So many people are so obsessed with tweaking, modifying, and customizing every aspect of their AR that they forget how much work can be done with a basic, classic M4 carbine. It simply doesn't get more solid than this.
If you don't like the ACOG, toss on an Aimpoint M68 CCO (also known as the CompM2). The Army bought those in 2000, so it's authentic to the period. In all the units I was in during the GWOT, the ACOG and M68 were the go-to options.
About to say the same, when I was in Afghanistan all AF had the M68 while all the Army was running the ACOG. I notice he’s not running steel mags, though.
I preferred the comp m2 on my M4 for my last deployment. I didn’t mind the acog on my M16A4 though. Don’t know why but I liked those two separate set ups.
I have a Sig Rattler, some bullpups, etc but my goto is an original Colt M-4. It is from 1993 or 1994 and is still going strong today. It has been painted and stripped a few times and shows her age but, as the saying goes, "careful son, I am old for good reason".
I was first issued the the M16 A4 and later the M4A1 loved them both so much that when FN released the Collectors edition I bought both. Outstanding pieces of hardware.
Retired after 27 years active duty, Bosnia, Iraq, Afghanistan. I loved the M-4 over any M-16, most reliable ever. I bought the FN-15 when it became available for nostalgic reasons. Missing some essentials but working on it. For the price, worth it.
I could just imagine what you and other veterans went through with this beautiful rifle. The fact that it’s still used today by SOCOM says it all. Thank you for your service.
@@builtdifferent244I now have both collector edition M-16A4 and the M-4, simply put, the M-4 is 2lbs lighter, much shorter with an adjustable stock and is far more adaptable to more situations. Yes, the Marines in 2004-2005 did room clearing with M-16A4…After just carrying my M-16 through doors on the upstairs bedrooms, I was curious, all I can say is yyyyiiisshh that was an accident waiting to happen! The M-4 is FAR more suited for that! Hence why the M-4 is so preferred……Although nothing beat a 5.56 M855 out of a 20inch barrel since the original .223 REM is built for the 20inch barrel.
27 years in the army, I had the opportunity to use both the M-16 & the M4. Along with all variants in between. I have to say the M4 was the best over-all.
The feeling you describe is that feeling I had in 1982 when I shot it the 1st time at Ft Jackson SC. I have shot every model since the A1 and took an M4 to Iraq in 2004. When I retired in 2016 the 1st thing I did was purchase an AR, and now I have 4. One being my pride and joy, the 6mmARC. You shot it and reviewed it not too long ago and you loved it.
I've been considering assembling one. I've had most other offerings like Valk Grendel ect. Proof and Xcalibur are just down the road so I'm probably just gonna order a barrel first.
Also....I don't believe that you took an M4 to Iraq in 2003. Only infantrymen, scouts and tankers were issued M4s during that time frame. I know....because I was there. 1ID & 4ID 2002-2007.
Carried a M-16A1 when in the Marine Corps back in the 1970s and later in life was issued a Car-15 (semi only) and later a M-4 with semi and 3 shoot burst. CAR-15/M-4s are nice handy rifles. Batlle Los Angeles was indeed a pretty good movie.
I remember when I got my first AR, it was like 2000 and you had 2 choices, Bushmaster or Colt and they were all $1000+. AK's were a few hundred bucks. It was the best you could get and it was set up just like this but with an Eotech 512. Things have changed so much.
Ha that’s funny to hear. Now it’s that total opposite. We have sooo many options for ar’s at all different prices, where as AK’s are all expensive now 😂. Any decent one at least.
Im a 10 yesr marine vet, combat instructor, and marksmanship coach, and i gotta tell you. As old as this gun is, its just bad ass. Its practical and gets the job done. That acog with m4 or m16 is just perfect. 500 yards, easy to hit center mass
I have a 14.5 double bullet version colt that I finally bought from my cousin last year and it’s my favorite! I kept it as is, but my solution to the grip was a rock river mil spec grip. Basically the same A2 style minus the nub and it’s more of a rubber texture 🚀✨🚀✨🚀
The real deal is the Colt M4 carbine 6920 5.56 that’s exactly what you had if you fought in Iraq or Afghanistan and if your smart you still have one at home
I didnt make it 5 minutes into your video before I ordered one. I got the fixed stock version bc I love that look. You have the best eye for firearms in the industry. Your taste is impeccable.
I built this exact rifle 20 years after I left the service. I loved it so much. I even went out and found the Knight's Armament rail covers and everything. I LOVE THIS RIFLE.
I have one that I used on duty as a Texas Highway Patrol Trooper! I bought it when I retired! I still use it at my current job! Absolutely love it! It's never let me down!
M4 was never outdated, as the platform mostly went through ergonomic changes and uses the same system since its inception. What the M4 has amongst its little brothers is weight, which equates to better handling and mobility.
I built a clone just like this with the KAC RAS and it's become my go-to rifle. It's lightweight and easy to use. Makes you realize you don't need all the fancy attachments to make a good shooter. And unlike most people I prefer the A2 grip because I got large hands, and the angle of it fills my hand the best of any grip.
S&W has been great for me too. I swapped the upper for a 20inch PSA, swapped to an A2 stock. Then bought an Aero Lower and slapped the S&W upper on, and put a carry handle on it for shits n gigs
I have this rifle and will be the first rifle I pick up in a SHTF scenario. Proven reliability and simple with no frills. At the end of the day, I know it will work when I need it to.
