Small Arms Review
  • Home
  • Articles
    • Guns & Parts
    • Suppressors
    • Optics & Thermals
    • Ammunition
    • Gear
    • News & Opinion
    • Columns
    • Museums & Factory Tours
    • ID Guides
    • Interviews
    • Event Coverage
    • Articles by Issue
      • Volume 1
        • V1N1 (Oct 1997)
        • V1N2 (Nov 1997)
        • V1N3 (Dec 1997)
        • V1N4 (Jan 1998)
        • V1N5 (Feb 1998)
        • V1N6 (Mar 1998)
        • V1N7 (Apr 1998)
        • V1N8 (May 1998)
        • V1N9 (Jun 1998)
        • V1N10 (Jul 1998)
        • V1N11 (Aug 1998)
        • V1N12 (Sep 1998)
      • Volume 2
        • V2N1 (Oct 1998)
        • V2N2 (Nov 1998)
        • V2N3 (Dec 1998)
        • V2N4 (Jan 1999)
        • V2N5 (Feb 1999)
        • V2N6 (Mar 1999)
        • V2N7 (Apr 1999)
        • V2N8 (May 1999)
        • V2N9 (Jun 1999)
        • V2N10 (Jul 1999)
        • V2N11 (Aug 1999)
        • V2N12 (Sep 1999)
      • Volume 3
        • V3N1 (Oct 1999)
        • V3N2 (Nov 1999)
        • V3N3 (Dec 1999)
        • V3N4 (Jan 2000)
        • V3N5 (Feb 2000)
        • V3N6 (Mar 2000)
        • V3N7 (Apr 2000)
        • V3N8 (May 2000)
        • V3N9 (Jun 2000)
        • V3N10 (Jul 2000)
        • V3N11 (Aug 2000)
        • V3N12 (Sep 2000)
      • Volume 4
        • V4N1 (Oct 2000)
        • V4N2 (Nov 2000)
        • V4N3 (Dec 2000)
        • V4N4 (Jan 2001)
        • V4N5 (Feb 2001)
        • V4N6 (Mar 2001)
        • V4N7 (Apr 2001)
        • V4N8 (May 2001)
        • V4N9 (Jun 2001)
        • V4N10 (Jul 2001)
        • V4N11 (Aug 2001)
        • V4N12 (Sep 2001)
      • Volume 5
        • V5N1 (Oct 2001)
        • V5N2 (Nov 2001)
        • V5N3 (Dec 2001)
        • V5N4 (Jan 2002)
        • V5N5 (Feb 2002)
        • V5N6 (Mar 2002)
        • V5N7 (Apr 2002)
        • V5N8 (May 2002)
        • V5N9 (Jun 2002)
        • V5N10 (Jul 2002)
        • V5N11 (Aug 2002)
        • V5N12 (Sep 2002)
      • Volume 6
        • V6N1 (Oct 2002)
        • V6N2 (Nov 2002)
        • V6N3 (Dec 2002)
        • V6N4 (Jan 2003)
        • V6N5 (Feb 2003)
        • V6N6 (Mar 2003)
        • V6N7 (Apr 2003)
        • V6N8 (May 2003)
        • V6N9 (Jun 2003)
        • V6N10 (Jul 2003)
        • V6N11 (Aug 2003)
        • V6N12 (Sep 2003)
      • Volume 7
        • V7N1 (Oct 2003)
        • V7N2 (Nov 2003)
        • V7N3 (Dec 2003)
        • V7N4 (Jan 2004)
        • V7N5 (Feb 2004)
        • V7N6 (Mar 2004)
        • V7N7 (Apr 2004)
        • V7N8 (May 2004)
        • V7N9 (Jun 2004)
        • V7N10 (Jul 2004)
        • V7N11 (Aug 2004)
        • V7N12 (Sep 2004)
      • Volume 8
        • V8N1 (Oct 2004)
        • V8N2 (Nov 2004)
        • V8N3 (Dec 2004)
        • V8N4 (Jan 2005)
        • V8N5 (Feb 2005)
        • V8N6 (Mar 2005)
        • V8N7 (Apr 2005)
        • V8N8 (May 2005)
        • V8N9 (Jun 2005)
        • V8N10 (Jul 2005)
        • V8N11 (Aug 2005)
        • V8N12 (Sep 2005)
      • Volume 9
        • V9N1 (Oct 2005)
        • V9N2 (Nov 2005)
        • V9N3 (Dec 2005)
        • V9N4 (Jan 2006)
        • V9N5 (Feb 2006)
        • V9N6 (Mar 2006)
        • V9N7 (Apr 2006)
        • V9N8 (May 2006)
        • V9N9 (Jun 2006)
        • V9N10 (Jul 2006)
        • V9N11 (Aug 2006)
        • V9N12 (Sep 2006)
      • Volume 10
        • V10N1 (Oct 2006)
        • V10N2 (Nov 2006)
        • V10N3 (Dec 2006)
        • V10N4 (Jan 2007)
        • V10N5 (Feb 2007)
        • V10N6 (Mar 2007)
        • V10N7 (Apr 2007)
        • V10N8 (May 2007)
        • V10N9 (Jun 2007)
        • V10N10 (Jul 2007)
        • V10N11 (Aug 2007)
        • V10N12 (Sep 2007)
      • Volume 11
        • V11N1 (Oct 2007)
        • V11N2 (Nov 2007)
        • V11N3 (Dec 2007)
        • V11N4 (Jan 2008)
        • V11N5 (Feb 2008)
        • V11N6 (Mar 2008)
        • V11N7 (Apr 2008)
        • V11N8 (May 2008)
        • V11N9 (Jun 2008)
        • V11N10 (Jul 2008)
