Stag Arms Model 3 Rifle Review ~ MEGA PHOTO / VIDEO DUMP

By Graham Baates
YouTube personality, Graham Baates, gives us a video and mega photo break down of the Stag Arms Model 3 Rifle.

(Editors Note: The rifle reviewed here is the bare bones, basic, Model 3, when you order this rifle from Stag Arms you have many options for adding upgrades or configuring for state compliance.)

G B Guns
G B Guns

USA – -(Ammoland.com)- The AR-15 is one of those rifles that every gun-owner either owns or will own.

As a modern sporting rifle its versatility for plinking, target shooting, hunting, and home defense is undeniable. Add to that an aftermarket quite possibly unmatched by any other product in an owner’s household and its appeal grows even more.

After the scare in 2012 it seems you can’t throw a rock without hitting a new AR company offering something they allege is different and better than any other. Prices can range from $400 to over $2,000; often with little explanation. So what makes a good AR? With all the aftermarket parts available where does one start? The answer is in the bones. Perhaps the easiest parts to overlook.

Stag Arms Model 3 Rifle

Stag Arms Model 3 Rifle
Stag Arms Model 3 Rifle

The Stag Arms Model 3 starts with mil-spec 7075 T6 aluminum for both upper and lower with the upper being forged. The fit between these two is vital as it impacts both feed angle and what happens after ignition. A rocking upper can impact accuracy, but that is not a concern with the Stag Arms Model 3: the fit is so tight that I had to drive out the front take-down pin for a complete disassembly.

This solid frame is what holds the 16” barrel firmly in place. Made of 4140 steel and chrome lined the barrel is button rifled with a 1/9 twist and chambered for 5.56mm. This chambering and rifling combination means the rifle will, safely and accurately, fire just about every common 5.56mm or .223 caliber round available.

Stag Arms Model 3 Rifle Stock
Stag Arms Model 3 Rifle Stock

The rest of the rifle consists of what many shooters end up changing over time and Stag has wisely not wasted any or added undue expense on the owner with their use of mil-spec parts for a rifle that is ready to use as is, or to accept aftermarket parts with minimal fuss. Where possible Stag has added their touch to the model 3 with their own branded stock, magazine, and a brilliant handguard that satisfies both the minimalist and geardo.

Stag Arms Model 3 Rifle Handguard
Stag Arms Model 3 Rifle Handguard
Stag Arms Model 3 Rifle Handguard Swells
Stag Arms Model 3 Rifle Handguard Swells
Stag Arms Model 3 Rifle Grip and Mag Well
Stag Arms Model 3 Rifle Grip and Mag Well
Stag Arms Model 3 Rifle Pistol Grip
Stag Arms Model 3 Rifle Pistol Grip

As a former Soldier and two-war vet I found the handguard especially appealing. Devoid of any sharp edges it rests nicely in the hand with swells to grip, but nothing to snag. Ample airflow keeps temperature down while drilled and tapped holes along the 3, 6, and 9 o’clock position mean that future additions can be made if needed.

Stag Arms Model 3 Rifle Profile
Stag Arms Model 3 Rifle Profile
Stag Arms Model 3 Rifle Selector Switch and Trigger
Stag Arms Model 3 Rifle Selector Switch and Trigger
Stag Arms Model 3 Rifle Double Sided Sling Point
Stag Arms Model 3 Rifle Double Sided Sling Point

Another simple addition that saves the new owner trouble is the double-sided sling mount plate on the back of the receiver. Additionally the rifle features the standard charging handle and time-proven A2 flash hider. While neither of these are exciting, they do let Stag keep the consumer’s price down and save those changes for the user if necessary later on.


To see this rifle up close in a table-top video review click below:


All-in-all the Stag Arms Model 3 Rifle is a solid platform that served us well with zero malfunctions experienced out of the box even with various aftermarket magazines.

Stag Arms Model 3 Rifle Magazine Floor Plate
Stag Arms Model 3 Rifle Magazine Floor Plate
Stag Arms Model 3 Rifle Selector
Stag Arms Model 3 Rifle Selector
Stag Arms Model 3 Rifle Bolt
Stag Arms Model 3 Rifle Bolt

Visit Stag Arms to learn more about the Stag Arms Model 3 Rifle : https://www.stagarms.com/model-3/

About Graham Baates

“Graham Baates” is a pen name used by a 15-year active Army veteran who spent most of his time in the tactical side of the Intelligence community including tours in Afghanistan and Iraq. Post-Army Graham spent some time in the 3-Gun circuit before becoming a full-time NRA Certified defensive handgun instructor and now works as an industry writer while curating a YouTube channel and blog on the side. Visit Graham on Youtube .

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Dan Niemeyer

I believe that Stag Arms has the best warranty in the business.With that being said-why not the best features…? Why not make the AR with 4150 barrel and a 1/7 twist ? (the million -dollar question)…….

James Isaac

How much are they asking for it?