I end up buying a Colt AR15A4 and put an acog because of the movie. I also ❤ that movie. There just something about the 20 inch barrel that I love so much. Maybe because the 55gr is smoking coming out of that barrel. Well over 3100 FPS
I love mine (Thank you Primary Arms for the contest win)! Brings me back to my service days for the few years I had an M4 assigned to me. Now I need an Eotech to really have what I had in the service.
You can switch to a Geissele trigger and still be clone correct… now you just need to add a an/peq-2 or peq15 and a Surefire 951/952 for that early GWOT aesthetic
Funny thing, it came out in '94, I was in in '98 and never used one. My gun was an M16 and M203. Loved both, but loved shooting that 203. I've also shot a 240, a 50 and a 60 and holy shix those last two have a bit of a kick but I did love my 16, actually miss shooting it. Thanks for sharing this video and all that you do!
Yep. The guy above claims that he carried one to Iraq in 2003, yet he went to BCT at Relaxin' Jackson. I call bullshit. Only grunts, scouts, and tankers were issued M4s before mid 2007.
If you want to have a more accessible setup for what we currently get issued, Aimpoint CompM4S MOA sight is what we get now. The ACOG is getting phased out. I was issued an M4 made by FN.. absolute surgical precision shooting withe the aim-point when properly sighted in.
Colion, watching you review this FN replica definitely brings back some memories. The days and nights on the USAF Base Firing Ranges, practicing and qualifying, CQB training and exercises, all with the M-4 and a Colt Custom 1911 on my thigh and back. Just fond, nostalgic, memories. Thank you……
Alex Joseph, You can think whatever you want. It’s not worth the time or effort to “fight you” or try to change your mind. So go on thinking whatever you want.
@@burnyburnoutze2nd The Air Force calls them AFSC’s Air Force Specialty Codes. Not MOS. I served honorably, with an honorable medical in 2008. First, 1998 - 2005 3P051, whom are SF or Sec For not SPs…we’re not shore police, we’re Air Force, not navy. Trained in Security, Air BAse Ground Defense, Law Enforcement, and more…. with Advanced Marksmanship School and Sniper/Counter Sniper School. Then 2005 to 2008 as a 3C251 aka Tech Controller.
I served with the M-16A2. Twenty inches. Iron sights. Crappy tri-burst trigger. Loose as your girl after Jody gets done with her. When I eventually got a hold of an M4 for some trigger time, I didn't like it. (I didn't like the CAR either.) I can't quantify why. Weight's too far back? Too much report? Too much muzzle flash? Too light? Maybe. Maybe not. I just don't know. There's nothing "wrong" with it. It just doesn't feel right. To me. Thirty+ years later, my Jackrabbit gun is a mid length Savage MSR Recon, not some A2 pattern replica, and I absolutely love it. It's blue jeans. It's an old pickup truck. It's chicken noodle soup when you don't feel well. So it's not just a matter of what I had got used to. Functionally, they're all mostly the same. Subtle differences and personal preference don't always fit some formula. We like what we like. We don't what we don't. The most important thing is to find one you love that'll last and use it a lot. Life's too short to argue intangibles. Semper Fi/Semper Gumby.
Some of the features: 1) The carbine length gas system so that you can shear off bolt locking lugs, break the extractor, or break the bolt at the cam pin hole. 2)The heavy aluminum quad rail handguard to burn you hand after it rips through you gloves. 3) Rail covers? Those rails exist for the rail covers. 4) The A2 pistol grip is horrible, and that's coming from a marine that was issued a bunch of M16A2s. 5) The heavy mil-spec trigger that can jam when the buffer retaining pin snaps off and get's lodged into it because the carbine length gas system is slamming the BCG a little too hard. 6)Heavier recoil than usual for a 5.56 because of the carbine length gas system. Oh, and because it's FN, you can buy it all at a BIG mark up over what the US military was getting them for. Buy one if you're gear-queer and have a bunch of cash to burn, otherwise look somewhere else with mid length or rifle length gas system.
After 14 years wearing the cloth of our nation, I couldn't continue to be an enthusiast without one. This rifle type is part of me now, like a favorite blanket or pair of socks. It's home.
As someone who didn’t jump on the Gucci AR’s bandwagon (and I’m only 33) all my AR platforms are set up to be as close to the M4 as possible. You’re late to the show but welcome
I'm 62 and I had an original M16a1 which said "XM15 which was crossed out and then said M16A1".. I also at one base had an H&R M16.. while in the Army.. I love the barrels on the FN's and the Colts, Armalites, etc.. which have the chrome lined barrels.. I love porches too.. My neighbor had like a 60's model for many years and it was gorgeous.. Very cool.. Thanks man! Tim
The ACOG was always a love-hate relationship for me when i was issued one. However, utilizing the bindon aiming concept, you can be surprisingly fast with an ACOG . Also, the field of view is fantastic. I preferred the Trijicon SDO's reticle with RMR at the 12 o clock position more than the chevron of the ACOG, but that came to be more common as I was transitioning out of the military.
Both of my AR-15's have full lenth M Lok Picatinny full length, free float handguards. I know they're very useful for accessories, and keeping weight down. But, there's a lot to be said for the standard AR-15 with the A front site with bayonet lug, and carry handle rear site. If I had to do it again, I would have bought one of those as my 2nd AR-15.
It's a perfect combat weapon designed for heavy use the trigger will break in for sure remember these weapons are designed for heavy use as an old hunter the fixed power will make you better with judging distances if you grew up with a BB gun you would understand nice add to the collection
I made mine. Colt le6920 with le serial number. Instead of knights armament, P&S ras rail (P&S was contracted when knights armament could not keep up with demand. Has its own military cage code) m4 side sling mount with crappy nylon sling. Trijicon m150 acog with green reticle. Streamlight hlx with arisaka mount and pressure pad. I also have the option of taking off the acog and putting on aimpoint comp m4 (m68 CCO).