        • V11N11 (Aug 2008)
        • V11N12 (Sep 2008)
      • Volume 12
        • V12N1 (Oct 2008)
        • V12N2 (Nov 2008)
        • V12N3 (Dec 2008)
        • V12N4 (Jan 2009)
        • V12N5 (Feb 2009)
        • V12N6 (Mar 2009)
        • V12N7 (Apr 2009)
        • V12N8 (May 2009)
        • V12N9 (Jun 2009)
        • V12N10 (Jul 2009)
        • V12N11 (Aug 2009)
        • V12N12 (Sep 2009)
      • Volume 13
        • V13N1 (Oct 2009)
        • V13N2 (Nov 2009)
        • V13N3 (Dec 2009)
        • V13N4 (Jan 2010)
        • V13N5 (Feb 2010)
        • V13N6 (Mar 2010)
        • V13N7 (Apr 2010)
        • V13N8 (May 2010)
        • V13N9 (Jun 2010)
        • V13N10 (Jul 2010)
        • V13N11 (Aug 2010)
        • V13N12 (Sep 2010)
      • Volume 14
        • V14N1 (Oct 2010)
        • V14N2 (Nov 2010)
        • V14N3 (Dec 2010)
          • Ammunition
        • V14N4 (Jan 2011)
        • V14N5 (Feb 2011)
        • V14N6 (Mar 2011)
        • V14N7 (Apr 2011)
        • V14N8 (May 2011)
        • V14N9 (Jun 2011)
        • V14N10 (Jul 2011)
        • V14N11 (Aug 2011)
        • V14N12 (Sep 2011)
      • Volume 15
        • V15N1 (Oct 2011)
        • V15N2 (Nov 2011)
        • V15N4 (Jan 2012)
        • V15N5 (Feb 2012)
      • Volume 16
        • V16N1 (1st Quarter 2012)
        • V16N2 (2nd Quarter 2012)
        • V16N3 (3rd Quarter 2012)
        • V16N4 (4th Quarter 2012)
      • Volume 17
        • V17N1 (1st Quarter 2013)
        • V17N2 (2nd Quarter 2013)
        • V17N3 (3rd Quarter 2013)
        • V17N4 (4th Quarter 2013)
      • Volume 18
        • V18N1 (Jan Feb 2014)
        • V18N2 (Mar Apr 2014)
        • V18N3 (May Jun 2014)
        • V18N4 (Jul Aug 2014)
        • V18N5 (Sep Oct 2014)
        • V18N6 (Nov Dec 2014)
      • Volume 19
        • V19N1 (Jan 2015)
        • V19N2 (Feb Mar 2015)
        • V19N3 (Apr 2015)
        • V19N4 (May 2015)
        • V19N5 (Jun 2015)
        • V19N6 (Jul 2015)
        • V19N7 (Aug Sep 2015)
        • V19N8 (Oct 2015)
        • V19N9 (Nov 2015)
        • V19N10 (Dec 2015)
      • Volume 20
        • V20N1 (Jan 2016)
        • V20N2 (Feb Mar 2016)
        • V20N3 (Apr 2016)
        • V20N4 (May 2016)
        • V20N5 (Jun 2016)
        • V20N6 (Jul 2016)
        • V20N7 (Aug Sep 2016)
        • V20N8 (Oct 2016)
        • V20N9 (Nov 2016)
        • V20N10 (Dec 2016)
      • Volume 21
        • V21N1 (Jan 2017)
        • V21N2 (Feb Mar 2017)
        • V21N3 (Apr 2017)
        • V21N4 (May 2017)
        • V21N5 (Jun 2017)
        • V21N6 (Jul 2017)
        • V21N7 (Aug Sep 2017)
        • V21N8 (Oct 2017)
        • V21N9 (Nov 2017)
        • V21N10 (Dec 2017)
      • Volume 22
        • V22N1 (Jan 2018)
        • V22N2 (Feb 2018)
        • V22N3 (March 2018)
        • V22N4 (Apr 2018)
        • V22N5 (May 2018)
        • V22N6 (Jun Jul 2018)
        • V22N7 (Aug Sep 2018)
        • V22N8 (Oct 2018)
        • V22N9 (Nov 2018)
        • V22N10 (Dec 2018)
      • Volume 23
        • V23N1 (Jan 2019)
        • V23N2 (Feb 2019)
        • V23N3 (Mar 2019)
        • V23N4 (Apr 2019)
        • V23N5 (May 2019)
        • V23N6 (Jun Jul 2019)
        • V23N7 (Aug Sep 2019)
        • V23N8 (Oct 2019)
        • V23N9 (Nov 2019)
        • V23N10 (Dec 2019)
      • Volume 24
        • V24N1 (Jan 2020)
        • V24N2 (Feb 2020)
        • V24N3 (Mar 2020)
        • V24N4 (Apr 2020)
        • V24N5 (May 2020)
        • V24N6 (Jun Jul 2020)
        • V24N7 (Aug Sep 2020)
        • V24N8 (Oct 2020)
        • V24N9 (Nov 2020)
        • V24N10 (Dec 2020)
  • The Archive
    • Search The Archive
  • Store
    • Books
    • Back Issues
    • Merchandise
  • Podcast
  • Newsletter
  • Events
  • FrankenGun Challenge
  • About
    • About Small Arms Review
    • About Chipotle Publishing
    • Contact Us
    • Other Publications
      • Small Arms Defense Journal
  • Home
  • Articles
    • Guns & Parts
    • Suppressors
