Previously here on DefenseReview (DR), I wrote a piece titled Military Marksmanship Training Versus Competitive Shooting Training: The Match Up (January 2011). Towards the end, I mentioned the developments derived from both the military and civilian competition in regards to accessories for the AR/M4 platform. For this article, I would like to go into further detail on that subject. Even with all the various optics and accessories offered under the Special Operations Peculiar Modification (SOPMOD) program for the rifle, soldiers are opting to outfit their rifles with certain items. They’re seeing what the top shooting competitors are using to win competitive shooting events like 3-Gun, and what is working for the majority of shooters, and they recognize what wins in a match can also help them win on the battlefield.
Before I cover accessories, I think I should bring up one popular concept in regards to rifle setup, and that is the KISS principle: Keep It Simple Stupid. In its strictest interpretation, this means avoiding optics and electronics that could fail during use. I think I should address the “KISS” rifle concept because, despite its popularity with some civilian tactical/defensive shooters (see the numerous threads on AR15.com and m4carbine.net discussing “KISS” rifles), most soldiers are choosing rifles set up with anything that can help them consistently engage targets better and faster. In fact, today there is little difference between a soldier’s tactical rifle and an Open-class 3-Gun competition setup.
Far from KISS; Schmidt & Bender Short Dot tactical scope, extended rail, aftermarket stock and grip, take off the LA-5 laser and you could easily see this exact same set-up at any local 3-gun match, instead this is currently downrange being employed by a U.S. Infantry Soldier.
KISS Rifle: My Interpretation
While it’s true that plain old iron sights have carried us through a couple of world wars and numerous major conflicts, simpler is not always better, in my view. I would not want to limit my capabilities in terms of optics based solely on a fear of them failing. If using an electronic sight gives you the ability to shoot farther or faster, why not use it? For example, with iron sights I can hit a man-size target out to about 350 meters fairly consistently. But, using a red dot scope with a 2-MOA dot, I can hit 12-inch plates out to about 450 meters (450m). Thus, when going into harm’s way, I want to take advantage of any piece of kit that can aid me in staying alive by eliminating threats more quickly and consistently.
I don’t think the KISS principle is a bad idea. I just think it’s misdirected in its application. It should be applied not to the gear on your rifle but to your skill base. Instead of limiting yourself on what accessories you use for fear of failure, you should instead take advantage of the modern sighting systems while maintaining your proficiency with the basics.
This means I will use any piece of kit that gives me an advantage, but I will also train to shoot without all the fancy stuff in case Murphy’s Law goes into effect. All my tactical rifles have back-up iron sights (BUIS) on them. For my setups, I like to have a fixed front sight post and a fold down rear sight. I know a lot of shooters and instructors run with their back up iron sights up all the time so they can instantly transition if their optic fails. I prefer to run with my rear sight down, keeping it out of my peripheral vision while I look through my sight.
Now I know what you’re thinking: “What if your red dot goes down in the middle of an engagement and your back up sight is folded down?” To prepare for that eventuality, I practice with the red dot sight turned off. I use the method of looking through the tube of the red dot, shooting off the front sight. I am basically using the housing and lens of the red dot itself as my rear sight aperture and aligning it with my front sight. Using this technique, with practice, I can still engage targets out to a pretty good distance and at CQB/CQC (Close Quarters Battle/Close Quarters Combat) ranges. While I may not be able to shoot 1-inch groups, I can get center shots on targets almost as fast as I can with the dot turned on. The bottom line is that I’m not dependent on a fancy scope. I train to use just iron sights, and for the worst case scenario with no rear sight up at all, looking through a dead optic if I need too.
Reasons for Upgrading the M4/M4A1 Carbine
Awhile back during a deployment, a fellow soldier, after seeing my M4A1 rigged up with all the accessories I consider normal for me (Arredondo extended mag well, left-handed mag release, extended bolt release and some other items), made the comment “I don’t see why you need all that fancy stuff. The basics work just fine.” While the M4/M4A1 does work well in its standard issue form–and again through the SOPMOD program there are some really good accessories and optics offered,–I still see the need to make up for shortcomings I find with some standard items.
The issue M4/M4A1 stock is, in my opinion, pretty substandard and suffers from a few issues. First, it’s pretty fragile in terms of taking abuse. “Mortaring the rifle,” as David Crane calls it [Editor’s Note: This term and jam-clearing technique were both learned from tactical instructor and DR writer Mike Pannone at a CTT-Solutions (CTT-S) tactical rifle/carbine course], is one of the best ways to clear a stuck round in the chamber when you can’t get the bolt back. It involves pulling back on the charging handle and simultaneously banging the butt stock on the ground, letting the force help pull the bolt back. It’s a great technique; unfortunately if you do it too hard or bang the bottom edge of the butt plate on the ground and not square on the plate, the issue stock tends to break pretty easily. Even with good technique, I have seen numerous broken stocks that have the bottom half of the butt plates broken off from mortaring them to clear jams.
Another limitation, and probably the biggest reason you see a lot of aftermarket stocks being used, is the standard issue stock adds no extra cheek weld from the buffer tube. Stocks with a larger surface area for your cheek aid in getting faster and more consistent cheek-to-stock placement. Being able to mount the rifle faster means faster first shots on target. Having solid cheek/stock placement can also aid in multi-shot strings as you can settle the gun faster between shots.
Although the Crane NSWC/Lewis Machine & Tool (LMT Defense) SOPMOD stock (which I think is still one of the best stocks out there) is issued as part of the SOPMOD kit, it is limited to Special Ops troops as a standard issue item. In some cases, units that are supposed to have them do not, due to supply limitations.
