List of Colt AR-15 and M16 rifle variants

This article describes the many variations of the Colt AR-15 and M16 rifle family of weapons produced by Colt's Manufacturing Company. Weapons patterned on the original ArmaLite AR-15 design have been produced by numerous manufacturers and have been used by nations around the world, some of which created their own variations. The tables here are split into a variety of categories, and provide an overview of different subtypes. For purposes of these tables, bold model numbers are weapons used (or previously used) by the U.S. Military while italic model numbers are weapons for commercial or export sale. See Glossary of terms for an explanation of each column.

ArmaLite AR-15 with the charging handle located on top of the upper receiver, protected within the carrying handle and a 25-round magazine.
1973 Colt AR-15 SP1 rifle with "slab side" lower receiver (lacking raised boss around magazine release button) and original Colt 20-round magazine.
M16A1 rifle with forward assist, raised boss around magazine release button and a 30-round magazine.

Colt military models

Colt has been the most visible producer of ArmaLite AR-15 pattern weapons, and the military designations M16 and M4 are heavily associated with the company. Colt has an intricate internal nomenclature system for its models, with a variety of suffixes and prefixes. Colt's systems have generally followed the times and though its model numbers originally came without prefixes, with the need to separate weapons made for civilian consumption from those made for military and law enforcement use, military models became prefixed with the code "R0". For the purposes of this table, the R0 nomenclature is obviated as this terminology did not exist in all cases, but it can be understood to be present. Military/LE models are also easily identified by their three-digit code in contrast to the four-digit codes for civilian weapons.

Colt Armalite AR-15

The original Armalite AR-15 models have the charging handle located on top of the upper receiver, protected within the carrying handle.

Colt model no. Name Stock Hand guards Fire control Rear sight Forward assist Case deflector Caliber Barrel length Barrel profile Barrel twist Bayonet Lug Muzzle device
601 ArmaLite AR-15 A1 Triangular S-1-F A1 No No .223 REM 20 in. A1 1:14 (early)
1:12 (late)
Yes Type 1 Duckbill
Type 2 Duckbill
602 ArmaLite AR-15
(AKA: XM16)
A1 Triangular S-1-F A1 No No .223 REM 20 in. A1 1:12 Yes Type 2 Duckbill