    • Optics & Thermals
    • Ammunition
    • Gear
    • News & Opinion
    • Columns
    • Museums & Factory Tours
    • ID Guides
    • Interviews
    • Event Coverage
    • Articles by Issue
      • Volume 1
        • V1N1 (Oct 1997)
        • V1N2 (Nov 1997)
        • V1N3 (Dec 1997)
        • V1N4 (Jan 1998)
        • V1N5 (Feb 1998)
        • V1N6 (Mar 1998)
        • V1N7 (Apr 1998)
        • V1N8 (May 1998)
        • V1N9 (Jun 1998)
        • V1N10 (Jul 1998)
        • V1N11 (Aug 1998)
        • V1N12 (Sep 1998)
      • Volume 2
        • V2N1 (Oct 1998)
        • V2N2 (Nov 1998)
        • V2N3 (Dec 1998)
        • V2N4 (Jan 1999)
        • V2N5 (Feb 1999)
        • V2N6 (Mar 1999)
        • V2N7 (Apr 1999)
        • V2N8 (May 1999)
        • V2N9 (Jun 1999)
        • V2N10 (Jul 1999)
        • V2N11 (Aug 1999)
        • V2N12 (Sep 1999)
      • Volume 3
        • V3N1 (Oct 1999)
        • V3N2 (Nov 1999)
        • V3N3 (Dec 1999)
        • V3N4 (Jan 2000)
        • V3N5 (Feb 2000)
        • V3N6 (Mar 2000)
        • V3N7 (Apr 2000)
        • V3N8 (May 2000)
        • V3N9 (Jun 2000)
        • V3N10 (Jul 2000)
        • V3N11 (Aug 2000)
        • V3N12 (Sep 2000)
      • Volume 4
        • V4N1 (Oct 2000)
        • V4N2 (Nov 2000)
        • V4N3 (Dec 2000)
        • V4N4 (Jan 2001)
        • V4N5 (Feb 2001)
        • V4N6 (Mar 2001)
        • V4N7 (Apr 2001)
        • V4N8 (May 2001)
        • V4N9 (Jun 2001)
        • V4N10 (Jul 2001)
        • V4N11 (Aug 2001)
        • V4N12 (Sep 2001)
      • Volume 5
        • V5N1 (Oct 2001)
        • V5N2 (Nov 2001)
        • V5N3 (Dec 2001)
        • V5N4 (Jan 2002)
        • V5N5 (Feb 2002)
        • V5N6 (Mar 2002)
        • V5N7 (Apr 2002)
        • V5N8 (May 2002)
        • V5N9 (Jun 2002)
        • V5N10 (Jul 2002)
        • V5N11 (Aug 2002)
        • V5N12 (Sep 2002)
      • Volume 6
        • V6N1 (Oct 2002)
        • V6N2 (Nov 2002)
        • V6N3 (Dec 2002)
        • V6N4 (Jan 2003)
        • V6N5 (Feb 2003)
        • V6N6 (Mar 2003)
        • V6N7 (Apr 2003)
        • V6N8 (May 2003)
        • V6N9 (Jun 2003)
        • V6N10 (Jul 2003)
        • V6N11 (Aug 2003)
        • V6N12 (Sep 2003)
      • Volume 7
        • V7N1 (Oct 2003)
        • V7N2 (Nov 2003)
        • V7N3 (Dec 2003)
        • V7N4 (Jan 2004)
        • V7N5 (Feb 2004)
        • V7N6 (Mar 2004)
        • V7N7 (Apr 2004)
        • V7N8 (May 2004)
        • V7N9 (Jun 2004)
        • V7N10 (Jul 2004)
        • V7N11 (Aug 2004)
        • V7N12 (Sep 2004)
      • Volume 8
        • V8N1 (Oct 2004)
        • V8N2 (Nov 2004)
        • V8N3 (Dec 2004)
        • V8N4 (Jan 2005)
        • V8N5 (Feb 2005)
        • V8N6 (Mar 2005)
        • V8N7 (Apr 2005)
        • V8N8 (May 2005)
        • V8N9 (Jun 2005)
        • V8N10 (Jul 2005)
        • V8N11 (Aug 2005)
        • V8N12 (Sep 2005)
      • Volume 9
        • V9N1 (Oct 2005)
        • V9N2 (Nov 2005)
        • V9N3 (Dec 2005)
        • V9N4 (Jan 2006)
        • V9N5 (Feb 2006)
        • V9N6 (Mar 2006)
        • V9N7 (Apr 2006)
        • V9N8 (May 2006)
        • V9N9 (Jun 2006)
        • V9N10 (Jul 2006)
        • V9N11 (Aug 2006)
        • V9N12 (Sep 2006)
      • Volume 10
        • V10N1 (Oct 2006)
        • V10N2 (Nov 2006)
        • V10N3 (Dec 2006)
        • V10N4 (Jan 2007)
        • V10N5 (Feb 2007)
        • V10N6 (Mar 2007)
        • V10N7 (Apr 2007)
        • V10N8 (May 2007)
        • V10N9 (Jun 2007)
        • V10N10 (Jul 2007)
        • V10N11 (Aug 2007)
        • V10N12 (Sep 2007)
      • Volume 11
        • V11N1 (Oct 2007)
        • V11N2 (Nov 2007)
        • V11N3 (Dec 2007)
        • V11N4 (Jan 2008)
        • V11N5 (Feb 2008)
        • V11N6 (Mar 2008)
        • V11N7 (Apr 2008)
        • V11N8 (May 2008)
        • V11N9 (Jun 2008)
        • V11N10 (Jul 2008)
        • V11N11 (Aug 2008)
        • V11N12 (Sep 2008)
      • Volume 12