The military still issues the Knights Armament Co. (KAC) vertical foregrip, which has always had the issue of coming loose, as it lacks a good locking mechanism. The newest-issue vertical foregrip is from TangoDown. The TangoDown BattleGrip Vertical Grip (standard length) is a rock-solid grip and an improvement over the Knights Armament version. However, like the LMT Defense SOPMOD/Crane NSWC stock, it’s not in full circulation with all soldiers. Plus, I find it a little too long for my taste. I don’t need something that long sticking off my rail. [Editor's Note: TangoDown also makes a BattleGrip Stubby Vertical Grip that's shorter, as well as the new TangoDown BattleGrip Quick-Detach Vertical Grip models.]
Below from basic to all out; top rifle minimum upgrades Magpul STR stock, XTM rail panels and a Surefire G2X in a VTAC offset mount. Bottom rifle everything minus the Crane Stock and receiver has been switched out to fit the user’s preference. (Ergo grip, Troy rail, Magpul AFG and Surefire Scout light on a 10.5 barrel).
Top Accessories/Upgrades
Magpul Industries has turned out to be one of the top brands when soldiers choose accessories. The two most popular upgrades to the M4/M4A1 Carbine are stocks and foregrips. A stock with a proper length of pull and a good cheek weld, combined with a foregrip that facilitates a straight pull back on the rifle, can improve your shot cadence and help your accuracy.
Telescoping/Collapsible Buttstocks
One big reason I think MagPul stocks do well with soldiers is because of price. Their Adaptable Carbine Storage (ACS) model, which is considered one of their higher end stocks at $109.95, is still almost half the price of an LMT SOPMOD/Crane NSWC stock at $199. The most prevalent MagPul models I have seen in use are the MOE, CTR, and ACS. All have increased cheek weld surface area, rubber butt pads, and multiple sling attachment methods. The MOE seems especially popular, even though the cheek weld area is only slightly larger than the issue stock, but at $59.95 the price cannot be beat. Fore grip and pistol grip: The MagPul Angled Fore Grip (AFG) seems to be a top choice among soldiers. The popularity of the C-clamp method of shooting (non-firing hand thumb on top of the rail, palm on the side rail, fingers form a C around the rail) is on the rise, and the Magpul AFG facilitates a C-clamp grip. Ergo Grips, Hogues, and the Magpul MIAD Grip Kit seem to be among the most popular pistol grips. I have not seen any one brand or model stand out more than another. All offer a much more ergonomic and fuller grip on the AR than the current issue A2 grip. I think most shooters find the A2 grip allows your hand to ride up on the receiver. Just about every other aftermarket commercial grip out there does a better job at keeping your firing hand straight behind the trigger, facilitating a more consistent trigger pull.
As you can see from the photo these 3 rifles have a lot in common, besides the SOPMOD issue items the users have all chosen to upgrade certain parts of the rifles to fit them better (stock, grip or fore grip). Here is also a perfect example to show how popular Magpul items are with the troops. Each rifle has at least one Magpul item on them and two have P-mags. Also check out the Noveske KX3 flash hider (middle rifle). .
Innovation from the competition world; Dual optics have been in use with the military for some time now, as you can see in some of the previous photos ACOGs and Elcan Specter DRs are issued with Doctor sights on top. What has been slowly catching now as a direct result from their effectiveness with the 3-gun crowd are offset mounts. Problem with the Doctor sight mounted on top of another optic is the hold off is too much. Even with a 25 meter POA/POI zero you are still looking at as much a 4 inch hold off at room distance. With the offset mount it’s less than 2 inches. Plus I find it faster and smoother to roll the gun in my shoulder to pick up the offset sight. I have been using Matt Burkett’s 45 degree offset mount with a Doctor sight for 2 tours now and on 2 different rifles; M4A1 and a SCAR light.
One other item that is pretty popular is the Grip Pod vertical foregrip/bipod/weapon stabilizer by Grip Pod Systems International (GPS), which consists of a spring-loaded bipod enclosed in a forward grip. It has two advantages over the conventional style metal bipod; the Grip Pod is much lighter. Being both a forward grip and bipod, it saves space on your rifle for other items. And, since the legs collapse into the grip, you don’t have to worry about them catching on stuff when not in use. Personally, I find the Grip Pod vertical grip a little too long for my taste. I find that it sits up too high when using it in bipod mode in the prone position, . I therefore have a difficult time trying to get into a comfortable position behind the rifle.
M4A1 equipped with Grip Pod
Tactical Weapon Lights
SureFire is the most prevalent brand in use over the current issue SOPMOD light (the L3 Warrior Systems/Insight Technology M3X/SU-33/PVS). The M3X is a pretty basic light with only one brightness setting and a momentary switch. It’s also not that bright compared to many other lights on the market. Bulb life is also relatively short, about a year if you do a lot of shooting.
The Surefire Scout Weaponlight is pretty popular along with the new SureFire G2X and SureFire 6P series, both used in conjunction with a Viking Tactics (VTAC) offset light mount. One light that I am pleased to see making headway with the troops is the Inforce WML. I have reviewed this light in the past for DR (published on 12/16/2011). The WML incorporates a new innovative 45-degree activation push button that allows you to go from constant-on to momentary-on and strobe. With a flip of an easy-to-reach toggle lever, you can go from white light to IR (infrared). With all those features and a price around $180.00 (I have seen it online as low as $150.00) the WML makes for a great compact weapon light.
Magazines
Even with the adoption of the improved 30 round GI magazine, commercially made magazines are pretty popular items. The reason for this is the perceived poor performance of standard issue military magazines. Personally, I have never had an issue with GI mags, even the older style with the green follower. I have several of the green follower mags that are at least 5-6 years old that I have used on multiple deployments. The issue is not the quality of the magazine, but rather how they are handled. Instead of treating the magazine as an expendable item, soldiers in some units have to sign for them, and losing a magazine is looked down upon. This leads to the same batch of magazines floating around in a unit for a number of years, going from soldier to soldier.
So it’s no wonder a soldier might have no confidence in a standard issue magazine when the ones he has could be well worn out from overuse. To this day some do not understand that double feeds come from bad magazines, which compounds the issue. Time and again I have seen double feeds occur on the range, and instead of throwing the magazine away or marking it "bad", it just gets reloaded and used again.
