Manufacturers Show Off Their Latest & Greatest in Las Vegas

FOREWARD

A good number of manufacturers offered a brace-equipped pistol version of their rifles at this year’s SHOT Show held January 23–26 in Las Vegas. Having the Hearing Protection Act waiting in the wings, there were a number of suppressors and related products, with the LMT suppressor being an interesting new design. Also prominent were the number of 1-x variable magnification scopes from various manufacturers.

NIGHTFORCE

Nightforce introduced two 1-8x scopes with daylight-bright illumination and true 1x: ATACR and NX8 1-8 x 24 F1. The NX8 has a wider field of view (FOV) than ATACR (35.3m vs. 32.0m) at 100m, while both have the same 4.4m FOV at 8x. In reciprocal, the ATACR has a larger 11.3mm exit pupil at 1x in contrast to the 7.9mm of the NX8. Indeed, the author found the ATACR easier to mount during brief handling at the show.

The ATACR has a 34mm tube and weighs more at 21 ounces in comparison to the NX8 with 30mm tube and 17 ounces. ATACR features capped turrets while the NX8 utilizes exposed turrets. Optically, the ATACR utilizes ED glass while the NX8 shares the same elements as the NXS line. The illumination utilizes diffractive grid technology and is powered by a CR2032 battery that lasts about 130 hours. As of writing, the ATACR is on schedule to ship early spring.

DOUBLESTAR

In addition to their staple line-up of AR-15 parts, upper receivers and complete firearms, DoubleStar introduced the Strongarm pistol brace that fits an AR-15 buffer tube and retails under $100. The arm loop is ambidextrous, and the provided sling stud can be mounted on either side.

LEWIS MACHINE & TOOL

LMT is releasing a short, 7-inch barrel, 40mm grenade launcher with an option for a pistol-grip-only for breeching. This allows users to keep their rifles as light as possible. Its breech is long enough to accommodate the largest of 40mm ammunition.

In addition, the partnership with Laurence Livermore Laboratory bore fruit in the form of an innovative flow-through suppressor. Screwed into standard threads, the muzzle design compresses gases exiting the bore to form a “virtual baffle.” This redirects most of the gases around a longer alternate path to prevent them from “chasing” the projectile. This continuous flow of gases reduces back pressure so that cyclic rate remains constant. Company representatives quoted that this design rapidly vents back to ambient pressure, greatly reducing heat transfer from gas to suppressor body. As such, this design is machine-gun rated and is expected to last the lifetime of a barrel. As part of the testing, LMT subjected the suppressor to a continuous 1,000-round belt from a MK48 with no problems. Lastly, LMT representatives indicated the large exit diameter is designed to mitigate muzzle flash. LMT’s suppressors range from a mere 8 ounces (titanium Confined Space Weapon integral suppressor) to 34 ounces (for 7.62 belt-fed machine guns). Dimensions range from 1.5 to 2.1 inches in diameter and 6.5 to 8.6 inches in length. Most of the suppressors are an over-the-barrel design which minimizes the added length when mounted.

SAMSON

Samson is bringing pistol products to market for the first time in 2018, offering the Pocket Comp, Compact Magwell and Carry Contour +1 Magazine Extension for the Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield. Pocket Comp, machined from 7075 aluminium, blends with the slide profile to reduce felt recoil. It threads onto a ½ x 28-inch threaded barrel, and the set screws are tightened against a muzzle adaptor to prevent damaging the threads. It functions with the factory recoil spring. While 124gr or heavier projectiles are recommended, 115gr ammunition may work depending on environmental condition and load specification. The patent-pending Compact Magwell requires no gunsmith to install and allows a full firing grip on the M&P9 Shield. It also allows the expended magazine to drop free without shifting one’s grip. Lastly, the Carry Contour Magazine Extension adds one more round to the factory 7- and 8-round magazines while utilizing factory magazine springs. The leading edge forms a finger grove to give additional purchase during one-handed reloads or malfunction clearance.

GEMTECH

Gemtech is bringing back the wipe-based pistol caliber Aurora with a new design. Measuring only 3.4 inches long, 1.125 inches wide and weighing 3.5 ounces, the suppressor features 13.5mm x 1 left-hand threads on one end, with ½ x 28 inch threads on the other end to accommodate many different pistols. The light weight obviates the need for a Nielson device. The polyurethane wipes are optimized for a service life of 30 to 40 rounds of FMJ only, after which the package must be sent back to the manufacturer to “repack” the wipes. The small, light-weight and cost-effective suppressor allows one to protect hearing on a nightstand or duty firearm.

The company is also releasing a rifle caliber Trek II with the same baffles designed to reduce backpressure. This suppressor features an improved mounting surface to reduce weight by roughly 1 ounce while including a pre-drilled hole for permanent attachment to barrel. This relieves the need for an SBR tax stamp if the combination measures over 16 inches long. The Trek II also utilizes a new weldless design that is serviceable at the factory while retaining the iconic Gemtech front cap with 3/8-inch drive socket.

HECKLER & KOCH

In addition to offering new colors for VP9 frames and Crimson Trace modules for both VP9 and VP9SK, HK continues to expand their US manufacturing spaces and staff in Georgia. The company is expected to begin US manufacture of MR556 rifles and HK45 pistols. Continuing the long-standing relationship between HK and B&T, the two companies partnered to launch an HK line of suppressors for the American market. Lastly, HK joined Hogue in releasing a family of knives: 3.25-inch partially serrated Exemplar Folder, 3.375-inch Hadron Automatic and 3.75-inch Karma Response Tool with glass breaker and strap cutter in addition to the partially serrated edge.

FIGHTLITE

For 2018, FightLite offers compact models of their SCR rifle and MCR belt-fed machine gun in both 5.56 NATO and 300 Blackout. The new Raider pistol is a compact pistol version of the SCR, while the MCR Micro has a shortened barrel. Aside from the shortened gas system and handguard, the Micro shares parts with the full-sized MCR. The company has also indicated that an MCR belt hold pawl is in prototype stages.

SCHMIDT & BENDER

Following up on the 1-8 x 24 CC scope, the 1-8 x 24 CC Dual model features an illuminated first focal plane reticle and a daylight-bright dot in the second focal plane. The version for use with Bundeswehr G28 Patrol rifles has a BDC elevation turret and extra 0.2 mil adjustments at either ends of the travel for CQB use. Customers can also opt for turrets with no over-travel and marked in mils only. The scope also features “more tactile clicks” where the “click” takes more effort every 1 mil and at zero windage for low light use.

The aforementioned diffractive grid technology replaces the split-beam prism for FlashDot illumination. The illumination passes through a grid and forms constructive and destructive interference patterns in order to achieve peak amplitude at the eye. This technology is currently featured in the 1-8 x 24 CC Dual, Polar Second Focal Plane reticles and LR reticles.
In the veins of incremental improvement, S&B now offers a magnification throw lever that is compatible with some current scopes and all new models. Future PM models and current 3-20 x 50 Ultra Short plus 5-25 x 56 High Power scopes feature a locking windage turret with a protruding nub to indicate dialing left. The nub is retracted when dialing right. Also on display is a 3-21 x 50 prototype for hunting and competition use with both First and Second Focal Plane options as well as locking turrets.

AIMPOINT

The recently released CompM5 continues to be in the spotlight. The sight has the same 2MOA dot and overall size of the Micro T-2 but utilizes an AAA battery mounted in the same fashion as the CompM4, as well as changing body material to 7075 aluminium. The original Micro T-1 was made of 6061 Aluminium with a 6-in-lb torque spec; the steel screw could strip the threads if misused. The Micro T-2 incorporated a steel Heli-Coil thread insert in the 6061 body to give roughly three repair attempts if the 12-in-lb torque specification were exceeded. The CompM5 changed materials to 7075 Aluminium to maintain the 12-in-lb specification without the need for a Heli-Coil. In addition to the new product, Aimpoint is releasing a limited-run of Micro T-2 sights in Flat Dark Earth.

VORTEX OPTICS

1-6 x 24 Razor Gen II-E reduced weight by about ¼ pound while maintaining the same durability and optical performance of its successful older brother. Different material and lightening cuts in the turret assembly gave the weight savings. Vortex is adding 4-24 x 50 and 3-18 x 44 variants to the Strike Eagle entry-level scope line-up. The new Crossfire Red Dot sight is very reasonably priced and includes a skeletonized mount with two height options. Lastly, Vortex is expanding their target observation portfolio with the Viper HD spotting scopes and Kaibab HD binoculars.

TRIJICON

Released earlier, company representatives indicated that the RMR Type 2 continues to be a strong seller. Optimizing for pistol use, Trijicon strengthened the electronics and battery contact in the Type 2 to sate the fast-growing demand of optics-equipped pistols. In addition, the new 4-16 x 50mm Accupoint bolstered the portfolio of tube scopes with dual fibre optic / tritium illumination.

SIG SAUER

The trend of releasing rifles in pistol form continues with the SIG MCX Rattler, which has a 16-inch overall length when folded and is available in both 5.56 NATO and 300 Blackout. The low profile design features a shaved shell deflector and the more vertically angled pistol grip. The two-position gas regulator can handle suppressor back pressure while the upper can be installed on a standard AR-15 lower with the assistance of a conversion kit.

SIG also debuted the P365 micro-compact pistol featuring a 10+1 capacity and standard night sights. The pistol ships with one flush and one extended magazine, along with modular grips. In addition, a commercial version of the M17 is anticipated for release in the second quarter of 2018.

PATRIOT ORDNANCE FACTORY

Following up the success of their Revolution rifles, POF is releasing the G series Gentlemen’s Slide for Glock 17, 19 and 34 with cutouts to fit the Trijicon RMR. A Glock 43 slide without RMR cutout is soon to be released. Made of 17-4 billet stainless steel and H900 heat treated, it is finished in nitride for protection and durability.

SPYDERCO

Spyderco debuted several new edged tools for 2018. The Warrior Hawk features a faceted front, a spike and a pry tip. It is made of D2 tool steel with a G10 handle. The US-made Shaman folder utilizes a thick CPM S30V blade with a plain or serrated edge option and secures with Spyderco’s patented Compression Lock. The 2.5-inch blade Lil’ Native, employing either a back or Compression Lock, was developed with urban-friendly carry in mind. Lastly, the Sliverax flipper folder has an S30V blade and a carbon fiber / G10 laminate handle.