        • V12N1 (Oct 2008)
        • V12N2 (Nov 2008)
        • V12N3 (Dec 2008)
        • V12N4 (Jan 2009)
        • V12N5 (Feb 2009)
        • V12N6 (Mar 2009)
        • V12N7 (Apr 2009)
        • V12N8 (May 2009)
        • V12N9 (Jun 2009)
        • V12N10 (Jul 2009)
        • V12N11 (Aug 2009)
        • V12N12 (Sep 2009)
      • Volume 13
        • V13N1 (Oct 2009)
        • V13N2 (Nov 2009)
        • V13N3 (Dec 2009)
        • V13N4 (Jan 2010)
        • V13N5 (Feb 2010)
        • V13N6 (Mar 2010)
        • V13N7 (Apr 2010)
        • V13N8 (May 2010)
        • V13N9 (Jun 2010)
        • V13N10 (Jul 2010)
        • V13N11 (Aug 2010)
        • V13N12 (Sep 2010)
      • Volume 14
        • V14N1 (Oct 2010)
        • V14N2 (Nov 2010)
        • V14N3 (Dec 2010)
          • Ammunition
        • V14N4 (Jan 2011)
        • V14N5 (Feb 2011)
        • V14N6 (Mar 2011)
        • V14N7 (Apr 2011)
        • V14N8 (May 2011)
        • V14N9 (Jun 2011)
        • V14N10 (Jul 2011)
        • V14N11 (Aug 2011)
        • V14N12 (Sep 2011)
      • Volume 15
        • V15N1 (Oct 2011)
        • V15N2 (Nov 2011)
        • V15N4 (Jan 2012)
        • V15N5 (Feb 2012)
      • Volume 16
        • V16N1 (1st Quarter 2012)
        • V16N2 (2nd Quarter 2012)
        • V16N3 (3rd Quarter 2012)
        • V16N4 (4th Quarter 2012)
      • Volume 17
        • V17N1 (1st Quarter 2013)
        • V17N2 (2nd Quarter 2013)
        • V17N3 (3rd Quarter 2013)
        • V17N4 (4th Quarter 2013)
      • Volume 18
        • V18N1 (Jan Feb 2014)
        • V18N2 (Mar Apr 2014)
        • V18N3 (May Jun 2014)
        • V18N4 (Jul Aug 2014)
        • V18N5 (Sep Oct 2014)
        • V18N6 (Nov Dec 2014)
      • Volume 19
        • V19N1 (Jan 2015)
        • V19N2 (Feb Mar 2015)
        • V19N3 (Apr 2015)
        • V19N4 (May 2015)
        • V19N5 (Jun 2015)
        • V19N6 (Jul 2015)
        • V19N7 (Aug Sep 2015)
        • V19N8 (Oct 2015)
        • V19N9 (Nov 2015)
        • V19N10 (Dec 2015)
      • Volume 20
        • V20N1 (Jan 2016)
        • V20N2 (Feb Mar 2016)
        • V20N3 (Apr 2016)
        • V20N4 (May 2016)
        • V20N5 (Jun 2016)
        • V20N6 (Jul 2016)
        • V20N7 (Aug Sep 2016)
        • V20N8 (Oct 2016)
        • V20N9 (Nov 2016)
        • V20N10 (Dec 2016)
      • Volume 21
        • V21N1 (Jan 2017)
        • V21N2 (Feb Mar 2017)
        • V21N3 (Apr 2017)
        • V21N4 (May 2017)
        • V21N5 (Jun 2017)
        • V21N6 (Jul 2017)
        • V21N7 (Aug Sep 2017)
        • V21N8 (Oct 2017)
        • V21N9 (Nov 2017)
        • V21N10 (Dec 2017)
      • Volume 22
        • V22N1 (Jan 2018)
        • V22N2 (Feb 2018)
        • V22N3 (March 2018)
        • V22N4 (Apr 2018)
        • V22N5 (May 2018)
        • V22N6 (Jun Jul 2018)
        • V22N7 (Aug Sep 2018)
        • V22N8 (Oct 2018)
        • V22N9 (Nov 2018)
        • V22N10 (Dec 2018)
      • Volume 23
        • V23N1 (Jan 2019)
        • V23N2 (Feb 2019)
        • V23N3 (Mar 2019)
        • V23N4 (Apr 2019)
        • V23N5 (May 2019)
        • V23N6 (Jun Jul 2019)
        • V23N7 (Aug Sep 2019)
        • V23N8 (Oct 2019)
        • V23N9 (Nov 2019)
        • V23N10 (Dec 2019)
      • Volume 24
        • V24N1 (Jan 2020)
        • V24N2 (Feb 2020)
        • V24N3 (Mar 2020)
        • V24N4 (Apr 2020)
        • V24N5 (May 2020)
        • V24N6 (Jun Jul 2020)
        • V24N7 (Aug Sep 2020)
        • V24N8 (Oct 2020)
        • V24N9 (Nov 2020)
        • V24N10 (Dec 2020)
  • The Archive
    • Search The Archive
  • Store
    • Books
    • Back Issues
    • Merchandise
  • Podcast
  • Newsletter
  • Events
  • FrankenGun Challenge
  • About
    • About Small Arms Review
    • About Chipotle Publishing
    • Contact Us
    • Other Publications
      • Small Arms Defense Journal
No Result
View All Result
Small Arms Review
No Result
View All Result
Home Articles Articles by Issue Volume 20 V20N8 (Oct 2016)

