AR-15 variants

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This article will help summarize the many variations on the AR-15 family of weapons. Weapons patterned off of the original ArmaLite AR-15 have been produced by numerous manufactures and have been used by nations around the world, some of which created their own variations. The tables here are split in a variety of helpful categories, and should help to provide a basic overview of the litany 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.

Contents

Numbered Colt military models

Colt has been the most visible producer of weapons of the AR-15 pattern, and the military designation M16 is 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 “RO.” For the purposes of this table, the RO 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 model no. Name Stock Fire control Rear sight Forward assist Case deflector Barrel length Barrel profile Barrel twist Hand guards Bayonet Lug Muzzle device
601 AR-15 A1 S-1-F A1 No No 20 in. A1 1:14 Triangular Yes Type 1 Duckbill/Type 2 Duckbill
602 AR-15 A1 S-1-F A1 No No 20 in. A1 1:12 Triangular Yes Type 2 Duckbill
603 XM16E1 A1 S-1-F A1 Yes No 20 in. A1 1:12 Triangular Yes Type 2 Duckbill
603 M16A1 A1 S-1-F A1 Yes No 20 in. A1 1:12 Triangular Yes A1
604 M16 (No XM16 designation) A1 S-1-F A1 No No 20 in. A1 1:12 Triangular Yes A1
605 CAR-15 Carbine A1 S-1-F A1 No No 15 in. A1 1:12 Triangular No Type 2 Duckbill
605A CAR-15 Carbine A1 S-1-F A1 Yes No 15 in. A1 1:12 Triangular No Type 2 Duckbill
605B CAR-15 Carbine A1 S-F-1-3 A1 No No 15 in. A1 1:12 Triangular No Type 2 Duckbill
606 CAR-15 Heavy Assault Rifle M1 A1 S-1-F A1 No No 20 in. HBAR 1:12 Triangular Yes Type 2 Duckbill
606A CAR-15 Heavy Assault Rifle M1 A1 S-1-F A1 Yes No 20 in. HBAR 1:12 Triangular Yes Type 2 Duckbill
606B CAR-15 Heavy Assault Rifle M1 A1 S-F-1-3 A1 Yes No 20 in. HBAR 1:12 Triangular Yes Type 2 Duckbill
607 CAR-15 SMG 1st Generation S-1-F A1 No No 10 in. A1 1:12 Short Triangular No Type 1 and 2 Duckbill and 3.5" Moderator
607A CAR-15 SMG 1st Generation S-1-F A1 Yes No 10 in. A1 1:12 Short Triangular No Type 1 and 2 Duckbill and 3.5" Moderator
607B CAR-15 SMG 1st Generation S-F-1-3 A1 No No 10 in. A1 1:12 Short Triangular No Type 1 and 2 Duckbill and 3.5" Moderator
608 CAR-15 Survival Rifle Tubular S-1-F A1 No No 10 in. A1 1:12 Short Round No Conical or 3.5" Moderator