Prior to any deployment, I load up all my magazines I plan on using and shoot them at least one time to ensure there are no bad ones. If I do come across a bad magazine, before I throw it away, I will step on it, crushing it just to make sure it does not get picked up and used by someone else.
The top choice among soldiers for commercial magazines is the Magpul PMAG 30 M3 (also written P-MAG 30 M3). In fact, they are so popular I have seen at least one out of every three soldiers with a PMAG in their rifle as opposed to any other magazine. Personally I prefer the Lancer L5 Advanced War Fighter Magazine (AWM). I give the edge to Lancers solely for the reason that it is possible to accidentally load 31 rounds into a PMAG. That will result in the inability to seat the magazine in a rifle with the bolt forward on a tactical reload. This is not to say I do not use PMAGs at all. Currently my basic load consists of Lancer mags and Magpul PMAGS and EMAGs.
Left to right; Lancer L5 Advanced War Fighter Magazine (AWM), Magpul EMAG and Magpul PMAG. On the far right; standard issue magazine with issued Magpul follower, Center standard USGI mag Green follower and the new Improved USGI magazine with Tan follower. One thing to be aware of, because the Improved magazine follower has the bullet push on the left when loaded with 30rds the top round sits on the left (Opposite of most other magazines).
One Item You Don’t See…
Despite its popularity with the 3-Gun crowd and shooters stateside, you won’t find compensators in wide spread use on tactical rifles. Even though compensators do an excellent job canceling out muzzle rise to facilitate faster strings of fire, the increased muzzle blast and noise associated with them makes compensators impractical for tactical use. Imagine having a buddy with a comp shooting his rifle right next to you and all the excess gas being vented off right into your face.
I have tried a lot of the “tactical” comps offered, and although they do a great job minimizing the excess gas, they are still much louder than flash hiders. As a soldier you won’t always have the luxury of shooting with hearing protection on. The last thing you want if you end up shooting in super-close confinement (such as a vehicle) is a very loud rifle.
The Wrap Up
Thanks to competitive shooting sports like 3-Gun, vendors are now offering more shooting accessories of all types than ever before. Today’s gunfighters are benefiting from the same accessories that have proven successful to both top shooters and the everyday competitor. This vetting of gear through shooting matches is helping highlight some of the best and most durable gear out there that is in turn being used to get an extra edge on the battlefield.
Author's current set-up; because I’m a lefty I like to add ambi controls: Norgon ambi-mag release, DPMS dual selector lever (military full auto version), Redi-Mag extended bolt latch. Additionally Arredondo extended magazine well, Magpul ACS stock, Samson field survivor grip tool (in the pistol grip), Midwest Industries single point sling mount, Blackhawk Gladius flashlight (for the strobing capability) and Burkett offset mount w/Doctor sight.
About the Author (Jeff Gurwitch):
– Currently serving with U.S. Army Special Forces
– Competitive shooter: USPSA, IDPA, and 3-Gun.
MK18 with all the modern SOPMOD accessories: LA5, Insight light, Surefire Suppressor and EoTech XPS3 with magnifier. Note the aftermarket Troy Alpha rail, Ergo Grip and Magpul butt stock.
The Game Changer
If you had asked me a year and half ago my preferred M4 set up, I would have said a 14.5″ barrel model with at least a mid-length hand guard, with a red dot combat optic like an Aimpoint. While SBR’s are more maneuverable for situations like CQB/CQC (Close Quarters Battle/Close Quarters Combat) and are easier to carry in and around vehicles, I felt the tradeoff of more muzzle blast (flash and noise) typically associated with SBR’s was not worth it. Bottom line, I could run a standard length M4 faster in terms of split times per shot because the felt recoil was softer.
So, what’s changed my mind? Simple: SureFire suppressors! As part of our SOPMOD upgrade to the M4A1, we are now issued the SureFire SOCOM556-RC SOCOM Series Sound Suppressor (Silencer) and their 4 prong flash hider (SureFire FH556-RC 556/223). Now, suppressors have been in use for quite some time. Prior to Surefire, the Knight’s Armament Co. (KAC) SOCOM suppressor (KAC M4/M16 QDSS-NT4 Suppressor) was used. I personally didn’t care for the KAC can (muzzle can, i.e., silencer/sound suppressor). The reason: shooting. I found there is an annoying amount of gas back-blast from the chamber area, and being a lefty, this goes right into my face while shooting.
With the Surefire SOCOM556-RC can, there’s no real noticeable gas-blast increase. Additionally the round count that the SureFire can is rated to take is super high, so you can train with it and not worry about degrading its capability prior to using it on missions. So, how does this play into the preference with using the MK18 over that of the longer 14.5 M4 upper? My reason: I love the benefits of running suppressed (reduced noise to a point), where I don’t have to worry about blowing out my eardrums if I end up in a situation where I don’t have time to EarPro (Ear Protection)-up. More importantly, with reduced noise, and now virtually no blast or muzzle flash, it makes it much harder for the enemy to pinpoint me via my weapon signature, both day and night.
My choice of the MK18, and why you see more MK18’s and not M4A1 Carbines with Surefire Suppressors being utilized, is due to how the rifle is being utilized down range–and this is where the way the U.S. Soldier is trained to fight comes into play. Whether you are in a team, squad, platoon or other section, one of the fundamental rules we follow is that you always try to engage the enemy with the most casualty-producing weapon you have. If you get shot at by an AK-47/AKM, return fire with a M240 machine gun. If they come back with a PKM, then you respond with a M2 .50-Cal. or 60mm mortar. Whatever they’ve got, you one up them and gain fire superiority!
