4 Different M4 Rifles to Consider

The M4 rifle is one of the most iconic rifles in history. An AR-style rifle that replaced the Vietnam-era M16, the M4 is highly revered and used around the world. From the M4 carbine to the Mark 12, there are a few variants used in different situations. Here are four different M4 rifles to consider picking up.

The M4A1

In 2014, the U.S. Army phased out the M4 in favor of the M4A1. The M4A1 carbine offers a heavier barrel than the standard M4 barrel. The military versions offer fully automatic fire; the civilian versions do not. The original M4 carbine gained popularity after the Battle of Mogadishu, when Rangers complained that, unlike the Delta Force's CAR-15s, the M16 was too long and unwieldy. Thus came the M4 and then the upgrade to the M4A1, which is built around a 14.5-inch barrel and usually has a Daniel Defense® Picatinny RIS II quad rail as part of the SOPMOD Block II program since 2005.

The Mark 12

If the M4A1 is the all-around carbine, the Mark 12 rifle is the evolution of a special-purpose rifle. The Mark 12 uses a 16- or 18-inch barrel, making it a designated marksman rifle, or DMR. DMRs are meant for longer-range shooting than the typical M4A1. Look for an MK12 that features a cold hammer-forged barrel, which helps align the chamber with the bore as closely as possible. The MK12 uses a 12-inch free-floating Picatinny quad rail for maximum precision. Find one with a Geissele SSA 2-Stage Trigger for the best possible precision.

The Mark 18

If the Mark 12 was meant for longer-range shooting, the Mark 18 is meant for close quarters. Thanks to a 10.3-inch barrel, it's extremely maneuverable compared to the standard M4A1. Civilians looking to get a Mark 18 should know it’s considered a short-barreled rifle, or SBR, which is regulated by the National Firearms Act. Before they can take ownership of an SBR, buyers will need to comply with all regulations, such as getting a background check and a tax stamp. Find one with a lightweight M-LOK free-floating hand guard for a rifle unmatched in size, weight, and performance.

PDW SBR

While the MK18 is short, it isn't the shortest M4 rifle. A PDW SBR, while not an official variant, is the shortest available AR-style rifle. With a 7-inch barrel, it's a ton of fun to shoot, even if you won't be accurate at long ranges. It's incredibly maneuverable, perfect as a ranch gun. It's best to find a PDW SBR chambered in 300 Blackout. Use subsonic loads for great ballistics with the short barrel. Like the MK18, because it's so short, it's regulated by the NFA, requiring a tax stamp before use.

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