Colt M16 Rifle, M4 Carbine based weapons

Colt model no. Name Stock Hand guards Fire control Rear sight Forward assist Case deflector Caliber Barrel length Barrel profile Barrel twist Bayonet Lug Muzzle device
603 XM16E1 A1 Triangular S-1-F A1 Yes No .223 REM 20 in. A1 1:12 Yes Type 2 Duckbill or A1 Birdcage
604 M16 rifle A1 Triangular S-1-F A1 No No .223 REM 20 in. A1 1:12 Yes A1 Birdcage
605 Model 605 A1 Triangular S-1-F A1 No No .223 REM 15 in. A1 1:12 No Type 2 Duckbill
605A Model 605A A1 Triangular S-1-F A1 Yes No .223 REM 15 in. A1 1:12 No Type 2 Duckbill
605B Model 605B A1 Triangular S-F-1-3 A1 No No .223 REM 15 in. A1 1:12 No Type 2 Duckbill
606 CAR-15 Heavy Assault Rifle M1 A1 Triangular S-1-F A1 No No .223 REM 20 in. HBAR 1:12 Yes Type 2 Duckbill
606A CAR-15 Heavy Assault Rifle M1 A1 Triangular S-1-F A1 Yes No .223 REM 20 in. HBAR 1:12 Yes Type 2 Duckbill
606B CAR-15 Heavy Assault Rifle M1 A1 Triangular S-F-1-3 A1 Yes No .223 REM 20 in. HBAR 1:12 Yes Type 2 Duckbill
607 CAR15 1st Generation Short Triangular S-1-F A1 No No .223 REM 10 in. A1 1:12 No Type 1 and 2 Duckbill and 3.5" Moderator
607A CAR15 1st Generation Short Triangular S-1-F A1 Yes No .223 REM 10 in. A1 1:12 No Type 1 and 2 Duckbill and 3.5" Moderator
607B CAR15 1st Generation Short Triangular S-F-1-3 A1 No No .223 REM 10 in. A1 1:12 No Type 1 and 2 Duckbill and 3.5" Moderator
608 CAR-15 Survival Rifle Tubular Short Round S-1-F A1 No No .223 REM 10 in. A1 1:12 No Conical or 3.5" Moderator
609 XM177 Commando 2nd Generation Short Ribbed S-1-F A1 Yes No .223 REM 10 in. A1 1:12 No 3.5" or 4.5" Moderator
610 GAU 5/A 2nd Generation Short Ribbed S-1-F A1 No No .223 REM 10 in. A1 1:12 No 3.5" or 4.5" Moderator
610B GAU 5/A 2nd Generation Short Ribbed S-F-1-3 A1 No No .223 REM 10 in. A1 1:12 No 3.5" or 4.5" Moderator
611 M16 HBAR A1 Triangular S-1-F A1 Yes No .223 REM 20 in. HBAR 1:12 Yes A1 Birdcage
611P M16 HBAR (License produced by Elisco Tools) A1 Triangular S-1-F A1 Yes No .223 REM 20 in. HBAR 1:12 Yes A1 Birdcage
613K M16 (Licensed produced by Daewoo Precision Industries) A1 Triangular S-1-F A1 Yes No .223 REM 20 in. A1 1:12 Yes A1 Birdcage
613P M16 (License produced by Elisco Tools) A1 Triangular S-1-F A1 Yes No .223 REM 20 in. A1 1:12 Yes A1 Birdcage
614 M16A1 A1 Triangular S-1-F A1 No No .223 REM 20 in. A1 1:12 Yes A1 Birdcage
614S M16S1 (License produced by Chartered Arms Singapore) A1 Triangular S-1-F A1 No No .223 REM 20 in. A1 1:12 Yes A1 Birdcage
615 M16 HBAR A1 Triangular S-1-F A1 No No .223 REM 20 in. HBAR 1:12 Yes A1 Birdcage
616 M16 HBAR A1 Round S-1-F A1 No No .223 REM 20 in. HBAR 1:12 Yes A1 Birdcage
619 XM177 Commando 2nd Generation Short Ribbed S-1-F A1 Yes No .223 REM 10 in. A1 1:12 No 3.5" or 4.5" Moderator
620 XM177 Commando 2nd Generation Short Ribbed S-1-F A1 No No .223 REM 10 in. A1 1:12 No 3.5" or 4.5" Moderator
621 M16A1 HBAR A1 Triangular S-1-F A1 Yes No .223 REM 20 in. HBAR 1:12 Yes A1 Birdcage
629 Colt XM4 2nd Generation Short Ribbed S-1-F A1 Yes No .223 REM or 5.56 NATO 11.5 in. A1 1:12 No 4.5" Moderator
630 GAU 5/A 2nd Generation Short Ribbed S-1-F A1 No No .223 REM 11.5 in. A1 1:12 No 4.5" Moderator
633 Colt SMG 2nd Generation Short Round S-1-F A1 No Yes 9mm NATO 7 in. A1 1:10 No None
634 Colt SMG 2nd Generation Short Ribbed Conflict between S-1 and S-1-F A1 No Yes 9mm NATO 10 in. A1 1:10 No A1 Birdcage
635 Colt SMG 2nd, 3rd, or 4th Generation Short Ribbed S-1-F A1 No Yes 9mm NATO 10 in. A1 1:10 No A1 Birdcage
635SD Colt SMG 2nd Generation Short Ribbed S-1-F A1 No Yes 9mm NATO 10 in. A1 w/ integral silencer 1:10 No None
639 XM177 Commando 2nd Generation Short Ribbed S-1-F A1 Yes No .223 REM 11.5 in. A1 1:12 No 4.5" Moderator or A1
639 Colt SMG 2nd Short Ribbed S-1-3 A1 No Yes 9mm NATO 10 in. A1 w/ integral silencer 1:10 No A2 Compensator
640 XM177 Commando 2nd Generation Short Ribbed S-1-F A1 No No .223 REM 11.5 in. A1 1:12 No 4.5" Moderator or A1
645 M16A1E1 A1 Ribbed S-1-3 A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. A2 1:7 Yes A2 Compensator
645E M16A2E1 A2 Ribbed S-1-3 Flattop (w/ flip down front sight) Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. A2 1:7 Yes A2 Compensator
646 M16A2E3 A2 Ribbed S-1-F A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. A2 1:7 Yes A2 Compensator
649 GAU 5/A 2nd Generation Short Ribbed S-1-F A1 No No .223 REM 11.5 in. A1 1:12 No 4.5" Moderator
650 M16A1 carbine/CAR15 A1 Short Ribbed S-1-F A1 Yes No .223 REM 14.5 in. A1 1:12 Yes A1 Birdcage
651 M16A1 carbine/CAR15 A1 Short Ribbed S-1-F A1 Yes No .223 REM 14.5 in. A1 1:12 Yes A1 Birdcage
652 M16A1 carbine/CAR15 A1 Short Ribbed S-1-F A1 No No .223 REM 14.5 in. A1 1:12 Yes A1 Birdcage
653 M16A1 carbine/CAR15 2nd Generation Short Ribbed S-1-F A1 Yes No .223 REM 14.5 in. A1 1:12 Yes A1 Birdcage
653P M16A1 carbine/CAR15 (License produced by Elisco Tools) 2nd Generation Short Ribbed S-1-F A1 Yes No .223 REM 14.5 in. A1 1:12 Yes A1 Birdcage
654 M16A1 carbine/CAR15 2nd Generation Short Ribbed S-1-F A1 No No .223 REM 14.5 in. A1 1:12 Yes A1 Birdcage
655 M16A1 Special High Profile A1 Triangular S-1-F A1 (used with special raised carry handle scope mount) Yes No .223 REM 20 in. HBAR 1:12 Yes A1
656 M16A1 Special Low Profile A1 Triangular S-1-F Flattop Yes No .223 REM 20 in. HBAR 1:12 Yes A1 Birdcage
701 M16A2 A2 Ribbed S-1-F A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. A2 1:7 Yes A2 Compensator
702 M16A2 A2 Ribbed S-1-3 A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. A2 1:7 Yes A2 Compensator
703 M16A2 Prototype A2 Ribbed S-1-F A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. A1 1:7 Yes A2 Compensator
705 M16A2 A2 Ribbed S-1-3 A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. A2 1:7 Yes A2 Compensator
707 M16A2 A2 Ribbed S-1-3 A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. A1 1:7 Yes A2 Compensator
708 M16A2 Enhanced A2 Ribbed S-1-3-F A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. A1 1:7 Yes A2 Compensator
711 M16A2 A2 Ribbed S-1-F A1 Yes No and Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. A1 1:7 Yes A2 Compensator
713 M16A2 A2 Ribbed S-1-3 A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. A2 1:7 Yes A2 Compensator
