The Franklin Armory M4-HTF R3 XTD .350 Legend 16″ 10+1 Black is a semi-automatic rifle built for straightforward reliability in the field. It pairs a 16-inch light-contour barrel with an Aura XTD muzzle device to keep recoil manageable and shots on target. Chambered in .350 Legend, this rifle gives you a straight-wall cartridge that works well for deer hunting and general-purpose shooting without overcomplicating things. It comes with a custom-tuned trigger, an adjustable B5 Bravo stock, and an optic-ready top rail, so you can set it up your way and trust it round after round.
| Manufacturer | Franklin Armory |
|---|---|
| Model | M4-HTF R3 XTD |
| Material | 7075-T6 aluminum upper and lower receiver per manufacturer specs |
| Compatibility | .350 Legend ammunition only |
| Finish | Black hard-coat anodized |
| Weight | 6.8 lbs per manufacturer specs |
| Condition | New |
Key features
- Custom-tuned trigger – WHY IT MATTERS: This trigger breaks clean and predictably, so you can squeeze off accurate shots without fighting a gritty pull. It helps new shooters build confidence and experienced hunters stay on target.
- Aura XTD muzzle device – WHY IT MATTERS: It cuts muzzle rise and flash, letting you keep the sights on target for quick follow-up shots. That matters when you’re in the field and only get one clean opportunity.
- Adjustable B5 Bravo stock – WHY IT MATTERS: You can shorten or lengthen the pull to fit your frame or bulky hunting layers. Consistent cheek weld means consistent accuracy, whether you’re at the bench or in a blind.
- Optic-ready top rail – WHY IT MATTERS: No need to modify the receiver to mount your favorite red dot or scope. You can drop on a sight and head to the range in minutes, not hours.
- Light-contour 16-inch barrel – WHY IT MATTERS: Keeps the rifle handy and balanced for walking through brush or climbing into a stand. You get enough barrel length to maximize .350 Legend velocity without the extra weight slowing you down.
Who it’s for
This rifle fits the hunter who wants a straight-wall cartridge for states with those restrictions, but doesn’t want to give up semi-auto speed. It also works well for the new gun owner looking for a do-it-all rifle that’s easy to shoot and maintain. If you’re a family shooter who needs one gun for deer season, range trips, and property defense, the M4-HTF R3 XTD covers that ground without a lot of fuss.
Pros/cons
- Pros: Reliable semi-auto action, good trigger out of the box, adjustable stock fits different shooters, optic-ready saves setup time, .350 Legend is a capable hunting round with mild recoil.
- Cons: 10-round magazine capacity may feel limiting for some shooters. The .350 Legend cartridge isn’t as widely available as 5.56 NATO or .223 Remington, so you may need to plan ahead for ammo purchases.
Comparison
| Feature | Franklin Armory M4-HTF R3 XTD | Geissele Super Duty 16″ | Zev Technologies OZ9C |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .350 Legend | 5.56 NATO | 9mm |
| Barrel length | 16″ | 16″ | 4.5″ |
| Trigger | Custom-tuned | Geissele SSA-E | Zev match-grade |
| Stock | Adjustable B5 Bravo | Geissele Super 42 | Grip module (pistol) |
| Weight | 6.8 lbs | 7.1 lbs | 1.8 lbs |
| Intended use | Hunting, general-purpose | Duty, precision | Concealed carry |
FAQ
What is the effective range of the .350 Legend in this rifle?
With a 16-inch barrel, the .350 Legend is effective out to about 250 yards on deer-sized game. Beyond that, bullet drop becomes significant. For target shooting, you can stretch it to 300 yards with good optics and practice.
Does this rifle accept standard AR-15 magazines?
No, it uses .350 Legend-specific magazines. Franklin Armory includes a 10-round magazine with the rifle. You can find aftermarket options from brands like CMMG and S&W, but standard 5.56 mags won’t work due to the cartridge’s larger diameter.
Can I mount any red dot or scope on the top rail?
Yes, the top rail is a standard Picatinny pattern, so it accepts most optics. Just make sure your mount has enough clearance for the Aura XTD muzzle device if you’re using a low-profile scope. A 1-4x or 1-6x LPVO is a popular choice for this setup.
Is this rifle legal in states with straight-wall cartridge hunting laws?
Yes, the .350 Legend is a straight-wall cartridge, so it meets the requirements in states like Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, and parts of the Midwest. Always check your local regulations before hunting, as some states have specific case length or bullet diameter rules.
Why buy from us
- ✅ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✅ Ships 1-2 business days
- ✅ 30-day returns
- ✅ Secure checkout
Looking for more options? Check out our Semi Auto Rifles or Hunting Rifles categories.
Last updated: April 2026





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