The M16A3, which was
introduced in 1994, is
basically an M16A2 with
full-automatic
capability and optional
M4A1-style Rail
Interface System (RIS).
The M16A3 and the M16A4
are identical in
appearance to the M16A2,
but both have the
modular upper receiver.
The M16A3 is capable of
fully automatic fire,
like the M16A1, while
the M16A4 uses the
M16A2's three-round
burst mechanism.
Additionally, several
types of optical sights
have been developed for
the modular upper.
M16A4 Rifle, NSN 1005-01-383-2872, LIN
R97175 (In Common
Usage).
The M16A4 is identical
in appearance to the M16A3, but can
fire single shots or
3-round bursts (no full
auto). The M16A4 Rifle
is a standard M16A2
Rifle with a flat top
upper receiver and
detachable carrying
handle. The flat top
upper receiver has an
integral rail that will
be utilized (when the
carrying handle is
removed) to mount
optical devices to the
weapon. The M16A4 Rifle
in combination with the
M5 Rail Adapter forms
the Modular Weapon
System (rifle version)
which provides soldiers
the flexibility to
configure their weapons
with those accessories
required to fulfill an
assigned mission. There
are no differences
between the internal
dimensions of the M16A2
Rifle and the M16A4
Rifle.
Laser Borelight System (LBS); used for field-zeroing
mechanical and optical sights
RFI (Rapid Fielding
Initiative) Accessories (Major End Items). Fielded routinely
to units through Force Modernization program, or through RFI bulk-issue
during prep for deployment.
1005-01-452-6771
M5 Rail Adapter System (allows installation of accessories,
such as a PEQ-2 or Surefire Tac-Light on front handguard)
RFI (Rapid Fielding
Initiative) Accessories (Non
Major End Items). Fielded routinely
to units through Force Modernization program, or through RFI bulk-issue
during prep for deployment.
NSN
Description
1005-01-541-1772
Rifle Bipod; Also called Forward Grip
Bipod
1005-01-449-6306; 1005-01-484-8000
Backup Iron Sight. Installed in
conjunction with ACOG or other optical sights; provides redundant means for aiming
if optical sights fail or become detached from the weapon.
1005-01-541-1771
Tactical Sling; Also called 3-Point
Sling
(TBP; LIN ZA905D)
Enhanced sliding M4/M4A1 buttstock
assembly; currently being mounted and used on M16-series rifle in large
numbers because of the need to maneuver the weapon inside confined
spaces (HMMWV interiors, for
instance). However, Ground Precautionary Messages state
that this is "not authorized and can result in injury or equipment
damage."
Tactical Sling (not the RFI version),
made by Blackhawk! and distributed
through the Army supply system. Carries weapon across chest,
muzzle oriented downward, "at the ready"
Multiple magazine holder; New AAL
Item, may be included in RFI in the future
1005-01-541-2476
Forward rail bracket (also called CQB
kit mini-rail); New AAL Item, may be included in RFI in the future
1005-00-921-5004
Standard 30-round magazine
1005-00-118-6192
M15A2 Blank Firing Adapter / Attachment (red in color,
for M16 rifle only; yellow BFA, M23, NSN 1005-01-361-8308, is for the M4
carbine only)
5340-00-880-7666
Cap, Protective, Dust. Keeps dust and dirt from
entering the muzzle during normal operations, and can be left in place
until the weapon is fired, but must be removed periodically to prevent
rust build-up.
3rd Party Accessories
-- COTS (Commercial, Off-the-Shelf)
Company
Description
Various
Tactical Sling. Carries weapon across chest,
muzzle oriented downward, "at the ready"