715 M16A2 (License produced by Diemaco/Colt Canada as the C7) A2 Ribbed S-1-F A1 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. A2 1:7 Yes A2 Compensator
719 M16A2 A2 Ribbed S-1-3 A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. A1 1:7 Yes A2 Compensator
720 Model 720/M4 Ancestor 2nd Generation or 3rd Generation Short Ribbed S-1-F, S-1-3 A1 or A2 Earlier No, Later Yes Earlier No, Later Yes 5.56 NATO 14.5 in. A1 (Before), M4 (Current) 1:7 Yes A1 or A2 Compensator
723 Delta Carbine 3rd Generation Short Ribbed S-1-F A1 Earlier No, Later Yes Earlier No, Later Yes 5.56 NATO 14.5 in. Earlier A1, Later M4 1:7 Yes A2 Compensator
725 M16A2 carbine (License produced by Diemaco/Colt Canada as the C8) 3rd Generation Short Ribbed S-1-F A1 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 14.5 in. A1 1:7 Yes A2 Compensator
725A M16A2 carbine 3rd Generation Short Ribbed S-1-F A1 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 14.5 in. A1 1:7 Yes A2 Compensator
725B M16A2 carbine 3rd Generation Short Ribbed S-1-F A1 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 14.5 in. A2 1:7 Yes A2 Compensator
726 M16A2 carbine 3rd Generation Short Ribbed S-1-F A1 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 14.5 in. A1 1:7 Yes A1 Birdcage
727 Government Carbine 3rd Generation Short Ribbed S-1-F A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 14.5 in. M4 1:7 Yes A2 Compensator
728 M16A2 carbine 3rd Generation Short Ribbed S-1-F A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 14.5 in. M4 1:7 Yes A2 Compensator
733 M16A2 Commando 3rd or 4th Generation Short Ribbed S-1-F A1 or A2 Yes Yes or No 5.56 NATO 11.5 in. A1 or A2 1:7 No A1 or A2
733A M16A2 Commando 3rd or 4th Generation Short Ribbed S-1-3 A1 or A2 Yes Yes or No 5.56 NATO 11.5 in. A1 or A2 1:7 No A1 or A2
734 M16A2 Commando 3rd Generation Short Ribbed S-1-F A1 or A2 Yes Yes or No 5.56 NATO 11.5 in. A1 or A2 1:7 No A1 or A2
734A M16A2 Commando 3rd Generation Short Ribbed S-1-3 A1 or A2 Yes Yes or No 5.56 NATO 11.5 in. A1 or A2 1:7 No A1 or A2
735 M16A2 Commando 3rd or 4th Generation Short Ribbed S-1-3 A1 or A2 Yes Yes or No 5.56 NATO 11.5 in. A1 or A2 1:7 No A1 or A2
737 M16A2 A2 Ribbed S-1-3 A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. HBAR 1:7 Yes A2
738 M16A2 Commando Enhanced 3rd or 4th Generation Short Ribbed S-1-3-F A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 11.5 in. A2 1:7 No A1 or A2
741 M16A2 A2 Ribbed S-1-F A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. HBAR 1:7 Yes A2
742 M16A2 (Standard w/ bipod) A2 Ribbed S-1-F A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. HBAR 1:7 Yes A2
745 M16A2 (Standard w/ bipod) A2 Ribbed S-1-3 A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. HBAR 1:7 Yes A2
746 M16A2 (Standard w/ bipod) A2 Ribbed S-1-3 A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. HBAR 1:7 Yes A2
750 Colt Automatic Rifle (Colt/Diemaco project) A2 Square LMG S-F A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. HBAR 1:7 Yes A2
777 M4 Classic Carbine 4th Generation M4 S-1-F[1] A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 14.5 in. M4 1:7 Yes A2
778 M4 Classic Carbine Enhanced 4th Generation M4 S-1-3-F A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 14.5 in. M4 1:7 Yes A2
779 M4 Classic Carbine 4th Generation M4 S-1-3[1] A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 14.5 in. M4 1:7 Yes A2
901 M16A3 A2 Ribbed, Rail/RIS S-1-F Flattop Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. A2 1:7 Yes A2
905 M16A4 A2 Ribbed, Rail/RIS S-1-3 Flattop Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. A2 1:7 Yes A2
920 M4 Carbine 4th Generation M4, Rail/RIS S-1-3 Flattop Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 14.5 in. M4 1:7 Yes A2
921 M4E1 4th Generation M4, Rail/RIS S-1-F Flattop Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 14.5 in. M4 1:7 Yes A2
921HB M4A1 4th Generation M4, Rail/RIS S-1-F Flattop Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 14.5 in. M4 HBAR 1:7 Yes A2
925 M4E2 3rd or 4th Generation M4, Rail/RIS S-1-F (Earlier), S-1-3 (Later) Flattop Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 14.5 in. M4 1:7 Yes A2
927 M4 Government Carbine 4th Generation M4, Rail/RIS S-1-F Flattop Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 14.5 in. M4 1:7 Yes A2
933 M4 Commando 4th Generation M4, Rail/RIS S-1-F Flattop Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 11.5 in. A1 or A2 1:7 No A2
935 M4 Commando 4th Generation M4, Rail/RIS S-1-3 Flattop Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 11.5 in. A1 or A2 1:7 No A2
938 M4 Commando Enhanced 4th Generation M4, Rail/RIS S-1-3-F Flattop Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 11.5 in. A2 1:7 No A2
941 M16A3 A2 Ribbed, Rail/RIS S-1-F Flattop Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. HBAR 1:7 Yes A2
942 M16A3 (Standard w/ bipod) A2 Ribbed, Rail/RIS S-1-F Flattop Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. HBAR 1:7 Yes A2
945 M16A4 A2 Ribbed, Rail/RIS S-1-3 Flattop Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. A2 1:7 Yes A2
950 Colt Automatic Rifle (Colt/Diemaco project) A2 Square LMG S-F Flattop Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. HBAR 1:7 Yes A2
977 M4A1 4th Generation M4, Rail/RIS S-1-F[1][2] Flattop Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 14.5 in. M4 1:7 Yes A2
977HB M4A1 4th Generation M4, Rail/RIS S-1-F Flattop Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 14.5 in. M4 HBAR 1:7 Yes A2
978 M4 Carbine Enhanced 4th Generation M4, Rail/RIS S-1-3-F Flattop Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 14.5 in. M4 1:7 Yes A2
979 M4 Carbine 4th Generation M4, Rail/RIS S-1-3[1][2] Flattop Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 14.5 in. M4 1:7 Yes A2
991 Colt SMG 4th Generation M4, Rail/RIS S-1-F Flattop No Yes 9mm NATO 10.5 in. A1 1:10 No A1 Birdcage
992 Colt SMG 4th Generation M4, Rail/RIS S-1-3 Flattop No Yes 9mm NATO 10.5 in. A1 1:10 No A1 Birdcage
Colt model no. Name Stock Hand guards Fire control Rear sight Forward assist Case deflector Caliber Barrel length Barrel profile Barrel twist Bayonet Lug Muzzle device

