What defines a battle firearm? The big question is, was the LAR-8 really designed to be a battle firearm Or based on the caliber could the LAR-8 really of been meant for an alternate purpose? Is the LAR-8 developed for uses similar to the M-1 Carbine? Sure the LAR-8 functions, but with its little bullet, it can’t really be called a battle rifle, can it?
Well, there are lots of rifle makers these days taking caliber out of the debate by building AR-style rifles in .308. This, of course, starts another debate as to whether the LAR-8 started as .308. Looks like with the .308 in AR we are going back to the future
There’s not enough time in the day to answer these questions. RRA stepped up and gave the world a 7.62 caliber AR rifle that hits with the power of a battle rifle, but carries like an LAR-8. The LAR-8 Elite Operator won’t stop the argument, but will certainly provide the power, accuracy and versatility modern shooters really want.
Oiled up and smelling good from RRA, the first thing you notice upon assembly is that you have a stout yet maneuverable rifle in your hands. It is a 7.62 and heavier that its lighter counterpart 5.56, but balanced well. Adjust the butts tock to your liking and the rifle comes up naturally and easily. The Half-Quad hand guard offers a comfortable smooth area and a handy a forward rail system for lights, lasers etc. Without a doubt a very well thought out hand guard configuration.
Sturdy construction is clearly evident in the RRA sight design. Quality looks to be the name of the game for this rifles iron sights. There is one on each side of the barrel and one below allowing you to mount any sort of sling system you would like.
I love the look of a bayonet, but lets face it, who uses a bayonet? Why not make it a small rail instead of a bayonet lug? I mounted a Command Arms bipod on the lower portion of the quad rail and that worked slick. That bipod can stow with the legs pointing forward or aft for even more versatility. I would have liked to see a rear sight on this firearm, but that’s an option, not factory standard.
The firearm came packaged in a sturdy carry case. Case really did not matter, I am all about the firearm and the case matters not.
Rapid fie is not a problem for this firearm. Can you believe, 5 rounds in less than 5 seconds, on target.
There is virtually no difference in the LAR-8 and the RRA .308. I say almost, because there are two small changes on this firearm. The magazine release is ambi. A trigger finger ambi bolt release is a great feature. While I am on the topic of the magazine release, the Elite Operator uses FAL metric and L1A1 inch magazines. So there should be no trouble finding 20-round boxes for your reloads.
For the day’s range fun I rapidly mounted a Eotech on top of the Elite Operator. Quickly, as in, I set the sight on the top rail, flipped the ARMS locks and started shooting. I started plinking at 25 yards, it was dead on. Finally after 50 to 75 yards, I braced the rifle on the post and started dropping rounds on the 100-yard target. Scoring minute-of-bad guy hits on everything I pointed at, combat accuracy was outstanding.
This prompted me to drop a few sandbags on the bench and drop some rounds down range in an effort to see where they would fall if I was really trying to shoot a nice group. I fired as fast as I could get the dot back on group. I am happy! Better than advertised, 1.5 MOA.
The 168 ammo worked great and seemed be consistent with several brands. Built for battery storage, the Operator CAR stock offers a handy method to store batteries. Push the Operator butt plate button on the left side of the butt plate and it slides down exposing a storage area for several of the CR123 batteries.
AR 7.62 caliber rifles are proprietary with all AR manufactures, that is just the way it is. Alternately the 5.56/.223 AR weapons are generally compatible for an almost endless number of parts combinations. Where as most LAR-8 firearm parts from most makers will drop in and function, the same is not true of the bigger guns.
As stated on the RRA website, the LAR-8 uses a unique receiver thread and barrel nut. Use only RRA approved parts for modifications. Use of incorrect parts may cause injury or death. So, now you know that. The parts don’t interchange with other 7.62 AR parts out there. Don’t try it.
The RRA LAR-8 Elite Operator gives you a rifle and a platform that offers power and versatility. In a law enforcement capacity you will get greater range if you need it and more penetration around buildings and vehicles. Deer or hog hunting rifle, no problem, with the Elite Operator you can hit hard and fast with no debate.
I ended up purchasing it online for much less. Most dealers in my location desired retail plus which did not set well with my budget. I acquired my Elite Operator from Class 3 Weapons in Houston Texas at a sizeable savings of only $1,399.00, plus a very reasonable shipping rate considering the size of the shipment. Depending on where you live your cost will deviate based on shipping and taxes if relevant. For the time being, thanks Rock River Arms and Class 3 Weapons, for an awesome firearm and keep up the good work.
Rock River Arms Review of the RRA LAR-8 308A1276 Elite Operator Weapon
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A .308 battle rifle dream, my Review of the LAR-8 Model 308A1276 Elite Operator Firearm