COMBINED SYSTEMS

The less-lethal-focused company offers grenade launchers and four munitions: aerosol, chemical, impact and flashbang. While the company is best known for its flashbang, it also has the highest injury potential from overpressure and heat in close proximity. The company takes safety seriously and requires customer agencies to have staffs that were trained within the past four years before selling flashbangs. In 2018, Combined System is looking to expand their breeching portfolio, to potentially include 40mm in addition to current 12ga munitions.

KNS PRECISION

Adapting to the increasingly common use of suppressors and red dot sights on pistols, KNS partnered with Dead Air Armaments to develop the Switch Sight. When flipped down to standard height, it remains compatible with standard holsters while completely clearing red dot sight (e.g., Trijicon RMR) view windows. When rotated 90 degrees to increase height, it clears the top of most suppressors while acting as a backup-sight for red dots. This product is currently in prototype phase.

The adjustable AK piston system on display is already in production. Two versions (one or two vent holes) allow users to fine tune for 5.45 x 39mm or 7.62 x 39mm rifles with a rotating sleeve to control gas venting. It is noteworthy that the KNS piston does not require the difficult process of changing gas block. Company representatives indicated that the adjustable piston slows down the rate of fire to achieve better control and reduces “piston pop” to decrease noise by 5 to 8dB when used in conjunction with a suppressor.

TEAM WENDY

Team Wendy is debuting a lower profile EXFIL Ballistic SL helmet that is rated to NIJ Level IIIA. The helmet is lighter by 15% and sports a new rail mount with 1913 rails forward for light, camera, etc. The new EXFIL Ballistic Visor (featuring lens made by ESS, part of Oakley) and Ear Covers (compatible with in-ear communication and hearing protection) guard against fragments and are ready for sale along with the helmet in March.

OHIO ORDNANCE

New from Ohio Ordnance in 2018 is the M249 drop-in Select-Fire trigger group. It follows the same vane as their patented M240 Select-Fire trigger group while boasting multiple patents itself. Also new is the OOW240 Patrol that reduces weight from 28 pounds to under 21 pounds with lightened parts, dimpled short barrel and M4 collapsible buttstock. The bipod was moved from the gas block to an underside rail that can accommodate a foregrip and other equipment. Lastly, the HCAR is being made available as a pistol as well.

AERO PRECISION

Launched at the show is the new R1 Rail. The company representative also mentioned that a serviceable, 30-caliber suppressor to be fully made of titanium is in the prototype stage. While the direct thread version is anticipated first, the end goal is to develop a QD mount compatible with the VG6 line of muzzle brakes.

DANIEL DEFENSE

Adding upon the previously released MK18 pistol, the 10.3-inch barrelled DDM4V7 is now available in pistol form chambered in either 5.56 NATO or 300 Blackout. Equipped with the SB Tactical SOB brace, users can also choose to add a Law Tactical adaptor for a 20.75-inch folded length.

Building upon its Aimpoint Micro mount, Daniel Defense is introducing a 30mm single-ring mount for the likes of Aimpoint Comp M3 and PRO as well as a cantilever mount made from 6061 Aluminium for 30mm and 1-inch scopes. The bottom half of the ring is integral to the mount with torque specifications engraved to remind users.

LEUPOLD

Two Mark 5 HD scopes are new for 2018: 3.6-18 x 44mm and 5-25 x 56mm using 35mm tubes. The series feature a three-revolution elevation turret with 10 mils per revolution, along with physical indicators to prevent users from “being lost in the dial.” In the first revolution, the zero lock protrudes while the pin is flush. The second revolution retracts the zero lock while the pin is still flush. The third revolution keeps the zero lock retracted while protruding the pin. When running the elevation dial across the zero stop, the lock automatically secures the turret at “0.” An extra 1 mil adjustment is included below the zero stop to accommodate point-of-impact shift from suppressor or clip-on night vision. The throw lever gives quick and smooth zoom adjustments and is placed to avoid blocking the rifle bolt handle at maximum magnification.

The new VX Freedom series provide entry level 1-inch scopes, with the 2-7x and 3-9x models being rimfire-specific. Also of note is the new rubber armoured RX2800. The 2800-yard-capable range finder continuously ranges as long as the button is held down.

KINETICS RESEARCH GROUP

Against the backdrop of $1000USD precision rifle chassis, KRG is offering the $350, 2.9-pound Bravo Chassis for short- and long-action Remington 700 as well as Tikka T3. Although the price and specifications differ slightly amongst versions, all feature tool-less adjustable check piece and ship with three spacers for length of pull fitment. The bottom of the stock can be smooth or hooked (for rear bag) by undoing a screw to remove a cover. For bedding, the chassis utilizes an aluminium backbone that runs to the tip of the forend. For feeding, it utilizes the ubiquitous Accuracy International magazines. For now, the chassis is only available for right-handed rifles.

FN AMERICA

Newly available to US law enforcement and military, the SCAR SC is a select-fire 5.56 x 45mm subcompact carbine with non-reciprocating charging handle and telescoping buttstock. Sporting a 7.5-inch barrel, the overall length can be collapsed to 21.1 inches. In addition to the PDW type stock, other options available through FN Herstal for international customers include a helmet version meant to accommodate face shields as well as a standard SCAR stock. FN representative indicated there are no current plans for a commercial semi-auto version or additional stock options for the US market at this time.

On the commercial side, FN is offering an AR pistol version of their popular FN15 chambered in 5.56 x 45mm and 300 Blackout, with a brace available as an accessory for a one-stop-shop. The company is also offering California- and Maryland-compliant versions of the FN15. Lastly, there is a limited run of dual tone FDE & Black for pistols, FN15 Tactical II and M249S.

QUANTICO TACTICAL

The newly available Hunter Data Board builds on the Sniper Data Board (already in operational use) with the addition of a bubble level in the mounting arm. Attaching to the top Picatinny rail of a rifle, it reduces rifle cant and folds out to provide quick Data on Previous Engagement (DOPE) reference while maintaining cheek weld. The company representative described this product as “by snipers, for snipers;” inspiration stemmed from a target escaping while the sniper changed body position to reference his sleeve mounted DOPE card. With the Hunter/Sniper Data Board, the card is inserted into a water resistant holder which velcros to a 6061 Aluminium assembly. This US-made product provides a ready reference while increasing awareness. The Sniper Data Board can be retrofitted with the Hunter arm. The Hunter/Sniper Data Board will be available soon through Quantico Tactical’s extensive GSA Schedule.

GORILLA AMMO

The company offers ammunition with a polymer body and metallic case head to achieve 30% weight reduction in 5.56 x 45mm, 7.62 x 51mm and other popular calibers. The company representative related the enhanced accuracy and reduced chamber temperature. As the polymer case does not transfer as much heat to the chamber walls, the heat is expelled with the gases instead.

BERETTA

Beretta acquired Victrix Armaments and is now offering the 50BMG Corvus as a new addition to their precision rifle line. The rifles are made in-house in Italy with barrels sourced from Benchmark in the US and coated with PVD so as to not require oil. Although the rifles are fixed caliber (e.g., no swap kits to go from 7.62 x 51mm to 6.5 Creedmore), the Victrix line-up covers a variety of calibers such as short-action 7.62 x 51mm, long-action 338 Lapua Magnum, 408 Cheytac and the venerable 50BMG.

MEOPTA

The storied Czech optics manufacturer debuted a new line of tactical red dot and magnified sights. MeoRED T Mini has a more square shaped lens while the T2 Mini has a tube body similar to the Aimpoint T2. The T2 offers three reticles: single dot, two dots for hold-over and a circle-dot reticle. Scheduled for release in May, the MeoRED T is a tube type, full-size, red dot sight utilizing a AA battery for a minimum 2000hr run time at medium brightness. All red dot sights can be paired with the new MeoMag 3x Magnifier for versatility.

The MeoACE 3 x 20mm scope features an etched Ballistic Drop Compensating reticle culminating in a AA-illuminated chevron. The right half of the stadia is calibrated for 5.56 x 45mm and 180gr 7.62 x 51mm, while the left half is calibrated for 7.62 x 39mm.

KNIGHT’S ARMAMENT COMPANY

Two new QDC suppressors are offered: CS and PRS with the former designed for carbines and the latter for precision rifles. Both are designed to reduce back pressure and are expected to ship in the second quarter. A company representative remarked upon their effects in reducing group sizes.

Of interest to “clone” builders, KAC will offer “The Vault” line this year where a rotating selection of legacy accessories is reissued. Four free float RAS AR-15 handguards are slated for 2018: Carbine, Too Long, Mid-Length and MRE. One run is scheduled for the end of first quarter with another in the third quarter. Additionally, KAC is also reissuing the XM9 snap-on wipe based suppressor.

Patriot Ordnance Factory
ReVolt

Part AR-15, part bolt-action, the POF-USA ReVolt gives you the modularity of an AR platform with the simplicity of a bolt gun. Available in 5.56 and 7.62×51, it is a perfect choice for hunters; and with the change to a captive pin at the factory it is legal in all 50 states!

