Since 1959 this compact rifle, originally designed by Eugene Stoner, has been the choice of U.S. Air Force pilots who need a small-caliber rifle they can count on should they have to punch out over a remote area. Over the years, the design’s reputation for portability, ease of operation, and reliability has carried over to the civilian world. Today it’s a favorite of bush pilots, backpackers, backcountry adventurers, and outdoors people of all ilk, who, like their Air Force counterparts, need a rifle that’s easy to carry and has the accuracy to take down small game in a pinch.