M16 Copy Cat Build

GA Firing Line

Red Dawn

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I've wanted to put this rifle together for awhile now. So no time like the present. I'm trying to take the best of A1 and A2 put in one rifle. A solid buttstock and triangle handguard a must but the upper will have the brass deflector on it. I'm staying with the 18" barrel instead of 20" with the carry handle sight and front sight gas block going on it. Any thoughts I should be aware of or not forget feel free to share your opinion.

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Top to bottom: M16A1, M16A2, M4A1, M16A4
 
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boss_hawg

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are you going for a clone build - meaning - as close to authentic as possible? or are you ok with some deviations?
 
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Red Dawn

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are you going for a clone build - meaning - as close to authentic as possible? or are you ok with some deviations?
Some deviations from the true A1 will have to be to meet certain needs
 

Red Dawn

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Finding these parts is gonna be a task too I found a Faxon barrel I like but getting a .625 A2 FS gas block that's gonna fit it well coming up empty right now
 

boss_hawg

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obviously the barrel is a deviation and probably a good one to do. i've always liked the 18" barrel for 556.

i'm guessing you'll have a detachable carry handle vs a true a2 or a c7 (a1 with a deflector and a forward assist) for the rear sight? or were you thinking something more atypical?
 
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Red Dawn

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obviously the barrel is a deviation and probably a good one to do. i've always liked the 18" barrel for 556.

i'm guessing you'll have a detachable carry handle vs a true a2 or a c7 (a1 with a deflector and a forward assist) for the rear sight? or were you thinking something more atypical?
Yes I'll go with a detach carry handle sight. I'd like to get long range use with it too
 

dial1911

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Finding these parts is gonna be a task too I found a Faxon barrel I like but getting a .625 A2 FS gas block that's gonna fit it well coming up empty right now


I think I have that FSB sitting in a box (only because I like lightweight profile barrels). I'll look for it tomorrow if I remember. And if I don't remember, shoot me a reminder PM or text. You can have it if I can find it. But I'd warn you that the taper pins have already been cut. Taper pins come with it, but you've got to get the barrel cut to match.
 
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Red Dawn

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I don't know enough about the classics to say which is right/wrong/better/worse... but I can definitely say I like the way you're headed with the build. Looking forward to updates-
I'm learning more about it too


I think I have that FSB sitting in a box (only because I like lightweight profile barrels). I'll look for it tomorrow if I remember. And if I don't remember, shoot me a reminder PM or text. You can have it if I can find it. But I'd warn you that the taper pins have already been cut. Taper pins come with it, but you've got to get the barrel cut to match.
Thanks @dial1911 if you find it I'll contact Faxon or Macon Armory to see about fitting it to the barrel.
 

permaneo vox

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Finding these parts is gonna be a task too I found a Faxon barrel I like but getting a .625 A2 FS gas block that's gonna fit it well coming up empty right now

Yes I'll go with a detach carry handle sight. I'd like to get long range use with it too

Well, a .625 FSB will not line up(zero) with a detachable rear sight. F marked FSBs were not made in .625".
 

Rwjeter

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Honestly I'd like a true A2 upper with the fixed carry handle. I used to have a C7 like @boss_hawg mentioned that I was going to do a 9mm build with. The A2 will give you better long range capabilities though. An A1 or C7 don't have any vertical adjustment on the receiver. Just the different aperatures. All your adjustments have to be with the front sight and I think that will get old. Also,food for thought, the National Match rifles that they shoot to 600 with are actually free float barrels and only LOOK like a service grade A2. I want a NM rifle to take to the CMP so I can try for 600 with irons as well.
 
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Rwjeter

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Thanks @Rwjeter way to blow the budget build into a precision match rifle with one look. That's a great tube for the handguard I like the idea of isolating tension from the sling.
You're welcome. That's what I'm here for.
 
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