Mission:
Deter, and if necessary, compel adversaries by enabling individuals and small units to engage targets with accurate, lethal, direct fire.

Entered Army Service:
1997

Description: 
A compact version of the M16A2 rifle, with a collapsible stock, a flat-top upper receiver accessory rail and a detachable handle/rear aperture site assembly. The M4 enables a soldier operating in close quarters to engage targets at extended range with accurate, lethal fire. It achieves more than 85 percent commonality with the M16A2 rifle and will replace all .45 caliber M3 submachine guns, selected M9 pistols, and M16 series rifles.

Specifications:
Caliber:    5.56 mm
Weight:    7.5 lbs (loaded weight with sling & one magazine)
Max effective range:   600 m (area target) 500 m (point target)

Manufacturer:
Colt Manufacturing (Hartford, CT)