Springfield Armory Delivers Pistol Variant On SAINT Platform

Written by Jacki Billings

A year after Springfield Armory announced its first foray into the AR-15 world, the Illinois-based gun maker continues to upgrade its SAINT line-up adding a new pistol variant to the series.

The SAINT AR-15 pistol, chambered in 5.56 NATO, utilizes the original SAINT's platform but in a stock-free package. Supporting a 7.5-inch barrel with 1:7 twist on an overall 26.5-inch frame, the latest SAINT weighs 5-pounds, 8-ounces.

In lieu of a traditional rifle buttstock, the SAINT opts for an SB Tactical SBX-K forearm brace. The brace aims to reduce overall rifle size while also stabilizing recoil for a more manageable one-handed or two-handed shooting experience. Springfield touts the new SAINT pistol as an affordable, CQB option for shooters wanting to cut down on cost.

“We’re always looking for new ways to give our customers more shooting options, and more firearm for the money,” said Springfield CEO Dennis Reese “The SAINT AR-15 Pistol does both, and then some.”

The pistol offers similar features as its sister rifles, including the addition of the Springfield’s Accu-Tite tension system and proprietary nickel boron coated GI single-stage trigger. Additional furniture is provided by Bravo Company, who supplied the Mod 3 pistol grip as well as the trigger guard. The pistol features a M-LOK aluminum free float handguard with locking tabs and forward hand stop while the gun is also outfitted with a quick-detach swivel mount on the receiver.

Sporting an enhanced M16 bolt carrier group, the SAINT pistol offers a standard charging handle. Topping off the gun's attributes is a low-profile pinned gas block and heavy tungsten buffer system. The SAINT pistol ships with one 30-round Magpul PMAG Gen 3 magazine in a soft AR-15 pistol case.

Springfield fans can snag the new pistol for $989.

For more information go to: http://www.springfield-armory.com/products/saint-ar-15-pistol-5-56/