Colt M16A4

History of the Colt M16A4

The M16A4 is the fourth incarnation of the now successful M16 series of automatic assault rifles. The M16 system, which debuted during the Vietnam War, with all the drawbacks it brought, has now evolved into a more sophisticated and therefore deadlier version of the original weapon.

The M16 is used by militaries around the world in a variety of forms - a range that is equally shared by the competing AK-47/74 and all its major variants and derivatives. The M16A4 has replaced the M16A2 series in all branches of the US military, although the M16A2 is still available in large numbers.

The M16A4 is the official standard assault rifle of the U.S. military and has been in service in all U.S. combat since its introduction in 1990.

The M16A4 differs from the M16A2 primarily in that it has a removable carrying handle that can be replaced with a length of generic MIL-STD 1913 rail that can be coupled to the Knight's Armament M5 RAS Handguard Adapter Rail System (the latter will Work done M16A4 MWS - "Modular Weapon System" - name). The M16A4 is a more modular weapon, adapting to a variety of battlefield roles with a variety of mounts including specialized optics, flashlights, sights and grips.

Like all firearms in the M16 family, the M16A4 can be fitted with a 40mm M203 grenade launcher under the barrel, increasing the operator's tactical lethality and enabling the weapon system to function dually in both direct and indirect attack modes.

The M16A4 shares performance statistics with its predecessor, the M16A2, itself an evolution of the Vietnam War-era M16A1. The muzzle velocity is about 3,110 feet per second.

The weapon retains the widely accepted standard 5.56x45mm NATO cartridge via a detachable magazine with a 30-round (curved) capacity. The fully loaded magazine weighs only one pound more, bringing the system's total combat weight to a manageable 8.5 pounds. The M16A4 also retains adjustable front and rear sights, with an effective range of about 600 yards.

Fire selection is limited to semi and burst mode functions, while default safe is also displayed (the M1A1 offers fully automatic fire). Like the M16A2, the M16A4 is a rotating bolt (direct impact) pneumatic weapon. Optional shoulder straps make transport easier.

While several promising designs appear to have surpassed the M16 line, none have met the needs and budget requirements of the US military, meaning that the M16A4 will be used in the US (and its allies) for the foreseeable ) to have a place in the inventory in the future) should be reserved.

Specification

Roles

Dimensions

Performance

Changes