This is a key separator between the military and civilian, or even law enforcement, shooter. The rifle is seen more as a personal defense weapon (PDW) than as a primary tool to engage the enemy. I could carry a longer rifle, but if it’s mounted with a suppressor, it translates to more weight and a longer rifle (6 inches) added to a 14.5″ barrel. You are now walking around with a very front-heavy 20-inch rifle (not a very forgiving set up for the high-altitude, low-oxygen mountain terrain of Afghanistan). With a suppressor-equipped MK18, you’re back to a 14.5-inch length rifle that is much better balanced and less front-heavy-feeling then a stock M4 due to the shorter barrel bringing the suppressor closer to the receiver. So, now, with the MK18, you get a much better-balanced and slightly lighter platform than a full-size rifle, with all the benefits of the suppressor.
True, running a shorter barrel, you’re losing muzzle velocity, which does equal reduced range and killing power at long range. For me, this means I go from being able to shoot 650-680 meter targets with ease with a 14.5″ barrel to only being able to hit out to about 500 meters with the suppressed MK18. Yes, I lose almost 200 yards, but that doesn’t really matter, because being a member of a team in an engagement, we’re going to use much better platforms like belt-feds (LMG’s and MMG’s/GPMG’s), mortars and larger calibers better suited for that range as our primary weapons to return fire. And let’s face facts: Even with the best long-range 5.56mm ammo (MK262 77gr.) and a 18-inch barrel (the now retired Special Purpose Rifle MK12) although you could reach out to 750 meters with that weapon/ammo combo platform, unless you achieved a head shot, the 5.56 round (5.56x45mm NATO) is pretty anemic in terms of one shot stopping power.
So, many (myself included) find a suppressed MK18 to be the perfect compromise for performing close in work like dynamic CQB/CQC gunfighting, and still effective engaging mid-range targets out 100-300 meters. And, in a pinch, the warfighter can still engage out to 500 meters and beyond. If the threats are out farther, there are better tools for the job; bigger and better calibers.
This MK18 with Elcan is a very popular set up. With Suppressor it’s quiet and not too long or unbalanced. The Elcan in 1-4 power gives you the ability to shoot past 300 meters and what’s just as important, although it might not be the best long range arrangement. The Elcan in 4 power does give you magnification to help spot where the enemy is and direct bigger weapons and assets against them. Note fully deck out with Magpul accessories.
AR/M4 Accessories: What’s hot in 2014!
Now having covered the why behind the preferred use of the MK18 shorty set-up, there are still a lot of plain old shooters out there planning to use their rifle as a primary set-up for the common extended distances. Going along with these set ups for longer range shooting are extended tactical handguards/rail systems that are now more popular than ever.
Tactical Handguards/Rail Systems
Although the Daniel Defense RIS II is now issued for the M4, many shooters prefer narrower non-railed “slick” modular versions that you will find are most prevalent on 3-Gun competition rifles. For the same reason competitors choose slick-sided (minus the MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny rails) narrow handguards for a better grip to drive the gun, assaulters/operators with full-length barrels are going with the same style handguards.
M4A1 with SOPMOD upgrade; Daniel Defense RIS II and Surefire 4 prong suppressor capable flash hider. Now standard issue for all SOF.
One rail style slowly making its way onto rifles are KeyMods. When I first saw a Keymod rail, my initial thought was that it’s unnecessary since there are plenty of slick rails out there. However, what’s making the Keymod popular and causing it to gain ground in tactical use is the method by which you can mount attachments. Before KeyMod, the way to add attachments to a slick hand guard (forward grip or light) was to first bolt on a section of Picatinny rail. The beauty of the Keymod is that now the item you want to add just slides and locks right onto the rail with no need to add Picatinny sections to turn your slick rail into a railed version. My only issue is that all my extra add-ons (angled foregrips, lights, sling mounts, etc.) are built around Picatinny rails. For someone like me who has numerous rifles, I have a mountain of Picatinny rail stuff. For me, going Keymod means basically starting over. Since, I’ve already received some vertical foregrips from BCM (Bravo Company Manufacturing) to try, now I just need my own Keymod rail to which I can attach them [Editor’s Note: The BCM KeyMod Rail, or KMR, would of course be an appropriate and excellent choce for this. Click here to visit the BCM KMR product page.]!
M4A1 Rifle equipped with full length barrel and Keymod rail. Not the scope I believe 3- 8 power, also Vltor stock and Ergo Grip. This rifle is a prime example of a set up giving the shooter the capability of putting accurate fire out to the extended ranges needed.
Pistol Grips and Buttstocks
While Magpul stocks and grips are still probably the most numerous additions to rifles, Bravo Company Manufacturing (BCM) products are making their way onto a lot of rifles. The BCM Gunfighter’s Grip (GFG) pistol grip and BCMGunfighter Vertical Grip and BCMGunfighter KeyMod Vertical Grip stubby vertical foregrips are becoming popular. For buttstocks, new additions are the Mission First Tactical MFT BattleLink Stocks, Troy Industries GPS NAV Stock, the ARK Defense Enhanced SOPMOD Buttstock (ESB) and the B5 Systems B5 Enhanced SOPMOD and B5 Bravo SOPMOD stocks.
Another rifle set up for the long range fight with Troy Industries NAV stock, BCM Gunfighter grip, Magpul BAD Lever and narrow slick 3gun style rail. Also notice a touch of old school with the Knights Armament suppressor (which has been in service with SOF since about 1998).
Below: Two more M4’s accessorized to give the shooters maximize ability to drive the gun. Both have narrow slick rails born out of 3-Gun competition. Top rifle; Samson Evolution rail, Ergo grip, bottom rifle; 3-Gun or combat, this rifle is set up is light weight and built for speed; Battle Link stock, Magpul BAD lever, Mission First Tactical Engage pistol grip, 3D-printed vertical foregrip, later replaced with BCM Gunfighter foregrip (not shown in photo), Troy VTAC Delta rail and Inforce WML light. Also note the Magpul 40 rd magazine and Geissele SD-C trigger.
Other Accessories
In addition to stocks and grips, ambi-charging handles are still very popular, with the Rainer Arms Raptor ambi-charging handle and BCMGunfighter standard and ambi-charging handles being particularly popular [Editor’s Note: Let’s also not forget the Teutonic-looking Phase 5 Tactical Ambi Battle Latch (ABL) ambi charging handle.].
