IWI Introduces Large-Frame AR with New Zion-25 Series
Author: Aleksa M. | Publish Date: Apr 28, 2025 | Fact checked by: Marko Lalovic
IWI has expanded its lineup with a new large-frame AR platform called the Zion-25. This latest offering comes in multiple barrel configurations and is available in both .308 Winchester and 6.5 Creedmoor calibers. A distinctive feature setting it apart from many competitors is its Armalite-style slant cut receiver design.
The Zion-25 series incorporates several premium components, including Timney two-stage triggers and Arca-compatible handguards that facilitate easy tripod mounting. Each rifle comes standard with B-5 stocks and pistol grips for enhanced ergonomics. IWI has implemented an innovative approach to gas system configurations: the 18-inch variant features a rifle-length gas system, the 16-inch model utilizes an intermediate gas system, while the 20-inch and 22-inch versions incorporate extended rifle +2" gas tubes. The barrels are constructed from 4150 steel with a nitride finish, featuring 1/8 twist rifling on 6.5 Creedmoor models and 1/10 twist on .308 Winchester versions.
Available Models:
- Zion-25 Carbine - 16-Inch Barrel - .308 Winchester - MSRP $1949.99
- Zion-25 DMR - 18-Inch Barrel - .308 Winchester - MSRP $1949.99
- Zion-25 DMR - 20-Inch Barrel - 6.5 Creedmoor - MSRP $1949.99
- Zion-25 DMR - 22-Inch Barrel - 6.5 Creedmoor - MSRP $1949.99
According to IWI: "The Zion-25 series seeks to emulate and exceed the successful large frame gas guns that have come before. The large frame gas gun space, AR-10s to group them loosely, has no standard comparative to AR-15's. The variance between manufacturers has resulted in a wide range of rifles and performances. The Zion-25 series of carbines and DMRs (Designated Marksman Rifles) are an accurized evolution of the no-nonsense approach to a modern duty grade AR-15 that resulted in the Zion-15 series.
The series features highly accurate free floated 1:8 twist barrels for the 6.5 Creedmoor models and 1:10 for the .308 Winchester models. They are wrapped in new ARCA compatible M-LOK handguards, kitted with ergonomic B5 Systems grips and stocks, and sport QD sling compatibility out of the box. In addition, the Z-25s all come with the phenomenal IWI exclusive Timney 2-Stage trigger that debuted with the Z-15 SPR."
| Specifications | Zion-25 16" Carbine .308 Win | Zion-25 18" DMR .308 Win | Zion-25 20" DMR 6.5CM | Zion-25 22" DMR 6.5CM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MODEL NUMBER(S) | Z25AST16308 | Z25DMR18308 | Z25DMR2065 | Z25DMR2265 |
| CALIBER | .308 Win | .308 Win | 6.5 Creedmoor | 6.5 Creedmoor |
| ACTION | Semi-auto | Semi-auto | Semi-auto | Semi-auto |
| OPERATING SYSTEM | Direct Impingement | Direct Impingement | Direct Impingement | Direct Impingement |
| MAGAZINE TYPE | Magpul PMAG 20 LR/SR | Magpul PMAG 20 LR/SR | Magpul PMAG 20 LR/SR | Magpul PMAG 20 LR/SR |
| MAGAZINE CAPACITY | 20 Round | 20 Round | 20 Round | 20 Round |
| BARREL MATERIAL | 4150 Chrome Moly Vanadium Nitride HB | 4150 Chrome Moly Vanadium Nitride HB | 4150 Chrome Moly Vanadium Nitride HB | 4150 Chrome Moly Vanadium Nitride HB |
| BARREL LENGTH | 16″ | 18″ | 20″ | 22″ |
| OVERALL LENGTH | 33.75" Stock Collapsed, 37.125" Stock Extended | 35.5" Stock Collapsed, 38.875″ Stock Extended | 37.5″ Stock Collapsed, 40.875″ Stock Extended | 39.5" Stock Collapsed, 42.875" Stock Extended |
| WEIGHT | 8lbs 14.5oz | 9lbs 6.8oz | 9lbs 12.4oz | 10lbs 0.7oz |
| GAS LENGTH | Intermediate Length | Rifle Length | Rifle+2″ Length | Rifle+2″ Length |
| ADJUSTABLE GAS | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| RIFLING | 1:10″ Twist | 1:10″ Twist | 1:8″ Twist | 1:8″ Twist |
| THREAD PITCH | 5/8x24TPI | 5/8x24TPI | 5/8x24TPI | 5/8x24TPI |
| STOCK TYPE | 8 Position Adjustable B5 | 8 Position Adjustable B5 | 8 Position Adjustable B5 | 8 Position Adjustable B5 |
| RAIL LENGTH | 15″ | 17″ | 17″ | 17″ |
| MSRP | $1,949.99 | $1,949.99 | $1,949.99 | $1,949.99 |
Author:
Aleksa Miladinovic
Aleksa Miladinovic is a passionate technology enthusiast born and raised in Serbia, whose interest in defense technology was sparked by his country's rich firearms manufacturing heritage. His journey began when attending a Partner defense exhibition in Belgrade, where he was captivated by the innovative engineering and precision mechanics behind modern defense systems. With Serbia being a significant producer of military equipment in the region, Aleksa has developed a deep appreciation for the technical advancements and engineering excellence that the firearms industry represents.