AR Sponsor
Posted: 3/18/2010 2:29:45 PM EDT
| I have searched but can't find much info. What is the difference between a m15 m4 and a1-a4? I'm a clueless new dood to this and appreciate all of your help! |
|
ArmaLite doesn't follow the "standard" for model designations. They haven't built a A1 for a long time. The A2 is carry handle, the A4 is rhe flat-top upper. Here's a link to a chart that explains all the current ArmaLite models. This might help you. http://www.armalite.com/images/Library/armalite%20key%20characteristics/M-15%20Key%20Characteristics.pdf |
|
The M4 term has now been used lightly lately, in the civy world. I've gone to gun shows here in Texas where the tags on guns say M4, but theirs nothing M4 about the barrel. I ask the dealer and he says that its an M4 because of the upper receiver being a flat top.
Usually M4 rifles refer to 16" or 14.5" barrel with a M203 notch on the front of the gas block and the M4 feed ramps (but not always) on the barrel extension and upper receiver. Theirs also the barrel dimensions under the hand guard, just behind the gas block. I just recall that their is heavy profile and govt profile, govt being the thinned out one. In the civy world, A1 is the first upper receiver released with a rear sight that needed a tool or bullet to adjust windage. A2 replaced it providing a knob to adjust the rear sight for windage and elevation. A3/A4 are flat top receivers, I look at them as A3 being flat top and the A4 being flat top with removable handle / iron sights. In the military, each rifle has their own reason for being the next release. SP1 rifles, M16, M16A1, M16A2, M16A3 (I think only Marines), M16A4 (Marine), M16A5 (possible next incarnation for Marines). Then theirs the M4 and M4A1, each having their own modifications different from the M16 side. Now theirs talk of modifying the M4A1and it my become the M4A2 if adopted by the Army and Marines. And to make matters a little complicated, theirs the M4 Commando now, I'm still trying to learn about the modifications besides the 11.5" barrel. I don't see how it can be a M4 with no M203 notch, but someone will probably fill me in here. |
AR Sponsor