The Colt IAR6940 (Infantry Automatic Rifle)

SAR Staff by SAR Staff
November 1, 2022
in V20N8 (Oct 2016), Articles, Articles by Issue, Guns & Parts, Search by Issue, Volume 20
The Colt IAR6940 (Infantry Automatic Rifle)

he LE/Export model of the IAR is black but the same firearms for all intents and purposes. This was the version sold to the Mexican Marines as well as the one sold currently by Colt.

Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

By Christopher R. Bartocci

On 27 March 2008, the U.S. Marine Corps submitted a Purchase Description for the Infantry Automatic Rifle (IAR) to the industry. The Marines were seeking designs which would fit very specific parameters. The purpose of the IAR is to replace the M249 Squad Automatic Weapon (SAW) with an automatic rifle easily manned by a single infantry marine that has emphasis on light weight and portability in order to maximize dismounted maneuverability. The feelings throughout the Marine infantry community are mixed on the concept of the IAR. Some feel the M249 is the center of the unit’s firepower and the belt fed capability is essential to get out heavy volumes of firepower. Others believe a lighter, more reliable magazine-fed weapon will increase maneuverability, accuracy and mobility. Having a magazine fed weapon utilizing the proven M16/M4 magazine would also create better commonality and reliability in the IAR. The magazine feed system on the SAW has been mediocre at best in the area of reliability.

The Marines specified the kit which would accompany the IAR. This included the Matech BUIS (NSN 1005-01-541-1772), Blank Firing Adapter, Grip Pod™ (NSN 1005-01541-1712), three point sling (NSN 8465-01-524-8847), cleaning kit, operators manual and sufficient magazines to hold 300 rounds of 5.56x45mm NATO ammunition.

Close view of the left side of the receivers of the IAR. Notice the Norgon ambidextrous magazine catch.

Performance characteristics including the IAR must weigh less than 12.5 pounds with the Grip Pod™ and BUIS attached. The IAR shall be less than 40 inches in length and demonstrate less than 4 MOA dispersion in automatic fire. Precision automatic fire is required and to demonstrate less than 8 MOA with 5 round bursts. The probability of hit should be a minimum of 2 rounds from a 5 round burst onto an “E” silhouette at 50 meters 70% of the time within 3 seconds of target exposure. The rate of fire of the IAR must be capable of 36 rounds per minute for 16 minutes and 40 seconds without a barrel change or cook-off of the round in the chamber or magazine. The weapon is to have both semi and fully automatic modes of fire and be finished in Coyote Tan. Other features include a four position stock and a handguard to protect the shooter’s hands from heat. Interface requirements required compatibility with the full range of U.S. issue 5.56mm ammunition and use the standard M16/M4 magazine. The IAR must use Mil-STD-1913 dimension rails and a BUIS. The IAR must also be able to mount the standard Marine Corps Multi-Purpose Bayonet (NSN 1095-01-506-3424).

Developmental contracts were awarded to Colt Defense, FN Manufacturing Inc and Heckler & Koch.

Colt Defense was awarded developmental contracts for two of their entries, the IAR6940 and the IAR6940H.

The left side of the IAR with a closer look at the heat sink as well as the Grip Pod.

Colt Infantry Automatic Rifle: IAR6940

The Colt IAR6960 is a lightweight, gas operated, magazine fed, 5.56x45mm caliber automatic rifle. The IAR is based on the time tested and combat proven M16/M4 series rifles. The IAR incorporates the same safety features and human engineering features as the M16/M4 series of weapons.