Colt military models without model numbers

In rare instances some Colt models have been produced without in house model numbers, or at least one which is readily apparent.

Name Stock Hand guards Fire control Rear sight Forward assist Case deflector Caliber Barrel length Barrel profile Barrel twist Bayonet Lug Muzzle device
M16 PIP A2 Ribbed S-1-F, S-1-3 A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. A2 1:7 Yes A1 or A2
Colt Advanced Combat Rifle Retractable ACR ACR Type S-1-3 or S-1-F Flattop Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. A2 1:7 No ACR compensator
M231 FPW FPW Wire Short Round S-F None No No .223 REM 15.6 in. HBAR 1:12 No A1
M231 Recoil Operated Rifle/The Patriot None Short Round S-F None No No .233 REM 15.6 in. HBAR 1:12 No A1
Colt Advanced Piston Carbine 4th Generation Retractable Monolithic S-1-F Flattop Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 14.5 in. Fluted 1:7 Yes A2

Diemaco/Colt Canada models

The Canadian company Colt Canada (formerly Diemaco) licensed production of a rifle (Colt Model 715) and carbine (Colt Model 725), but later went on to produce an entire line of AR-15/M16 pattern weapons developed independently. In May 2005, Colt's Manufacturing Company acquired Diemaco, and the name was changed to Colt Canada.

Colt model no. Diemaco model Stock Hand guards Fire control Rear sight Forward assist Case deflector Caliber Barrel length Barrel profile Barrel twist Bayonet Lug Muzzle device
715 C7 A2 Ribbed S-1-F A1 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. A2 1:7 Yes A2
N/A C7A1 A2 Ribbed S-1-F Weaver Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. A2 1:7 Yes A2
N/A C7A2 Canadian 3rd Generation Ribbed S-1-F Weaver Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. A2 1:7 Yes A2
750 Colt/Diemaco LMG/LSW A2 Square LMG S-F A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. HBAR 1:7 No A2
N/A LSW A2 Square LMG S-F Weaver Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. HBAR 1:7 No A2
725 C8 3rd Generation Short Ribbed S-1-F A1 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 14.5 in. A1 1:7 Yes A2
N/A C8A1 Canadian 3rd Generation Short Ribbed S-1-F Weaver Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 14.5 in. A1 1:7 Yes A2
N/A C8FTHB Canadian 3rd Generation Short Ribbed S-1-F Weaver Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 14.5 in. A2 1:7 Yes A2
N/A SFW Canadian 3rd Generation Short Ribbed S-1-F Weaver Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 16 in. SFW 1:7 Yes A2
N/A C8CQB Canadian 3rd Generation Short Ribbed S-1-F Weaver Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 10 in. A2 1:7 Yes A2
N/A PDW Canadian 3rd Generation N/A S-1-F Weaver Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 5.7" in. A2 1:7 No A2

