This article was originally featured on Soldier Systems Daily
Tennessee Arms Company, best known for their polymer AR-15 and AR-10 lower receivers, is currently undergoing production on a new rifle they’ve dubbed the Omega Rifle. A design 10 years in the making, the Omega utilizes existing AR-15 pattern barrels and magazines, but also features a gas piston-operated action, is side charging, and has an adjustable trigger. The Omega will also come with a user-changeable back plate, which allows for the installation of various stocks, or a flat plate (for a pistol model). The model seen above is a working prototype, and doesn’t represent what the finalized commercial design will look like.
The unique feature of the Omega Rifle is its patented articulating bolt assembly. Somewhat comparable to KRISS’ Super V Recoil Mitigation System for the Vector weapons family, the Omega’s Articulating Bolt Assembly features a ‘Traveling Mass’, which moves downward during the firing cycle, sliding directly into the pistol grip; this system is designed to reduce felt recoil, with a shorter operation cycle and fewer moving parts than a standard AR-15.
The Omega Rifle is slated for a Spring 2019 release, at the latest. Tennessee Arms Company will soon be offering a pre-order for the Omega rifle chambered in 5.56mm. There are plans to expand the Omega’s chamberings to include 9mm, .308, and 7.62x39mm. We’re eager to see further developments on this new design as its release draws nearer.
