Shop for M16 online at GunBroker.com

Welcome to GunBroker.com! Here at GunBroker.com we strive to provide you with all the info you need to make an informed purchase. M16 rifles have a long history of military use and a reputation for innovation and reliability. Use the history and specs we've provided to make a decision on the model of M16 you're interested in purchasing or, if you're selling, to round out your item's description and entice buyers.

M16 History, Specs & Models

The United States Military version of the AR-15, the M16 is a lightweight, magazine-fed, air-cooled and gas operated 5.56 mm assault rifle. Based on the ArmaLite’s 1950s AR-15, the M16 is constructed from a combination of steel, composite plastics, aluminum alloy and polymer components. The M16 operates with a rotating bolt, actuated by direct impingement gas operation.

The M16 debuted in 1962, becoming the latest weapon of the U.S. Air Force. This original version of the M16 had no storage compartment for a cleaning kit in the butt stocks, no forward assist and used a three-pronged flash suppressor and triangular handguards. The M16A1 offers a forward assist and a more reliable flash suppressor but is otherwise functionally equivalent to the M16. This version of the M16 became the standard service rifle for the U.S. military in 1969. Due to its versatility and ability to match the firepower of the AK-47, the M16 became the iconic weapon of the U.S. armed forces during the Vietnam War.

The M16A2, adopted by the U.S. military in 1986, however, is significantly different, with new rifling, a thicker barrel in front of the front sight, a new rear sight and another redesigned flash suppressor, one that also functioned as a recoil compensator, among other changes. Although the United States Marine Corps has retired the M16A2, it is still used by U.S. Air Force, Navy, Coast Guard and Army. Today the M16A4 is utilized by the USMC and some Army units, as it allows for various attachments and accessories to be mounted to it as well as selective fire. There's a reason the M16 is the most produced 5.56 mm caliber weapon. To date, over 8 million M16 rifles have been produced. Built by innovators, no doubt the M16 rifle will continue to evolve as an efficient and versatile weapon.

Buy M16 Models & Accessories Today

Now that you've learned a little bit more about M16 technology and history you should check out our auction pages here at GunBroker.com. Explore our listings below to find M16 accessories, M16 barrels, M16 kits, and various M16 parts. Even if you don't see exactly what you're looking for you can check back later – our auctions are always changing and the M16 part or accessory you're looking for is bound to be put on the block soon.