Tactical rifle slings-wise the Viking Tactics (VTAC) two-point tactical rifle sling by Kyle Lamb is the most prevalent one in use. I’ve personally switched from a single-point to a VTAC two-point sling. The main reason? With the two-point sling, the rifle rests a lot better when hiking around the mountains here (Afghanistan). While a single-point is very maneuverable, if you have to go hands free, the rifle will always end up hanging in front of you, right between your legs. With a two-point, you can rotate around to your back, and the sling will usually stay there, even under rapid movement.
Rifle on top (above): 2012 M4A1 set up. Rifle on bottom (immediately above): 2014 set-up. What’s changed” 14.5″ upper to MK18 10.5 suppressed. Magpul butt stock swapped out for ARK Defense Enhanced SOPMOD. It’s slightly lighter and has better cheek to stock, plus it’s the same one on my 3-Gun rifle so I have the same feel. Magpul vertical grip has replaced the issued Knights Armament. Also swapped out pistol grip for a BCMGunfighter Pistol Grip. I prefer Ergo grips the most, I like the angle but this BCM grip has grown on me through the deployment. Single point sling swapped out for VTAC. What has not changed; Arredondo extended mag well still in place, this makes its 4th deployment on a rifle, extended bolt release and Blackhawk Gladius light, (I first used the Gladius on a 2005 trip Iraq around the time they first came out). This is the 4th deployment using it, thousands of rounds have been fired with the Gladius mounted on various rifles still the same bulb. Matt Burkett Predator offset mount, 3rd deployment, this time fitted with newly issued EoTech mini red dot (uses same mounting plate as Doctor sight). New for this deployment BCM ambi-Gunfighter charging handle. Also note Samson flip up front sight, the rear is on my 14.5 upper (pictured at the top of the article). I only have the front on here because to get proper eye relief with the Elcan it left no room for a backup. (My plan if the Elcan were to go down, just use my 45 degree red dot offset sight. If that goes down use the Elcan sight housing itself as me rear aperture aligned with the flip up sight). All in all a good set up for me that I trust.
Magazine Update
In 2012, the new improved GI magazine with brown follower was just making its way into mainstream service. I would have to say that compared to the older green-follower magazine, I prefer the green-follower version. I’ve seen many “improved” brown follower version mags (some are marked Brownells on the side) fail via double feeds and jams over the last two years, more than any other magazine (GI issue or commercial). Plus I’m still slightly annoyed by the fact that on a fully-loaded brown-follower mag, the top round sits on the left, which is counter to every other AR magazine on the planet.
My go-to loadout; The Magpul Emags on the left I received back in 2007 when they 1st came out, the Lancer Advanced Warfighters in 2010, all still going strong. On the bottom IMI polymer magazine, despite that it’s not reinforced like the Lancer I have had no issues with it going on 9 months now.
As far as commercial magazines, I’m still using the same batch of Lancer L5 Advanced Warfighter Magazines (AWM’s) and Magpul EMAG’s. Head-to-head, I’d have to give the Lancer AWM mags a slightly higher rating. I’ve seen more issues with PMAG’s (usually Gen II’s) in terms of double feeds or having problems. I would like to point out, though, that Magpul PMAG’s are still the most prevalent magazines I see. So, their being used more could be a factor in why I see more of them go down.
One new magazine I would like to mention is the Israel Military Industries Defense (IMI Defense) polymer mag. I was given one by DefenseReview (DR) to test last fall. So far, I’ve had no issues with it, at all. In fact, it’s the primary magazine I keep in my rifle.
The Wrap Up
During World War II (WWII), Marines in the pacific found that their issued M1919 .30-cal machine guns with tripods (some water-cooled) were too cumbersome for what they needed in jungle warfare and beach assaults. One solution to plus up their firepower, was to take aircraft M1919 .30-cal. Browning machine guns (ANM2 models), adding bipods and other attachments to turn them into lightweight assault versions known as Stinger LMG’s (Light Machine Guns).
Today’s warfighter is no different. When going into harm’s way, he’s going to take advantage of the latest’s tools and accessories in order to give him the winning edge on the battlefield. Technology/hardware meets training and tactics.
About the Author (Jeff Gurwitch):
– Currently serving with U.S. Army Special Forces
– Competitive shooter: USPSA, IDPA, and 3-Gun.
Before I cover accessories, I think I should bring up one popular concept in regards to rifle setup, and that is the KISS principle: Keep It Simple Stupid. In its strictest interpretation, this means avoiding optics and electronics that could fail during use. I think I should address the “KISS” rifle concept because, despite its popularity with some civilian tactical/defensive shooters (see the numerous threads on AR15.com and m4carbine.net discussing “KISS” rifles), most soldiers are choosing rifles set up with anything that can help them consistently engage targets better and faster. In fact, today there is little difference between a soldier’s tactical rifle and an Open-class 3-Gun competition setup.
Far from KISS; Schmidt & Bender Short Dot tactical scope, extended rail, aftermarket stock and grip, take off the LA-5 laser and you could easily see this exact same set-up at any local 3-gun match, instead this is currently downrange being employed by a U.S. Infantry Soldier.
KISS Rifle: My Interpretation
While it’s true that plain old iron sights have carried us through a couple of world wars and numerous major conflicts, simpler is not always better, in my view. I would not want to limit my capabilities in terms of optics based solely on a fear of them failing. If using an electronic sight gives you the ability to shoot farther or faster, why not use it? For example, with iron sights I can hit a man-size target out to about 350 meters fairly consistently. But, using a red dot scope with a 2-MOA dot, I can hit 12-inch plates out to about 450 meters (450m). Thus, when going into harm’s way, I want to take advantage of any piece of kit that can aid me in staying alive by eliminating threats more quickly and consistently.
