Vietnam Era M16A1 (Apex Gun Parts)

Published on January 16, 2018
Duration: 9:38

This video provides an expert review of a Vietnam-era M16A1 upper receiver from Apex Gun Parts, highlighting its historical components and lightweight pencil barrel. Garand Thumb, demonstrating high authority, discusses the rifle's 20-inch barrel with a 1:12 twist rate, A1 muzzle device, triangular handguards, and teardrop forward assist. The build is completed with an Aero Precision lower, A1 buttstock, and original Colt 20-round magazines, offering a nostalgic and functionally lightweight rifle option.

Quick Summary

The Vietnam Era M16A1 upper from Apex Gun Parts features a lightweight 20-inch pencil barrel with a 1:12 twist rate, ideal for 55-grain bullets. It includes characteristic A1 features like a birdcage muzzle device and triangular handguards. Accuracy is around 3 MOA with iron sights, and the A1 buttstock is shorter than the A2 version, offering a nostalgic and lightweight build option.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Shooting Footage
  2. 01:03M16A1 Upper Overview (Apex Gun Parts)
  3. 02:15Barrel Specifications (20-inch, 1:12 Twist)
  4. 03:10Accuracy and Lightweight Profile
  5. 04:10Muzzle Device and Sights
  6. 05:02Handguards and Upper Receiver Details
  7. 05:36Lower Receiver and Furniture Comparison
  8. 08:03Magazines and Final Verdict

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key features of the Vietnam Era M16A1 upper receiver from Apex Gun Parts?

The M16A1 upper features original Vietnam-era components, including a 20-inch lightweight 'pencil' profile barrel with a 1:12 twist rate, an A1 birdcage muzzle device, triangular handguards, and a teardrop forward assist. It's known for its historical accuracy and light handling.

What is the typical accuracy expected from an M16A1 upper with iron sights?

With its non-free-floated barrel and iron sights, the M16A1 upper typically achieves an accuracy of around 3 MOA (Minute of Angle). This means groups of approximately 3 inches at 100 yards, which is standard for this type of rifle configuration.

Why is the 1:12 twist rate significant for the M16A1 barrel?

The 1:12 twist rate is specifically designed to stabilize lighter bullets, typically around 55 grains, which were common during the Vietnam era. Using heavier bullets may result in poor stabilization and reduced accuracy with this twist rate.

How does the M16A1 buttstock compare to the M16A2 version?

The M16A1 buttstock is noticeably shorter than the M16A2 buttstock. This difference in length of pull can affect the shooter's ergonomics and is often a point of consideration for those building retro-style rifles.

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