The SIG Sauer 716i TREAD is a semi-automatic rifle chambered in .308 Winchester (7.62 NATO), offering power and versatility for a variety of shooting applications. Built on an AR-10 platform, it brings advanced features for reliability, performance, and ease of customization.
 
Key Features
Barrel and Chamber:
The rifle features a 16-inch carbon steel barrel with a 1:10" twist rate, optimized for stabilizing .308 Winchester bullets. The barrel is nitride-coated for enhanced durability and corrosion resistance.
Action and Operating System:
The direct impingement operating system reduces weight and simplifies the rifle’s internal mechanism compared to piston-driven systems, offering more direct gas flow for reliable cycling and easier maintenance. It also allows for a smoother feel during firing, as fewer components are moving within the system.
TREAD Customizations:
As part of the TREAD series, this model is compatible with a wide range of TREAD accessories, allowing shooters to upgrade their rifles with SIG Sauer’s custom components. TREAD accessories include custom handguards, sights, muzzle devices, stocks, and grips, each designed for easy installation and optimal performance, giving owners flexibility to adapt their rifle to specific needs and preferences.
Stock and Ergonomics:
Equipped with a 6-position SL-K telescoping stock, this model allows for adjustable length of pull to fit various shooter sizes and body types. The textured polymer grip provides a comfortable and secure hold.
Handguard and Accessory Mounting:
The rifle includes a free-floating M-LOK handguard, offering ample space for mounting optics, lights, and bipods while minimizing handguard pressure on the barrel for better accuracy. The top of the receiver has a continuous Picatinny rail, allowing for further customization.
Trigger:
Outfitted with a single-stage polished/hard-coat trigger, the 716i TREAD delivers a smooth, consistent pull that enhances shooting accuracy.
Magazine and Capacity:
The rifle includes one 20-round AR-10 type magazine, allowing for extended shooting sessions without frequent reloading.
 
Generational Improvements
The 716i TREAD introduces several enhancements over previous SIG Sauer models:
Direct Impingement System: The switch from a piston-driven to a direct impingement system reduces overall weight and simplifies the mechanism by channeling gas directly into the bolt carrier group to cycle the rifle. This setup eliminates the need for a piston and piston chamber, allowing the rifle to run cooler and offering a smoother shooting experience.
Enhanced Ergonomics and Customization: With the TREAD series’ modular design, shooters can use TREAD-compatible accessories to swap or upgrade the stock, grip, muzzle brake, handguard, and other components to suit their shooting style. This flexible design makes the 716i TREAD adaptable to a wide variety of applications, from range shooting to hunting.
Polished Trigger Mechanism: The polished single-stage trigger offers a consistent pull, designed to improve accuracy and user control. This enhancement is a departure from the heavier triggers often found on standard AR-style rifles.
 
Applications
Hunting:
Chambered in .308 Winchester, the 716i TREAD is ideal for hunting medium to large game. Its powerful caliber and reliable construction make it suitable for challenging environments.
Target Shooting:
With its customizable features and direct impingement action, the 716i TREAD performs well in target shooting, offering accuracy and ease of use for recreational and competitive shooters.
Home Defense:
The rifle’s semi-automatic action, accessory compatibility, and versatility make it a practical choice for home defense, with options to add lights, grips, and sights to tailor it for close-quarters use.
 
Specifications
Caliber: .308 Winchester (7.62 NATO)
Barrel Length: 16 inches
Twist Rate: 1:10"
Overall Length: 37 inches
Weight: 8.5 pounds
Stock: 6-position SL-K telescoping
Handguard: Free-floating M-LOK
Trigger: Single-stage polished/hard-coat
Magazine Capacity: 20 rounds
Finish: Hard coat anodized
 
Why It’s Special
The SIG Sauer 716i TREAD stands out for its balance of power, reliability, and modularity. Its direct impingement system offers smoother performance, while the TREAD-compatible accessories allow shooters to tailor the rifle to their preferences. The chambering in .308 Winchester makes it versatile for applications ranging from hunting to personal defense, delivering both range and stopping power.
 
The SIG Sauer 716i TREAD offers shooters a powerful yet adaptable AR-platform rifle. Its advanced features and modular design make it a valuable choice for a variety of shooting needs, providing both performance and flexibility.
 
Please visit the manufacturer's website for more information.