I don’t think the KISS principle is a bad idea. I just think it’s misdirected in its application. It should be applied not to the gear on your rifle but to your skill base. Instead of limiting yourself on what accessories you use for fear of failure, you should instead take advantage of the modern sighting systems while maintaining your proficiency with the basics.
This means I will use any piece of kit that gives me an advantage, but I will also train to shoot without all the fancy stuff in case Murphy’s Law goes into effect. All my tactical rifles have back-up iron sights (BUIS) on them. For my setups, I like to have a fixed front sight post and a fold down rear sight. I know a lot of shooters and instructors run with their back up iron sights up all the time so they can instantly transition if their optic fails. I prefer to run with my rear sight down, keeping it out of my peripheral vision while I look through my sight.
Now I know what you’re thinking: “What if your red dot goes down in the middle of an engagement and your back up sight is folded down?” To prepare for that eventuality, I practice with the red dot sight turned off. I use the method of looking through the tube of the red dot, shooting off the front sight. I am basically using the housing and lens of the red dot itself as my rear sight aperture and aligning it with my front sight. Using this technique, with practice, I can still engage targets out to a pretty good distance and at CQB/CQC (Close Quarters Battle/Close Quarters Combat) ranges. While I may not be able to shoot 1-inch groups, I can get center shots on targets almost as fast as I can with the dot turned on. The bottom line is that I’m not dependent on a fancy scope. I train to use just iron sights, and for the worst case scenario with no rear sight up at all, looking through a dead optic if I need too.
Reasons for Upgrading the M4/M4A1 Carbine
Awhile back during a deployment, a fellow soldier, after seeing my M4A1 rigged up with all the accessories I consider normal for me (Arredondo extended mag well, left-handed mag release, extended bolt release and some other items), made the comment “I don’t see why you need all that fancy stuff. The basics work just fine.” While the M4/M4A1 does work well in its standard issue form–and again through the SOPMOD program there are some really good accessories and optics offered,–I still see the need to make up for shortcomings I find with some standard items.
The issue M4/M4A1 stock is, in my opinion, pretty substandard and suffers from a few issues. First, it’s pretty fragile in terms of taking abuse. “Mortaring the rifle,” as David Crane calls it [Editor’s Note: This term and jam-clearing technique were both learned from tactical instructor and DR writer Mike Pannone at a CTT-Solutions (CTT-S) tactical rifle/carbine course], is one of the best ways to clear a stuck round in the chamber when you can’t get the bolt back. It involves pulling back on the charging handle and simultaneously banging the butt stock on the ground, letting the force help pull the bolt back. It’s a great technique; unfortunately if you do it too hard or bang the bottom edge of the butt plate on the ground and not square on the plate, the issue stock tends to break pretty easily. Even with good technique, I have seen numerous broken stocks that have the bottom half of the butt plates broken off from mortaring them to clear jams.
Another limitation, and probably the biggest reason you see a lot of aftermarket stocks being used, is the standard issue stock adds no extra cheek weld from the buffer tube. Stocks with a larger surface area for your cheek aid in getting faster and more consistent cheek-to-stock placement. Being able to mount the rifle faster means faster first shots on target. Having solid cheek/stock placement can also aid in multi-shot strings as you can settle the gun faster between shots.
Although the Crane NSWC/Lewis Machine & Tool (LMT Defense) SOPMOD stock (which I think is still one of the best stocks out there) is issued as part of the SOPMOD kit, it is limited to Special Ops troops as a standard issue item. In some cases, units that are supposed to have them do not, due to supply limitations.
The military still issues the Knights Armament Co. (KAC) vertical foregrip, which has always had the issue of coming loose, as it lacks a good locking mechanism. The newest-issue vertical foregrip is from TangoDown. The TangoDown BattleGrip Vertical Grip (standard length) is a rock-solid grip and an improvement over the Knights Armament version. However, like the LMT Defense SOPMOD/Crane NSWC stock, it’s not in full circulation with all soldiers. Plus, I find it a little too long for my taste. I don’t need something that long sticking off my rail. [Editor's Note: TangoDown also makes a BattleGrip Stubby Vertical Grip that's shorter, as well as the new TangoDown BattleGrip Quick-Detach Vertical Grip models.]
Below from basic to all out; top rifle minimum upgrades Magpul STR stock, XTM rail panels and a Surefire G2X in a VTAC offset mount. Bottom rifle everything minus the Crane Stock and receiver has been switched out to fit the user’s preference. (Ergo grip, Troy rail, Magpul AFG and Surefire Scout light on a 10.5 barrel).
Top Accessories/Upgrades
Magpul Industries has turned out to be one of the top brands when soldiers choose accessories. The two most popular upgrades to the M4/M4A1 Carbine are stocks and foregrips. A stock with a proper length of pull and a good cheek weld, combined with a foregrip that facilitates a straight pull back on the rifle, can improve your shot cadence and help your accuracy.
Telescoping/Collapsible Buttstocks
One big reason I think MagPul stocks do well with soldiers is because of price. Their Adaptable Carbine Storage (ACS) model, which is considered one of their higher end stocks at $109.95, is still almost half the price of an LMT SOPMOD/Crane NSWC stock at $199. The most prevalent MagPul models I have seen in use are the MOE, CTR, and ACS. All have increased cheek weld surface area, rubber butt pads, and multiple sling attachment methods. The MOE seems especially popular, even though the cheek weld area is only slightly larger than the issue stock, but at $59.95 the price cannot be beat. Fore grip and pistol grip: The MagPul Angled Fore Grip (AFG) seems to be a top choice among soldiers. The popularity of the C-clamp method of shooting (non-firing hand thumb on top of the rail, palm on the side rail, fingers form a C around the rail) is on the rise, and the Magpul AFG facilitates a C-clamp grip. Ergo Grips, Hogues, and the Magpul MIAD Grip Kit seem to be among the most popular pistol grips. I have not seen any one brand or model stand out more than another. All offer a much more ergonomic and fuller grip on the AR than the current issue A2 grip. I think most shooters find the A2 grip allows your hand to ride up on the receiver. Just about every other aftermarket commercial grip out there does a better job at keeping your firing hand straight behind the trigger, facilitating a more consistent trigger pull.