POF-USA.com
877.561.9572

Windham Weaponry, Inc.
.450 Thumper

Windham Weaponry’s .450 Thumper is chambered for the powerful .450 Bushmaster cartridge. This 16-inch barreled powerhouse is designed for feral hog hunters who want to accurately place a hefty 250-grain bullet. Features include a Luth-AR Buttstock (adjustable for length of pull and cheek-rest height), Windham Weaponry free-float forend with multiple M-Lok mounting points and Hogue Overmolded Pistol Grip.

www.windhamweaponry.com
855.808.1888

Yankee Hill Machine
Hunt Ready Rifle

• Free Floating 20” 4140 steel diamond fluted barrel (improves rigidity, reduces weight and aids in barrel cooling)
• Chambered in 5.56, or 6.8 SPC
• Kryptek Highlander camouflage
• Forged 7075-T6 aluminum YHM lower receiver
• Forged 7075-T6 aluminum YHM flat top upper receiver
• YHM rifle length MR7 M-Lok handguard
• Forward assist
• YHM low profile gas block
• A2 trapdoor stock

YHM.net
877.892.6533

Yankee Hill Machine
Hunt Ready Carbine

• Free floating 16” 4140 steel barrel, diamond flute (improves rigidity, reduces weight and aids in barrel cooling)
• Chambered in 5.56, 300BLK or 6.8 SPC
• Kryptek Highlander camouflage
• Forged 7075-T6 aluminum YHM lower receiver
• Forged 7075-T6 aluminum YHM flat top upper receiver
• YHM Phantom 5C2 flash hider / compensator
• YHM rifle length MR7 M-Lok handguard
• YHM low profile gas block
• M4 telescoping commercial buttstock

YHM.net
877.892.6533

O.F. Mossberg & Sons, Inc.
MMR Tactical Optics Ready and MMR Tactical Vortex Red/Green Dot Combo Rifles

Mossberg assembled an AR15 with the perfect balance of features for hunting, home defense and competition with their line of MMR rifles. Chambered in 5.56mm, the MMR Tactical features 16-inch barrel, JM Pro Drop-In trigger, slim-profile forend with M-LOK system and 6-position adjustable stock. Combo comes with Vortex StrikeFire II Red/Green dot optic.

www.mossberg.com
800.363.3555

LWRC International LLC
LWRCI SIX8 RAZORBACK II

• Burnt bronze Cerakote
• Razorback magwell engraving
• New for 2017 SIX8 A5 design
• Two-position gas block
• 12-inch scallop cut rail
• LWRCI cold-hammer-forged, NiCorr-treated, heavy profile barrel
• A2 Flash Hider
• Type III hard-coat anodize on receivers and rails (clear hard-coat beneath Cerakoted rifles)
• Magpul MOE+ Grip and Magpul PMAG
• LWRCI advanced trigger guard
• Fully ambidextrous lower controls: mag release, bolt catch & release and selector
• LWRCI compact stock w/ QD sling mount
• LWRCI ambidextrous charging handle

LWRCI.com
410.901.1348

By Christopher R. Bartocci

The last company in the industry this author would suspect would manufacture a direct gas impingement rifle would be Patriot Ordnance Factory (POF). This company has built their reputation and, in fact, lead the industry on the short stroke tappet operating system in the AR15/AR10 platform. You would think this company loathed the legacy operating system. After speaking with POF CEO Frank DeSomma, that is clearly not true. According to Frank he likes the direct gas system just fine but when he went into business he wanted to fill a new niche where he could stand out and not do the same thing everyone was doing. He liked the merits of the short stroke tappet system and went with it. He wanted to diversify his product line. He also looked at several ways to improve the system making it more durable and reliable. Just like those who swear by the external piston operating system, you have that part of the industry who are die hard direct gas system supporters. POF answered that call to the industry with the Old School rifle chambered in .308 Win/7.62x51mm NATO. Later he introduced the 5.56mm version called the Renegade but that, is a different story. DeSomma would take all of the enhancements of his firearm design and apply them to the legacy gas system making it one to stand out from the pack. The POF Old School was released at SHOT Show 2015.

The POF Old School is chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO/.308 Winchester caliber. The unloaded weight is 8.0 to 8.2 pounds. Barrel length is 16.5 -inches but it is also offered with a 14.5 or 20-inch barrel. The overall length with the stock closed is 34 inches and extended fully is 39.5 inches. MSRP for the Old School is $2649.99 for the black model and $2689.99 for the NP3 coated rifle.

Starting with the lower, the receiver extension has 7 positions for the stock. Most rifles in this category have 4 to 6 positions making this extremely modular to custom fit a soldier with or without body armor and allow for various thicknesses. The receiver extension is made from a 7075 T6 impact extrusion material per Mil-Spec. The tube also has anti-tilt technology. This prevents the bolt carrier from ever coming out of alignment with the receiver extension. The bolt carrier end is already in the receiver extension when the receivers are closed. The stock chosen is the Magpul CTR stock which has a locking lever to keep the stock from unintentionally moving. This is a durable and lightweight stock assembly. There is a Quick Detach mounting point on each side of the stock as well as traditional slots for a cloth sling. The lower receiver is precision made from a billet of 7075 T6 aircraft grade aluminum. The T&E rifle lower was flawless with no machining marks. The safety is ambidextrous. The bolt catch is also ambidextrous just behind the magazine release button. In front of the trigger is another useful gadget, this one allows the operator to push upward on a lever to engage the bolt catch. This allows you to manipulate and lock open the bolt with the use of your trigger finger. Regardless if you are left or right handed, it does not matter in using this bolt catch. The trigger guard is part of the receiver and is large enough to accept heavy winter gloves. The magazine well has a very nice flare making it easier to insert magazines in low level to no light. On the left side of the receiver there is an ambidextrous magazine release that is parallel with the one on the right side. The bolt catch has an enlarged paddle on the lower portion making it easier to manipulate. The pistol grip chosen is the very comfortable Magpul MOE pistol grip with no finger swell. The trigger group is held in place by KNS Precisions anti-rotation hammer/trigger pins. The trigger mechanism is also designed and manufactured by POF. It is there drop in trigger system which is factory. The T&E trigger broke at 5 pounds. The trigger group is assembled in an aluminum housing which drops into the receiver. Standard hammer and trigger pins will not hold this unit properly. The hammer, trigger and disconnector are heat treated to 70 Rockwell, case hardened and Nitride coated. It should be noted that POF helped to develop the Timney Trigger. Looking down at the inside of the lower receiver are two polymer hex screws located just behind the rear takedown pin. This allows the user to tighten the receivers so there is no movement.

The charging handle is also manufactured by POF. It is also manufactured from a billet of 7075 T6 aircraft grade aluminum. There are knurled edges on the rear of the handle as well as the latch itself. This helps the shooter grip under adverse conditions such as mud, water and so on.

The upper receiver is manufactured from a billet of 7075 T6 aircraft grade aluminum, It has the traditional forward assist, fired cartridge case deflector and ejection port cover. When open, the ejection port cover reads “God Bless America” on the left and an American flag on the right. This is sort of a POF calling card.

The handguard is the POF designed M.R.R. or Modular Railed Receiver. The one piece rail has a continuous top rail that attaches to the top of the upper receiver and also under the barrel nut. This is a complete free floating rail. The 6 and 12 o’clock rail have a two inch Mil-Std-1913 rail. The rest are made up of removable rail sections that are placed at the operator’s discretion. The top rail will sit higher than a standard Mil-Spec upper receiver flat top. The rail is 11-1/2 inches long.

The barrel is held on by a special barrel nut that doubles as a heat sink over the camber of the barrel. This heat sink draws heat out of the chamber to increase cook-off time substantially. The combination barrel nut/heat sink is 2 1/2 -inches long and fluted around the entire diameter of the outer surface. Giving 5x more surface area compared to the standard barrel nut and aluminum. This permits 17 times more heat dissipation over steel. This barrel nut ensures that if the rail is flexed with use of a vertical grip, it will only flex at the front of the barrel nut which is 3 inches from the most critical item on the rifle, the bolt and its lock up.

The T&E rifle was provided with a 16.5-inch barrel that is manufactured from chrome vanadium (Mil-V-11595) steel. Then the barrel is Nitride heat treated and case hardened to 68 to Rockwell . The rifling is a 1 turn in 10-inch right hand twist with 5 lands and grooves. The threads on the muzzle are 5/8×24 enabling a various array of flash suppressor, muzzle brake and sound suppressors to be attached. The rifle comes standard with the POF triple port muzzle brake. POF has found this muzzle brake permits flat shooting, low recoil and allows fast follow up shots. POF guarantee sub-MOA accuracy out of the box. Of course ammunition and shooter ability are a major factor
in this guarantee.

One of the real standout features found on all POF firearms is the E2 dual extraction technology. This consists of four channels cut into the neck portion of the chamber which permit gas from combustion of the propellant to follow the channels back and impart force on the shoulder of the cartridge case. This gives initial separation of the cartridge case from the chamber when the bolt unlocks. With this system, the extractor itself has very little work to do during the extraction process. The combination of the extractor and E2 technology gives the weapon a push/pull dual extraction rather than just a pull. This is a major improvement to rifles that are known to have extraction issues due to higher cyclic rates as well as extreme adverse conditions. There are four lines visible on the neck of the cartridge case but this will not affect reloading of the cartridge case. As of this writing, POF is offering this service to customers who have 5.56mm and 7.62mm caliber barrels as an upgrade for $179.99.

Introduced on this rifle is the DIctator low profile gas block. This was just released by POF in June of 2015. The operator dictates total control of how the weapon system operates. This is specifically designed for direct gas impingement rifles. On the rifle, the gas block was drilled and pinned. Any serious combat or duty type rifle should have this drilled and pinned. Clamp-on and screw secured gas blocks are known to move forward causing short stroking, and if not fixed complete gas shut offs can occur. Rifles, especially with sound suppressors, have an inconstant port pressure that over-gasses the system causing extremely high cycle rates. This can cause issues of premature parts wear and failures to extract. The DIctaor offers the shooter 9 positions to fine tune the rifle system. Whether the operator is shooting suppressed, unsuppressed, with heavy or light buffer, the DIctator regulated gas block allows the operator complete control for smooth operating. This increases reliability and durability while having a consistent cyclic rate of fire. The DIctator was designed as a low profile adjustable gas block that will fit inside a free floating rail with an inner diameter of 1.375-inches. The first run of the DIctator will be set up for .750-inch barrels in both carbine and midlength gas systems. Each DIctator comes with a stainless steel straight gas tube. Bends in the gas tube restrict and collect higher heat in those areas of the gas tube. Those restricted areas are failure points during high volume or sustained fire. Straight gas tubes are less restrictive than standard Mil-Spec bent ones. In fact the POD gas tube is an Inconel straight tube (alloy of nickel containing chromium and iron, resistant to corrosion at high temperatures) which will withstand nearly double the amount of heat as the Mil-Spec gas tube. Each DIctator assembly comes with an adjustment wrench to move carboned up gas valves. Also, the DIctator is available for sale as an upgrade to your rifle in both screw-on and pin-on configurations. The MSRP for the DIctator upgrade assembly is $179.99.

