GunsAmerica

Quick Look

The M16 was introduced by Armalite in the 1960s and adopted widely by the U.S. military. Designed for reliability and ease of use in combat, it features a lightweight, gas-operated system. Today, the M16 remains a prominent rifle in military service and law enforcement worldwide.

Why It's a Top Choice

Proven reliability in diverse environments
High accuracy with 5.56mm NATO rounds
Modular design supports customization
Strong aftermarket support for parts
Effective balance of weight and firepower

Key Variants

M16A4 — Standard issue for the U.S. Army with modern modular features.

M16A2 — Improved accuracy and durability for 1980s era combat use.

M16A1 — Original Vietnam War model known for its lightweight design.

Competitor Comparison Table

Feature	M16	Ak-47	FN Scar
MSRP	$700–$1,200	$600–$900	$1,800–$2,500
Capacity/Size	30 rounds / 39 in	30 rounds / 35 in	20–30 rounds / 36 in
Weight	7.9 lbs	9.5 lbs	7.9 lbs
Optics-Ready	Yes (Picatinny rail)	Limited	Yes
Trigger Type	Single-stage, semi-auto/full-auto	Single-stage, full-auto burst	Two-stage, selective fire
Notable Pro	Lightweight with proven accuracy	Extremely durable and simple	Highly modular and ergonomic
Notable Con	Maintenance sensitivity in harsh conditions	Heavier with more recoil	Higher cost and complexity

Best Use Cases

Military combat and tactical operations
Law enforcement duty rifle
Range training and marksmanship practice
Home defense in states permitting full rifles
Firearms collection and historical interest

FAQs

Can I use standard 5.56 NATO ammo in the M16?

Yes, the M16 is chambered for 5.56x45mm NATO and functions reliably with standard military-grade ammunition.

What is the effective range of the M16 rifle?

The M16 has an effective range of approximately 550 meters for point targets and 800 meters for area targets.

How does the M16 differ from the M4 carbine?

The M16 has a longer 20-inch barrel and fixed stock, while the M4 features a shorter 14.5-inch barrel and collapsible stock for enhanced maneuverability.

M16 for Sale