Colt Today - Pathetic or Prancing Pony?

Published on October 3, 2021
Duration: 20:46

This review critically examines Colt's modern manufacturing practices compared to their 2009-era LE6920. The speaker, a former Colt employee, highlights a shift from high-quality, in-house mil-spec components and roll marks to outsourced parts and laser etching to cut costs. This change, while making rifles more price-competitive, sacrifices the authenticity and collector appeal that defined Colt's reputation for mil-spec clones.

Quick Summary

Colt's current CR6920 rifles differ significantly from older LE6920 models by using outsourced components and laser-etched markings instead of mil-spec parts and traditional roll marks. This shift aims to cut costs but sacrifices the authenticity and collector appeal of Colt's legacy firearms.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Colt's Evolution
  2. 01:17The Pinnacle: Colt LE6920 (2009)
  3. 02:42Current Colt Manufacturing State
  4. 04:03Mil-Spec vs. Commercial Costs
  5. 05:43Marking & Branding Changes
  6. 08:19Technical Discrepancies in New Production
  7. 11:45Market Positioning & Advice
  8. 16:18Distribution & Availability Issues

Frequently Asked Questions

What distinguishes older Colt LE6920 rifles from current Colt CR6920 models?

Older LE6920s utilized mil-spec components identical to military M4 contracts, featuring roll marks like 'M4 Carbine' and specific proof marks. Current CR6920s often use outsourced parts, laser-etched generic 'Carbine' markings, and may lack features like F-marked front sight bases, reflecting cost-saving measures.

Why did Colt shift from mil-spec components and roll marks to laser etching?

Colt shifted away from in-house mil-spec production and roll marks primarily to reduce manufacturing costs and remain price-competitive in the commercial market, especially after losing large government contracts. Laser etching is faster and cheaper than traditional roll marking.

What are the implications of Colt's 'Dealer Direct' program?

The 'Dealer Direct' program restricts rifle availability by forcing dealers to stock less popular items, like certain pistols, to acquire rifles. This limits the number of retailers carrying Colt rifles, making them harder for consumers to find and purchase.

What advice is given to Colt regarding their market position?

The speaker advises Colt to return to producing firearms with proper military-style markings and cage codes, similar to their legacy LE6920 models. This would help them regain their niche as a high-quality mil-spec clone manufacturer and satisfy the collector market.

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