Another feature of the Old School is the enhanced direct gas bolt carrier group designed and manufactured by POF. This is also available as a drop-in for most AR10 type rifles, with an MSRP of $324.99. Also available is a .223 version of the bolt carrier for an MSRP $274.99. The NP3 plated carrier group has three major design improvements. First, the bolt carrier is one piece. The steel gas key screws into the face of the “tombstone” of the carrier and is pinned in place. What does this do? There are basically two places you get gas loss in a direct gas rifle. One is the front sight base and the second is the carrier key. If the carrier key was to break, the carbon seal is broke between the carrier key and the bolt carrier gas leaks and the rifle will short stroke. The POF carrier design completely eliminates the possibility of gas loss through the bolt carrier. The second major improvement is the use of the POF NP3 coated Roller Cam. The standard cam is square in shape. Some have the edges rounded, others do not. The square shape scrapes along the inside of the upper receiver which will cause wear on the aluminum receiver. This happens anytime two pieces of metal scrape and one is harder than the other. The roller cam eliminates the steel edges scraping the inside of the receiver, drastically reducing internal wear. This is even more prevalent in piston operated rifles. You will see a cut in the inside of the upper receiver just behind the cam notch. This is prevented for the most part with Roller Cam. This is also offered as an upgrade for all .308-type carriers. It is also offered for 5.56mm carriers. The kit comes with a carrier key (with notch cut to allow removal of Roller Cam) and Roller Cam. The third major improvement is the material the bolt is manufactured from; 9310 steel which is a 7% improvement over Carpenter 158 steel (Mil-Spec). The extractor has enhanced geometry for better support of the extractor.

The scope chosen is the NightForce BEAST. BEAST is an acronym for Best Example of Advanced Scope Technology. The BEAST is a 5-25 x 56 F1 with a tube diameter of 34mm/1.34 -inches. The objective outer diameter is 65mm with an exit pupil diameter of 5x 8.3mm and 25x at 2.3mm. The eyepiece outer diameter is 46mm. The field of view at 100 yards is 5x@18.7 ft and 25x@ 4.92 feet. Eye relief is 3.35 to 3.54 -inches. The internal adjustment range for elevation is 120 MOA and windage 80 MOA. Each click is .50 and .250 MOA. The parallax adjustment is 45 yd-∞. The optics are crystal clear. This would be a standard of excellence in long range rifle optics.

At the same time this T&E rifle arrived, so did a box of the new D&H Tactical SR25-type steel magazines in both 10 and 20 round capacities. D&H Tactical is out of Oconomowoc, Wisconsin and is the former LaBelle Industries who manufactured magazines in the early 1980’s. It was first sold to General Stampings and now D&H Tactical. Up until around 2010, D&H Tactical only offered 5.56mm AR15/M16 magazines. In the next five years D&H Tactical added SCAR16 & SCAR17 SOCOM magazines, 6.5 SPC magazines, 1911 45 Auto magazines, 300 Blackout specific magazines, SR25 pattern magazines, 7.62x39mm AR-type magazines, blank only magazines, free float handguards for AR-platform with more on the way. D&H Tactical has OEM contracts with Remington, Bushmaster, DPMS, Sig Sauer, O.F. Mossberg, Del-Ton, BCM, Windham Weaponry, Alexander Arms as well as CZ USA. They also have numerous US government and Law Enforcement contracts. They have a long standing 16-year relationship with the Israeli army as well. The magazines received were very high quality steel magazines with a non-reflecting flat black finish. There are witness notches indicating 5, 10, 15 and 20 rounds on the right side of the magazine and on the 10 round magazines there is a witness window for 5 and 10 rounds.

The ammunition tested in the rifle was manufactured by HPR (High Precision Range). This is a .308 Winchester Match 168gr Hornady boat tail hollow point projectile. The ammunition is manufactured by Advanced Tactical Armament Concepts, LLC out of Payson, Arizona. The ammunition was loaded in Winchester 7.62x51mm NATO brass with a muzzle velocity of approximately 2700 feet per second.

Approximately 200 rounds of Federal XM80 7.62x51mm FMJ was fired in the Old School for function. All ammunition was fired in two D&H Tactical magazines with no malfunctions of any sort. The gas valve was not changed from the factory setting due to 100% reliability. Recoil was moderate and extremely manageable, especially for a rifle in this caliber. The muzzle brake did its job well though the guy on the bench to my right was not happy about the muzzle blast! Accuracy tests were shot at 100 yards off of a bench vice. There were 4 groups of five rounds each of the HPR ammunition and the best group measured approximately .70 -inches in diameter.

There are many options out there in AR10 type rifles. Some tout theirs as Mil-Spec even when the only rifle out there in the US Government to have a Mil-Spec is the M110. Many rifles bought are commercial off the shelf. Many get hung up on the term Mil-Spec. The reality is this is a minimum standard the weapon must meet. Many weapons in the industry today meet and exceed Mil-Spec. They have actual improvements made to them to aid in reliability and durability of the weapon platform. The POF Old School is one of them. Major improvements to the bolt carrier group, trigger, gas system (for using suppressed ammo and fine tuning), ambidextrous controls, E2 Enhanced Extraction Technology to name a few. Most of the components on this rifle are designed and manufactured by POF to make a more durable and reliable rifle than the standard AR10-type rifle. If you are looking for a rifle that far exceeds the minimum standards and has all the major components improved, the Old School is an excellent choice.

Every war is different. Every battleground has diverse characteristics. Each mission, whether a military role or civilian law enforcement detail varies greatly in its specific purposes. It seems almost impossible on the surface that a single weapon system could adapt and function in such a range of climates and missions, but the familiar M16 is still going strong. From a lightweight carbine to a heavy barreled LMG, the M16 weapon system has been fulfilling the role of America’s primary service weapon for more than 40 years and it doesn’t seem it will be replaced wholesale anytime soon.

The earliest history of the inception and design of the black rifle bas been chronicled numerous times and it is not the intent of this author to rehash this historical material other than a very brief and condensed historical summary. There are many credible sources for this information including The Complete AR-15/M16 Sourcebook by Duncan Long, The Black Rifle I by Blake Stevens, Black Rifle II by Christopher R. Bartocci and an extensive Colt M16 ID Guide in the Machine Gun Dealers Bible by Dan Shea. This article will focus on the versatility of the M16, the characteristics that have allowed the metamorphosis from the original designs to the current battle rifle of the 21st century and possibly beyond.

Although there are a countless number of model designations for these rifles from numerous manufacturers, for simplicity purposes in this article, the designation “M16” can be assumed to be a fully automatic rifle while the designation “AR-15” makes reference to the semiautomatic version.

A Very Brief History

While its initial roots are clearly in the Stoner designs of the early 1950s, like most designs, the multiple lug bolt head, lockup into a barrel extension, and gas system principle can be traced back farther. It was at ArmaLite where this all came together. The first heavy public exposure to the black rifle started in the wet and humid environment of the tropics with the earliest variations sent to US troops in Viet Nam. There were many positive responses at first, but after the ammunition/propellant change, the black rifles were plagued with an extremely lackluster initial impression and poor performance in the field. Problems were eventually minimized after several rounds of intense testing combined with numerous committee change recommendations. Many alterations in production were initiated including chamber dimensions, rifling twist ratios, firing-pin changes, redesigning the flash hider and charging handle, and (against the advice of many people) the addition of a forward assist assembly. Along with ammo and gunpowder refinement, proper maintenance, and problems addressed with early magazines, the early version of black rifle as we know it today was on its way to becoming the cornerstone of the modern American military arsenal.

As early as 1963, Colt started manufacturing this “new” rifle in semiautomatic only with the civilian population and the law enforcement community in mind. Sold as the AR-15 Sporter it was virtually identical to the M16 with the exception of the fire control group. With an early retail price of $189.50 it was marketed to the hunting and sporting community as a beacon of a new wave of manufacturing technology allowing it to be lightweight while remaining accurate and effective. Although several minor changes have been made to separate the function of the semiautomatic version of these rifles from their fully automatic relatives over the years, and to keep them from being easily converted to fully automatic, they remain wildly popular and an enormous civilian market thrives today. Numerous upgrades and model enhancements of the civilian line of semiautomatic variants have followed very closely to those designed for the fully automatic models keeping them on a fairly level playing field.

With the 1977 expiration of Gene Stoner’s patent on the M16 gas system, several companies sprang up and started manufacturing their own versions of this popular rifle. The trademark model name of “AR-15” was, and still is, owned by Colt, and they are still one of many businesses that manufacture this weapon system and its many configurations.

Modularity is King

At the heart of the black rifle is the versatile lower receiver. This portion of the firearm is the section considered by federal law to be “the firearm” by definition. The lower receiver is the portion of the firearm that contains the trigger group and the pistol grip as well as the magazine well. Also attached to the lower receiver is the buffer tube and stock. This is the part that requires purchase through a licensed federal firearms licensee (if ordered from an out-of-state dealer) and the paperwork that goes along with any other firearm purchase, depending upon the laws of the State of the buyer. Every other part of this firearm may be ordered directly by the end user and requires no federal licensing or paperwork. All other parts, including the upper receivers and the barrels are treated just like any other non-regulated parts.

The upper receiver plays an equally important role in the mechanism. The upper receiver is the point of attachment for the barrel and the housing for the bolt, bolt carrier and charging handle. It is attached to the lower receiver by two takedown pins that are operable without the aid of any tools. The upper and lower receivers may be separated and rejoined at any time without fear of losing any components under normal handling. This may be attractive for size considerations when breaking down for transportation or when changing the characteristics of the rifle for a specific task.

Several rifle configurations may be assembled on a single lower receiver simply by swapping out barreled upper receivers. Specific tasks may require features unique to that task but may not be desirable to others. This is where the real beauty of the black rifle comes in. Unlike most other firearms, the characteristics of the black rifle can be altered at any time, and reversed back again, just by changing upper receivers. It is indeed more than a weapon; it is truly a “weapon system” as it is often properly referred as.

For obvious reasons, an entry-type rifle may consist of a very short barrel and either iron sights or a zero-magnification dot-type sight. A varmint hunting rifle may be much more effective with a long barrel and high power telescopic sight. With a black rifle, both of these configurations are only a quick upper receiver swap away with no lack of performance in either field.