The upper receiver is made with Colt’s 1-piece upper receiver (actually two pieces due to the bottom handguard being removable) which offers several enhancements to the weapon. A full length top rail spans from the charging handle to the front sight base. Quad MIL-STD-1913 rails permit any comprehensible accessory to be mounted with ease. The one-piece upper receiver provides complete zero retention for mounting optics. The barrel is held by an improved barrel nut offering more bearing surface for a tighter fit. The upper receiver incorporates the forward assist assembly, fired cartridge case deflector and closing ejection port cover. Multiple air ventilation holes are in the forward portion of the receiver to permit more rapid cooling. The receiver is also equipped with the standard GI issue Matech back up iron sight.

The barrel is a heavy 16.1 inch barrel. Extending the length from 14.5 inches was needed to provide the longer range requirements required of the Infantry Automatic Weapon. The barrel is chrome plated with the GI 1 turn in 7 inch rifling twist which permits the rifle to accurately fire the full range of 5.56mm ammunition from M855 ball to the 77 grain Mk262 Mod 0 cartridge. Pinned to the barrel is a bayonet stud which permits the bayonet to be mounted on the longer barrel. Mounted to the barrel is the front sight base/gas block which has Colt’s new folding front sight. With the sight folded, the shooter gets the full field of view with an optic. The sight flips up and down by detent so there is no locking lever or button that must be pushed. On the current production models, the front sight is equipped with a sliding lock that was brought about by request of the customer. Currently all Colt folding front sights are equipped with the new lock. The standard M4/M16 compensator is used which is very effective for suppressing muzzle flash. Attached to the barrel is a unique Colt designed heat sink which increases cook-off time during extended periods of fire. The heat sink draws heat out of the barrel permitting quicker cooling. Another benefit is the heavy barrel extends the life of the barrel over standard rifle lightweight rifle barrels. Attached to the upper receiver is a lower rail which is removed by removing two screws and pulling the latch down and sliding the rail off. To protect the shooter’s hand from heat is a handguard which attaches to the lower rail. Normally that will be removed in favor of the Grip Pod™.

he heart and soul of the IAR is the large heat sink. Shown with the lower handguard removed, the combination of the heavy 16 inch barrel and this oversized heat sink massively increase the cooling of the barrel to make this a truly high sustained fire weapon.

The bolt carrier group is the standard M4 bolt carrier group. Equipped with the heavy extractor spring the bolt carrier group provides no logistical burden for repair or replacement parts. The charging handle assembly is also standard for the M4/M16 weapon system.

The lower receiver as per the requirements has several changes made. The standard 4-position receiver extension is used with the VLTOR E-Mod stock. This enhanced stock is the “clubfoot” design which provides a place to hold with the non firing hand while firing in automatic, The shape of the cheek weld is triangular, which is more comfortable compared to the traditional GI stock. Provided in the cheek weld (both sides) are battery storage compartments which are water resistant. An additional compartment is located on the left side of the rear of the stock which can take batteries or spare part. Basically whatever you can fit in it! There are quick detachable sling swivel mounts on both sides of the stock. Also attached is a heavy duty rubber buttplate. Based on testing, the E-Mod stock stood up to and passed all the grueling drop tests without breaking making it one of if not the most durable stocks in the industry. Additionally Colt uses a new buffer for the IAR, the H3. This extremely heavy buffer is made of three heavy tungsten weights. This buffer is necessary to make this weapon fire reliably is all climates and conditions due to the operating dynamics
of the barrel.

The trigger group is the standard selective fire group. The main difference is that it has an ambidextrous selector lever. The handle on the right is significantly shorter than that of the left. This is so it does not obstruct the trigger finger of the shooter. Additionally the lower receiver is equipped with the Norgon ambidextrous magazine release. This magazine release is equally as useful for a right hand shooter. The left hand can pull the magazine out and depress the mag release with the thumb in one quick motion. The weapons sent for testing for the Marine Corps were all colored in Coyote Tan while LE/EXPORT models are all black.

The IAR used the Colt folding front sight base. Notice the pinned on bayonet lug which was required due to the use of the longer 16 inch barrel.

The overall length of the IAR is 36.75 inches with the stock extended and 33.50 inches closed compared to the 41 inch long SAW. The weight of the IAR is a light 9 lbs 8.oz compared to the 17 pound M249 SAW. The cycle rate of the IAR is 700 to 1000 rounds per minute which is comparable to the M249 SAW. With the IAR’s 16.1 inch barrel, the muzzle velocity with M855 Ball ammunition is 2920 feet per second compared to the 21 inch barrel of the M249 SAW with a muzzle velocity of 3000 feet per second.