609 XM177E1 2nd Generation S-1-F A1 Yes No 10 in. A1 1:12 Short Ribbed No 3.5" or 4.5" Moderator
610 XM177 or GAU-5/A 2nd Generation S-1-F A1 No No 10 in. A1 1:12 Short Ribbed No 3.5" or 4.5" Moderator
610B CAR-15 SMG 2nd Generation S-F-1-3 A1 No No 10 in. A1 1:12 Short Ribbed No 3.5" or 4.5" Moderator
611 M16 HBAR A1 S-1-F A1 Yes No 20 in. HBAR 1:12 Triangular Yes A1
611P M16 HBAR (License produced by Elisco Tools) A1 S-1-F A1 Yes No 20 in. HBAR 1:12 Triangular Yes A1
613 M16 A1 S-1-F A1 Yes No 20 in. A1 1:12 Triangular Yes A1
613P M16 (License produced by Elisco Tools) A1 S-1-F A1 Yes No 20 in. A1 1:12 Triangular Yes A1
614 M16 A1 S-1-F A1 No No 20 in. A1 1:12 Triangular Yes A1
614S M16 (License produced by Chartered Arms Singapore) A1 S-1-F A1 No No 20 in. A1 1:12 Triangular Yes A1
615 M16 HBAR A1 S-1-F A1 No No 20 in. HBAR 1:12 Triangular Yes A1
616 M16 HBAR A1 S-1-F A1 No No 20 in. HBAR 1:12 Round Yes A1
619 XM177E1 2nd Generation S-1-F A1 Yes No 10 in. A1 1:12 Short Ribbed No 3.5" or 4.5" Moderator
620 CAR-15 2nd Generation S-1-F A1 No No 10 in. A1 1:12 Short Ribbed No 3.5" or 4.5" Moderator
621 M16A1 HBAR A1 S-1-F A1 Yes No 20 in. HBAR 1:12 Triangular Yes A1
629 XM177E2 2nd Generation S-1-F A1 Yes No 11.5 in. A1 1:12 Short Ribbed No 4.5" Moderator
630 GAU-5A/A 2nd Generation S-1-F A1 No No 11.5 in. A1 1:12 Short Ribbed No 4.5" Moderator
633 Colt SMG 2nd Generation S-1-F A1 No Yes 7 in. A1 1:10 Short Round No None
634 Colt SMG 2nd Generation Conflict between S-1 and S-1-F A1 No Yes 10 in. A1 1:10 Short Ribbed No A2
635 Colt SMG 2nd, 3rd, or 4th Generation S-1-F A1 No Yes 10 in. A1 1:10 Short Ribbed No A2
635S Colt SMG 2nd Generation S-1-F A1 No Yes 10 in. A1 w/ integral silencer 1:10 Short Ribbed No A2
639 XM177E2 2nd Generation S-1-F A1 Yes No 11.5 in. A1 1:12 Short Ribbed No 4.5" Moderator or A1
639 Colt SMG 2nd S-1-3 A1 No Yes 10 in. A1 w/ integral silencer 1:10 Short Ribbed No A2
640 XM177E2 2nd Generation S-1-F A1 No No 11.5 in. A1 1:12 Short Ribbed No 4.5" Moderator or A1
645 M16A1E1/M16A2 A2 S-1-3 A2 Yes Yes 20 in. A2 1:7 Ribbed Yes A2
645E M16A2E1 Flattop (w/ flip down front sight) S-1-3 A2 Yes Yes 20 in. A2 1:7 Ribbed Yes A2
646 M16A2E3/M16A3 A2 S-1-F A2 Yes Yes 20 in. A2 1:7 Ribbed Yes A2
649 GAU-5A/A 2nd Generation S-1-F A1 No No 11.5 in. A1 1:12 Short Ribbed No 4.5" Moderator
650 M16A1 carbine A1 S-1-F A1 Yes No 14.5 in. A1 1:12 Short Ribbed Yes A1
