The M16A3 - The Most Obscure Rifle in the Series

This 30-minute YouTube video from 9 Hole Reviews features a relaxed compilation of various AR-15 platform rifles and their variants, set to smooth jazz music. The video showcases a range of iconic models from Colt, Armalite, and other manufacturers, including the Colt AR15 SP-1, Armalite AR180, Colt 604 / M16A1, Colt 727 / XM4, Gordon's Carbine, Colt AR15A2 / M16A2, KAC M110 SASS, Colt LE6920/6720 AR15A3 Carbine, M4A1 Block I, Mk12 Mod0 SPR, M4A1 Block II, AR15A4 / M16A4, M4A1 URG-I "Block III", and LSA TX10. The video aims to be an enjoyable viewing experience for AR-15 enthusiasts, with mentions of supporting the creator through various platforms and affiliate links.

The M16A2 rear sights are highlighted as superior to the M16A1, offering a '0-2' combat zero setting for ranges up to 200 meters. The design allows for elevation adjustments up to 800 meters via a side dial, with range numbers visible from multiple angles for ergonomic use in various positions. Despite their advantages, the A2 sights are noted to be surprisingly criticized.

The M16A1 rear sight's 'L' setting is for long-range (300-460 meters), not low light. Unlike later models, the A1's apertures are the same size. The 250-meter zero and 'belt buckle hold' were standard doctrine for this rifle.

FPSRussia showcases the capabilities of the M16A1 Carbine and M16A1 rifle, demonstrating full-automatic fire with various targets and ammunition types. The video highlights the M16A4 variant and features a unique 'Russian style fishing' demonstration with dual-wielded M16s.

This review delves into the M16A2 service rifle, highlighting its historical significance in the early Global War on Terror and comparing its upgrades over the M16A1. The video tests its ballistic performance with 55-grain ammunition, achieving over 2900 FPS from its 20-inch barrel, and contrasts it with Cold War contemporaries. Despite its age, the M16A2 is presented as a capable platform, with a discussion on its pop culture relevance and the modern retro market.

This video details the history and technical evolution of the M16A2 rifle, highlighting key changes from its M16A1 predecessor. It covers the adoption of the NATO M855 cartridge, the controversial 3-round burst limiter, and design modifications for durability and accuracy. The content also includes insights from Eugene Stoner himself, offering a critical perspective on the A2's development.

This video critically analyzes the M14 rifle, arguing its failure stemmed from the US Ordnance Corps' insistence on the 7.62x51mm NATO cartridge over superior intermediate rounds. The speaker details how political and traditionalist influences, including the alleged sabotage of the AR-10, led to the M14's adoption despite its shortcomings in combat, particularly in Vietnam.

This video meticulously details the M16's troubled introduction in Vietnam, tracing issues from early design flaws and procurement politics to ammunition choices. It highlights how non-chrome chambers, incorrect twist rates, and the switch to ball powder exacerbated reliability problems, contrasting with the later M16A1's successful fixes like chrome lining and proper maintenance.

This video delves into the critical role of AR-15 buffers, explaining their function in managing bolt carrier bounce and ensuring reliability across various conditions. It details the evolution from early rifle buffers to specialized H, H2, and H3 carbine buffers, highlighting the use of tungsten for increased mass. The content also covers unique applications like 9mm blowback systems and provides practical advice on buffer selection for different firearm configurations.

This video debunks common myths surrounding the Beretta M9/92FS, detailing its history, military trials, and technical evolution. It addresses slide failures, attributing them to ammunition and high round counts, not design flaws. The review highlights improvements in locking blocks and magazine reliability, emphasizing the M9's enduring capability and safety features.