@@blackticalmayhem8461 Thank you for your service. I was never in the military, just fascinated with weapons history and development. I also like military history, but I didn't have the balls to put myself in a situation to be shot at. Did you carry the m4 or the m4a1?
6 years ago, I picked up a Colt M4 LE carbine - minus the ACOG, it's basically the same rifle. Love it. I installed Troy rail covers on mine, and they stay put. I have a broomhandle on mine, but I have the folding one, not the fixed one, and it does have play in it, but I like the folding feature, and it's fine if you hold it tight when firing. It also has removeable side plates on the handle, so you can mount a pressure pad for lights/etc. I also have the military buttpad, which, on the standard carbine stock with no body armor, is a nice thing. The reason for the ACOG is - as you said - it's bulletproof: no batteries that need to be replaced. The only other M4's that I'd buy, would be FN's, H&K's, and POF's. They just run, and run, and run.
Excellent review colion as always. You pretty much nailed it on this one. I have a few pimped our ar's and i just recently built an m4a1 clone almost identical to what you have there and i have to say it is everything you said and more! And just the feeling it gives you words can't really describe. It is now my favorite rifle and will be my go to from now on. All i need for it is to find a m951 light and shes pretty much complete ❤ keep up the great work and stay safe
I'm making this its own comment because of the gripe about fixed 4x optic for 100 meters or less.. intersting thing about the ACOG: if you had the carry handle rear sight, even if it was a removable carry handle rear sight... the acog would mount to that carry handle and you'd still be able to use the iron sights *underneath* the acog. ACOG having been invented back when M16A2 was *the* rifle.. that optic (if it's a proper ACOG) was made to mount directly to the hole in the carry handle and still allow usage of the iron sights. Before a removable carry handle rear sight was even a thing. And then when they came up with the removable carry handle rear iron sight for the M4... they stuck with the design that facilitated being able to use the irons under the ACOG. So maybe go get you a removable carry handle rear iron sight for that rifle and you'll still be within the "old school" realm of how things were done in the early days of the M4, and you'll have iron sights as well as the acog. Another fun fact about the ACOG, even at 4x: it's magically good at shooting with both eyes open, particularly closer range. There's just something about the optic that makes it to where your brain can kinda overlay the optic and where the rifle is aiming, on top of your left eye, and it just works for cqb
Democrats here in Kalifornistan would say the M4 is the epitome of evil. It has all the scary evil features they just hate. Semi-auto, broom stick handle, plastic adjustable stock, flash hider, standard capacity magazine that actually drops when you hit the mag release. Spooky. I say God Bless America. Thank you FN. Thank you Colion.
as an AK enjoyer this is the type of AR I like the most. The quad rail handguard, the triangular front sight post, the sopmod barrel, them picatinny covers... To me this is the goat
My first experience with this type of firearm was at Fort Leonard Hood, Mo back in 1974. My last issued version of this was a Colt M4. They are dependable and simply always put steel on target. I really enjoyed this review and own this FN. Great shooter and just feels right. It's in the safe right next to my personal Colt M4. They just feel "right'. Old School rocks. Thanks
Battle Los Angeles! YES! But their M4s are 20in I think and yours looks like a 16in. I love the FN15. It just feels solid in the hand. I lust after one and don't have it yet. I will though.
I’ve been planning to build one of these with PSA parts and a Franklin Armory binary trigger, though all I’ve got is the lower receiver that’s been sitting around for months collecting dust.
Building AR’s is a weekend hobby for me, so while purchasing is definitely more convenient, I just feel more satisfied if it’s for personal enjoyment, same for my retro 300 blackout based on the Colt 607.
@@aaronskuse2207 yeah building your own can often cost the same or more anyways and you have to make sure it’s functioning; almost like the Polly 80 pistol kits; those almost cost the same as getting a brand new glock and take a lot more time putting it together if you don’t know what you’re doing or first timer.
I snagged one of these a while ago. Threw a Comp M4 and a PEQ 15 on it and then added an H2 buffer and Sprinco blue spring and it’s a load of fun. Brings be back to the old days for sure
My last unit was an infantry reconnaissance unit I was issued an FN m4 prior to my 5th deployment. I beat the ever loving shit outta that ol’ girl in the Hindu Kush I have a deep respect for her my friend. Excellent review of the rifle.
Take it you’ve never heard of long range surveillance (LRS) or R&S? Infantry reconnaissance isn’t a mythical creature. I retired in 2014 as a lot of the active components LRS or R&S units were heading towards deactivation. Last I heard LRS and R&S units are no longer. With the conventional army opting to keep a few RSTA units.
If you have an issue with the acog being slower, get the newer TA31RCO. It's a little smaller to help with weight, it has better eye relief, and it's what is in current use in US armories. Also as for red dots, you can still use a PEQ-15 on the top rail as it has a gap in the middle specifically for the FSP. Also would recommend either a top mounted or, if you are a man of culture, an offset RMR. Edit: for those of you who are curious, I was a Corpsman with 1st medical BN in Pendleton, and I had a lot of time in the armory with a few of my marines brothers.