There are barrels ranging from the 7-inch* “Kitty Kat” barrel from DPMS (www.dpmsinc.com) to a 24-inch Varminter Extra Heavy Barrel from Bushmaster Firearms (www.bushmaster.com) and a multitude of lengths in between. (* Under Federal Law a rifle barrel has to be over 16 inches in length to be a legal Title I firearm. By purchasing or registering the rifle as a Short Barreled Rifle, the owner can use any barrel length at will. With registered machine guns, the barrel length is not a legal stipulation under Federal Law and any length barrel may be used). There are not many rifles that allow the flexibility of swapping out barrel lengths without the necessity of tools in less than 30 seconds like this system. Additionally, another major advantage is the sights are part of the upper receiver as well, so there is no need to re-zero after making this swap. If multiple barreled upper receivers are owned, they can all be sighted-in and swapped as desired with a complete return to zero with careful handling and the correct ammunition.

From Plinking to Protecting

If there is any one thing that can always be counted on in the firearms community, it is American Ingenuity and the desire to make something bigger and better. (Sometimes smaller and better, in this case.) Fortunately, this has proven to work well in transforming the once light .223 Rem. (5.56x45mm) rifle into something left only to one’s imagination and budget. With the ease of changing upper receivers, the transformation from the original caliber to a completely new round is almost as simple. Since the upper receiver holds the barrel, bolt and bolt carrier, this is the portion of the rifle where the caliber of the ammunition to be utilized is determined. Thanks to many able minded firearm enthusiasts, these rifles can be converted to almost any caliber ranging from .17 to .50 BMG with minimal (if any) temporary modifications to the lower receiver. From the luxury of plinking for recreation on a budget or additional training, to having the stopping power to assist our front line fighters in the War on Terror, the black rifle can be custom configured to suit every application.

One of the most popular subcaliber units among black rifle shooters is the “Atchisson” .22LR conversion manufactured by Jonathan Arthur Ciener, Inc. (www.22lrconversions.com). When utilized with the recommended ammunition, properly maintained and operated, they provide hours of plinking fun in semiautomatic AR-15s or full automatic fun when used in conjunction with a registered M16. On the opposite end of the ammunition spectrum is the .50BMG Upper Receiver from Watson’s Weapons Inc. (www.watsonsweapons.com). This upper receiver actually allows the use of the massive .50 BMG round when attached to your lower receiver. It functions as a single-shot rifle that must be partially taken down to be reloaded between shots.

One of the most popular pistol caliber conversions would include the 9x19mm (Luger) conversion. First introduced in 1985, Colt offered a 9mm blowback-operated submachine gun that worked quite well. Most of the characteristics were the same as the standard rifle, making operation simple for anyone who had utilized or trained on the 5.56x45mm rifle. A special magazine (both 20-round and 32-round) was developed for the much shorter 9x19mm round and a block was pinned inside the standard lower receiver’s magazine well to accommodate the smaller magazine while utilizing the same magazine release. A civilian version was soon to follow in semiautomatic only with a 16-inch barrel. Other than the upper receiver and bolt differences, only the buffer was changed to a heavier one, and a few of the trigger group parts were slightly modified. In the 1990s, the US Drug Enforcement Agency adopted a silenced version of this rifle. The Department of Energy also adopted a very short variation known as the Model 633, commonly called a “DoE Upper.” The 633 had a 7-inch barrel, collapsible stock and a front handguard to keep the operators hands from straying in front of the muzzle.

Several other companies started manufacturing these pistol caliber conversions with numerous types of feeding systems. While a few emulated the Colt style mag-well block and use the factory Colt 9mm magazines, others used highly modified magazines reworked to fit the interior portion of the factory magazine well. Although many of the modified magazines work very well, they are often expensive and the availability is less than desirable in most cases. Even though there are several manufacturers of aftermarket (any non-Colt) black rifles including several Caliber conversions, the pistol caliber most often encountered remains the 9x19mm.

Many different calibers in black rifle variations have been written about here in the pages of Small Arms Review over the last 10 years. While there are new caliber combinations coming out at an amazing rate, some of the latest ones we are familiar with include the Alexander Arms .50 Beowulf and 6.5 Grendel, (www.alexanderarms.com), .502 Thunder Sabre by Cloud Mountain Armory (www.bigborecanyon.net) and lastly the .45 Bushmaster (www.bushmaster.com). We will be testing the .45 Bushmaster for a future issue of Small Arms Review very soon. Some of the more common calibers include, but are not limited to: .308 NATO*, 7.62x39mm and 6.8SPC and can be found from multiple vendors. (*.308 NATO (7.62×51) requires a different lower receiver due to the longer interior dimension of the magazine well necessary to accommodate that particular round).

Feed Me, Seymour!

Like the hungry man-eating plant named Seymour in the 1960s cult classic film Little Shop of Horrors, a black rifle is always hungry and never seems to be fed enough. Firearms, especially those in a military role, are no exception. The earliest magazine design of the AR-15 was a 25-round magazine, which had problems due to being straight, and was immediately replaced with a 20-round magazine. The first ones were steel “waffle” pattern magazines, which were also immediately replaced with the standard aluminum 20-round magazine that eventually evolved into the 20-rounder so common today. In the mid 1960s, a 30-round magazine was manufactured with a slight curve and it seemed to work great in all new rifles but had a hard time feeding in some, including the earlier ones. This was corrected in part by keeping the top portion of the magazine straight like the 20-round version and starting the curvature at the bottom of the magazine well. These magazines still had a reputation for jamming if they were loaded to 30 rounds, and the SOP was load to 28 rounds. This was corrected later by stabilizing the follower with equal leg lengths.

In order to address this “need for feed,” Colt experimented with a belt-feed mechanism that operated with a modified upper and lower. With a 20-inch barrel this unit weighed in at almost 8 1/2 pounds without the bipod or ammo box. The belt fed M16 never made it to production.

Fast forward to the early 1980s and bring Jonathan Arthur Ciener back into the picture. A manufacturer primarily specializing in sound suppressors at the time, Jonathan took it upon himself to redesign and reintroduce the concept of a belt-fed AR-15 and M16 and made them available to the general public. When they were evaluated for the now defunct Machine Gun News in 1992, this writer had the pleasure of working on the article and spending some trigger time with these guns. We were provided with both a semiautomatic model and a fully automatic model. They were built on factory Colt AR-15 and M16 rifles, and like Colts early design the upper and lower receivers were both modified. The Ciener system had a few very interesting points. First, the belt-feed mechanism could be removed from the weapon and it would again accept factory magazines. Second, Ciener produced some of the belt boxes which locked into the magazine well, as in the original design.

We tested them under several conditions with many types of ammunition in semiautomatic and full automatic. We tested it in belt-feed and magazine feed. We tested it with and without the addition of a sound suppressor. In summary it performed excellently. The only drawback was that in the case of a jam it was a “4-handed” operation to clear it and have it up and running quickly, but with a little practice it could be done quite efficiently. It also used a proprietary, modified link that was quite expensive at the time compared to standard unmodified links. These were sold for a few years but were eventually discontinued due to the enormous amount of time necessary to manufacture them.

There are a few current belt-feed systems for the black rifle but nothing yet has reached a mass marketing level. In the March 2003 issue of Small Arms Review (Vol. 6, No. 6), the Shrike 5.56 from Ares Defense (www.aresdefense.com) was covered in great detail as it was due to be released en masse around the time of publication. To this date, it is still being manufactured, released and shipped in very small quantities due to several redesign upgrades and improvements. The great attraction to the Shrike 5.56 is the fact that it works in conjunction with a completely unmodified lower receiver. All attempts at a belt-fed black rifle in the past have required major lower receiver modifications. Like the Ciener, model it can be fired from belt or box magazine but in the case of the Shrike 5.56, when the belt is out, a box magazine is simply inserted, the rifle charged and firing is uninterrupted. There are no parts to take out or change over. We are anxiously awaiting mass shipments of the Shrike 5.56 and will certainly test the newest production model as soon as they are shipped.

Another interesting belt feed option for the black rifle is the XMG from BRP Guns (www.brpguns.com). The XMG34 is essentially an MG34 “upper receiver” designed for use on an M16 lower receiver. Currently in its 5th year of production this inexpensive alternative to an original MG34 has been receiving great reviews for years. Available in 8mm and in .308, they are popping up at ranges nationwide and are becoming more popular with every passing year. They will function in fully automatic when used in conjunction with a registered lower receiver and require only a small (nonpermanent) modification to function.

Seeing a need for a belt-fed black rifle that is inexpensive to feed, the master of the miniatures, Lakeside Machine of Tippmann Arms fame decided to design a .22LR belt fed upper receiver with a similar mechanism to the popular Tippmann 1/2 scale miniature machine guns. (www.lakesideguns.com). This upper receiver, available for both semiautomatic and fully automatic function, was tested in the April 2006 (Vol. 9, No. 7) issue of Small Arms Review. The only modifications required to the lower receiver in this assembly are the exchange of the factory buffer and the suggested replacement of the hammer spring.

Understanding the demand for more ammo capacity than the 30-round magazines were able to provide, the Beta Company, of Atlanta, Georgia (www.betaco.com) worked with Jim Sullivan of the old ArmaLite and the M16 design fame, the original inventor of the 100-round C-Mag. Sullivan worked as a consultant with Beta Company in the early developmental stages of the new Beta C-Mag and with the introduction and advances in plastic materials and its ability to keep tight tolerances the C-MAG as we know it today has developed into an extremely reliable system, all while keeping weight to a minimum.

Mounting Madness

We live in a market driven economy and combined with the simple truth that necessity is the mother of invention, some “solutions” have been presented to us for “problems” we may never have known existed otherwise. In the last several years there have been an enormous number of accessories manufactured for mounting on MIL-STD-1913 rails. Along with these accessories came a mad rush for mounting platforms, and the standard factory handguards on the AR-15 and M16 are quickly being antiquated and replaced with new and improved rail systems. There are several to choose from including the Knight Rail Interface System (RIS) and Rail Adapter System (RAS) (www.knightarmco.com), VLTOR VIS System (www.vltor.com), POF-USA Predator Rail System (www.pof-usa.com), LMT Monolithic Rail Platform (www.lewismachine.net) and many more. All of the aforementioned have been of excellent quality.

For those not needing the precision, or wishing to spend the amount of money those mentioned may cost, some simple handguard replacements have been introduced that incorporate rails into them and some rail adaptors have been manufactured that simply bolt on to the existing A2-type handguards. A few of those have been utilized for testing devices like vertical grips where a slight amount of movement was not detrimental to the system and they performed fine. Other applications like mounting optics or more “load bearing” accessories would probably not be recommended for the latter systems.

