Tag: M4 Carbine

The M4 Carbine is a much more compact and lighter version of the M16A2 assault rifle. M16 rifles were actually derived from AR 15 rifles which was designed by Eugene Stoner, so also can be considered as the designer of M4 carbine. Being shorter and lighter shoulder fired weapon it is very suitable for close range combats. It is in service since 1994 and has been of huge assistance in the wars like War in Afghanistan, War in Iraq, 2006 Lebanon war, Mexican Drug War, Gaza War, Colombian Armed Conflict, Operation Enduring Freedom, 2008 South Ossetia war, Syrian civil war and 2013 Lahad Datu standoff. Though it was originated in the US it is being manufactured now in Belgium, Malaysia and Turkey apart from the US. The most prominent manufacturer among all is the Colt Defense.

It has a telescoping stock and is gas-operated. It fires 5.56×45mm NATO cartridge and 700-950 rounds per minute with an effective firing range of 600m. It weighs 7.5 lb (3.4 kg) with 30 rounds of ammo. It is 33 inches long when the stock is extended and 29.75 inches when it is retracted; and its barrel length is 14.5 inches (370 mm). It also has some variants like M4A1 and CQBR.