Video—I Have This Old Gun: U.S. M16A2 Rifle

by
posted on August 10, 2018
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
After the Vietnam War, the M16A2 rifle was developed by Colt Industries in response to a number of improvements to the M16A1 suggested by the U.S. Marine Corps. In November 1983, the USMC adopted this new version chambered for the 5.56x45 mm NATO round. The rifle differed significantly from its predecessor with changes such as improved rear sights, a brass deflector, a heavier barrel and 1:9" rifling. Additionally, the M16A2 replaced the M16A1’s “AUTO” selector setting with a “BURST” setting, delivering three rounds with every trigger pull. The M16A2 has the longest service life of any American military shoulder arm and continues to serve to this day. Due to federal firearms laws, the M16A2 is not available to civilians. However, civilians can own a similar version by mounting an M16A2 upper on a lower receiver. For more on the U.S. M16A2 Rifle, watch this "I Have This Old Gun" segment from a recent episode of American Rifleman TV.











Additional Reading:
U.S. M16: A Half-Century of America’s Combat Rifle

Latest

Clockwork Basilisk Book Review F
Clockwork Basilisk Book Review F

Book Review: Clockwork Basilisk: The Early Revolvers Of Elisha Collier & Artemas Wheeler

The result of a decade of research, Clockwork Basilisk is a comprehensive, two-volume history of the rare revolvers that preceded the development of the well-known Colt guns of the 1830s.

Preview: 1791 Gunleather Cobra Gun Belt 01

Employing the same rugged and rigid 0.25"-thick American steerhide as 1791 Gunleather’s original Gun Belt 01, the new Cobra Gun Belt 01 offers enhanced ease of use by taking advantage of a high-strength Cobra quick-latch/release buckle.

NRA CEO Hamlin and President Bachenberg Hold First Virtual Townhall

In the interests of transparency, NRA CEO and EVP Doug Hamlin and NRA President Bill Bachenberg held a live Townhall event, where both answered direct questions from NRA members.

Benelli Adds New 28-Gauge Models to Super Black Eagle 3 Line

Benelli initially introduced the 28-ga. chambering to its Super Black Eagle 3 line in 2022, but this year, the company added three new models tailored specifically to hunters.

Preview: BKL Technologies Model 260

BKL Technologies is a well-regarded manufacturer of scope mounts and rings for airguns and rimfire rifles in particular, offering several different lines of products depending on the optic and mounting interface being used.

Gun Of The Week: Ruger 10/22 Carbon Fiber

We're on the range with one of the most iconic rimfires in America–only this time, it's got a high-tech twist. This is the Ruger 10/22 Carbon Fiber, a lightweight and modernized take on a classic plinker.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.