All the new configurations and types of intended deployments these systems are capable of bring the necessity of new support equipment. One area where a serious advancement has been made is in the sighting systems available. Electronic “dot type” sights are very popular for close-up work and there are many types and styles. A few extremely popular systems include the EOTech Holographic Sight (www.eotechinc.com), the Aimpoint CompM4 (www.aimpoint.com) and the Trijicon ACOG (www.trijicon.com). While each system has distinct advantages the author is very familiar with the EOTech model 552. It has several settings for use with a night vision monocular as well as the standard day settings. The Holographic Sight is placed in a forward position on the top rail and utilized as usual during normal daylight. During low light the monocular is mounted behind it so the operator can use it at night without having to re-zero the weapon.

Along with the popularity of low or zero magnification electronic sights, the demand for a well-made, high quality, Back Up Iron Sight (BUIS) has been high for use during a potential electronic failure. Several contenders on the market include the Troy Industries, Inc. Folding Battle Sight (www.troyind.com), the GG&G Flip-Up Sights (www.gggaz.com), and A.R.M.S. Inc., #40 Folding Sights (www.armsmounts.com). An interesting front sight is the POF-USA FTA2005 Front Sight. It is not a folding sight but a stationary sight that is hooded for an extremely fast target acquisition and has been found to be complementary to use in conjunction with “dot-type” sights or as a stand alone with the correct rear BUIS. Due to the great number of new sight requirements, many of the modern rifles are available with a removable carry handle. Once the familiar carry handle and rear sight is removed, a standard MIL-STD-1913 rail is exposed to be used alone or in conjunction with these new sights and rail systems.

Another interesting new front sight was recently introduced for the black rifle. It is made by KNS Precision (www.knsprecisioninc.com) and is actually a circular “peep” with a crosshair in it. Initial testing appears it is fast and accurate and we are anxious to spend more time with this new front sight as well as several more of their latest offerings.

As a Catch-22, these new mounting platforms that were spawned from new items in need of mounts have spun off their own items made to be mounted on this newly available space. There are several devices available for mounting on MIL-STD-1913 rails including visible lasers, IR lasers, and lights. optics, night vision, camera equipment and many more items. Some earlier available items that were designed to mount on standard handguards or directly on the barrel have even been redesigned to mount directly on a rail system due to the high proliferation on later models. A prime example is the new rail mount 40mm LMT M203 Grenade Launcher. This tried and true M16 accessory used to mount on the barrel of the standard black rifle and a special handguard replaced the factory A1 or A2 handguard issued with the rifle. With the new rail mounted version, no additional handguards are necessary and due to the nature of the mounting system there is no longer any stress on the barrel as it is allowed to free-float with many current rail systems.

AR Accessories

As mentioned previously, several companies exist today just to service this weapon system. A quick glance around the Internet or any large, stocking gun shop will uncover thousands of items geared toward users of the AR-15 and M16 weapon systems. A look at KNS Precision and their product line will unveil several components for the black rifle useful in simple preservation roles such as pins that are designed not to rotate and egg-hole the aluminum receivers at the thin section supporting the hammer and trigger pins. They carry a variety of sights for target, plinking, competition and tactical applications and even manufacture a set of Spade Grips so you can shoot the rifle in the same manor as a 1919A4 with butterfly grips or an M60D model. We tested these grips in the May 2007 (Vol. 10, No. 8) issue of Small Arms Review and we found them a blast to shoot, especially with a pintle mount and Beta C-MAG. They are well made and functioned flawlessly.

While you are in research mode, take a peek at some of the products in the Command Arms Accessories line (www.commandarms.com). Some of these accessories manufactured for the AR-15 and M16 weapon system look more like they came back from a fact finding mission from the 22nd Century than from Ivyland, Pennsylvania where they are located. With accessories and upgrades from buttstock to muzzle, the only part of the original weapon system that looks familiar is the distinct shape of the receiver section. Watch for a piece in an upcoming issue of Small Arms Review where we take a “Plain Jane” AR-15 and give it the complete CAA treatment while testing it every step of the way. We are looking for something that really enhances performance and not just cosmetics and we have been assured we will not be disappointed.

Back to the Future

There is one unique feature of the black rifle that is as controversial as all other designs combined. This would be the way the gas system of the firearm operates and whether changing it is considered an upgrade or downgrade by the user. The black rifle operates with a direct impingement gas system in the following manner. When the rifle is fired, the rotating bolt is in its locked position in the barrel extension. As the bullet passes a gas port located under the front sight, some gas is bled off into a gas port and directed through a gas tube to the rear. The hot gas pressurizes the gas tube and the rear end of the pressurized tube is the gas key located on top of the bolt carrier with the gas thus exerting rearward pressure on this movable part. This pressure starts the bolt carrier traveling rearward, unlocking the bolt via its cam pin in the cam path on the carrier, and initiating the extraction. The bolt carrier travels rearward, and the projectile exits the bore evacuating the pressurized gas from the gas tube, ending any rearward pressure from the gas system. That time under pressure is critical to reliability and is dictated by the amount of time the bullet is traveling in front of the gas port. As the bolt carrier passes into the buffer tube (concealed in the stock) the fired casing is ejected. Met with a forward amount of spring tension from the now compressed buffer spring, the bolt carrier is returned to the front, picking up a new round from the magazine, loading it in the chamber and rotating and locking the bolt to restart the sequence.

The problems with this particular system are multiple. It is dumping combustion byproduct – “dirt” – into the same place it feeds ammunition from. This leaves a lot of carbon buildup over time and can create function problems when not maintained regularly. The lower receiver and its trigger group are often heavily soiled from this gas system and it is compounded numerous times over when combined with the use of a sound suppressor. Due to the carbon, unburned powder and extra heat following the path of least resistance, the extra back pressure created with the use of a silencer leaves more debris than normal and blowback is often an unpleasant effect inflicted on the shooter. On top of the maintenance issue, which in the recreational shooting world should be a no-brainer, is an issue not often spoken about. As indicated before, the additional debris is carried back into the action of the gun and it is carried by very hot gas. It has been suggested by some people that the effect of these hot gasses under heavier than normal shooting conditions could cause metal temperament problems over time. A heavy influx of heating and cooling could create some structural problems with extremely heavy use.

There are several systems that now use a gas piston system in place of the direct impingement system and Small Arms Review has covered several of them in the past. In the last two years we have examined the HK416 System, the POF P-416 System and just recently, the Colt LE1020 Advanced Law Enforcement Carbine. Fairly recently, Ares Defense introduced their GSR-35 Black Lightning system, which is a drop-in piston kit that takes the place of the original gas tube and bolt carrier. Leitner-Wise Rifle Company (www.lwrifles.com) also specializes in a piston system however we have not had the opportunity to evaluate it yet. While the concept is certainly nothing new, (Colt experimented with a piston system in the 1960s, and there are many other examples pre-dating that) its time certainly seems to have come and it appears to be here to stay.

Other than a brief amount of time spent working with an early “Rhino System” in the early 1990s, of all the systems mentioned above, this writer only has an extensive amount of time on the POF P-416 system at this point. Other SAR contributors have extensive trigger time on the HK416, and will cover other systems in the future. On the POF system that I have tested, there are definite advantages that have been witnessed, primarily the number of rounds it is able to run with little or no maintenance with no malfunctions. The POF P-416 utilizes C.R.O.S. (Corrosion Resistant Operating System) where their major components are impregnated with silicon nickel creating an incredibly slick surface. After firing several thousand rounds, the surface easily wipes clean with only a dry cloth, and after almost 20,000 rounds in one particular test unit there is no visible wear on any of the coated parts.

During initial testing the system was fired in excess of 9,000 rounds with no maintenance or lubrication of any kind and when it was finally cleaned because we thought there was a single failure to feed, ending the endurance test, it was later found that it was a faulty magazine creating the feeding problem and not the gun itself. Another factor that assists the P-416 system in functioning so well under harsh treatment is the fact that there are no gas rings necessary since there is no actual gas pushed back into the bolt carrier. This seems to translate into a firearm that will operate in a harsher environment due to much lighter tolerances. Without the presence of gas rings creating a seal between the bolt and bolt carrier, everything moves much smoother and is less meticulous in its typically tight tolerances.

If there is an immediately noticeable advantage in this particular gas piston system it is durability. On top of the several thousand rounds fired with no maintenance except for the initial cleaning after the perceived stoppage, many of them have been in a succession so rapid that it would have been certain failure for a direct impingement system; melting the gas tube and ending the testing very early on. After years of testing black rifles, the author has a collection of failed gas tubes, many resembling spaghetti found lying on top of the barrel after reaching the point of failure. If there are any immediate disadvantages of this gas piston system over a direct impingement system, this author has not yet noticed them.

Now Left Can Be Right

A fantastic example of how the civilian market often takes its own direction and even has the potential to influence the military marketplace is a manufacturer from New Britain Connecticut named Stag Arms, LLC. (www.stagarms.com). Founded in May of 2003, Stag decided to cater to a percentage of the market who had been all but ignored for years. They completely redesigned the upper receiver, bolt and bolt carrier to eject from the left, specifically for left-handed shooters. Featured in the March 2006 (Vol. 9, No. 6) issue of Small Arms Review, southpaws will never again have to depend on a brass deflector keeping hot brass from hitting them or crossing their line of fire.

The Future

It is the versatility of the AR-15/M16 that has allowed it to adapt and thrive in so many differing environments and it is the modularity of the system that is a direct contributor to its survival and evolution. There are a few companies that are addressing this in ways that could never have been originally conceived 40 years ago and will lead the way into a long future for the black rifle.

