The Palmetto State Armory (PSA) JAKL 5.56 rifle is a standout in the modern firearm market. With its unique design and robust performance, it has garnered attention from both enthusiasts and professionals. The overall look and design are what got my attention, and now that I’ve been using it for a while, I’m hooked. It’s not an AK, AR-15, or a SCAR but has various amount of familiarity from all three.
I had been wanting to get my hands on one for some time now. PSA continues to produce some impressive guns at a reasonable price and the JAKL is one of their most exciting models to date. In this review we will look at the features, performance, and overall value of the PSA JAKL, comparing it to the widely popular AR-15.
About the PSA JAKL 5.56
The PSA JAKL 5.56 rifle is built with a focus on durability and versatility. It features a monolithic upper receiver, which integrates the handguard and upper into a single piece. This design enhances rigidity and improves accuracy by minimizing movement between parts. The rifle’s upper receiver is machined from 6061-T6 aluminum, ensuring a lightweight yet sturdy build.
One of the most notable aspects of the JAKL is its gas piston system. Unlike the direct impingement system used in the AR-15, the JAKL’s gas piston system offers improved reliability, especially in adverse conditions. This system reduces fouling in the action, making it easier to maintain and enhancing overall longevity. It’s very similar to the AK-47 design, which is synonymous with reliability.
An adjustable gas block on the end of the handguard makes it easy to change the gas pressure for different grains of ammunition. I was a little worried that it would move on its own because it’s so easy to turn, but I’ve had no trouble so far.
Ergonomics and Handling
Ergonomically, the PSA JAKL excels with its adjustable stock and ambidextrous controls. The rifle’s stock is adjustable for length of pull and can be folded, making it highly portable. This feature is particularly useful for transportation and storage. It also has an ambidextrous charging handle for lefties or those who prefer it on the other side. Mine came mounted on the left side but it’s easy to move from one side to the other.
The rifle also boasts a full-length Picatinny rail on the top, allowing for easy attachment of optics and other accessories. Because the upper is all one piece, there is no split in the rail where the handguard would normally start. When you cross this line on an AR-15, it’s called bridging, which will cause issues. Because of the solid rail, you can mount an optic as far forward as you want.
The M-LOK compatible handguard further extends the customization options, enabling users to mount lights, lasers, and grips as needed. I mounted the Nightstick LGL-160 on mine, which is a great rifle light.
On the range with the JAKL 5.56
In terms of performance, the PSA JAKL 5.56 rifle appeared to be reliable. The rifle’s gas piston system ensures consistent cycling, even under heavy use. I normally lubricate the rifle before heading to the range, but I wanted to see how this one held up without it. So far, I’ve had not issues with it.
The barrel, made from chrome-moly vanadium steel, is nitride-treated for enhanced durability and corrosion resistance. This combination results in excellent barrel life and consistent performance. It’s not as accurate as the AR-15, but better than my AK.
At the range, the JAKL I was able to keep good groupings at various distances. The rifle’s recoil is manageable, thanks in part to the effective muzzle brake. This allows for rapid follow-up shots and improved control during sustained fire. I mounted the Holosun 512 red dot to my JAKL and it’s a great match.
For this review, AmmunitionToGo.com provided some Winchester USA 55gr 5.56 FMJ ammunition. It cycled through the rifle like a champ and was pretty accurate as well. I must give them props on their fast shipping. Anytime I have ever ordered ammunition from them, it arrives at my door within a few days!
Comparison with the AR-15
The AR-15 is often regarded as the gold standard in the semi-automatic rifle market, and I tend to agree. However, the PSA JAKL brings several advantages to the table. One of the key differences is the gas piston system of the JAKL, which contrasts with the AR-15’s direct impingement system.
This results in a cleaner and more reliable operation for the JAKL, especially in harsh environments. Don’t get me wrong, I’m a huge AR-15 fan, but there are some benefits to this type of system.
Another significant difference is location of the charging handle. As I mentioned above, the side charging handle can be moved to either side. I have never cared for the location of the charging handle on the AR-15. It also has an adjustable and side folding stock which is one of my favorite features. It makes it a lot easier to transport and store than an AR-15, unless you add a folding adaptor to the tube.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Gas Piston System: Offers improved reliability and reduced maintenance.
- Monolithic Upper Receiver: Enhances accuracy and rigidity.
- Adjustable and Folding Stock: Increases portability and user customization.
- Ambidextrous charging handle for left and right-handed shooters.
- Full-Length Picatinny Rail: Allows for extensive accessory customization.
Cons:
- Weight: Slightly heavier than some AR-15 models due to the robust construction.
- Price: Typically, more expensive than standard AR-15s, though it offers additional features.
- Less accurate at long distances than an AR-15.
- More recoil than an AR-15.
Practical Applications
The PSA JAKL 5.56 rifle is well-suited for a variety of applications, including home defense, tactical operations, and recreational shooting. Its robust design and reliable performance make it a viable option for anyone wanting a solid rifle that’s not the typical AR-15 clone. We won’t get into the debate of hunting with a 5.56 today, but the JAKL also comes in other calibers and could be used for hunting as well.
The rifle’s adaptability, thanks to the M-LOK handguard and Picatinny rail, ensures that it can be configured to meet specific needs. Whether mounting a scope for precision shooting or a flashlight for low-light conditions, the JAKL can be tailored to fit the user’s requirements.
Maintenance and Durability
Maintaining the PSA JAKL is straightforward, thanks to its gas piston system. This system reduces the amount of carbon buildup in the action, making cleaning easier and less frequent. The nitride-treated barrel and durable construction materials ensure that the rifle can withstand extensive use without significant wear.
AR-15 rifles must be cleaned frequently because of the gas system. This is what leads to some reliability issues with AR-15’s, although this has improved greatly over the years.
Field-stripping the JAKL is simple, allowing users to quickly clean and inspect the rifle. This ease of maintenance is a significant advantage for those who rely on their firearm in demanding conditions. It uses a standard AR lower receiver with a few minor alterations.
Want something other than an AR?
The Palmetto State Armory JAKL 5.56 rifle is a formidable contender in the semi-automatic rifle market. Its combination of a robust gas piston system, monolithic upper receiver, and overall design offer a unique and highly functional firearm. Compared to the AR-15, the JAKL provides several enhancements in including a shorter rifle for storing or transporting.
While it may come at a higher price point and slightly increased weight, the benefits it offers make it a worthy investment for anyone. Whether for tactical use, home defense, or recreational shooting, the PSA JAKL 5.56 rifle stands out as a reliable and versatile choice.
Again, I love my AR-15 rifles, but sometimes it’s nice to have something different. The JAKL has a somewhat SCAR look and uses an AK style piston with an AR lower receiver and controls. This is what makes it a little different than anything else, and in my opinion, it’s pretty dang cool.