I carried a USGI M16A2 for a year in afghanistan.. That rifle was my wife. It went to breakfast with me. It went to work with me (and stayed within arms reach while wrenching on equipment). It went to lunch with me. It went to work with me. It went to dinner with me. It went to the hooch. It went to the shitter. It went to the shower. It went back to the hooch. And I even held my rifle while I slept with the sling wrapped around my arm just the same way I came up with when Drill Sgts started trying to take rifles from us while we were sleeping at FT BENNING BCT. That rifle was my shadow for A YEAR. This new "slick & modern" stuff without a bayonet lug.. is crap to me. And yes I do have the bayonet for that lug. I really wish more made rifles with the bayonet in mind. I'd certainly like to see that USGI A2 style gas block but with a rail instead of the front sight, and yep.. the bayonet lug. And be able to do rails without having to do delta ring, while - yep - having that bayonet lug. A rifle without a bayonet lug.. is just not right. Find you a bayonet to go with this rifle.. and run some bayonet training course. Kinda like you've done FBI shotgun qual. You'll understand. & the bayonet might even become a fixture on your LBE. I will say though.. even if I could get my bayonet lug gas block with a rail atop it.. there would be canted iron sights on the rifle for backup to whatever optic I put (ideally a trijicon acog 4x).
fantastic detail Colion, l served in the military and employed this weapon and it served it purpose, it was enjoyable to fire and learn how it operated. Thank you for sharing!
My M4 was a colt. It was burst not Auto. I had a surefire scout light at 3 o'clock, a PEQ4 at 12 o'clock, a TAO1 NSN (no fiber optic) and a two point sling. 2006-2007 Afghanistan.
I was a Cold War Era Veteran shooting the M16 AT2’s with the iron sights. The word you used to sum up this M4 style rifle is “classic.” Agreed. Some AR rifle combos work well and this seems to be one of them. Love the humor with the use of your movie clips.
So many people are so obsessed with tweaking, modifying, and customizing every aspect of their AR that they forget how much work can be done with a basic, classic M4 carbine. It simply doesn't get more solid than this.
Kept clean, it's an extremely reliable Rifle. It does everything you need it to do. I kinda want to get a Replica of the one I had in Iraq.
Amen brother. I see guys with the new furniture on their rifles and i think. Wow. All that money to makenit look great but the basic still goes bang.
Especially when you buy a COLT M4
If you don't like the ACOG, toss on an Aimpoint M68 CCO (also known as the CompM2). The Army bought those in 2000, so it's authentic to the period. In all the units I was in during the GWOT, the ACOG and M68 were the go-to options.
About to say the same, when I was in Afghanistan all AF had the M68 while all the Army was running the ACOG. I notice he’s not running steel mags, though.
I preferred the comp m2 on my M4 for my last deployment. I didn’t mind the acog on my M16A4 though. Don’t know why but I liked those two separate set ups.
I remember trying to range qual the red dot. And it was so easy to hit targets 300m and below.
@@hailtothe_rooster1572 same here 👍🏽
Comp 4s are also issued under the same designation.
I have a Sig Rattler, some bullpups, etc but my goto is an original Colt M-4. It is from 1993 or 1994 and is still going strong today. It has been painted and stripped a few times and shows her age but, as the saying goes, "careful son, I am old for good reason".
I was first issued the the M16 A4 and later the M4A1 loved them both so much that when FN released the Collectors edition I bought both. Outstanding pieces of hardware.
Retired after 27 years active duty, Bosnia, Iraq, Afghanistan. I loved the M-4 over any M-16, most reliable ever. I bought the FN-15 when it became available for nostalgic reasons. Missing some essentials but working on it. For the price, worth it.
Nice and simple set up
just curious why do you prefer the m4 over the m16?
Could you not just replace the upper with a FN south Carolina manufactured chrome lined upper?
I could just imagine what you and other veterans went through with this beautiful rifle. The fact that it’s still used today by SOCOM says it all. Thank you for your service.
@@builtdifferent244I now have both collector edition M-16A4 and the M-4, simply put, the M-4 is 2lbs lighter, much shorter with an adjustable stock and is far more adaptable to more situations. Yes, the Marines in 2004-2005 did room clearing with M-16A4…After just carrying my M-16 through doors on the upstairs bedrooms, I was curious, all I can say is yyyyiiisshh that was an accident waiting to happen! The M-4 is FAR more suited for that! Hence why the M-4 is so preferred……Although nothing beat a 5.56 M855 out of a 20inch barrel since the original .223 REM is built for the 20inch barrel.
27 years in the army, I had the opportunity to use both the M-16 & the M4. Along with all variants in between. I have to say the M4 was the best over-all.
The feeling you describe is that feeling I had in 1982 when I shot it the 1st time at Ft Jackson SC. I have shot every model since the A1 and took an M4 to Iraq in 2004. When I retired in 2016 the 1st thing I did was purchase an AR, and now I have 4. One being my pride and joy, the 6mmARC. You shot it and reviewed it not too long ago and you loved it.
I've been considering assembling one. I've had most other offerings like Valk Grendel ect. Proof and Xcalibur are just down the road so I'm probably just gonna order a barrel first.
Did you serve 34 years active? I did 4 year USMC 3 tours in Iraq. That solidified no reenlistment.
@@gallynuts 22 total, I had a 13 year break in service, had that itch of unfinished business. Civilian world was not kind to me in the 90s.
Ft Jackson....lol. Tell us you're a POG without telling us you're a POG.
Also....I don't believe that you took an M4 to Iraq in 2003. Only infantrymen, scouts and tankers were issued M4s during that time frame. I know....because I was there. 1ID & 4ID 2002-2007.
As a fellow lover of Battle: Los Angeles I totally agree that it is an underrated movie.