MGI (www.mgimilitary.com) has been in the black rifle business for decades. Their upgrades have been chronicled in the pages of Small Arms Review several times including their Rate Reducing Buffer – May 2004 (Vol. 7, No. 8), The QCB Upper Receiver – December 2004 (Vol. 8, No. 3) and most recently The Hydra Modular Weapon System – May 2007 (Vol. 10, No. 8). With such versatility as a quick-change barrel upper receiver that requires no tools and works with original factory barrels, changes in length, style and caliber have never been faster, easier or less expensive. The Marck-15 Lower Receiver with interchangeable magazine wells, again with no tools, allows the correct magazine to be used to coincide with the caliber being fired. For example, if you are utilizing a 7.62×37 barrel and bolt, you can use the AK mag-well and utilize standard AK47 magazines. This ensures the correct feed and presentation rather than redesigning a new magazine around an existing space and angle. Mags are inexpensive, available and reliable. Next in the works is a 9mm SMG mag-well that will utilize the factory Colt 9mm SMG magazines. Several new offerings are in the pipeline, some certain to be out even before this magazine hits the newsstand.

Cobb Manufacturing (www.cobb50.com) has a line of rifles called the MCR (Multi Caliber Rifle) and it is based on the design characteristics of the AR-15, just a little bigger. The MCR is a semiautomatic, gas operated system that can be chambered in a long list of calibers from 9mm to 338 Lapua, designed originally for the SCAR rifle program. They are far from newcomers to the industry and have been dealing with such innovative firearms as the .50 BMG FA50 and BA50 for several years. Teamed up with top-line suppressor manufacturers their systems are well made and versatile.

With the “feeding” frenzy a constant issue as discussed previously, we expect to see upgrades and alterations to this portion of the weapon system as long as it is in use. Just before finishing this article the author received what is perhaps the latest offering to the high-capacity quest to evaluate for a future article. It is the CL-Mag from Armatac Industries, Inc. (www.armatac.com). Resembling the Beta C-MAG in shape, the CL-Mag is manufactured from aircraft aluminum and holds 150 rounds of 5.56x45mm. Finished in a hard coat type III anodized finish, it is intended to work in all AR-15/M16 variants. We are anxious to proceed with testing this new feeding system in the near future.

Conclusion

Since there is really nothing to compare the popularity of this unique weapon system to, with its longevity in both military and civilian applications, it is the opinion of this writer that the sheer ability to act as a chameleon and adapt to almost every environment is the life force behind its ever growing popularity. It has to be noted that many of the upgrades and enhancements are civilian based ideas with no military spec sheet giving them direction. Some of these ideas and items can be looked at as simply “fun” and that is an important aspect of shooting that some of us who are a little too hung up on being “professionals” tend to overlook a little too often. Not everything that is discovered or tested has to have an adrenaline soaked special operations application in mind. Some of the best gear for our professional applications stands a chance of starting out as a light-hearted civilian product, just because it is looked at and designed with fresh, new, untainted eyes. Some of the greatest design innovations this writer has witnessed have come from challenges from people who specifically stated that in their professional opinion something couldn’t be done.

With an ever-changing requirement for the ultimate weapon system in this unpredictable War on Terror, if any weapon stands the test of time it is the AR-15/M16. With a virtual flood of new accessories, upgrades, calibers, finishes, furniture and design enhancements being introduced at breakneck speed, this writer has a hard time even thinking of the day where the black rifle or some form of it is not going to be the basis for our primary service weapon for at least 40 more years.

Author’s Note: While this article started out to be a short overview of the AR-15/M16 and its longevity, it soon became obvious that it could not be done in just a few words. The system is too complex and the changes, alterations and upgrades are far too numerous to simply skim over and condense. Unfortunately, due to space constraints, it had to end somewhere and we were not able to include every single company that offers firearms and accessories related to this weapon system. They are far too numerous, and even a quick glance through the pages of Small Arms Review will reveal several more businesses who specialize in parts and accessories for the black rifle. It is not our intention to promote anyone in particular while leaving anyone else out, nor should either be misconstrued as an endorsement or lack of such in the latter case. We would be happy to put together a condensed Black Rifle Buyers Guide listing every business related to this system in the future, but had no room to so in this article.

At the Arizona State Fairgrounds during the SAR Show in 2003, Frank Desomma of Patriot Ordnance Factory (POF) showed an early prototype of what would eventually become the P-416 Weapons System; billed as the future of M16 weapons systems. He continued to work and refine his new system, and in early 2006 he sent SAR two semiautomatic production models for evaluation: one with a 9.25 inch barrel and the other with a 16-inch barrel.

The POF P-416 with C.R.O.S. (Corrosion Resistant Operating System) is an op-rod and gas piston driven M16 weapons system enhancement. It has completely eliminated the traditional gas tube and the unpopular issues associated with it. It has been stated many times that the greatest flaw of the M16 family of firearms may be that it forces gas and debris into the receiver via the gas tube, directly above the magazine. This is effectively dumping the waste in the same area the feeding takes place. The P-416 appears to completely address this design feature by capturing everything in the area of the gas block and not allowing residual debris to transfer into the feed mechanism.

In a standard M16, as the bullet passes the gas block (doubling as the front sight), residual gasses are channeled into the gas port. The gasses are transferred through the gas tube into the bolt carrier through the bolt key. The pressure created by these gasses causes the rearward travel of the bolt carrier, unlocking the bolt and ejecting the fired case. With this transfer of gas, necessary for this system to function, comes other undesirable variables including unburned propellant debris and heat. With a brief look inside the operating mechanism after firing several magazines, the residual debris quickly become apparent. The extra heat transferred through the gas tube may be immediately noticeable with heavy sustained fire or may take a long time to create potential problems culminating with gas tube malfunctions ranging from gas port erosion problems to simple excessive use malfunctions.

The P-416 operates like a standard M16 in that the gas behind the exiting bullet is directed through a port into the gas block, but that is where the similarities in the gas system end. In the P-416, the gasses contact a piston just behind the gas block and cause it to travel to the rear. The gas piston pushes the op-rod which in turn pushes the bolt carrier rearward. Due to the fact that the op-rod is solid, carries no gas and only travels rearward itself, all residual gasses and debris are dissipated in the area of the gas piston, never reaching the receiver area. The inside of the receiver is not coated with flakes of powder and a film of carbon as is commonly the case with standard M16 variants.

Some people believe that the excessive heat transferred through the gas tube during heavy fire can create a potential for serious problems, even if not immediately apparent. With the bolt carrier and bolt reaching high temperatures and cooling over and over, it may create a problem with the strength of the metal causing it to become brittle over time. Due to the piston and op-rod design of the P-416, these concerns are addressed by capturing the residual heat and debris in and around the gas block, and not allowing their transfer back inside the receiver.

Since the bolt carrier is no longer utilized as a “gas trap” and responsible for the sealing of the moving gasses, the gas rings are removed from the bolt and the gas key was replaced with a special solid key that, on early guns, is bolted into a milled slot in the new carrier. Later bolt carriers in this system are 1-piece units where the “key” is machined out of the same material as the carrier thus forming one single piece. This will further the life of the unit by providing an even stronger impact area for the op-rod and ensuring a strait push rearward to avoid flex problems that were encountered on earlier prototype units. The bolt and carrier of the P-416 are both chrome plated and heat treated to Mil Spec.

The absence of the gas rings on the bolt serves an additional purpose of extremely reducing the amount of friction in the recoil system. The gas rings on a standard M16 bolt and bolt carrier need to create a seal so that the gas pressure is adequate to operate the recoil system. To create this gas seal, there is a necessary metal-to-metal contact that causes the friction. This is no longer necessary with the P-416 system. Upon pulling the charging handle the first few times it is obvious that the system in this aspect is much “looser” than a traditional M16.

POF has taken advantage of this reduced friction property and have compounded it by adding a coating of Silicon Nickel to the inside of the upper receiver and the interior surface of the charging handle. This creates an extremely slippery surface and one that seems quite impenetrable by typical debris such as carbon. It also seems to have a very low wear factor based on the results of our testing with the firearms provided.

Strictly as an endurance test, the 9.25-inch barrel version of the P-416 we were provided with had already fired in excess of 5,000 rounds with no cleaning or lubrication. When we received the gun it was obviously dirty upon the initial inspection. In a telephone discussion with Frank Desomma, he laughed and said that since we were going to test one of his units for endurance, he was confident enough in its abilities that he wanted to send one that had already been used extensively instead of something pretty and off the shelf. When he said how many rounds had already been fired through it, the gun was disassembled for inspection. Though the inside of the receivers were amazingly clean, the amount of built-up carbon inside the Krink-style muzzle brake gave all the evidence needed about the number of rounds that had been fired. All of a sudden the number 5,000 did not seem so high anymore.

As further evidence of the number of rounds already fired, there was no way to remove the gas plug with normal hand and finger pressure due to the carbon buildup around the outside of the plug. The detent could be depressed and rotated to the position necessary to remove it, but it would not budge by pulling it forward. Being assured that no tools would be necessary to take it apart, it was time to start improvising. It was noticed that when the charging handle retracted the bolt carrier and the carrier was allowed to slam home, the op-rod would contact the gas piston which would in turn push on the gas plug. After dropping the bolt carrier in this manner several times, the gas plug was out far enough to get a better grip on it and pull the remainder of the way out. The gas piston and op-rod easily dropped out just by tilting the muzzle down with absolutely no resistance.

This excessive carbon around the gas plug was mentioned to Desomma due to the extreme number of rounds since any type of maintainance had been conducted. Desomma said the lugs of the gas plug will be chromed like the barrel of the plug currently is to reduce friction; but we would certainly find that under normal heavy use, removal would not be a problem. He was correct. No tools were necessary to remove the gas plug at any time and he insisted that the manner we used to remove it would not compromise the system in any way.

The upper receiver was reassembled without cleaning or lubricating of any kind, and the lower receiver we were provided with underwent a little makeover. If we were going to do a true SAR endurance test it would be completed in full auto on the correct lower. A few hours in the shop and a Form 2 later, we were ready to rock and roll.

Given that we had a dirty gun to start with, it was decided to jump right into the shooting phase and do some photography after finishing and cleaning up the parts a little. It was at this time we decided to run several data strings to gather information about cyclic rates, chamber temperatures and muzzle velocities while continuing to severely add to the number of rounds fired. The 9.25-inch barrel seemed to lose around 400 fps when compared to the 16-inch version and a little over 250fps compared to a 14.5-inch variant.

