Depends on how you want to define "USGI"?
That used to be real easy, NSN 1005-01-029-3866 was a Model 653, NSN 1005-01-376-7245 was a Model 727, etc. Based on that NSN you knew exactly what configuration it should be in, and exactly what it should look like.
Now, NSN 1005-01-382-0953 may start off as an “Stock or Basic” M4A1, but then you add the SOPMOD Components, Unit Level Purchases, and/or Unit Level Modifications, and then you may find that what started off as NSN 1005-01-382-0953 no longer has a common configuration or appearance. Technically the result would still be “USGI”, because everything came from, or through, Military Channels.
IMHO, the term “USGI” as it was defined about 15-20 years ago, and as it would be defined today, may not mean the same thing.
If the Soldier pictured above bought that Upper on his own from a Civilian Source, or built it on his own using Civilian Components, then there is no question that it would not be “USGI”.
However if that Upper was purchased by his Unit, or built by his Unit, and then issued to him, then IMHO “Technically” it would be “USGI”.
Given that there are a number of these “M4s” with 16” Barrels pictured in the hands of these troops with the 25th ID, then I would guess the Uppers with 16” Barrels may have been a “Unit Level” purchase or build. Per my earlier post in that Topic, I suspect that these are issued to their “Shooters” as part of a “SDM or DMR Program”.
I guess this in part could come down to, do you call it a Tomato or Tamoto, Potato or Patoto!
I am trying to make some contacts with 25th ID to see if these are Unit Issue Carbines. I have a hard time believing that individual troops are going as far as swapping out complete uppers in the field, so I would bet that these are some type of “Unit Level Issue”.
If anyone does have any 25th ID connections, and can get the scoop on these, then please let us know.
Thanks,
“Capt Richardson”