Carried a M-16A1 when in the Marine Corps back in the 1970s and later in life was issued a Car-15 (semi only) and later a M-4 with semi and 3 shoot burst. CAR-15/M-4s are nice handy rifles. Batlle Los Angeles was indeed a pretty good movie.
The m4 just has that “look” imo. And there is just something about the Knights Armament RAS rail system with a fixed front sight, just so sexy
I remember when I got my first AR, it was like 2000 and you had 2 choices, Bushmaster or Colt and they were all $1000+. AK's were a few hundred bucks. It was the best you could get and it was set up just like this but with an Eotech 512. Things have changed so much.
yeah, I got the Bushy M4 Patrolman's Carbine in 2005
Ha that’s funny to hear. Now it’s that total opposite. We have sooo many options for ar’s at all different prices, where as AK’s are all expensive now 😂. Any decent one at least.
@@9770Gfor sure. I paid around 230 for my first wasr ak. Ar’s were pricey
Yo tambien
I have the Colt LE6920, love it!
Im a 10 yesr marine vet, combat instructor, and marksmanship coach, and i gotta tell you. As old as this gun is, its just bad ass. Its practical and gets the job done. That acog with m4 or m16 is just perfect. 500 yards, easy to hit center mass
I love my Colt M4 Carbine it's one of my go-to range rifles, durable, reliable, and accurate.
I have a 14.5 double bullet version colt that I finally bought from my cousin last year and it’s my favorite! I kept it as is, but my solution to the grip was a rock river mil spec grip. Basically the same A2 style minus the nub and it’s more of a rubber texture
🚀✨🚀✨🚀
You cant beat a colt
@davidgosnell5901 exactly, I modeled mine after the movie Battleship. Simple but clean 👌
Battle for LA is absolutely an underrated gem. The pg-13 rating meant the language didn't feel authentic... but the tone felt spot on.
The real deal is the Colt M4 carbine 6920 5.56 that’s exactly what you had if you fought in Iraq or Afghanistan and if your smart you still have one at home
@@ie4299so your saying you stole your service rifle?
We had FN M4 and M16 in Iraq and Afghan later on too. @@ie4299
I didnt make it 5 minutes into your video before I ordered one. I got the fixed stock version bc I love that look. You have the best eye for firearms in the industry. Your taste is impeccable.
Must be nice to be able to do that.
I went in to battle Los Angeles thinking it looked dumb, but you are so right, it's really good.
My first ar15. I shoot it once a month. You just can't beat it. Thanks for this.
I built this exact rifle 20 years after I left the service. I loved it so much. I even went out and found the Knight's Armament rail covers and everything. I LOVE THIS RIFLE.
You brought back the M4 in a way that I haven’t felt since before 2010. Thank you
I have one that I used on duty as a Texas Highway Patrol Trooper! I bought it when I retired! I still use it at my current job! Absolutely love it! It's never let me down!
M4 was never outdated, as the platform mostly went through ergonomic changes and uses the same system since its inception. What the M4 has amongst its little brothers is weight, which equates to better handling and mobility.
I built a clone just like this with the KAC RAS and it's become my go-to rifle. It's lightweight and easy to use. Makes you realize you don't need all the fancy attachments to make a good shooter. And unlike most people I prefer the A2 grip because I got large hands, and the angle of it fills my hand the best of any grip.
Running two S&W m4s. They have never had an issue through thousands of rounds. FN is good stuff.
My S&W has been flawless , I’ve had it so long that I can’t remember when I bought it , it was their first time in the AR market
S&W has been great for me too. I swapped the upper for a 20inch PSA, swapped to an A2 stock. Then bought an Aero Lower and slapped the S&W upper on, and put a carry handle on it for shits n gigs
I also loved Battle LA. It's novel to have an invasion movie where the alien’s aren’t wizards with magic plot armor technology.
And the interplay amongst the squad is legit
I've got an older Bushmaster with a "Carry Handle" that I like for all the same reasons! Looks like FN did a fine job on that one too! ❤❤❤
I have this rifle and will be the first rifle I pick up in a SHTF scenario. Proven reliability and simple with no frills. At the end of the day, I know it will work when I need it to.
I end up buying a Colt AR15A4 and put an acog because of the movie. I also ❤ that movie. There just something about the 20 inch barrel that I love so much. Maybe because the 55gr is smoking coming out of that barrel. Well over 3100 FPS
Oh yeah, you will like the A4!
I thought I was crazy for liking Battle Los Angeles. Happy to find out that I am not alone.
My first AR at all was FN’s collector series M16
I love mine (Thank you Primary Arms for the contest win)! Brings me back to my service days for the few years I had an M4 assigned to me. Now I need an Eotech to really have what I had in the service.
ACOGs are awesome and bomb proof. The 83 911 Turbo is chefs kisses.
You can switch to a Geissele trigger and still be clone correct… now you just need to add a an/peq-2 or peq15 and a Surefire 951/952 for that early GWOT aesthetic
Nah, early gwot would have been the spa-defense 120 ...
Funny thing, it came out in '94, I was in in '98 and never used one. My gun was an M16 and M203. Loved both, but loved shooting that 203. I've also shot a 240, a 50 and a 60 and holy shix those last two have a bit of a kick but I did love my 16, actually miss shooting it. Thanks for sharing this video and all that you do!
Fn also has a clone m16 get back to shooting that m16
Yep. The guy above claims that he carried one to Iraq in 2003, yet he went to BCT at Relaxin' Jackson. I call bullshit. Only grunts, scouts, and tankers were issued M4s before mid 2007.
Classics don't age, they mature. And get better with time.. I'm really into old school rifles simple and effective.
