Posted by Tom on May 27, 1998 at 11:15:41:
In Reply to: Close....but a few minor points added.... posted by Tom on May 27, 1998 at 10:23:29:
: : It is the short barreled collapsable stock variation of the M-16 series rifle. In some circles it is known as a XM-177E2.
: Well, not really. The M4 is a PIP (Product Improvement Program) of the basic M16A2, which was a PIP version of the original M16/M16A1.
: The XM-177E2 was a PIP of the M16/M16A1, not of the M16A2, which the M4 is.
: >The real difference is the flash supressor, the M4 has the small M-16 type while the XM-177E2 has a 4 inch one.
: There are other, more significant differences between the XM-series and the M4. The XM-xx was 1/12" twist with a "sound moderator" flash suppressor. The "flash Supressor" actually worked to dampen the sound of the blast from the shorter barreled rifle. The sights were fixed with attachments for a limited number of options via the carrying handle.
: The M4 series is greatly improved as a carbine weapon. The sights can be had in a number of variations, (A1, A2, Flattop, Reflex, etc...) and also with the removable carrying handle of the M4A2 model. With the Rail Interface System (RIF) many more options can be mounted on the handguards, which are a improved design with a double heat sheild. The barrel is now 1/7" twist for the M855/Mxxx series of projectiles. The "sound moderator" of the XM series was not carried over to the M4 series and a standard A2 flashider is used. A light 4 position synthetic stock is used in place of the original coated aluminum stock. And last, but not least, the M4 can be had in burst (shot) or Full-auto. Colt will sell the M4 configured the way the customer wants it, so if you want a 14.5" barrel flat-top, full-auto M4, then thats what they will sell you (you being a military or LEO customer)...:-(
: As far as a civilian version goes, a barrel with a permanent (welded) flash suppressor can not be less than 16 inches. A short barreled M-4 has either a 10.5 or 11.5 inch barrel )plus the 2 inch flash) and must be registered as a pistol or submachine gun.
: M4's as designated by the US Military are 14.5" barrel weapons, not 10.5 (which the military never officially adopted) or 11.5" which was adopted as the "commando" model.
: Because of it's compact size and firepower, many special forces units have taken to the M4. I imagine that because the border patrol works from the most part out of vehicles and possibly faces desperate dangerous armed individuals the M4 would be a good choice. Many other law enforcement agencies, especially SWAT teams use the M4 as well. If you are looking for info on the M4 check out the XM-177E2 and visualize a small flash supressor in the place of the 4 inch one.