Non-factory military models

Name Base weapon Stock Hand guards Fire control Rear sight Forward assist Case deflector Caliber Barrel length Barrel profile Barrel twist Bayonet Lug Muzzle device
GUU-5/P GAU-5/A or GAU-5A/A 2nd or 3rd Generation Short Ribbed S-1-F A1 Yes No 5.56 NATO 14.5 in. A1 or M4 1:7 Yes A1 or A2
GUU-5/P GAU-5/A or GAU-5A/A 2nd or 3rd Generation M4 S-1-F A2 or Flattop Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 14.5 in. M4 1:7 Yes A2
Mekut'zar Model 653 3rd Generation or Israeli Short Ribbed S-1-F A1 Yes No 5.56 NATO 14.5 in. M4 1:7 Yes A2
Mekut'zrar Model 653 2nd Generation or Israeli Short Ribbed S-1-F A1 Yes No 5.56 NATO Variable; 9" average A1 1:12 No Various

Colt civilian models

Colt's civilian line of semi-automatic Colt AR-15 rifles is identified by a four digit code following a specific prefix. Initially all Colt civilian weapons were listed with an “R” prefix, with this changing to “AR” following the passage of the Federal Assault Weapons Ban in 1994. Colt also produced a line of weapons aimed at target shooters under the “MT” prefix, which stood for Match Target, as well as, the Colt Accurized Rifle, which was the only model to feature the CR prefix. Most recently with the shift in marketing policy by Colt Defense, these weapons have been given the “LE” and "LT" prefix. The "LT" series is modified version of the Colt 6720 featuring a lightweight "pencil" barrel with a free floating rail system. Only 1500 of the "LT" series were produced. Currently, Colt Defense has no line targeted specifically at the private civilian market.

R series models

Colt model no. Name Stock Hand guards Fire control Rear sight Forward assist Case deflector Caliber Barrel length Barrel profile Barrel twist Bayonet Lug Muzzle device
R6000 AR-15 Sporter (SP1) A1 Triangular S-1 A1 No No .223 REM 20 in. A1 1:12 Yes Type 2 Duckbill or A1
R6001 AR-15 Sporter Carbine (SP1 Carbine) 2nd Generation Short Ribbed S-1 A1 No No .223 REM 16 in. A1 1:12 Yes A1
R6002 AR-15 Sporter (SP1; Bundled with 3× scope) A1 Triangular S-1 A1 No No .223 REM 20 in. A1 1:12 Yes A1
R6003 AR-15 Sporter Carbine (SP1 Carbine; Bundled with 3× scope) 2nd Generation Short Ribbed S-1 A1 No No .223 REM 16 in. A1 1:12 Yes A1
R6004 AR-15 Sporter (SP1; Bundled with Colt Reflex Sighting System) A1 Triangular S-1 A1 No No .223 REM 20 in. A1 1:12 Yes A1
R6007 AR-15 Sporter (SP1 Coltguard electroless nickel) A1 Triangular S-1 A1 No No .223 REM 20 in. A1 1:12 Yes A1
R6010 AR-15 Sporter (SP1) A1 Triangular S-1 A1 No No .222 REM 20 in. A1 1:12 Yes A1
R6420 AR-15A2 Sporter II Carbine 3rd Generation Short Ribbed S-1 A1 Yes No & Yes 5.56 NATO 16 in. A1 1:7 Yes A2
R6430 Sporter Lightweight (9 mm) A2 Short Ribbed S-1 A1 No Removable 9mm NATO 16 in. A1 1:10 Yes A1
R6450 AR-15 9 mm Carbine 3rd Generation Short Ribbed S-1 A1 No No & Removable 9mm NATO 16 in. A1 1:10 Yes A1
R6500 AR-15A2 Sporter II A2 Ribbed S-1 A1 Yes No & Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. A2 1:7 Yes A2
R6510 AR-15A2 Sporter II (Special export model in .222 Remington) A2 Ribbed S-1 A2 Yes No .222 REM 20 in. A2 1:14 Yes A2
R6520 AR-15A2 Government Carbine 3rd Generation Short Ribbed S-1 A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 16 in. A1 1:7 Yes A2
R6521 Colt Carbine (AR-15A2 Government Carbine) (Special export model with receiver block and large pin upper receiver) 3rd Generation Short Ribbed S-1 A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 16 in. A1 1:7 Yes/No A2
R6530 Sporter Lightweight .223 3rd Generation Short Ribbed S-1 A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 16 in. A1 1:7 No A2
R6550 AR-15A2 Government A2 Ribbed S-1 A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. A2 1:7 Yes A2
R6550CC AR-15A2 Government (w/ factory camouflage finish) A2 Ribbed S-1 A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. A2 1:7 Yes A2
R6550K AR-15A2 Government (w/ factory installed .22 Long Rifle conversion kit) A2 Ribbed S-1 A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. A2 1:7 Yes A2
R6551 Sporter Target A2 Ribbed S-1 A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. A2 1:7 Yes A2
R6600 AR-15A2 HBAR A2 Ribbed S-1 A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. HBAR 1:7 Yes A2
R6600DH AR-15A2 Delta HBAR (bundled w/ Tasco 3–9x scope and cheekpiece) A2 Ribbed S-1 A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. HBAR 1:7 Yes A2
R6600K AR-15A2 HBAR (w/ factory installed .22 Long Rifle conversion kit) A2 Ribbed S-1 A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. HBAR 1:7 No A2
R6601 Sporter Match HBAR A2 Ribbed S-1 A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. HBAR 1:7 No A2
R6601DH Sporter Match Delta HBAR (bundled w/ Tasco 3–9x scope and cheekpiece) A2 Ribbed S-1 A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. HBAR 1:7 No A2
R6700 Sporter Competition HBAR A2 Ribbed S-1 Flattop Yes Yes .223 REM
5.56 NATO
20 in. HBAR 1:9 No A2
R6700CH Sporter Competition HBAR (bundled w/ Tasco 3–9x scope and cheekpiece) A2 Ribbed S-1 Flattop Yes Yes .223 REM
5.56 NATO
20 in. HBAR 1:9 No A2
R6700S Sporter Competition HBAR (bundled w/ Tasco 3–9x scope) A2 Ribbed S-1 Flattop Yes Yes .223 REM
5.56 NATO
20 in. HBAR 1:9 No A2
R6701 Sporter Competition HBAR (Special limited edition production run) A2 Ribbed S-1 Flattop Yes Yes .223 REM
5.56 NATO
20 in. HBAR 1:9 No A2
R6721 AR-15A3 Tactical Carbine 4th Generation Short Ribbed S-1 A2 Yes Yes .223 REM
5.56 NATO
16 in. HBAR 1:9 Yes A2
R6724 Sporter Competition HBAR A2 Ribbed S-1 Flattop Yes Yes .223 REM
5.56 NATO
24 in. HBAR 1:9 No A2
R6731 AR-15A3 Competition HBAR A2 Short Ribbed S-1 A2 Yes Yes .223 REM
5.56 NATO
16 in. HBAR 1:9 No A2
R6750 Sporter Competition HBAR (bundled w/ bipod) A2 Ribbed S-1 A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. Super-Heavy 1:7 No A2
R6821 Sporter Carbine (7.62×39mm) 3rd Generation Short Ribbed S-1 A2 Yes Yes 7.62×39mm 16 in. HBAR 1:12 No A1
R6830 Sporter Lightweight (7.62×39mm) A2 Short Ribbed S-1 A2 Yes Yes 7.62×39mm 16 in. HBAR 1:12 No A1