If you want to have a more accessible setup for what we currently get issued, Aimpoint CompM4S MOA sight is what we get now.
The ACOG is getting phased out. I was issued an M4 made by FN.. absolute surgical precision shooting withe the aim-point when properly sighted in.
“I am Legend” is the reason I’ve always wanted this exact setup.
I’ve got the FN M16A4 a few weeks a lot. I love it
Like a classic muscle car.
I have a Colt version. There is definitely something about it that makes you appreciate that while it’s “old” it still makes sense.
I don’t care which is better. Both are more collector type items to me anyways.
Colion, watching you review this FN replica definitely brings back some memories. The days and nights on the USAF Base Firing Ranges, practicing and qualifying, CQB training and exercises, all with the M-4 and a Colt Custom 1911 on my thigh and back. Just fond, nostalgic, memories.
Thank you……
Alex Joseph,
You can think whatever you want. It’s not worth the time or effort to “fight you” or try to change your mind. So go on thinking whatever you want.
@@jayhughes1957 You could at least mention your years of service, unit(s) and MOS
@@burnyburnoutze2nd The Air Force calls them AFSC’s Air Force Specialty Codes. Not MOS. I served honorably, with an honorable medical in 2008. First, 1998 - 2005 3P051, whom are SF or Sec For not SPs…we’re not shore police, we’re Air Force, not navy. Trained in Security, Air BAse Ground Defense, Law Enforcement, and more…. with Advanced Marksmanship School and Sniper/Counter Sniper School. Then 2005 to 2008 as a 3C251 aka Tech Controller.
can't wait for the m16 video. I feel the same way about the m16 as you do about the m4.
the m16 is why I got into the ar platform.
I'm really into old school rifles simple and effective
Same I hate the look of modern AR 😂 the long rail looks stupid to me
Lol @ the basic M4 being called classic and old fashioned.
@@blackticalmayhem8461 Honestly I hated the long rails look too but over time it grew on me.
I don't know how I feel about my once issued rifle being regarded as "old school".
@@AKOuterheaven lol getting old too...
I served with the M-16A2. Twenty inches. Iron sights. Crappy tri-burst trigger. Loose as your girl after Jody gets done with her. When I eventually got a hold of an M4 for some trigger time, I didn't like it. (I didn't like the CAR either.) I can't quantify why. Weight's too far back? Too much report? Too much muzzle flash? Too light? Maybe. Maybe not. I just don't know. There's nothing "wrong" with it. It just doesn't feel right. To me. Thirty+ years later, my Jackrabbit gun is a mid length Savage MSR Recon, not some A2 pattern replica, and I absolutely love it. It's blue jeans. It's an old pickup truck. It's chicken noodle soup when you don't feel well. So it's not just a matter of what I had got used to. Functionally, they're all mostly the same. Subtle differences and personal preference don't always fit some formula. We like what we like. We don't what we don't. The most important thing is to find one you love that'll last and use it a lot. Life's too short to argue intangibles.
Semper Fi/Semper Gumby.
I'd rock the 20" A4 in shtf
Get the colt and save like 3-400$
I was Army, 11B, I loved my m4 and to me it was perfect. I love how FN has a replica of what I’m used to.
4:13 ayoooooooooo LMFAO
Peter is hilarious 😂😂
"HUP....What do you mean _you people_ ??"
Some of the features: 1) The carbine length gas system so that you can shear off bolt locking lugs, break the extractor, or break the bolt at the cam pin hole. 2)The heavy aluminum quad rail handguard to burn you hand after it rips through you gloves. 3) Rail covers? Those rails exist for the rail covers. 4) The A2 pistol grip is horrible, and that's coming from a marine that was issued a bunch of M16A2s. 5) The heavy mil-spec trigger that can jam when the buffer retaining pin snaps off and get's lodged into it because the carbine length gas system is slamming the BCG a little too hard. 6)Heavier recoil than usual for a 5.56 because of the carbine length gas system.
Oh, and because it's FN, you can buy it all at a BIG mark up over what the US military was getting them for. Buy one if you're gear-queer and have a bunch of cash to burn, otherwise look somewhere else with mid length or rifle length gas system.
After 14 years wearing the cloth of our nation, I couldn't continue to be an enthusiast without one. This rifle type is part of me now, like a favorite blanket or pair of socks. It's home.
Same here brother. Stole my words 🤙🏼
Bought my fn m4 collectors a year ago. Its my favorite gun to shoot for sure. Love it…
As someone who didn’t jump on the Gucci AR’s bandwagon (and I’m only 33) all my AR platforms are set up to be as close to the M4 as possible. You’re late to the show but welcome
Ditto
I'm 62 and I had an original M16a1 which said "XM15 which was crossed out and then said M16A1".. I also at one base had an H&R M16.. while in the Army.. I love the barrels on the FN's and the Colts, Armalites, etc.. which have the chrome lined barrels.. I love porches too.. My neighbor had like a 60's model for many years and it was gorgeous..
Very cool.. Thanks man!
Tim
The ACOG was always a love-hate relationship for me when i was issued one. However, utilizing the bindon aiming concept, you can be surprisingly fast with an ACOG . Also, the field of view is fantastic. I preferred the Trijicon SDO's reticle with RMR at the 12 o clock position more than the chevron of the ACOG, but that came to be more common as I was transitioning out of the military.
I preferred the ACOG Chevron sight personally
I love how this was the first recommended video I got for my first day back in school for my Senior year.