651 M16A1 carbine A1 S-1-F A1 Yes No 14.5 in. A1 1:12 Short Ribbed Yes A1
652 M16A1 carbine A1 S-1-F A1 No No 14.5 in. A1 1:12 Short Ribbed Yes A1
653 M16A1 carbine 2nd Generation S-1-F A1 Yes No 14.5 in. A1 1:12 Short Ribbed Yes A1
653P M16A1 carbine (License produced by Elisco Tools) 2nd Generation S-1-F A1 Yes No 14.5 in. A1 1:12 Short Ribbed Yes A1
654 M16A1 carbine 2nd Generation S-1-F A1 No No 14.5 in. A1 1:12 Short Ribbed Yes A1
655 M16A1 Special High Profile A1 S-1-F A1 (used with special raised carry handle scope mount) Yes No 20 in. HBAR 1:12 Triangular Yes A1
656 M16A1 Special Low Profile A1 S-1-F Flattop Yes No 20 in. HBAR 1:12 Triangular Yes A1
701 M16A2 A2 S-1-F A2 Yes Yes 20 in. A2 1:7 Ribbed Yes A2
702 M16A2 A2 S-1-3 A2 Yes Yes 20 in. A2 1:7 Ribbed Yes A2
703 M16A2 A2 S-1-F A2 Yes Yes 20 in. A1 1:7 Ribbed Yes A2
705 M16A2 A2 S-1-3 A2 Yes Yes 20 in. A2 1:7 Ribbed Yes A2
707 M16A2 A2 S-1-3 A2 Yes Yes 20 in. A1 1:7 Ribbed Yes A2
711 M16A2 A2 S-1-F A1 Yes No and Yes 20 in. A1 1:7 Ribbed Yes A2
713 M16A2 A2 S-1-3 A2 Yes Yes 20 in. A2 1:7 Ribbed Yes A2
715 M16A2 (License produced by Diemaco/Colt Canada as the C7) A2 S-1-F A1 Yes Yes 20 in. A2 1:7 Ribbed Yes A2
719 M16A2 A2 S-1-3 A2 Yes Yes 20 in. A1 1:7 Ribbed Yes A2
720 XM4 Carbine 3rd Generation S-1-3 A2 Yes Yes 14.5 in. M4 1:7 Short Ribbed Yes A2
723 M16A2 carbine 3rd Generation S-1-F A1 Yes Yes 14.5 in. A1 1:7 Short Ribbed Yes A1
725 M16A2 carbine (License produced by Diemaco/Colt Canada as the C8) 3rd Generation S-1-F A1 Yes Yes 14.5 in. A1 1:7 Short Ribbed Yes A2
725A M16A2 carbine 3rd Generation S-1-F A1 Yes Yes 14.5 in. A1 1:7 Short Ribbed Yes A2
725B M16A2 carbine 3rd Generation S-1-F A1 Yes Yes 14.5 in. A2 1:7 Short Ribbed Yes A2
726 M16A2 carbine 3rd Generation S-1-F A1 Yes Yes 14.5 in. A1 1:7 Short Ribbed Yes A1
727 M16A2 carbine 3rd Generation S-1-F A2 Yes Yes 14.5 in. M4 1:7 Short Ribbed Yes A2
728 M16A2 carbine 3rd Generation S-1-F A2 Yes Yes 14.5 in. M4 1:7 Short Ribbed Yes A2
733 M16A2 Commando/M4 Commando 3rd or 4th Generation S-1-F A1 or A2 Yes Yes or No 11.5 in. A1 or A2 1:7 Short Ribbed No A1 or A2
733A M16A2 Commando/M4 Commando 3rd or 4th Generation S-1-3 A1 or A2 Yes Yes or No 11.5 in. A1 or A2 1:7 Short Ribbed No A1 or A2
734 M16A2 Commando 3rd Generation S-1-F A1 or A2 Yes Yes or No 11.5 in. A1 or A2 1:7 Short Ribbed No A1 or A2
