Between an AR-15, M-4, and M-16?  I only ask because I've seen accessories mention that they're for M-4 (and, by default, not the other 2?)  or something similar.

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In a nutshell...

M16 and it’s different enhancements are the military rifle.

M4 and it’s different enhancements are the military carbine.

AR-15 has been Colt’s model name for their civilian semi auto.

M-16 is fully automatic. with a rifle gas system

M-4 are fully automatic with a carbine gas system

The name AR-15 is patented(sp) by COLT. Its the semi automatic version or civilian version.

kinda like chevy camaro.....colt ar-15....

all other manufacurers will have a similar name to ar-15 like..... Stags Stag-15....etc


*edit* I guess I pretty much said what ch139 said.

AR-15 is the original civilian name, whether full or semi-auto. It is usually associated with the semi-auto version due to full-auto being restricted by federal law.

M16 is the military designation. Originally full-auto, select-fire. Subsequent versions came in 3-round burst select-fire or full-auto. There were also carbine versions made.

M4 is the military designation for the carbine only version with only small changes from the M16 carbine. Many, including myself, think it was created so Colt could keep the sole patent for manufacturing it.