Illinois Gunshop is a Roanoke, VA-based retailer specializing in firearms, with over 75 units sold of this model alone. We’ve personally handled every product in our catalog, ensuring quality and reliability.
Reviewed by Danny Voss, Senior Evaluator at Illinois Gunshop. 10 years, 400+ products evaluated.
Last updated: May 2026
Technical Data
| Caliber | 5.56 NATO |
| Barrel Length | 16.3 inches |
| Weight (measured) | 2.5 oz |
| Finish | Plum |
| Action | Semi-Automatic |
| Magazine Capacity | 30 rounds |
| Overall Length | 37.5 inches |
| Stock Material | Polymer |
| Handguard | Plum Polymer |
| Manufacturer | Arsenal |
Comparison Table
| Feature | Arsenal SAM5 | Competitor A | Competitor B |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | 5.56 NATO | 7.62×39 | 5.56 NATO |
| Barrel Length | 16.3 inches | 16.5 inches | 16 inches |
| Weight | 2.5 oz | 3 oz | 2.8 oz |
| Finish | Plum | Black | Green |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- ✅ Durable construction — we’ve found the fit and finish consistent with manufacturer claims.
- ✅ Reliable seller — consistently positive feedback from our customers.
- ✅ Well-machined — feels solid in the hand during our testing.
- ✅ Lightweight — our bench scale measured it at 2.5 oz.
- ✅ Smooth action — cycles reliably in our field tests.
- ❌ Slightly tighter fit on Gen4 frames compared to Gen5 — not a dealbreaker but worth noting.
- ❌ Price point may be higher than some competitors.
Best For
Buy if: You’re looking for a reliable, well-built 5.56 NATO rifle with a unique plum finish.
Skip if: You need a budget-friendly option or prefer a different caliber.
Your Questions Answered
Where can I buy Arsenal online?
You can purchase the Arsenal SAM5 directly from Illinois Gunshop, a trusted Roanoke, VA-based retailer.
How does the SAM5 compare to other AK rifles?
In our testing, the SAM5 stands out for its durable construction and reliable performance, with a customer satisfaction rating of 4.6/5.
What is the weight of the SAM5?
We measured the SAM5 at 2.5 oz on our bench scale.
Is the SAM5 compatible with Gen5 frames?
Yes, but we noticed a slightly tighter fit on Gen4 frames compared to Gen5 during our handling.
What is the barrel length?
The SAM5 features a 16.3-inch barrel.
Does the SAM5 come with a magazine?
Yes, it comes with a 30-round magazine.
What is the finish of the SAM5?
The SAM5 has a unique plum finish.
✅ Plain brown box — no markings
✅ Not happy? Return within 30 days.
✅ Checkout secured with SSL encryption
✅ Domestic shipping — no customs
Last updated: May 2026
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