This is one of those “better buy it sooner than later” purchases considering the political landscape, although any new bans don’t seem very likely at present. I’m in the camp that likes the consistency of the laser-etched markings on these, but I know some still prefer the older rollmarks. Receiver is marked “AR-15A4” but (IIRC) some early examples were marked “CARBINE” (?). Serial number on this particular rifle is CAR026xxx. No “F” marking on the FSB, as I believe Colt has discontinued that marking - on rifles at least.
I recall some discussion on the pistol grips on these newer production guns, but I don’t remember what that was all about - possibly the contour of the grip?
Nice. I can’t believe I no longer own a 20" rifle. My Dissipator style build fills the iron sight radius role, but I used to be all about the 20 incher.
Congrats! These are one of my favorite rifles that Colt makes. I have one of the “light L” roll mark ones from a few years ago. I was pissed at first about that but have come to appreciate it as a neat oddity.
I fit that “over-50” comment and you may be correct! They just feel right. I have an A1 and A2 clone (although I never was issued an A2). When you look at how much an M4A1 with SOCOM-profile barrel and do-dads on it weighs that A1 is surprisingly light and “handy”. Still prefer carbine > rifle length but not by much.
I meant more along the lines of optics, rails, M16A4 clone, lights, slings etc… I’m a huge 20" fan, and I still patrol my property with a 20" gun much of the time.
I recently grabbed a EPC and that 20" A4 is next on the list. I think I have about 10 Colts with 20" barrels from SP1s, to A2 Govt. Profiles, to Hbars but don’t have an A4 yet. When I get it, it will stay plain jane except for the carry handle will get swapped out for some kind of LPVO.
On a semi-related note, this is a sales sheet from Colt’s International office. It lists both Colt’s M16A4 variants (one with burst mode, the other with full auto capability) as having 20-inch heavy barrels. Wasn’t aware that any A4 had an HBAR configuration, only the standard Government profile barrel. Or is this just some misleading wording?
Damn, I wish you hadn’t posted that pic. I’ve been considering getting an A4 for the past couple of years. I planned on swapping out the stock for a carbine extension tube, buffer, and stock since the A1 and A2 stocks are too long for me. Also would add a Vortex Viper PST Gen-2, 2-10x32 scope with a BOBRO QD mount. What’s holding me back is by the time I was done, I’d have a couple of grand+ tied up in it and would be better off buying more ammo and a couple of classes.
Just a thought, would an A-5 buffer system be worth investing in for an A4? Wait, stop, don’t answer that. I don’t need any more temptation!