734A M16A2 Commando 3rd Generation S-1-3 A1 or A2 Yes Yes or No 11.5 in. A1 or A2 1:7 Short Ribbed No A1 or A2
735 M16A2 Commando/M4 Commando 3rd or 4th Generation S-1-3 A1 or A2 Yes Yes or No 11.5 in. A1 or A2 1:7 Short Ribbed No A1 or A2
737 M16A2 A2 S-1-3 A2 Yes Yes 20 in. HBAR 1:7 Ribbed Yes A2
738 M4 Commando Enhanced 4th Generation S-1-3-F A2 Yes Yes 11.5 in. A2 1:7 Short Ribbed No A1 or A2
741 M16A2 A2 S-1-F A2 Yes Yes 20 in. HBAR 1:7 Ribbed Yes A2
742 M16A2 (Standard w/ bipod) A2 S-1-F A2 Yes Yes 20 in. HBAR 1:7 Ribbed Yes A2
745 M16A2 (Standard w/ bipod) A2 S-1-3 A2 Yes Yes 20 in. HBAR 1:7 Ribbed Yes A2
746 M16A2 (Standard w/ bipod) A2 S-1-3 A2 Yes Yes 20 in. HBAR 1:7 Ribbed Yes A2
750 LMG (Colt/Diemaco project) A2 S-F A2 Yes Yes 20 in. HBAR 1:7 Square LMG Yes A2
777 M4 Carbine 4th Generation S-1-3 A2 Yes Yes 14.5 in. M4 1:7 M4 Yes A2
778 M4 Carbine Enhanced 4th Generation S-1-3-F A2 Yes Yes 14.5 in. M4 1:7 M4 Yes A2
779 M4 Carbine 4th Generation S-1-F A2 Yes Yes 14.5 in. M4 1:7 M4 Yes A2
901 M16A3 A2 S-1-F Flattop Yes Yes 20 in. A2 1:7 Ribbed Yes A2
905 M16A3 A2 S-1-3 Flattop Yes Yes 20 in. A2 1:7 Ribbed Yes A2
920 M4 Carbine 3rd and 4th Generation S-1-3 Flattop Yes Yes 14.5 in. M4 1:7 M4 Yes A2
921 M4E1/A1 Carbine 4th Generation S-1-F Flattop Yes Yes 14.5 in. M4 1:7 M4 Yes A2
921HB M4A1 Carbine 4th Generation S-1-F Flattop Yes Yes 14.5 in. M4 HBAR 1:7 M4 Yes A2
925 M4E2 Carbine 3rd or 4th Generation S-1-3 Flattop Yes Yes 14.5 in. M4 1:7 M4 Yes A2
927 M4 Carbine 4th Generation S-1-F Flattop Yes Yes 14.5 in. M4 1:7 M4 Yes A2
933 M4 Commando 4th Generation S-1-F Flattop Yes Yes 11.5 in. A1 or A2 1:7 Short Ribbed No A2
935 M4 Commando 4th Generation S-1-3 Flattop Yes Yes 11.5 in. A1 or A2 1:7 Short Ribbed No A2
938 M4 Commando Enhanced 4th Generation S-1-3-F Flattop Yes Yes 11.5 in. A2 1:7 M4 No A2
977 M4 Carbine 4th Generation S-1-3 Flattop Yes Yes 14.5 in. M4 1:7 M4 Yes A2
941 M16A3 A2 S-1-F Flattop Yes Yes 20 in. HBAR 1:7 Ribbed Yes A2
942 M16A3 (Standard w/ bipod) A2 S-1-F Flattop Yes Yes 20 in. HBAR 1:7 Ribbed Yes A2
945 M16A2E4/M16A4 A2 S-1-3 Flattop Yes Yes 20 in. A2 1:7 Ribbed Yes A2
950 LMG (Colt/Diemaco project) A2 S-F Flattop Yes Yes 20 in. HBAR 1:7 Square LMG Yes A2
978 M4 Carbine Enhanced 4th Generation S-1-3-F Flattop Yes Yes 14.5 in. M4 1:7 M4 Yes A2
979 M4 Carbine 4th Generation S-1-F Flattop Yes Yes 14.5 in. M4 1:7 M4 Yes A2