As you can see from the photo these 3 rifles have a lot in common, besides the SOPMOD issue items the users have all chosen to upgrade certain parts of the rifles to fit them better (stock, grip or fore grip). Here is also a perfect example to show how popular Magpul items are with the troops. Each rifle has at least one Magpul item on them and two have P-mags. Also check out the Noveske KX3 flash hider (middle rifle). .
Innovation from the competition world; Dual optics have been in use with the military for some time now, as you can see in some of the previous photos ACOGs and Elcan Specter DRs are issued with Doctor sights on top. What has been slowly catching now as a direct result from their effectiveness with the 3-gun crowd are offset mounts. Problem with the Doctor sight mounted on top of another optic is the hold off is too much. Even with a 25 meter POA/POI zero you are still looking at as much a 4 inch hold off at room distance. With the offset mount it’s less than 2 inches. Plus I find it faster and smoother to roll the gun in my shoulder to pick up the offset sight. I have been using Matt Burkett’s 45 degree offset mount with a Doctor sight for 2 tours now and on 2 different rifles; M4A1 and a SCAR light.
One other item that is pretty popular is the Grip Pod vertical foregrip/bipod/weapon stabilizer by Grip Pod Systems International (GPS), which consists of a spring-loaded bipod enclosed in a forward grip. It has two advantages over the conventional style metal bipod; the Grip Pod is much lighter. Being both a forward grip and bipod, it saves space on your rifle for other items. And, since the legs collapse into the grip, you don’t have to worry about them catching on stuff when not in use. Personally, I find the Grip Pod vertical grip a little too long for my taste. I find that it sits up too high when using it in bipod mode in the prone position, . I therefore have a difficult time trying to get into a comfortable position behind the rifle.
M4A1 equipped with Grip Pod
Tactical Weapon Lights
SureFire is the most prevalent brand in use over the current issue SOPMOD light (the L3 Warrior Systems/Insight Technology M3X/SU-33/PVS). The M3X is a pretty basic light with only one brightness setting and a momentary switch. It’s also not that bright compared to many other lights on the market. Bulb life is also relatively short, about a year if you do a lot of shooting.
The Surefire Scout Weaponlight is pretty popular along with the new SureFire G2X and SureFire 6P series, both used in conjunction with a Viking Tactics (VTAC) offset light mount. One light that I am pleased to see making headway with the troops is the Inforce WML. I have reviewed this light in the past for DR (published on 12/16/2011). The WML incorporates a new innovative 45-degree activation push button that allows you to go from constant-on to momentary-on and strobe. With a flip of an easy-to-reach toggle lever, you can go from white light to IR (infrared). With all those features and a price around $180.00 (I have seen it online as low as $150.00) the WML makes for a great compact weapon light.
Magazines
Even with the adoption of the improved 30 round GI magazine, commercially made magazines are pretty popular items. The reason for this is the perceived poor performance of standard issue military magazines. Personally, I have never had an issue with GI mags, even the older style with the green follower. I have several of the green follower mags that are at least 5-6 years old that I have used on multiple deployments. The issue is not the quality of the magazine, but rather how they are handled. Instead of treating the magazine as an expendable item, soldiers in some units have to sign for them, and losing a magazine is looked down upon. This leads to the same batch of magazines floating around in a unit for a number of years, going from soldier to soldier.
So it’s no wonder a soldier might have no confidence in a standard issue magazine when the ones he has could be well worn out from overuse. To this day some do not understand that double feeds come from bad magazines, which compounds the issue. Time and again I have seen double feeds occur on the range, and instead of throwing the magazine away or marking it "bad", it just gets reloaded and used again.
Prior to any deployment, I load up all my magazines I plan on using and shoot them at least one time to ensure there are no bad ones. If I do come across a bad magazine, before I throw it away, I will step on it, crushing it just to make sure it does not get picked up and used by someone else.
The top choice among soldiers for commercial magazines is the Magpul PMAG 30 M3 (also written P-MAG 30 M3). In fact, they are so popular I have seen at least one out of every three soldiers with a PMAG in their rifle as opposed to any other magazine. Personally I prefer the Lancer L5 Advanced War Fighter Magazine (AWM). I give the edge to Lancers solely for the reason that it is possible to accidentally load 31 rounds into a PMAG. That will result in the inability to seat the magazine in a rifle with the bolt forward on a tactical reload. This is not to say I do not use PMAGs at all. Currently my basic load consists of Lancer mags and Magpul PMAGS and EMAGs.
Left to right; Lancer L5 Advanced War Fighter Magazine (AWM), Magpul EMAG and Magpul PMAG. On the far right; standard issue magazine with issued Magpul follower, Center standard USGI mag Green follower and the new Improved USGI magazine with Tan follower. One thing to be aware of, because the Improved magazine follower has the bullet push on the left when loaded with 30rds the top round sits on the left (Opposite of most other magazines).
One Item You Don’t See…
Despite its popularity with the 3-Gun crowd and shooters stateside, you won’t find compensators in wide spread use on tactical rifles. Even though compensators do an excellent job canceling out muzzle rise to facilitate faster strings of fire, the increased muzzle blast and noise associated with them makes compensators impractical for tactical use. Imagine having a buddy with a comp shooting his rifle right next to you and all the excess gas being vented off right into your face.
I have tried a lot of the “tactical” comps offered, and although they do a great job minimizing the excess gas, they are still much louder than flash hiders. As a soldier you won’t always have the luxury of shooting with hearing protection on. The last thing you want if you end up shooting in super-close confinement (such as a vehicle) is a very loud rifle.