Both of my AR-15's have full lenth M Lok Picatinny full length, free float handguards. I know they're very useful for accessories, and keeping weight down. But, there's a lot to be said for the standard AR-15 with the A front site with bayonet lug, and carry handle rear site. If I had to do it again, I would have bought one of those as my 2nd AR-15.
The M4 worked well for me and many others in the GWOT. The A1 is a NS fighting carbine!
It's a perfect combat weapon designed for heavy use the trigger will break in for sure remember these weapons are designed for heavy use as an old hunter the fixed power will make you better with judging distances if you grew up with a BB gun you would understand nice add to the collection
1990’s Colt Lightweight Sporter with Holosun optic, Vickers sling with Magpul accessories. Love my rifle.
I made mine. Colt le6920 with le serial number. Instead of knights armament, P&S ras rail (P&S was contracted when knights armament could not keep up with demand. Has its own military cage code) m4 side sling mount with crappy nylon sling. Trijicon m150 acog with green reticle. Streamlight hlx with arisaka mount and pressure pad. I also have the option of taking off the acog and putting on aimpoint comp m4 (m68 CCO).
Yeah I was issued the M68 in the ARMY loved it! Looks better than the Acog too (IMHO)
@@blackticalmayhem8461 Thank you for your service. I was never in the military, just fascinated with weapons history and development. I also like military history, but I didn't have the balls to put myself in a situation to be shot at. Did you carry the m4 or the m4a1?
@Vergil598 It was an honor 🫡. The Colt M4A1 was issued to me. Never jammed on me not once 👍
6 years ago, I picked up a Colt M4 LE carbine - minus the ACOG, it's basically the same rifle. Love it. I installed Troy rail covers on mine, and they stay put. I have a broomhandle on mine, but I have the folding one, not the fixed one, and it does have play in it, but I like the folding feature, and it's fine if you hold it tight when firing. It also has removeable side plates on the handle, so you can mount a pressure pad for lights/etc. I also have the military buttpad, which, on the standard carbine stock with no body armor, is a nice thing.
The reason for the ACOG is - as you said - it's bulletproof: no batteries that need to be replaced.
The only other M4's that I'd buy, would be FN's, H&K's, and POF's. They just run, and run, and run.
I wouldn’t mind adding one to my collection if it weren’t for NYCs stupid laws
Time to move
You need to leave NYC and I need to leave Cali 😂
Lol do as your told patriot
I live in Illinois. I get it bud lol
Move to AZ its 116f today😂but you can own whatever you want here!!
Got a bushmaster m4 I bought back in 2012 and I LOVE it!! Never had any issues.
My Uncle Tom was in Vietnam. He was like the dude playing a dude in Tropical Thunder...😎
Excellent review colion as always. You pretty much nailed it on this one. I have a few pimped our ar's and i just recently built an m4a1 clone almost identical to what you have there and i have to say it is everything you said and more! And just the feeling it gives you words can't really describe. It is now my favorite rifle and will be my go to from now on. All i need for it is to find a m951 light and shes pretty much complete ❤ keep up the great work and stay safe
The FN15 is on my to buy asap list.
I love this style of the M4 rifle I will never change mine.thank for posting this video.
Load out is now complete
Always wanted one! The best looking rifle
Hey brother I’ve enjoy your gun reviews and FN sticks out lil be more than most. Man god bless man.
I'm making this its own comment because of the gripe about fixed 4x optic for 100 meters or less..
intersting thing about the ACOG: if you had the carry handle rear sight, even if it was a removable carry handle rear sight... the acog would mount to that carry handle and you'd still be able to use the iron sights *underneath* the acog. ACOG having been invented back when M16A2 was *the* rifle.. that optic (if it's a proper ACOG) was made to mount directly to the hole in the carry handle and still allow usage of the iron sights. Before a removable carry handle rear sight was even a thing. And then when they came up with the removable carry handle rear iron sight for the M4... they stuck with the design that facilitated being able to use the irons under the ACOG.
So maybe go get you a removable carry handle rear iron sight for that rifle and you'll still be within the "old school" realm of how things were done in the early days of the M4, and you'll have iron sights as well as the acog.
Another fun fact about the ACOG, even at 4x: it's magically good at shooting with both eyes open, particularly closer range. There's just something about the optic that makes it to where your brain can kinda overlay the optic and where the rifle is aiming, on top of your left eye, and it just works for cqb
Democrats here in Kalifornistan would say the M4 is the epitome of evil. It has all the scary evil features they just hate. Semi-auto, broom stick handle, plastic adjustable stock, flash hider, standard capacity magazine that actually drops when you hit the mag release. Spooky. I say God Bless America. Thank you FN. Thank you Colion.
Battle Los Angeles is a really good movie!
Come on, put on a 4x32 ACOG.
as an AK enjoyer this is the type of AR I like the most. The quad rail handguard, the triangular front sight post, the sopmod barrel, them picatinny covers... To me this is the goat
My first experience with this type of firearm was at Fort Leonard Hood, Mo back in 1974. My last issued version of this was a Colt M4. They are dependable and simply always put steel on target.
I really enjoyed this review and own this FN. Great shooter and just feels right. It's in the safe right next to my personal Colt M4. They just feel "right'. Old School rocks. Thanks
Little Korea!
Ft. Lost in the wood's, misery !
i fell in love with the M4 in basic training
In 8 years of service I never had an ACOG I always had a CCO.
Were you Army? We all had ACOGs in the Corps when I was in. 07-11
Same here, Army for ten years. It was either the old musket with iron sights or the M4 with CCO.
Battle Los Angeles! YES! But their M4s are 20in I think and yours looks like a 16in. I love the FN15. It just feels solid in the hand. I lust after one and don't have it yet. I will though.
