|
Model | M4 | M4 Commando |
Caliber | 5.56-mm | |
Cartridge type | 5.56 x 45 mm | |
Dimensions and weight | ||
Total weight | 3.15 kg | 3.08 kg |
Total weight (with empty magazine) | 2.52 kg | ? |
Overall length | 838 mm | 758 mm |
Length (with folded buttstock) | 757 mm | 676 mm |
Barrel length | 370 mm | 290 mm |
Fire characteristics | ||
Bullet initial speed | 841 m/s | 800 m/s |
Rate of fire | 700 - 940 rpm | 700 - 940 rpm |
Practical rate of fire | 30 - 100 rpm | 30 - 100 rpm |
Magazine capacity | 30 rounds | 30 rounds |
Sighting range | 600 m | 400 m |
Range of effective fire | 360 m | 250 - 300 m |
The Colt M4 carbine entered
service with US Army in 1994. Basically it is a shortened
M16A2 automatic rifle with a telescopic
buttstock. This carbine was intended as a substitute for submachine
guns. It is used by airborne troops, special forces, tank crews, vehicle
drivers etc. It's internal design is similar to the M16A2 with an 80% parts commonality. Although it has 140 mm shorter barrel and a telescopic buttstock. Carbine features an improved muzzle brake due to the short barrel. Carbine executes single fire and three round burst. Carbine is completed with dioptric sight, however an optical sight can be fitted. Basically all the accessories used on the M16 automatic rifle (such as a modified M203 underbarrell grenade launcher, laser pointers, sound suppressors, tactical lights) are compatible with the M4 as well. There is also an M4A1
version Even more compact version of the M4 is the M4 Commando carbine, which is similar to the M4 except even shorter barrel. A SOPMOD version of the M4A1 carbine fitted with accessory rails under and over the foregrip and in stead of the carrying handle. This carbine is optimized for special forces and is compatible with a great variety of special accessories. |