M4

Description

The Colt M4 is a carbine (shortened) version of the standard issue M16 assault rifle.

The original attempt to create a carbine version of the AR-15/M16 resulted in the the CAR-15, which was commonly known as the Colt Commando. This was somewhat rushed into service during the Vietnam war, predominantly for use with special forces/elite troops. Sadly the CAR-15 suffered from a slew of design issues, namely the shortened barrels effect on the weapons range and accuracy, along with the unfortunate side effect of a much enlarged muzzle flash (not ideal for convert operations). As a result a much lengthened flash suppressor was added and the weapon was now seen as a short range engagement SMG.

During the early to mid 1980’s Colt attempted create a new carbine (XM4), based off of their latest M6A2 rifle. Again their were numerous issues with the shortened barrel effecting the weapons ballistics and after a number of changes, in 1985 the barrel length was finalized at 14.5 inches. This new length allowed the fitting of an M203 under-barrel grenade launcher or a bayonet and also significantly reduced the muzzle blast (allowing for a smaller flash suppressor).

In 1991 this model was officially renamed the M4 and it was summitted for trials with the Navy Seals in 1993, who succefully tested it during combat operations in Somalia. In 1994 the M4 went into general service with all branches of the US military. As well as many Special Operations forces around the globe.

in 2009 the US military took over the design of the M4, allowing for them to have more freedom in implementing upgrades and indeed allowing them to outsource the supply of new weapons and spares to other manufacturers.