Differences between M16 Rifle and M4 Carbine
M16 rifle vs. M4 carbine[edit]
The M16 rifle and M4 carbine are two closely related firearms that have been used by the United States Armed Forces. Both fire the 5.56x45mm NATO cartridge and share approximately 80% parts commonality.[1][2] The primary distinction between them is that the M4 is a carbine, a shorter and lighter version of the M16 rifle.[1][3]
The M16 was first introduced into service in 1964 during the Vietnam War.[4] The M4 was developed later, with design work beginning in the 1980s to create a more compact weapon for troops who did not need a full-length rifle, such as vehicle crews and soldiers in close-quarters environments.[1][5] The M4 officially entered service in 1994.[1] Over time, the U.S. military began to replace the M16 with the M4 in most frontline combat units.[1][3]
The most significant physical difference is the barrel length. The M16 features a 20-inch barrel, whereas the M4 has a 14.5-inch barrel.[3] This shorter barrel contributes to the M4's lighter weight and reduced overall length, making it easier to handle in confined spaces.[5] Another key difference is the buttstock; most M16 variants have a fixed stock, while the M4 is equipped with a telescoping stock that can be adjusted for length.[3] These design differences also affect the gas system, with the M16 using a rifle-length system and the M4 a shorter, carbine-length system.[3]
The longer barrel of the M16 gives it a higher muzzle velocity and a greater effective range compared to the M4. While both weapons are effective, the M16's characteristics are better suited for engagements at longer distances, whereas the M4's compact size provides an advantage in urban combat and when operating from vehicles.[3][5]
Comparison Table[edit]
| Category | M16 Rifle (M16A2) | M4 Carbine (M4A1) |
|---|---|---|
| Barrel Length | 20 in (508 mm) | 14.5 in (368 mm)[1] |
| Overall Length | 39.63 in (1,007 mm) | 33 in (838 mm) with stock extended[1] |
| Weight (unloaded) | ~7.5 lb (3.40 kg) | ~6.43 lb (2.92 kg)[1] |
| Stock | Fixed[3] | 4- or 6-position telescoping[1] |
| Gas System | Rifle-length[3] | Carbine-length[3] |
| Muzzle Velocity | ~3,110 ft/s (948 m/s) | ~2,970 ft/s (910 m/s)[1] |
| Effective Range | ~600 yards (550 m) for a point target | ~550 yards (500 m) for a point target[1] |
| Fire Modes | Safe / Semi-Auto / 3-Round Burst[4] | Safe / Semi-Auto / Full-Auto (M4A1)[1] |
References[edit]
- ↑ 1.00 1.01 1.02 1.03 1.04 1.05 1.06 1.07 1.08 1.09 1.10 1.11 "wikipedia.org". Retrieved November 05, 2025.
- ↑ "hookandbarrel.com". Retrieved November 05, 2025.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.6 3.7 3.8 "libertysafe.com". Retrieved November 05, 2025.
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 "wikipedia.org". Retrieved November 05, 2025.
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 "crateclub.com". Retrieved November 05, 2025.