AR series models

Colt model no. Name Stock Hand guards Fire control Rear sight Forward assist Case deflector Caliber Barrel length Barrel profile Barrel twist Bayonet Lug Muzzle device
AR6320 AR-15 Lightweight 4th Generation Short Ribbed S-1 A1 Yes Yes .223 REM
5.56 NATO
16 in. A1 1:9 Yes A2
AR6450 AR-15 9 mm Carbine 3rd Generation Short Ribbed S-1 A1 No Removable 9mm NATO 16 in. A1 1:10 Yes A1
AR6520 AR-15A2 Government Carbine 4th Generation Short Ribbed S-1 A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 16 in. A1 1:7 Yes A2
AR6520SP AR-15A2 Government Carbine 4th Generation Short Ribbed S-1 A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 10 in. A2 1:7 Yes A2
AR6525 AR-15A2 Government Carbine 4th Generation Short Ribbed S-1 A2 Yes Yes .223 REM
5.56 NATO
16 in. A2 1:9 Yes A2
AR6530 AR-15
Lightweight
A2 Short Ribbed S-1 A2 Yes Yes .223 REM
5.56 NATO
16 in. A1 1:7 Yes A2
AR6551 AR-15
Target Model
A2 Ribbed S-1 A2 Yes Yes .223 REM
5.56 NATO
20 in. A2 1:7 Yes A2
AR6601 AR-15
Match HBAR
A2 Ribbed S-1 A2 Yes Yes .223 REM
5.56 NATO
20 in. HBAR 1:7 Yes A2
AR6700 AR-15
Competition HBAR
A2 Ribbed S-1 Flattop Yes Yes .223 REM
5.56 NATO
20 in. HBAR 1:9 Yes A2
AR15A4 AR-15A4 Rifle A2 Ribbed S-1 Flattop Yes Yes .223 REM
5.56 NATO
20 in. A2 1:7 Yes A2
AR6720 AR-15A4
Lightweight LE Carbine
4th Generation Short Ribbed S-1 Flattop Yes Yes .223 REM
5.56 NATO
16 in. A1 1:7 Yes A2
AR6721 AR-15A3 Tactical Carbine 4th Generation Short Ribbed S-1 Flattop Yes Yes .223 REM
5.56 NATO
16 in. HBAR 1:9 Yes A2
AR6721SP AR-15A3 Tactical Carbine 4th Generation Short Ribbed S-1 Flattop Yes Yes .223 REM
5.56 NATO
10 in. HBAR 1:9 Yes A2
AR6951 Colt 9 mm Carbine 4th Generation Short Ribbed S-1 Flattop No Yes 9mm NATO 16.1 in. A2 1:10 Yes A1 Birdcage

