine release ▶1⁄2x28 TPI threaded barrel ▶Interchangeable Ruger and Glock magazine wells
Savage | A22 Precision Long known for affordable accuracy, Savage has decided to ring maximum performance out of the .22 LR with the A22 Precision. The A22 adds enhancements inspired by long-range centerfire rifles to make this semi-automatic accurate at all practical distances.