Feb 19, 2005 · You see this with the XM16/M16 and XM16E1/M16A1, as well as, with the XM177 and XM177E1. Interestingly enough in both cases the Air Force guns, come second in the Colt numbering system. 603 being the XM16E1/M16A1 and the 604 being the XM16/M16, while the 609 is the XM177E1 and the 610 is the XM177.

Apr 16, 2023 · My understanding is 604 manufacture started in parallel to the Army 603 circa late 1963/early 1964. Prior to this there was only the Model 01 and Model 02 marked guns. I've read that the Air Force ret

Dec 21, 2017 · For a while the XM16E1 (603) and the XM16 (604) were identical other than the forward assist and markings. The early ones both had the improved 3-prong (2nd version flash suppressor), chrome BCG, D stock, Edgewater buffer, partial fence (just for front captive pin), and dimpled FCG pins.

Sep 16, 2002 · In doing some research recently I've become a little confused (imagine that). I'm trying to figure out the differences between the XM16E1 and the M16A1. I know they both had the forward assist. Did the XM16E1 have the "fencing" around the mag release on the lower receiver, or was it a slabside? The M16A1 - did it always have the birdcage flashider, or did it have the …

Jul 21, 2020 · All, I decided to revamp @Ekie's USGI M16 Series Variation Guide because I have gotten tired of seeing all of the Photobucket watermarks over all of the pictures... Hopefully Imgur doesn't decide to s

Nov 11, 2018 · Being that mine was a later serial number I was told i can get away with A1 parts on the lower but what is essential as far as the lower parts go to be correct?

Jan 18, 2020 · I working on my late XM16 build and a picked up a gray buffer tube. I am trying to go with all original Colt parts and make it as close to original as possible.

Oct 25, 2008 · New info, so here is an update. Some years are rounded off, for example the chrome chamber went into production in September of 1967, I round it off to 1968, same story with the chrome bore, introduc

Apr 16, 2020 · So I popped my 80% cherry this afternoon and milled my first one and it was my XM16E1 Braceman reweld. I couldn’t be happier with it. I also ordered the parts I need to finish the lower and they sho

Feb 14, 2021 · Quoted: I know anodizing is the best way to finish a clone project, but I'm not that much of a purist, so Cerakote is the way I'll be going with my two retro rifle projects. I'm hoping to find both the right or closest to the right shade of Colt grey used on a mid 1960s XM16E1 rifle and a late 1970s to early 1980s M16A1 rifle... And if there is somebody that can professionally …