Just wondering if anyone has any experience with this rifle.  I saw it on the Robinson Armaments website (robarm.com) and wanted one immediateley!  A bit pricey though, and I was hoping for some first-hand input before I make a rash decision.  

I just got home from shooting mine today.  I love the gun.  I posted a review a month ago, just after I purchased mine.  Here it is:

"I just received my new Robinson Armamant M96 today. Let me say from the beginning, I like it alot. It also helps that I got a screaming deal on it too:-)

First, the overall construction was excellent. The welds looked great and the finish was evenly applied on the gun. The fit was very snug, but from what I understand, it will loosen up to the point of being able to push the pins out by finger/bullet tip.

With open sights, I was able to group about 1.5 moa. At 100 meters, my best 5 shot group was .75" and worst was 2.5". Overall, it would just make a large hole about 3" where 30 rounds would just fly through.

I haven't put a scope on it yet, but will likely do so in the future. Has anyone scoped theirs and what was your group?

I fed the M96 three types of ammo, without a problem. My home loads, Winchester, and IMI surplus.

I was very happy with the results of my new rifle. I know some feel it is cost prohibitive and compare it to a pre-ban AR-15. They do run around the same amount, but they are totally different guns. I really feel you get what you pay for on this rifle.

There were a couple of weak points. The butt stock does "feel" a little weak. I'm sure it will hold up for more than my life time, but the plastic wasn't anywhere as thick as the AR's. The rear sight would be nice in a A2 configuration. Not a huge concern, but it will take some getting used to. Also, the barrel isn't chrome lined. To some this is a neg., but not too big of a deal for me. If I wear it out, then I'll get another...

I striped and cleaned the rifle before shooting. It was very familiar, yet very different from the AR's. It seemed like there was a blend of many rifles.

1. FAL- lower receiver, controls, charging handle, and adj. gas system.
2. HK- Upper receiver was stamped and welded, used similar push pins.
3. AK- gas piston was attached to bolt carrier.
4. AR- similar bolt, similar trigger group, and AR-15 mags.
5. Styer AUG- removable barrel.

Like I said, these are my first impressions. Overall I am very satisfied with this product. It seems to offer many good and proven designs incorporated into one product.

I would like to hear other's experiences with this rifle.

fuatos

I will happily store this in the safe with my beloved AR-15's. I think they can all get along!!!"

If you have specific questions, feel free to email me.

I've had the M96 experience. It is in some ways like the SIG 550. It shoots similar to a run of the mill AR (1.5 MOA or there abouts), uses AR mags, allows for replacement barrels easily. Overall it is a good rifle. The only downside is it's gas tube regulating knob. The knob has been known to become loose. Though, I think they fixed this problem. If it's better or worse than an AR depends. The AR gives you everything the M96 has (Less the barrel changing) for less money. Also, AR parts are more ready available and cheaper. If you were to choose between two of these for your only 223 I say AR. If your after something a little different...sure go M96.

Chuck,

Your right, it is expensive, but it is something different for someone who has enough AR's and is looking for something different. --I know, blasphamy.  But what can I say, I like variety.  Isn't that the "spice of life?"

I live near the facility.  I know some of the engineers and employees.  They are constantly working on different things there.  It is a realitively small opperation and it takes time and lots of $ to come out with new product/inovations.  I know for a fact they are working on some pretty cool stuff right now.  It's just time and money, but they are very close on introducing some new things...patience.--I know, it's not one of my strong points either!

As for the AR-180B...I think everyone should own one of these too.  Great value and a darn good looking rifle.  I'm one the list too.

Anyways...I think the M96 is great and its nice to see a company risk introducing a new "assult rifle" during these unfriendly times.  Kudos to Armalite too for reproducing the AR-180B.

fuatos

If I had $1,300 to spend, and assuming I already owned an FAL and a couple AR's, I would get the Ar180B and a Daewoo DR200 with a folding stock before I would buy the M96.

I'm not sure why I am so down on the M96. I guess its the flimsy buttstock and the A1 sights. These things are OK on a $600 rifle, but NOT on a $1,300 rifle.

I agree.  I handled one at the local gun store.  It doesn't feel like it is worth $1100.  I would caution you to see one in person before you order it over the net.

Neutrino45