Instead of the standard GI aluminum magazine, the IAR comes with the MagPul manufactured PMag. The PMag offers a significant reliability enhancement over the current aluminum magazine in both feeding reliability as well as durability. Testing shows the PMag maintains better control of the cartridge during the feeding process as well as the cartridge strips much smoother. The shape of the magazine enhances feed reliability by its constant curve construction. This means the cartridges sit in the magazine in their natural state rather than sit in a magazine which has two separate bends in it. Additionally the PMag has an anti-tilt follower which also prevents feed problems with the nose of the projectile being pushed into the front of the magazine and stalling. The durability of the polymer used is amazing. During testing of the PMag in previous articles I had run over the magazine numerous times with my Dodge Durango. Picked up the magazine and put it in a Colt M4 and fired all 30 rounds on auto with no malfunctions. Additionally this author froze 6 of the magazines and subjected them to drop and function checked with 100% reliability. Also solvent and water submersion tests were conducted with no ill affect toward the magazine. Another benefit is the Maglevel system which provides two windows in the magazine to allow the shooter to know approximately how many rounds are in the magazine.

The Grip Pod™ is certainly worth mentioning. This outstanding vertical pistol grip/bipod has gained acceptance by the Marine Corps for all of their rifles. The Grip Pod with a push of a button deploys a bipod from the base of the grip. When in the prone position the Grip Pod sits up high enough that the 30 round magazine will not interfere with aiming of the weapon. The strength of the Grip Pod is very respectable. One can stand on top of the barrel and the Grip Pod would not break, it would support the weight. The convenience of having this feature increases effectiveness as well as accuracy in a split second.

The IAR uses the US military Matech back up iron sight.

Firing Impressions

The optic chosen was an AimPoint Comp 4 reflex sight which was battle sight zeroed at 25 yards. There were pop up target out to 400 yards. The ammunition selected for firing was M855 NATO ammunition. The magazines chosen were both the PMag as well as the 100 round BETA C-Mag. More than 2000 rounds were fired throughout the evaluation. No mechanical malfunctions were encountered whatsoever. The rifle was fired single shot, short bursts and continuous bursts of automatic fire. Targets were steel silhouettes at 50, 100, 150 and 200 yards.

Due to the weight, Grip Pod and the shape of the stock the IAR was deadly accurate. While firing burst the rifle hardly moved. There was no problem firing off 10 to 20 round bursts and hitting center mass of a 50 yard silhouette target. On the reactive target range the IAR was placed on automatic fire. Firing short bursts (3 to 5 rounds) there was no difficulty hitting 25 to 200 yard targets. The 250 and 300 yard targets were also engaged but not as consistently as the 200 and below range. With the rifle placed in the semi-automatic mode and the optic changed to an ELCAN 4×20 scope, the 300 yard targets were consistently engaged. The IAR has gone through some very rigorous testing which was what the IAR program was all about. They wanted a sustained fire weapon, the Colt IAR was just that. Testing showed the IAR would go through more than 1,000 rounds continuous without failure. The combination of the heavy barrel and heat sink increased the operational parameters significantly over the M4A1. The M4A1 with SOCOM heavy barrel continuously fires around 870 rounds to failure. These numbers are outstanding for a non belt fed machinegun without a replaceable barrel in the field.

The IAR lower receiver is a basic M4 with ambi selector, H3 buffer, magazine catch, full auto selector as well as a VLTOR Clubfoot stock. An existing M4 lower can be converted into an IAR lower with no difficulty.

Colt Infantry Automatic Rifle: IAR6940H

The second entry Colt submitted was the IAR6940H. This was done jointly with Knight’s Armament Company. The specifications are very similar to the standard IAR6940 but the H utilized a KAC designed and manufactured heat sink, handguard and KAC back up rear sight. Like the IAR6940, the handguard assembly could not be removed for maintenance or to have a barrel change. All IAR models, you would replace the complete upper if you were to have shot out the barrel. Also the KAC heat sink and handguard was far more complex than the Colt and was much more difficult to assemble.

This model was not test fired for the purpose of this article. The model was dropped by Colt following the conclusion of the IAR trial by the Marine Corps.

There was actually a third Colt IAR model called the IAR6940P but this rifle was not submitted in the end by Colt. This was an IAR6940H with the only difference being it was not a direct gas impingement rifle but an external piston. The operating system was basically that of the never produced LE1020. There was never any real explanation as to why the piston operated model was not submitted. It is the opinion of this author that there would have been no mechanical benefit to it over the direct gas. The durability shown by the IAR6940 was exceptional. The rifle never failed in testing due to any “fouling” caused by the direct gas impingement system.

Due to the extremely heavy barrel plus heat sink, a heavier H3 buffer (three tungsten weights) was required to prevent bolt carrier bounce in all weather conditions. This is the only firearm Colt produces in 5.56mm that requires a buffer this heavy.

The IAR6940 has gone on to be a solid member of the Colt LE and military product lineup. It fills a very specific role that nothing else in the Colt lineup will do. It is not designed as a lightweight infantry carbine but an assault rifle that will fill the need of a light support weapon without looking very conspicuous as someone carrying an M249 SAW would. Sales of the IAR6940 have been made to Mexico for use by their Marines engaged in fighting the war on drugs. In the end, the contract went to Heckler & Koch for an IAR based on their HK416. The IAR program has been controversial to say the least. Not necessarily the final rifles tested and adopted but the concept of having a magazine fed weapon replace a belt fed one. Some believe that switching to a magazine fed rifle is a downgrade in the unit’s firepower. Others believe it is better due to only having to carry magazines compatible in all infantry weapons as well as the look of the rifle will not draw as much attention as a SAW would for snipers and so on. The two sides still fight about that to this day. But the M27 IAR has seen combat and is in use by the Marines. The Colt IAR is serving in numerous other places throughout the world and remains a popular military rifle.

