The Complete Guide To Colt M-16 Models: Part I

[Talyn]

The M16 series of rifles has had much written about them. How to fix them, how to shoot them, the history and development- is all very well covered. What has been missing is a basic guide to the models, and how to identify them properly. SAR has embarked on this mission, and the body of knowledge just keeps growing, and growing…..

The Complete Guide To Colt M-16 Models: Part I - Small Arms Review

The M16 series of rifles has had much written about them. How to fix them, how to shoot them, the history and development- is all very well covered. What has been missing is a basic guide to the models, and how to identify them properly. SAR has embarked on this mission, and the body of...

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[Talyn]

Part II: The M16A1​

Evolution of the M16 Rifle - Part II: The M16A1 - Small Arms Review

By Frank Iannamico

smallarmsreview.com

 

[Talyn]

Part III: The M16A2​

The origins of the M16A2 rifle began with a request from the U.S. Marine Corps, who pride themselves on marksmanship and a tradition of “Every Marine a Rifleman.” During September of 1979, Marine Corps representatives met with Colt to discuss their ideas on how to improve the M16A1 rifle.

Evolution of the M16 Rifle - Part III: The M16A2 - Small Arms Review

By Frank Iannamico

smallarmsreview.com

A3, A4 and M4 variants.

The M16A3 Rifle​

The M16A3 variant was simply an M16A2 that had a full-automatic feature in place of the 3-round burst. Very few were manufactured and issued.

The M16A4 Rifle​

The M16A4 model had a flat-top upper receiver with a Mil-Std-1913 rail. Initially, the upper receiver had a detachable M16A2 carry handle that was secured with thumbscrews to the rail. The handle could be easily removed, and the rail used for mounting optics and other ancillary devices.

The 3-round burst feature of the M16A2 was retained in the M16A4 design

In 1997 the M16A4 rifle began replacing the M16A2 as the standard rifle of the U.S. military. Both rifle models were manufactured by Colt and FN.

The M4 Carbine​

The M4 and M4A1 carbines, initially adopted in 1994, became the U.S. standard issue weapon replacing the M16A2 and M16A4 rifles. These compact carbines feature a 14.5 inch barrel and a collapsible buttstock.