Springfield Armory SAINT Edge 5.56 NATO
Model: STE916556B
Springfield Armory SAINT Edge 5.56 NATO
Model: STE916556B
Full Specifications
About This Firearm
Springfield Armory's SAINT Edge is the premium tier of their AR-15 lineup, and the spec sheet reflects it. Both upper and lower receivers are machined from 7075-T6 billet aluminum rather than forgings, which allows tighter tolerances at the receiver junction. The 9310 steel bolt rides inside a Melonite-treated 16-inch barrel with a 1:8 twist, and Springfield pairs it with a flat modular match trigger that owners consistently praise for a clean break out of the box.
At 99 oz (6.19 lbs) unloaded, the SAINT Edge is lighter than most rifles in this price bracket. The BCM Gunfighter Mod 3 grip and M-LOK free-float handguard come standard, so the parts bin here pulls from known aftermarket names rather than generic mil-spec components. The SA Multi-Port Muzzle Brake tames recoil noticeably, though it adds concussion and flash compared to a standard flash hider.
The SAINT Edge works best as a do-everything carbine for shooters who want match-grade trigger feel and billet fit without assembling a custom build. The spring-loaded flip-up sights ship installed, the ambi safety selector runs cleanly, and the 35.75-inch overall length keeps it maneuverable indoors or from a vehicle.
Best For
Strengths & Limitations
- Billet 7075-T6 receivers and a flat match trigger ship standard, saving the cost and hassle of common first upgrades
- Weighs 99 oz (6.19 lbs) unloaded with a Melonite-treated barrel and BCM grip, combining light weight with durable finishes
- The multi-port muzzle brake is loud and produces noticeable concussion at indoor ranges or in enclosed spaces, and swapping to a flash hider means buying one separately
- Ships with only one magazine, which is sparse for a rifle at this tier where competitors often include two
Category Rankings
How the Springfield Armory SAINT Edge 5.56 NATO ranks among full-size 5.56 NATO rifles.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the SAINT Edge and the standard SAINT?
The Edge uses machined billet 7075-T6 aluminum receivers instead of forgings, a flat modular match trigger instead of a mil-spec single stage, and a Melonite-finished barrel. The standard SAINT ships with forged receivers, a nickel boron coated trigger group, and a lighter feature set. The Edge also includes the BCM Gunfighter Mod 3 grip and a multi-port muzzle brake as factory equipment.
Does the 1:8 twist rate limit ammo compatibility?
The 1:8 twist is actually the most versatile option for 5.56 NATO. It stabilizes lightweight 55gr range ammo and heavy 77gr match loads equally well. Reviewers report good accuracy with bullet weights across the full 55-77gr spectrum, which gives more flexibility than the 1:7 twist found on most mil-spec rifles.
Can the muzzle brake be replaced with a suppressor mount?
Yes. The barrel is threaded 1/2x28 under the brake, which is the standard thread pattern for 5.56 NATO muzzle devices. Any 1/2x28 suppressor mount, flash hider, or compensator will thread on directly after removing the factory brake.