This article first appeared in Small Arms Review V20N8 (October 2016)

Author

  • Christopher R. Bartocci
    Christopher R. Bartocci

    View all posts

Tags: 2016Christopher R. BartocciOCTOBER 2016The Colt IAR6940 (Infantry Automatic Rifle)V20N8
Previous Post

NFATCA Report: V18N4

Next Post

New Review: V18N6

Next Post
New Review: V18N2

New Review: V18N6

TRENDING STORIES

  • U.S. NAVY MK18 MOD O CUSTOM CLOSE QUARTER COMBAT WEAPON FOR THE SEAFARING SERVICE

    U.S. NAVY MK18 MOD O CUSTOM CLOSE QUARTER COMBAT WEAPON FOR THE SEAFARING SERVICE

    0 shares
    Share 0 Tweet 0
  • Recreational Use Of 40MM Grenade Launchers

    0 shares
    Share 0 Tweet 0
  • Customizing the Already Custom SIG P320 Spectre Comp

    0 shares
    Share 0 Tweet 0
  • Col. Rex Applegate: The Knife Designs of a Close-Combat Legend

    0 shares
    Share 0 Tweet 0
  • Firearm Review: Pioneer Arms Classic AK in 7.62×39

    0 shares
    Share 0 Tweet 0
  • Trending
  • Comments
  • Latest
U.S. NAVY MK18 MOD O CUSTOM CLOSE QUARTER COMBAT WEAPON FOR THE SEAFARING SERVICE

U.S. NAVY MK18 MOD O CUSTOM CLOSE QUARTER COMBAT WEAPON FOR THE SEAFARING SERVICE

Recreational Use Of 40MM Grenade Launchers

Recreational Use Of 40MM Grenade Launchers

SIG Spectre Comp with AXG Grip Module

Customizing the Already Custom SIG P320 Spectre Comp

Col. Rex Applegate: The Knife Designs of a Close-Combat Legend

Col. Rex Applegate: The Knife Designs of a Close-Combat Legend

New Review: V19N1

New Review: V23N3

SAR|Special

SAR|Special

The Grand Power Q100

The Grand Power Q100

A Fading Star: The star S135 Submachine Gun, That is

A Fading Star: The star S135 Submachine Gun, That is

The Luger Rifle

Where in the world is the Luger rifle?

Book Reviews: September 2016

BOOK REVIEW: Two Great MP40 Books 

Henk Visser Interview: SAR Talks Stoners, CETME, HK with One of the Founders of the Modern Small Arms Industry

Henk Visser Interview: SAR Talks Stoners, CETME, HK with One of the Founders of the Modern Small Arms Industry

The SCCY DVG-1—The Changer of Games

The SCCY DVG-1—The Changer of Games

QUICK LINKS

  • About Chipotle Publishing
  • About Small Arms Review
  • Advertise with Us
  • Write for Us

CONTACT DETAILS

  • Phone: +1 (702) 565-0746
  • E-mail: office@smallarmsreview.com
  • Web: www.chipotlepublishing.com
  • Chipotle Publishing, LLC 631 N. Stephanie St., No. 282, Henderson, NV 89014
Small Arms Review

FOLLOW US

  • Privacy Policy
  • Disclaimer

© 2022 Chipotle Publishing | All Rights Reserved

No Result
View All Result
  • Home
  • Articles
    • Guns & Parts
    • Suppressors
    • Optics & Thermals
    • Ammunition
    • Gear
    • News & Opinion
    • Columns
    • Museums & Factory Tours
    • ID Guides
    • Interviews
    • Event Coverage
    • Articles by Issue
      • Volume 1
      • Volume 2
      • Volume 3
      • Volume 4
      • Volume 5
      • Volume 6
      • Volume 7
      • Volume 8
      • Volume 9
      • Volume 10
      • Volume 11
      • Volume 12
      • Volume 13
      • Volume 14
      • Volume 15
      • Volume 16
      • Volume 17
      • Volume 18
      • Volume 19
      • Volume 20
      • Volume 21
      • Volume 22
      • Volume 23
      • Volume 24
  • The Archive
    • Search The Archive
  • Store
    • Books
    • Back Issues
    • Merchandise
  • Podcast
  • Newsletter
  • Events
  • FrankenGun Challenge
  • About
    • About Small Arms Review
    • About Chipotle Publishing
    • Contact Us
    • Other Publications
      • Small Arms Defense Journal

© 2022 Chipotle Publishing | All Rights Reserved

Welcome Back!

Login to your account below

Forgotten Password?

Retrieve your password

Please enter your username or email address to reset your password.

Log In

Add New Playlist

This website uses cookies. By continuing to use this website you are giving consent to cookies being used. Visit our Privacy and Cookie Policy.

Subscribe To Our Weekly Newsletter

Are you in the know?
Stay up to date with the latest articles.

Facebook-f Linkedin Instagram

Redirecting to External Website

You are leaving the Small Arms Review website and will be redirected to an external link in a 5 Seconds.
VISIT NOW!