Whats the difference between a M4 and AR-15 or M16?

[mtsul]

Hey like whats it says lol

[Josh3239]

AR15 is the Model 15 made by Armalite and bought by Colt. Though it is now the term used to describe pretty much any AR15 style semi-automatic rifle.

M16 is the military designation for the AR15 rifle. The M16, before it was originally adopted by the military was known as the Model 60X. There is an M16, M16A1, M16A2, M16A3, M16A4 and soon an M16A5.

M4 is a shorter lighter version of the M16. The M4A1 model replaced the 3 round burst with a full automatic fire selection. M4 has become a term to describe a 14.5'' barreled AR15 semi-automatic rifle.

RetroBlackRifle.com will show you all the different models of the AR platforms and the changes made to them from beginning to end.

[pacrimguru]

M-16 is the military designation for the AR platform rifle. the M16 is usually capable of semi-auto and 3-round burst or full auto fire.

AR-15 is the semi auto version of the rifle and in general is known as the civilian designation for the AR platform rifles.

M4 is basically a shortened M-16. M4's feature 14.5" barrels and collapsible stocks. most M-16's have 20" barrels and non-collapsible stocks.

[Toast]

Different lower, M4 and M16's have three pins (one above the selector for the burst/auto functionality), different dimensions inside the lower assembly, M4's have a standard 14.5 inch barrel and A2 birdcage (would be a SBR for a civilian)... That's about it.