I’ve been planning to build one of these with PSA parts and a Franklin Armory binary trigger, though all I’ve got is the lower receiver that’s been sitting around for months collecting dust.
Send the binary trigger back and get a fostech echo. They’re much more reliable
If you aren’t going to build it you may not for years; I’d just buy one out right for 700-800 if it’s your first one
Building AR’s is a weekend hobby for me, so while purchasing is definitely more convenient, I just feel more satisfied if it’s for personal enjoyment, same for my retro 300 blackout based on the Colt 607.
@@aaronskuse2207 yeah building your own can often cost the same or more anyways and you have to make sure it’s functioning; almost like the Polly 80 pistol kits; those almost cost the same as getting a brand new glock and take a lot more time putting it together if you don’t know what you’re doing or first timer.
I snagged one of these a while ago. Threw a Comp M4 and a PEQ 15 on it and then added an H2 buffer and Sprinco blue spring and it’s a load of fun. Brings be back to the old days for sure
Colt, windham weaponry, and FN will be the most accurate replicas of the military version minus the fun switch!!!!
and LMT
@@Jeremy_810BCM TOO
I ❤ Windham!!
I have a Sterling Arsenal replica with a fostech echo trigger that gives you the third position.
I really want that M16 replica from FN. The Matech sights and KAC rail are just the icing on the cake.
My last unit was an infantry reconnaissance unit I was issued an FN m4 prior to my 5th deployment. I beat the ever loving shit outta that ol’ girl in the Hindu Kush I have a deep respect for her my friend. Excellent review of the rifle.
Ditto‼️🇺🇸
Infantry recon?
Take it you’ve never heard of long range surveillance (LRS) or R&S? Infantry reconnaissance isn’t a mythical creature. I retired in 2014 as a lot of the active components LRS or R&S units were heading towards deactivation. Last I heard LRS and R&S units are no longer. With the conventional army opting to keep a few RSTA units.
Oh hell…I grew up on the FN C1 and graduated to the FN C7 Sniper rifle…then went from there to the Barrett 50 Cal…
How much for the Land Cruiser? @colion 0:20
I feel you the m4 is an absolute must have
If you have an issue with the acog being slower, get the newer TA31RCO. It's a little smaller to help with weight, it has better eye relief, and it's what is in current use in US armories. Also as for red dots, you can still use a PEQ-15 on the top rail as it has a gap in the middle specifically for the FSP. Also would recommend either a top mounted or, if you are a man of culture, an offset RMR.
Edit: for those of you who are curious, I was a Corpsman with 1st medical BN in Pendleton, and I had a lot of time in the armory with a few of my marines brothers.
I carried a USGI M16A2 for a year in afghanistan.. That rifle was my wife. It went to breakfast with me. It went to work with me (and stayed within arms reach while wrenching on equipment). It went to lunch with me. It went to work with me. It went to dinner with me. It went to the hooch. It went to the shitter. It went to the shower. It went back to the hooch. And I even held my rifle while I slept with the sling wrapped around my arm just the same way I came up with when Drill Sgts started trying to take rifles from us while we were sleeping at FT BENNING BCT.
That rifle was my shadow for A YEAR.
This new "slick & modern" stuff without a bayonet lug.. is crap to me.
And yes I do have the bayonet for that lug. I really wish more made rifles with the bayonet in mind. I'd certainly like to see that USGI A2 style gas block but with a rail instead of the front sight, and yep.. the bayonet lug. And be able to do rails without having to do delta ring, while - yep - having that bayonet lug.
A rifle without a bayonet lug.. is just not right.
Find you a bayonet to go with this rifle.. and run some bayonet training course. Kinda like you've done FBI shotgun qual. You'll understand. & the bayonet might even become a fixture on your LBE.
I will say though.. even if I could get my bayonet lug gas block with a rail atop it.. there would be canted iron sights on the rifle for backup to whatever optic I put (ideally a trijicon acog 4x).
M4 4 life
👍
fantastic detail Colion, l served in the military and employed this weapon and it served it purpose, it was enjoyable to fire and learn how it operated. Thank you for sharing!
It’s like what Terminator said man
“I’m old, not obsolete”
I was never issued an M4 I always had an M16A4 but I would still buy this in a heart beat. Or at least after I buy the FN M16A4. M16 gang, baby 😎
This is what the 2nd Amendment all about, having the most up to date firearms the people being able to keep and bear arms! Past, present, and future!
Can't wait for the laser guns and plasma rifle.
@@InfuzeDcyphRthat will tear thru ppl like homelander 😂
Yessir! That's still a sexy gun! Thanks for show-casing this classic weapon!
That intro is like the Will Smith movie " I Am Legend" vibes
That's racist
@@latinojackson9694 how? Explain?
My M4 was a colt. It was burst not Auto. I had a surefire scout light at 3 o'clock, a PEQ4 at 12 o'clock, a TAO1 NSN (no fiber optic) and a two point sling. 2006-2007 Afghanistan.
Its still a travesty that we cannot own these in Full Auto easily and cheaper.
Repeal the NFA and Hughes Amendment.
Waste of ammo 😂😂
@@blackticalmayhem8461 Not when you have more freedom and right brought back.🇺🇸
I was a Cold War Era Veteran shooting the M16 AT2’s with the iron sights. The word you used to sum up this M4 style rifle is “classic.” Agreed. Some AR rifle combos work well and this seems to be one of them. Love the humor with the use of your movie clips.
I got one of these right before they were outlawed in CA, back in 2016. Luv it.
👍👍