WBP Jack 556SR – Best 5.56mm AK on the Market
The new Gen 2 WBP Jack in 5.56mm is one hell of a gun!
East Meets West
For those unfamiliar with WBP’s Jack series, these rifles are essentially AKM-pattern semi-automatic carbines, available in 7.62×39, 5.56, and 5.45 calibers. Being AKs, they operate through a long-stroke piston-driven action, known for its robustness and reliability. However, this design choice comes with the trade-off of increased weight and a bit more felt recoil compared to short-stroke or direct impingement rifles.
The Jack series utilizes the familiar 5.56mm AK magazines, compatible with Bulgarian, Russian, and Polish guns. The package includes a single 30-round Polish-made polymer magazine, lacking steel reinforcements but proving reliable in testing.
The Jack’s aesthetics are enhanced with blonde laminate wood furniture, though other finishes are available. Compatibility with standard AKM furniture allows for customization, whether opting for railed handguards or a folding skeletonized stock.
WBP Jack 556SR Features
Starting from the muzzle, the 5.56 Jack boasts a 16.3-inch, 1:8-twist, 4150 Black Nitrided Barrel with a standard AK 14×1 LH pitch. This allows compatibility with various AK muzzle devices. The rifle comes equipped with a unique multi-prong bird-cage flash hider, demonstrating excellent muzzle blast suppression.
Moving along, the front sight tower is a standard AKM feature, fully adjustable for windage and elevation. Notably, the rifle incorporates a mil-spec bayonet lug, adding a touch of versatility. The self-regulating gas system, fluted gas tube, and integrated upper handguard retainer uphold AK tradition.
An interesting departure from other 74-based guns is the use of a 45-degree gas block instead of a 90-degree one. While this might raise concerns about increased recoil over time, the author assures that the gas port’s natural opening takes extensive use, resulting in a minimal 5% increase in felt recoil.
Moving back, the receiver features an engraved Polish eagle coat of arms, coupled with a standard rear sight notch adjustable for elevation up to 800 meters. The inclusion of a smooth dust cover and a standard AKMN side rail allows for optic mounting, catering to different preferences.
On the ergonomic side, the Jack introduces extended features such as an extended safety selector and a magazine release with an extra-wide paddle, simplifying magazine extraction. The rifle maintains AK authenticity with a standard AKM polymer checkered pistol grip and a fixed wooden stock.
WBP Jack 556SR - Worth a Buy?
In conclusion, the WBP Jack series, as dissected by Jim Grant, showcases a blend of traditional AK reliability and modern enhancements.
The rifle’s compatibility, robustness, and aesthetic options make it a compelling choice for enthusiasts who appreciate the AK platform’s iconic design with a touch of contemporary functionality.
Jim is a freelance writer, editor, and videographer for dozens of publications who loves anything and everything guns. While partial to modern military firearms and their civilian counterparts, he holds a special place in his heart for the greatest battle implement ever devised and other WW2 rifles. When he’s not reviewing guns or shooting for fun and competition, Jim can be found hiking and hunting with his wife Kimberly, and their dog Peanut in the South Carolina low country.