This configuration describes a specific type of AR-15 platform rifle assembly. It combines a 16-inch barrel chambered for the .300 Blackout cartridge with a gas piston operating system and an upper receiver. The .300 Blackout cartridge offers a balance of subsonic and supersonic performance, making it versatile for suppressed and unsuppressed use. A gas piston system, unlike the direct impingement system commonly found in AR-15s, uses a piston to cycle the action, potentially leading to cleaner operation and improved reliability. The upper receiver houses the barrel, bolt carrier group, and charging handle.
The combination of these features results in a firearm suitable for a variety of applications, including close-quarters combat, hunting, and target shooting. The .300 Blackout cartridge’s effectiveness at subsonic velocities, coupled with the potential for reduced recoil and fouling from the piston system, contributes to its popularity for suppressed use. This specific barrel length offers a balance of maneuverability and velocity.