Numbered Colt civilian models

Colt’s civilian line 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” prefix. Currently, Colt Defense has no line targeted specifically at the private civilian market.

R series models

Colt model no. Name Stock Fire control Rear sight Forward assist Case deflector Barrel length Barrel profile Barrel twist Hand guards Bayonet Lug Muzzle device
R6000 AR-15 Sporter (SP1) A1 S-1 A1 No No 20 in. A1 1:12 Triangular Yes Type 2 Duckbill or A1
R6001 AR-15 Sporter Carbine (SP1 Carbine) 3rd Generation S-1 A1 No No 16 in. A1 1:12 Short Ribbed Yes A1
R6002 AR-15 Sporter (SP1; Bundled with 3x scope) A1 S-1 A1 No No 20 in. A1 1:12 Triangular Yes A1
R6003 AR-15 Sporter Carbine (SP1 Carbine; Bundled with 3x scope) 3rd Generation S-1 A1 No No 16 in. A1 1:12 Short Ribbed Yes A1
R6004 AR-15 Sporter (SP1; Bundled with Colt Reflex Sighting System) A1 S-1 A1 No No 20 in. A1 1:12 Triangular Yes A1
R6420 AR-15A2 Sporter II Carbine 3rd Generation S-1 A2 Yes No 16 in. A1 1:7 Short Ribbed Yes A2
R6430 Sporter Lightweight (9mm) 3rd Generation S-1 A2 No Yes 16 in. A1 1:10 Short Ribbed Yes A2
R6450 AR-15 9mm Carbine 3rd Generation S-1 A2 No No 16 in. A1 1:10 Short Ribbed Yes A2
R6500 AR-15A2 Sporter II A2 S-1 A2 Yes No 20 in. A1 1:7 Short Ribbed Yes A2
R6510 AR-15A2 Sporter II (Special export model in .222 Remington) A2 S-1 A2 Yes No 20 in. A1 1:7 Short Ribbed Yes A2
R6520 AR-15A2 Government Carbine 3rd Generation S-1 A2 Yes Yes 16 in. A1 1:7 Short Ribbed Yes A2
R6521 AR-15A2 Government Carbine (Special export model with receiver block and large pin upper receiver) 3rd Generation S-1 A2 Yes Yes 16 in. A1 1:7 Short Ribbed Yes A2
R6530 Sporter Lightweight 3rd Generation S-1 A2 Yes Yes 16 in. A1 1:7 Short Ribbed No A2
R6550 AR-15A2 Government A2 S-1 A2 Yes No 20 in. A2 1:7 Ribbed Yes A2
R6550CC AR-15A2 Government (w/ factory camouflage finish) A2 S-1 A2 Yes No 20 in. A2 1:7 Ribbed Yes A2
R6550K AR-15A2 Government (w/ factory installed .22 Long Rifle conversion kit) A2 S-1 A2 Yes No 20 in. A2 1:7 Ribbed Yes A2
R6551 Sporter Target A2 S-1 A2 Yes No 20 in. A2 1:7 Ribbed Yes A2
R6600 AR-15A2 HBAR A2 S-1 A2 Yes No 20 in. HBAR 1:7 Ribbed Yes A2
R6600DH AR-15A2 Delta HBAR (bundled w/ Tasco 3-9x scope and cheekpiece) A2 S-1 A2 Yes No 20 in. HBAR 1:7 Ribbed Yes A2
R6600K AR-15A2 HBAR (w/ factory installed .22 Long Rifle conversion kit) A2 S-1 A2 Yes No 20 in. HBAR 1:7 Ribbed Yes A2
R6601 Sporter Match HBAR A2 S-1 A2 Yes No 20 in. HBAR 1:7 Ribbed No A2
R6601DH Sporter Match Delta HBAR (bundled w/ Tasco 3-9x scope and cheekpiece) A2 S-1 A2 Yes No 20 in. HBAR 1:7 Ribbed No A2
R6700 Sporter Competition HBAR A2 S-1 Flattop Yes No 20 in. HBAR 1:9 Ribbed No A2
R6700CH Sporter Competition HBAR (bundled w/ Tasco 3-9x scope and cheekpiece) A2 S-1 Flattop Yes No 20 in. HBAR 1:9 Ribbed No A2
R6700S Sporter Competition HBAR (bundled w/ Tasco 3-9x scope) A2 S-1 Flattop Yes No 20 in. HBAR 1:9 Ribbed No A2
R6701 Sporter Competition HBAR (Special limited edition production run) A2 S-1 Flattop Yes Yes 20 in. HBAR 1:9 Ribbed No A2
R6721 AR-15A3 Tactical Carbine 4rd Generation S-1 A2 Yes Yes 16 in. HBAR 1:9 Short Ribbed Yes A2
R6724 Sporter Competition HBAR A2 S-1 Flattop Yes No 24 in. HBAR 1:9 Ribbed No A2
R6731 AR-15A3 Competition HBAR A2 S-1 A2 Yes Yes 16 in. HBAR 1:9 Short Ribbed No A2
R6750 Sporter Competition HBAR (bundled w/ bipod) A2 S-1 A2 Yes Yes 20 in. Super-Heavy 1:7 Ribbed No A2
R6821 Sporter Carbine (7.62x39mm) 3rd Generation S-1 A2 Yes Yes 16 in. HBAR 1:12 Short Ribbed No A1
R6831 Sporter Lightweight (7.62x39mm) 3rd Generation S-1 A2 Yes Yes 16 in. A1 1:12 Short Ribbed No A1