MT and CR series models

Colt model no. Name Stock Hand guards Fire control Rear sight Forward assist Case deflector Caliber Barrel length Barrel profile Barrel twist Bayonet Lug Muzzle device
CR6724 Colt Accurized Rifle A2 FF Tube S-1 Flattop Yes Yes .223 REM
5.56 NATO
24 in. Stainless HBAR 1:9 No None
CR6720 Colt Accurized Rifle A2 FF Tube S-1 Flattop Yes Yes .223 REM
5.56 NATO
20 in. Stainless HBAR 1:9 No None
CRM16A1 M16A1 Retro Reissue A1 Triangular S-1 A1 Yes No 5.56 NATO 20 in. A1 1:12 Yes Type 2 Duckbill
MT6400 Match Target M4 4th Generation M4 S-1 Flattop Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 16 in. M4 1:7 No None
MT6400C Match Target M4 4th Generation M4 S-1 Flattop Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 16 in. M4 1:7 No Factory compensator
MT6430 Match Target Lightweight A2 Short Ribbed S-1 A1 No Yes 9mm Luger 16 in. A1 1:10 No None
MT6530 Match Target Lightweight A2 Short Ribbed S-1 A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 16 in. A1 1:7 No None
MT6551 Match Target Rifle A2 Ribbed S-1 A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. A2 1:7 No None
MT6601 Match Target HBAR A2 Ribbed S-1 A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. HBAR 1:7 No None
MT6601C Match Target HBAR A2 Ribbed S-1 A2 Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 20 in. HBAR 1:7 No Factory compensator
MT6700 Match Target Competition HBAR A2 Ribbed S-1 Flattop Yes Yes .223 REM
5.56 NATO
20 in. HBAR 1:9 No None
MT6700C Match Target Competition HBAR A2 Ribbed S-1 Flattop Yes No .223 REM
5.56 NATO
20 in. HBAR 1:9 No Factory compensator
MT6731 Match Target Competition HBAR II A2 Short Ribbed S-1 Flattop Yes Yes .223 REM
5.56 NATO
16 in. HBAR 1:9 No None
MT6830 AR-15A2 Government Carbine (Post-Ban LE Only) 3rd Generation Short Ribbed S-1 A2 Yes Yes .223 REM 16 in. HBAR 1:12 Yes A2

LE series models

Colt model no. Name Stock Hand guards Fire control Rear sight Forward assist Case deflector Caliber Barrel length Barrel profile Barrel twist Bayonet Lug Muzzle device
LE1020 Gas Piston Carbine 4th Generation Rail System S-1 Flattop Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 16 in. M4 1:7 Yes A2
LE1033 Gas Piston Commando 4th Generation Rail System S-1 Flattop Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 11.5 in. A2 1:7 Yes A2
LE6920 Law Enforcement Carbine (Also produced under license by Colt Canada) 4th Generation M4 S-1 Flattop Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 16 in. M4 1:7 Yes A2
LE6920 SOCOM Law Enforcement Carbine (US military reproduction) 4th Generation Knights armament RAS S-1 Matech rear sight Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 16 in. M4 1:7 Yes A2
LE6920HB Law Enforcement Carbine 4th Generation M4 S-1 Flattop Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 16 in. M4 HBAR 1:7 Yes A2
LE6921 M4LE Carbine 4th Generation M4 S-1 Flattop Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 14.5 in. M4 1:7 Yes A2
LE6921CQB M4LE Carbine 4th Generation M4 S-1 Flattop Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 10.5 in. M4 HBAR 1:7 Yes A2
LE6921HB M4LE Carbine 4th Generation M4 S-1 Flattop Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 14.5 in. M4 HBAR 1:7 Yes A2
LE6921SP M4LE Carbine 4th Generation M4 S-1 Flattop Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 10 in. M4 HBAR 1:7 Yes A2
LE6933 M4LE Commando 4th Generation Short Ribbed S-1 Flattop Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 11.5 in. A2 1:7 Yes A2
LE6940 Monolithic Advanced Law Enforcement Carbine 4th Generation Monolithic Rail System S-1 Flattop Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 16 in. M4 1:7 Yes A2
LE6941 Law Enforcement Carbine (direct impingement version of LE1020) 4th Generation Rail System S-1 Flattop Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 16 in. M4 1:7 Yes A2

LT series models

Colt model no. Name Stock Hand guards Fire control Rear sight Forward assist Case deflector Caliber Barrel length Barrel profile Barrel twist Bayonet Lug Muzzle device
LT6720-R Talo Special Edition 4th Generation Rail System S-1 Flattop Yes Yes 5.56 NATO 16 in. Lightweight pencil barrel 1:7 No A2

Glossary of terms

Stock

Fixed Stocks

  • A1: Fixed stock as used on M16 and M16A1. May or may not have a trapdoor to store a cleaning kit
  • A2: Improved stock used on M16A2. Longer by 5/8"
  • Tubular: Fixed tubular buttstock, similar to the 2nd Generation retractable unit, using a receiver extension and triangular rear with buttplate

Retractable Stocks

  • 1st Generation: 2-position sliding stock that resembled a shortened fixed buttstock
  • 2nd Generation: 2-position aluminum retractable stock
  • 3rd Generation: 2-position fiberlite retractable stock. Introduced 1985
  • Canadian 3rd Generation: 4-position fiberlite retractable stock fitted with rubber buttpad
  • 4th Generation: 4-position nylon retractable stock. Introduced 2002, designed by Picatinny Arsenal engineer Lily Ko with reinforced ribs, an angled buttplate, and a rear sling swivel
  • Retractable ACR: Similar in design to the so-called "Crane Stock" (initially fabricated by the Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane Division) essentially a 3rd generation unit with integrated cheek-rest
  • FPW Wire: Retractable wire stock similar in appearance to the stock used on the M3 submachine gun
  • Israeli: Rebuilt 3rd Generation stocks with 6 positions instead of 2

