Colt M4 Carbine Midlength Rifle 5.56 NATO 16.1 in.

Description

The CR6960 is Colt’s mid-length gas system AR-15, and that design choice is the defining feature of the rifle. A mid-length system ports gas from a point farther down the barrel than a carbine-length setup, which spreads the recoil impulse over a longer cycle time. The result is a softer, more progressive push rather than the sharper snap common to shorter gas systems — a meaningful difference over a long range session or during faster follow-up shooting.

The 1-in-7 inch twist rate stabilizes the full spectrum of .223 Rem and 5.56 NATO projectiles, but it is particularly well matched to heavier bullets in the 62–77 grain range. Shooters handloading or selecting precision ammunition can take full advantage of longer, heavier projectiles that a slower twist would fail to stabilize adequately.

The rifle ships without sights, which is the right call for a platform most buyers will mount optics on anyway. The upper receiver is optic-ready and the M-LOK handguard provides attachment points for lights, lasers, or a front grip without adding the weight of a full Picatinny rail around the entire circumference.

The barrel is chrome-lined 4150 steel — a combination chosen for durability and resistance to heat and corrosion rather than ultimate precision, making it a sound choice for a rifle that will see sustained use. Colt individually proof-tests each bolt, which matters for a component that operates under high cyclic stress. One 30-round magazine is included. This is a straightforward, mil-spec-derived carbine built to a known standard, suited to a shooter who wants a reliable base without paying for features they will replace.

Shipping and availability: This item cannot be shipped directly to California, Rhode Island and Washington. It cannot be sold into Illinois and Oregon. Check your state and local requirements before ordering. This item must ship to a licensed FFL dealer for transfer.