Colt CHP AR15 Dissipator

Published on August 10, 2021
Duration: 22:16

This review covers the Colt CHP AR15 Dissipator, a unique A2-style rifle originally made for the California Highway Patrol. The 'Dissipator' design features a 16-inch barrel with a rifle-length sight radius and a carbine-length gas system hidden under a full-length handguard. This configuration offers the handling of a carbine with the sight radius of a rifle, a design born from the federal assault weapons ban era.

Quick Summary

The Colt CHP AR15 Dissipator is a unique rifle featuring a 16-inch barrel with a rifle-length sight radius and a carbine-length gas system, hidden under a full-length handguard. Originally made for the California Highway Patrol around 2002, these rifles offer improved ergonomics and aiming accuracy.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Initial Shooting
  2. 01:15History & CHP Origin
  3. 02:48The Dissipator Configuration Explained
  4. 04:09Gas System Mechanics
  5. 06:39Market Availability & Surplus
  6. 09:14Performance & Handling
  7. 10:11Final Assessment & Legacy

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the unique 'Dissipator' configuration on the Colt CHP AR15?

The Dissipator configuration on the Colt CHP AR15 features a 16-inch barrel with a rifle-length sight radius, achieved by using a full-length handguard and a non-functional front sight tower. The actual gas block is hidden at the carbine position.

What is the history behind the Colt CHP AR15 Dissipator?

These rifles were originally produced for the California Highway Patrol (CHP) around 2002, during the federal assault weapons ban. They featured law enforcement-specific attributes and later became available on the surplus market.

What are the benefits of the Dissipator barrel configuration?

The Dissipator configuration combines the maneuverability of a carbine with the longer sight radius of a rifle, improving aiming accuracy. The longer handguard also offers better ergonomics for shooters.

When did the Colt CHP AR15 Dissipator become available on the surplus market?

Many Colt CHP AR15 Dissipator rifles entered the surplus market around 2013. This occurred after the California Highway Patrol transitioned to using Sig Sauer rifles, making these unique Colt models accessible to collectors and enthusiasts.

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