Springfield Armory introduced its first Saint in November 2016 and has rolled out two other versions in the line since. It was the fourth-highest selling semi-auto rifle among retailers using the services of Gunbroker.com during 2019. It’s a big move up for this AR-platform rifle, because it didn’t make the top-10 in 2018 and placed a distant ninth in 2017.

There’s no doubt an AR-10 version and added features in new models helped the semi-autos catch the attention of enthusiasts. The first Saint model was chambered in 5.56 NATO and had a 16″ barrel with a 1:8″ twist.

The mid-length gas system featured the familiar front sight and gas block. The trigger was nickel-boron coated, with made the single-stage system a lot more friendly to precise shot placement. In an early review by American Rifleman, which wrote, “Overall, the Springfield Armory’s first foray into the AR market has yielded a platform that is light, trim, and well-equipped. There’s not a lot of differentiation to be had in today’s crowded AR market, but I think Springfield did a great job with the small details.”

Today there are three families of models in the Saint line. The base Saints, chambered in 5.56 NATO, have an MSRP of between $943 and $972. All have M-LOK compatible handguards, pinned gas block and weigh 6 lbs., 11 ozs.

For enthusiasts who prefer a choice in bigger chambering, the company offers the Saint Victor lineup. They come in either .308 Win. or 5.56 NATO with a free-floated MLOK compatible handguard. Most versions come in a black color scheme, but there are some in OD Green, FDE, Gray. MSRPs run from $1,079 to $1,399.

The Saint Edge features a match-grade trigger, Melonite-treated barrel, SopMod buttstock and lightens the load at only 6 lbs., 3 ozs. Its handguard is also free-floated and the 5.56 NATO comes in at $1,299.

Article by Guy J. Sagi