Handguards

  • Triangular: Triangular rifle handguards
  • Short Triangular: Carbine length triangular handguards
  • Round: Smooth round rifle handguards
  • Short Round: Carbine length smooth round handguard
  • Ribbed: Ribbed round rifle handguards
  • Short Ribbed: Carbine length ribbed handguards
  • Square LMG: Special heavy handguards with integral vertical grip for use during sustained fire
  • FF Tube: Free-Float Tube
  • M4: Oval carbine handguards with double heatshields
  • Rail/RIS: Handguards are replaced with a Rail Integration System.
  • Monolithic Rail Platform (MRP): A variant Rail System made by LMT. It has a free-floating barrel for greater accuracy.
  • ACR Type: Advanced Combat Rifle Project Handguard

Fire control

  • S-1: The selector is Safe (S) – Semi-Automatic (1)
  • S-F: The selector is Safe (S) – Fully Automatic (F)
  • S-1-F: The selector is Safe (S) – Semi-Automatic (1) – Fully Automatic (F)
  • S-1–3: The selector is Safe (S) – Semi-Automatic (1) – 3-Round Burst (3)
  • S-F-1–3: The selector is Safe (S) – Fully Automatic (F) – Semi-Automatic (1) – 3-Round Burst (3). First Generation 4 position group
  • S-1–3-F: The selector is Safe (S) – Semi-Automatic (1) – 3-Round Burst (3) – Fully Automatic (F). Second Generation 4 position group

Rear sight

  • A1: "Field sights" in which the rear sight is only adjustable for windage
  • A2: Rear sight adjustable for both windage and elevation
  • Flattop: Indicates carry handle and rear sight has been replaced with a MIL-STD-1913 rail. A detachable carry handle can be attached to the rail which features either A1 (Diemaco/Colt Canada) or A2 (Colt) sights
  • Weaver: Indicates carry handle and rear sight has been replaced with a Weaver-type rail. A detachable carry handle can be attached to the rail which features either A1 (Diemaco/Colt Canada) or A2 (Colt) sights

Barrel Profile

  • ArmaLite Early ArmaLite AR-15 ultra-lightweight 'Hollywood' turned-down profile barrel, 1:14 twist only
  • A1: Also referred to as the "lightweight" or "pencil" profile. Government-specified barrel profile increased to between 0.675 and 0.575 inches
  • A2: Also referred to as the "government" or "gov't" profile. Barrel profile for which the portion of the barrel in front of handguards is thickened to 0.715 inches
  • HBAR: A barrel that in some portion is thicker than government-profile, usually underneath the handguards
  • M4: Government barrel profile with small portion reduced to 0.575 inches to mount M203 grenade launcher
  • M4 HBAR: M4 barrel with portion under handguard thickened for sustained automatic fire
  • Super Heavy: Special Colt bull target/match barrel
  • SFW: Special Forces Weapon profile, A2 profile with "fat" portion forward of the sight triangle

Barrel twist

Note: Metric measurements are rounded upwards to the nearest digit.

Muzzle device

  • Type 1 Duckbill: Original three-prong flash hider
  • Type 2 Duckbill: Also referred to as "three prong." A larger three-prong flash hider
  • A1 or A1 Birdcage: Also referred to as Birdcage flash hider
  • A2 or A2 Compensator: Birdcage flash hider with bottom slots closed off to act as muzzle compensator and to prevent dust from being blown into the shooters face while in the prone position
  • 3.5" Moderator or 4.5" Moderator: Either the 3.5-inch or 4.5-inch baffled moderators
  • Conical: A conical flash suppressor
  • ACR Compensator: Special anti-rise muzzle device developed specifically for the Colt ACR
  • Factory Compensator: Colt Factory muzzle brake compliant with the restrictions of the 1994 Federal Assault Weapons Ban

References

  1. Colt's Manufacturing Company. "M4 Carbine Law Enforcement Datasheet". Retrieved 26 November 2019.
  2. Colt's Manufacturing Company. "Colt M4 Carbine". Archived from the original on 2016-03-22. Retrieved 26 November 2019.

Bibliography

  • Bartocci, Christopher R. (2004). Black Rifle II: The M16 into the 21st Century. Cobourg, Canada: Collector Grade Publications. ISBN 0-88935-348-4.
  • Dockery, Kevin (1997). Special Warfare Special Weapons. Chicago, IL: Emperor's Press. ISBN 1-883476-00-3.
  • Gervasi, Tom (1984). Arsenal of Democracy III: America's War Machine, the Pursuit of Global Dominance. New York: Grove Press. ISBN 0-394-54102-2.
  • Long, Duncan (2001). The Complete AR-15/M16 Sourcebook. Boulder, CO: Paladin Press. ISBN 0-87364-687-8.
  • Stevens, R. Blake; Edward C. Ezell (2004) [1987]. The Black Rifle: M16 Retrospective. Modern U.S. Military Small Arms (Second Enhanced ed.). Cobourg, Canada: Collector Grade Publications. ISBN 0-88935-115-5.

See also

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