AR series models

Colt model no. Name Stock Fire control Rear sight Forward assist Case deflector Barrel length Barrel profile Barrel twist Hand guards Bayonet Lug Muzzle device
AR6320 AR-15 Lightweight 3rd Generation S-1 A1 Yes Yes 20 in. A2 1:9 Short Ribbed No A2
AR6450 AR-15 9mm Carbine 4th Generation S-1 A2 Yes Yes 16 in. A2 1:10 Short Ribbed Yes A2
AR6520 AR-15A2 Government Carbine 4th Generation S-1 A2 Yes Yes 16 in. A2 1:7 Short Ribbed Yes A2
AR6520SP AR-15A2 Government Carbine 4th Generation S-1 A2 Yes Yes 10 in. A2 1:7 Short Ribbed Yes A2
AR6525 AR-15A2 Government Carbine 4th Generation S-1 A2 Yes Yes 16 in. A2 1:9 Short Ribbed Yes A2
AR6721 AR-15A3 Tactical Carbine 4th Generation S-1 Flattop Yes Yes 16 in. HBAR 1:9 Short Ribbed Yes A2
AR6721SP AR-15A3 Tactical Carbine 4th Generation S-1 Flattop Yes Yes 10 in. HBAR 1:9 Short Ribbed Yes A2

MT and CR series models

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

LE series models

Colt model no. Name Stock Fire control Rear sight Forward assist Case deflector Barrel length Barrel profile Barrel twist Hand guards Bayonet Lug Muzzle device
LE1020 Gas Piston Carbine 4th Generation S-1 Flattop Yes Yes 16 in. M4 1:7 Rail System Yes A2
LE1033 Gas Piston Commando 4th Generation S-1 Flattop Yes Yes 11.5 in. A2 1:7 Rail System Yes A2
LE6920 Law Enforcement Carbine (Also produced under license by Colt Canada) 4th Generation S-1 Flattop Yes Yes 16 in. M4 1:7 M4 Yes A2
LE6920HB Law Enforcement Carbine 4th Generation S-1 Flattop Yes Yes 16 in. M4 HBAR 1:7 M4 Yes A2
LE6921 M4LE Carbine 4th Generation S-1 Flattop Yes Yes 14.5 in. M4 1:7 M4 Yes A2
LE6921CQB M4LE Carbine 4th Generation S-1 Flattop Yes Yes 10.5 in. M4 HBAR 1:7 M4 Yes A2
LE6921HB M4LE Carbine 4th Generation S-1 Flattop Yes Yes 14.5 in. M4 HBAR 1:7 M4 Yes A2
LE6921SP M4LE Carbine 4th Generation S-1 Flattop Yes Yes 10 in. M4 HBAR 1:7 M4 Yes A2
LE6933 M4LE Commando 4th Generation S-1 Flattop Yes Yes 11.5 in. A2 1:7 Short Ribbed Yes A2
LE6941 Law Enforcement Carbine (Direct Impingement version of LE1020) 4th Generation S-1 Flattop Yes Yes 16 in. M4 1:7 Rail System Yes A2

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 Fire control Rear sight Forward assist Case deflector Barrel length Barrel profile Barrel twist Hand guards Bayonet Lug Muzzle device
M16 PIP/M16A1E1 A2 S-1-F or S-1-3 A2 Yes Yes 20 in. A2 1:7 Ribbed Yes A1 or A2
M16 ACR/M16A2E2 Retracable ACR S-1-3 Flattop Yes Yes 20 in. A2 1:7 ACR Type No ACR compensator
XM231 FPW Wire S-F None No No 15.6 in. A1 1:12 Short Round No A1
M231 None S-F None No No 15.6 in. A1 1:12 Short Round No A1

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 Fire control Rear sight Forward assist Case deflector Barrel length Barrel profile Barrel twist Hand guards Bayonet Lug Muzzle device
715 C7 A2 S-1-F A1 Yes Yes 20 in. A2 1:7 Ribbed Yes A2
N/A C7FT A2 S-1-F Weaver Yes Yes 20 in. A2 1:7 Ribbed Yes A2
N/A C7A2 Canadian 3rd Generation S-1-F Weaver Yes Yes 20 in. A2 1:7 Ribbed Yes A2
750 Colt/Diemaco LMG/LSW A2 S-F A2 Yes Yes 20 in. HBAR 1:7 Square LMG No A2
N/A LSW A2 S-F Weaver Yes Yes 20 in. HBAR 1:7 Square LMG No A2
725 C8 3rd Generation S-1-F A1 Yes Yes 14.5 in. A1 1:7 Short Ribbed Yes A2
N/A C8FT Canadian 3rd Generation S-1-F Weaver Yes Yes 14.5 in. A1 1:7 Short Ribbed Yes A2
N/A C8FTHB Canadian 3rd Generation S-1-F Weaver Yes Yes 14.5 in. A2 1:7 Short Ribbed Yes A2
N/A SFW Canadian 3rd Generation S-1-F Weaver Yes Yes 14.5 in. SFW 1:7 Short Ribbed Yes A2
N/A C8CQB Canadian 3rd Generation S-1-F Weaver Yes Yes 10" in. A2 1:7 Short Ribbed Yes A2
N/A PDW Canadian 3rd Generation S-1-F Weaver Yes Yes 5.7" in. A2 1:7 N/A No A2