The chamber area temperatures in the P-416 ran surprisingly low, between 80°-92°F after 20-round and 30-round bursts with little time for cooling in between. The standard M16 gas system averaged between 86°F and 120°F under the same conditions. With temperatures being a primary consideration in the P-416 system, POF has designed a special barrel nut that can be used in conjunction with their Predator Rail System that doubles as a heat sink. Made completely from 7075 T-6 aluminum, it will provide a larger surface area and utilizes cooling fins. This barrel nut will draw the heat from the chamber area faster than usual, creating a cooler operating temperature. This proprietary barrel nut also serves to provide strength and rigidity to the rail system by increasing the mass of the area where the upper receiver connects with the system.

Rates of fire were measured using 3 different buffers. We used the MGI Military Rate Reducing Buffer, the Enidine AR-restor Hydraulic Recoil Buffer and a standard factory buffer. The 16-inch P-416 ran extremely slow and was very controllable with all buffer systems. The muzzle rise was barely noticeable with the both the MGI and the Enidine buffer and was slow enough to be at the point where you could actually count the shots. The MGI averaged slightly fewer than 550 rounds per minute. The Enidine buffer averaged just over 660 rpm and with a factory buffer it was still averaging only 690 rpm. These numbers were all recorded with a standard A2 Flash hider. With any M16 rifle system, the use of accessories such as silencers and certain muzzle brakes can greatly affect the rate of fire. For comparison, we repeated the tests with a Gemtech M4-02 silencer and the increase in rate of fire due to the extra backpressure averaged 279 rpm. We found that using the Krink-style muzzle brake on the 9.25-inch POF-416 even increased the rate of fire by an average of 50 rpm.

The Gas Piston in the 16-inch variant of the P-416 has a reversible feature allowing the operator to compensate for devices like silencers that typically increase the cyclic rates. In normal operating mode the piston is inserted with the 3-groove end towards the muzzle. When silencers or other gas restricting devices are used, the piston can be reversed and inserted with the 2-groove end towards the muzzle. In our ROF tests we found that this allowed the rate of fire to remain a little slower with these devices. When we tested this gas piston change, the rate of fire we recorded with the 3-groove end to the front and a Vortex flash hider averaged 588 rounds per minute utilizing an MGI Rate Reducing Buffer. When the Gemtech M4-02 silencer was added the rate of fire immediately jumped to 851 rpm. This is a difference of 263 rpm. When the gas piston was removed and reversed, the cyclic rate instantly dropped to 781 rpm. Simply reversing the gas piston brought the rate of fire down by 70 rpm to a more comfortable 781 rpm. It is important to be noted that the system will not operate at all with the gas piston in this position with standard flash hiders. When the Gemtech M4-02 silencer was removed and the Vortex flash hider was reinstalled, we could not get the P416 to function for more than 3 rounds without a failure to eject.

The rate of fire in the 9.25-inch system was substantially higher than the 16-inch system with a recorded low ROF of 801 rpm with the MGI buffer and a high of 1,108 with a factory buffer. We did not test any sound suppressors on the 9.25-inch system, as many suppressor manufacturers do not recommend use on barrels so short.

The 9.25-inch P-416 system made several trips to the range during the testing period. It was handed to several shooters who were given a briefing on the operating system and they were invited to shoot it all they wanted. Not surprising, several people took advantage of the opportunity. Since we explained that it was an endurance test as well as a standard T&E, several people fired full, 100-round Beta C-Mags, most in a single burst. We lost count of the exact number of rounds fired due to the massive influx of “extra ammunition” fed through it by other shooters but we recorded almost 4,000 more rounds of assorted ammunition fired from our own supply before the gun finally had a failure to eject and was stripped and cleaned. That brings the total to well over 9,000 rounds without cleaning or lubrication of any kind. A simple brushing of the chamber may have been adequate enough to keep going but we used this time as an occasion to end the endurance phase of the testing. The only malfunction encountered during the testing was a broken hammer pin mistakenly utilized when the author installed the full auto parts after converting the lower receiver to fully automatic. The pin was replaced with the correct one and not a single malfunction was recorded until the final failure to eject where we decided to end the test and clean the gun.

The gun was disassembled and thoroughly cleaned. The chamber area was indeed very dirty and there was a little residue in and around the area of the locking lugs. The inside of the upper receiver just wiped clean with a dry cloth exposing the shiny nickel finish showing no signs of wear. The lower receiver had little debris to clean up; mostly a thin film that looked like it had been subject to a heavy layer of smoke for a long period of time. After it was disassembled, cleaned and photographed, it was reassembled and finally lightly lubricated. Every trip to the range since then, it has again been fired extensively and has yet to malfunction again.

The Krink muzzle brake supplied on the 9.25-inch system was well received by everyone who used it. This particular brake had been described in the past as a flash hider, and that statement could not be further from the truth; at least in this barrel length and caliber combination. It was quieter to the shooter than to those observing and seemed to be fairly effective in reducing recoil but it did nothing to hide the flash. Quite the contrary, this brake seems to enhance the flash and force it forward as it does the sound. A short-barreled 5.56x45mm typically has a large diameter flash signature with an ineffective flash hider or in the absence of one. The flash in this configuration is clearly long and narrow creating quite a spectacle even in bright daylight.

The Predator rail system was utilized on both test rifles although not necessary for the P-416 gas piston system. The Predator Rail System is a single unit that acts as an extension of a standard flat top upper receiver. It allows the barrel to remain completely free-floating and under no stress from optics and accessories. It is also completely removable allowing the shooter to access the barrel and the gas system. On the 9.25-inch version we used the P-4X and on the 16-inch version we used the P-12X. Just before going to print we received a newer P-12SX, which has a longer bottom rail. The weight of the P-4X is only .66 pounds while the P-12X weighs only 1.15 pounds. Several variants of the Predator Rail System as well as many of the optional accessories we utilized during this article are available directly from POF. Full technical specifications and pricing is available on their website at www.pof-usa.com.

Summary

POF has created a frontrunner with this system. From the well thought-out gas piston, op-rod and carrier group to the impressive Predator rail system, it is a winner in every aspect. The only suggestion to improve upon the system would be the addition of a small tool to assist in removing the gas plug after heavy use, though this may be rectified by the intended hard chroming the lug area of the gas plug as previously discussed.

The front sight utilized with the 9.25-inch P-416 is another effective design from POF. It is called the FTA (Fast Target Acquisition) 2005 Sight and was well received by all who handled the firearm. It has a “no snag” feature due to the sight post being completely enclosed. The most noticeable benefit during our testing was the speed and effectiveness of the sight and the ability to stay on target even under long bursts of full automatic fire. The post in the center of the circle draws your eye into the center if it starts to stray due to the vibration or normal muzzle rise. An additional benefit to those who would use this system for tactical applications is the hood cannot be mistaken for the sight post under poor lighting, or during the necessity for extremely fast target acquisition. The front sight post stands alone very clearly. The sight is removable if the use of optics without its assistance is desired or it may be used in combination with a zero magnification electronic sight. We found both applications were comfortable and easy.

Since arriving for initial testing, the little 9.25-inch system has been the authors “go to” gun and it looks like that will continue. It is extremely well made, very controllable, looks great and functions even better. With the ability to perform through several thousands of varied brands of ammunition throughout several range conditions and continue to run without a hiccup, it is certainly a winner. Operators who must utilize weapons systems in varied conditions should seriously consider evaluating this system for team use. Their reliability factor can certainly be advantageous for times when maintainance, cleaning and lubrication are considered a luxury.

The compact size of the system gives the user an excellent PDW. With a 9.25-inch barrel and overall length of only 27 inches, it is not much larger than an Uzi SMG with the stock extended, which is only 1-inch shorter. The ballistics of the P-416 combined with availability of dependable high capacity magazines and a sturdy rail system capable of numerous tasks should make this a serious contender in any evaluation.

This test systems inclusion of the Krink” muzzle brake only added to the “fun factor” and for someone who loves to shoot recreationally, that has to play an important role. It has been my experience that any fan of the Black Rifle who has the pleasure to try this system will soon wish to acquire one.

The Predator Rail System

The P-415 / P-416 firearms and upper receivers are available with the Predator rail system. This unique system is machined from a solid piece of aluminum and provides an excellent platform for mounting optics, grips, lights, bipods and any of numerous other accessories. The barrel remains completely free-floating and the proprietary barrel nut even works as a heat sink to keep chamber and barrel temperatures cooler than with standard upper receivers by drawing heat away from the chamber. 1) To disassemble the Predator Rail System first you must remove the two Allen-head screws located on the sides of the system parallel with the barrel nut. These are located at the 3 o’clock and 9 o’clock positions. (Pred1) 2)Next remove the two Allen-head screws located on the top of the system at the 12 o’clock position directly above the barrel nut. After removing those top screws you will notice there are two more screws UNDER the first ones. The second set of screws are holding the barrel nut spacer in place and must also be removed as well. (Pred3) 3) Remove the Allen-head screw at the top rear of the system immediately above the charging handle. (Pred4) 4At this point grasp the upper receiver in the forward assist area and slide the Predator rail system to the front. (Pred5). 5) The upper receiver will now be separated from the Predator rail system Reassemble in the reverse order. 6)You will need to realign the barrel nut spacer (A in Pred6) over the barrel nut (B in Pred6) when you begin.

Technical Specs
POF P-416

Weapon System
Rate of Fire
9.25-inch P-416
14-inch M4 16-inch P-416

Factory Buffer 968 rpm 855 rpm 690 rpm

MGI Buffer 831 rpm 658 rpm 546 rpm

Enidine Buffer 768 rpm 738 rpm 664 rpm

Muzzle Velocity 2,286 fps 2,552 fps 2,688 fps

All testing utilized 62gr Wolf FMJ Polyformance Ammunition. Data recorded with PACT MK IV Timer and Chronograph.

Sources

POF-USA
Dept. SAR
23623 N. 67th Ave.
Glendale, AZ 85310
Phone: (623) 561-9572
Fax: (623) 321-1680
www.pof-usa.com

Wolf Performance Ammunition
Dept. SAR
1125 North Lance Lane
Anaheim, CA 92086
Phone: (888) 757-WOLF
Fax: (714) 632-9232
www.wolfammo.com

Gemtech
Dept. SAR
P.O. Box 140618
Boise, ID 83714
Phone: (208) 939-7222
Fax: (208) 939-7804
www.gem-tech.com

PACT, Inc.
Dept. SAR
P.O. Box 535025
Grand Prairie, TX 75053
Phone: (800) 722-8462
www.pact.com