Really Not an M16 at All: Colt's M231 Port Firing Weapon

Published on October 6, 2017
Duration: 11:21

The Colt M231 Port Firing Weapon, a specialized variant of the AR-15 platform, was designed for the M2 Bradley Fighting Vehicle. It operates from an open bolt at a high rate of fire (1100-1200 RPM) and features significant modifications from a standard M16, including a unique recoil system and simplified fire control. Lacking traditional sights and a stock, it was intended for use within the vehicle, firing through dedicated ports.

Quick Summary

The Colt M231 Port Firing Weapon is a specialized AR-15 variant for the M2 Bradley Fighting Vehicle. It fires from an open bolt at 1100-1200 RPM, featuring a unique recoil system and simplified fire control, designed for use through vehicle ports without sights or a stock.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the M231 Port Firing Weapon
  2. 01:31Key Modifications from Standard AR-15
  3. 03:00Markings and Manual of Arms
  4. 04:47External Features and Vehicle Mounting
  5. 05:45Disassembly and Internal Components
  6. 09:27Historical Context and Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Colt M231 Port Firing Weapon?

The Colt M231 is a specialized firearm based on the AR-15 platform, designed for use within the M2 Bradley Fighting Vehicle. It fires from an open bolt at a high rate of 1100-1200 RPM and lacks traditional sights and a stock.

How is the M231 different from a standard M16?

The M231 operates exclusively from an open bolt, has a much higher rate of fire, features a simplified fire control group with a sear-only mechanism, and lacks a stock and sights, making it distinct from standard M16 rifles.

What was the intended purpose of the M231 Port Firing Weapon?

Its primary purpose was to allow troops inside the M2 Bradley Fighting Vehicle to engage external threats through dedicated firing ports, acting as a modern interpretation of the German Krummlauf concept.

What are the key internal modifications of the M231?

Key internal modifications include a unique triple-nested recoil spring system to manage high cyclic rates and a striker system that replaces the traditional hammer, engaging the firing pin when the bolt goes into battery.

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