Colt Canada model changes and comments

When Diemaco became Colt Canada the marketing names for a number of products were changed, though some remained the same. Those that changed are listed below, with comments on what major changes Colt Canada made the models.

Diemaco model Colt Canada model Comments
C7FT C7A1 Colt Canada offers this rifle with either a Weaver or MIL-STD-1913 rail type sight base
LSW LSW Colt Canada offers this rifle with either a Weaver or MIL-STD-1913 rail type sight base
C8FT C8A1 Colt Canada offers this rifle with either a Weaver or MIL-STD-1913 rail type sight base
C8FTHB C8A2 Colt Canada offers this rifle with either a Weaver or MIL-STD-1913 rail type sight base
SFW SFW Colt Canada offers this rifle with either a Weaver or MIL-STD-1913 rail type sight base
C8CQB CQB Colt Canada offers this rifle with either a Weaver or MIL-STD-1913 rail type sight base

Non-factory military models

Name Base weapon Stock Fire control Rear sight Forward assist Case deflector Barrel length Barrel profile Barrel twist Hand guards Bayonet Lug Muzzle device
GUU-5/P GAU-5/A or GAU-5A/A 2nd or 4th Generation S-1-F A1 Yes No 14.5 in. A1 or M4 1:7 Short Ribbed Yes A1 or A2
GUU-5/P GAU-5/A or GAU-5A/A 2nd or 4th Generation S-1-F A2 or Flattop Yes Yes 14.5 in. M4 1:7 M4 Yes A2
Mekut'zar Model 653 3rd Generation or Israeli S-1-F A1 Yes No 14.5 in. M4 1:7 Short Ribbed Yes A2
Mekut'zrar Model 653 2nd Generation or Isaeli S-1-F A1 Yes No Variable; 9" average A1 1:12 Short Ribbed No Various

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

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

  • A1: Also referred to as the "lightweight" or "pencil" profile. Original barrel profile where barrel diameter is 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

  • 1:14: 1 right hand twist every 14 inches
  • 1:12: 1 right hand twist every 12 inches (305 mm)
  • 1:10: 1 right hand twist every 10 inches
  • 1:9: 1 right hand twist every 9 inches
  • 1:7: 1 right hand twist every 7 inches (177.8 mm)

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 System: Handguards are replaced with a Rail Integration System

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: Also referred to as the "Birdcage" flash hider
  • A2: 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

  • Bartocci, Christopher R. (2004). Black Rifle II: The M16 into the 21st Century. Cobourg, Canada: Collector Grade Publications Inc.. ISBN 0-88935-348-4.
  • Dockery, Kevin. Special Warfare Special Weapons. Chicago, IL: Emperor's Press, 1997. ISBN 1-883-47600-3.
  • Gervasi, Tom. Arsenal of Democracy III: America's War Machine, the Pursuit of Global Dominance. New York, NY: Grove Press, Inc, 1984. ISBN 0-394-54102-2.
  • Long, Duncan. The Complete AR-15/M16 Sourcebook. Boulder, CO: Paladin Press, 2001. ISBN 0-87364-687-8.
  • Stevens, R. Blake; Edward C. Ezell [1987] (2004). The Black Rifle: M16 Retrospective, Second Enhanced Edition, Modern U.S. Military Small Arms, Cobourg, Canada: Colector Grade Publications Inc.. ISBN 0-88935-115-5.

See also

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