Colt Model 621: An Attempt at an AR-Style Export SAW

Published on October 20, 2022
Duration: 4:45

Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons provides an expert-level review of the Colt Model 621, an export-oriented Light Machine Gun variant of the M16A1. He details its heavy barrel, adapted M60 bipod, and unique receiver markings, highlighting its historical context as an attempt by Colt to penetrate foreign markets. The review emphasizes the rarity of these firearms, noting their production by the Colt Custom Shop and occasional appearance on the collector's market as transferable NFA items.

Quick Summary

The Colt Model 621, also designated the M16A1 HBAR LMG, was an export-oriented light machine gun variant of the M16 rifle. It features a 20-inch heavy barrel, an adapted M60 bipod, and chrome-lined bore. These firearms are rare, often produced by the Colt Custom Shop, and are sought after by collectors as transferable NFA items.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Colt M16A1 HBAR LMG
  2. 01:20Receiver Markings and Serial Numbers
  3. 02:11Barrel and Early M16A1 Features
  4. 02:37M60 Bipod Adaptation
  5. 03:54Market History and Rarity

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Colt Model 621?

The Colt Model 621, also known as the M16A1 HBAR LMG, was Colt's attempt to create a light machine gun variant of the M16 rifle specifically for foreign export sales, similar to the Soviet RPK concept.

What are the key features of the Colt Model 621?

Key features include a 20-inch heavy profile barrel (HBAR), an adapted M60 machine gun bipod, and a chrome-lined bore. It retains several early M16A1 features like a cylindrical handguard retaining ring and a teardrop forward assist.

Why is the Colt Model 621 considered rare?

The Model 621 was produced in limited numbers, often by the Colt Custom Shop, as part of export attempts that did not secure significant military contracts. Few have entered the collector's market as transferable NFA firearms.

What does the serial number range of the Colt Model 621 indicate?

Serial numbers in the 9 million range, as seen on this Model 621, were typically reserved by Colt for experimental firearms and export contract guns during the late 1970s and early 1980s.

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