The Wrap Up
Thanks to competitive shooting sports like 3-Gun, vendors are now offering more shooting accessories of all types than ever before. Today’s gunfighters are benefiting from the same accessories that have proven successful to both top shooters and the everyday competitor. This vetting of gear through shooting matches is helping highlight some of the best and most durable gear out there that is in turn being used to get an extra edge on the battlefield.
Author's current set-up; because I’m a lefty I like to add ambi controls: Norgon ambi-mag release, DPMS dual selector lever (military full auto version), Redi-Mag extended bolt latch. Additionally Arredondo extended magazine well, Magpul ACS stock, Samson field survivor grip tool (in the pistol grip), Midwest Industries single point sling mount, Blackhawk Gladius flashlight (for the strobing capability) and Burkett offset mount w/Doctor sight.
About the Author (Jeff Gurwitch):
– Currently serving with U.S. Army Special Forces
– Competitive shooter: USPSA, IDPA, and 3-Gun.
MK18 with all the modern SOPMOD accessories: LA5, Insight light, Surefire Suppressor and EoTech XPS3 with magnifier. Note the aftermarket Troy Alpha rail, Ergo Grip and Magpul butt stock.
The Game Changer
If you had asked me a year and half ago my preferred M4 set up, I would have said a 14.5″ barrel model with at least a mid-length hand guard, with a red dot combat optic like an Aimpoint. While SBR’s are more maneuverable for situations like CQB/CQC (Close Quarters Battle/Close Quarters Combat) and are easier to carry in and around vehicles, I felt the tradeoff of more muzzle blast (flash and noise) typically associated with SBR’s was not worth it. Bottom line, I could run a standard length M4 faster in terms of split times per shot because the felt recoil was softer.
So, what’s changed my mind? Simple: SureFire suppressors! As part of our SOPMOD upgrade to the M4A1, we are now issued the SureFire SOCOM556-RC SOCOM Series Sound Suppressor (Silencer) and their 4 prong flash hider (SureFire FH556-RC 556/223). Now, suppressors have been in use for quite some time. Prior to Surefire, the Knight’s Armament Co. (KAC) SOCOM suppressor (KAC M4/M16 QDSS-NT4 Suppressor) was used. I personally didn’t care for the KAC can (muzzle can, i.e., silencer/sound suppressor). The reason: shooting. I found there is an annoying amount of gas back-blast from the chamber area, and being a lefty, this goes right into my face while shooting.
With the Surefire SOCOM556-RC can, there’s no real noticeable gas-blast increase. Additionally the round count that the SureFire can is rated to take is super high, so you can train with it and not worry about degrading its capability prior to using it on missions. So, how does this play into the preference with using the MK18 over that of the longer 14.5 M4 upper? My reason: I love the benefits of running suppressed (reduced noise to a point), where I don’t have to worry about blowing out my eardrums if I end up in a situation where I don’t have time to EarPro (Ear Protection)-up. More importantly, with reduced noise, and now virtually no blast or muzzle flash, it makes it much harder for the enemy to pinpoint me via my weapon signature, both day and night.
My choice of the MK18, and why you see more MK18’s and not M4A1 Carbines with Surefire Suppressors being utilized, is due to how the rifle is being utilized down range–and this is where the way the U.S. Soldier is trained to fight comes into play. Whether you are in a team, squad, platoon or other section, one of the fundamental rules we follow is that you always try to engage the enemy with the most casualty-producing weapon you have. If you get shot at by an AK-47/AKM, return fire with a M240 machine gun. If they come back with a PKM, then you respond with a M2 .50-Cal. or 60mm mortar. Whatever they’ve got, you one up them and gain fire superiority!
This is a key separator between the military and civilian, or even law enforcement, shooter. The rifle is seen more as a personal defense weapon (PDW) than as a primary tool to engage the enemy. I could carry a longer rifle, but if it’s mounted with a suppressor, it translates to more weight and a longer rifle (6 inches) added to a 14.5″ barrel. You are now walking around with a very front-heavy 20-inch rifle (not a very forgiving set up for the high-altitude, low-oxygen mountain terrain of Afghanistan). With a suppressor-equipped MK18, you’re back to a 14.5-inch length rifle that is much better balanced and less front-heavy-feeling then a stock M4 due to the shorter barrel bringing the suppressor closer to the receiver. So, now, with the MK18, you get a much better-balanced and slightly lighter platform than a full-size rifle, with all the benefits of the suppressor.
True, running a shorter barrel, you’re losing muzzle velocity, which does equal reduced range and killing power at long range. For me, this means I go from being able to shoot 650-680 meter targets with ease with a 14.5″ barrel to only being able to hit out to about 500 meters with the suppressed MK18. Yes, I lose almost 200 yards, but that doesn’t really matter, because being a member of a team in an engagement, we’re going to use much better platforms like belt-feds (LMG’s and MMG’s/GPMG’s), mortars and larger calibers better suited for that range as our primary weapons to return fire. And let’s face facts: Even with the best long-range 5.56mm ammo (MK262 77gr.) and a 18-inch barrel (the now retired Special Purpose Rifle MK12) although you could reach out to 750 meters with that weapon/ammo combo platform, unless you achieved a head shot, the 5.56 round (5.56x45mm NATO) is pretty anemic in terms of one shot stopping power.
So, many (myself included) find a suppressed MK18 to be the perfect compromise for performing close in work like dynamic CQB/CQC gunfighting, and still effective engaging mid-range targets out 100-300 meters. And, in a pinch, the warfighter can still engage out to 500 meters and beyond. If the threats are out farther, there are better tools for the job; bigger and better calibers.
This MK18 with Elcan is a very popular set up. With Suppressor it’s quiet and not too long or unbalanced. The Elcan in 1-4 power gives you the ability to shoot past 300 meters and what’s just as important, although it might not be the best long range arrangement. The Elcan in 4 power does give you magnification to help spot where the enemy is and direct bigger weapons and assets against them. Note fully deck out with Magpul accessories.
AR/M4 Accessories: What’s hot in 2014!
Now having covered the why behind the preferred use of the MK18 shorty set-up, there are still a lot of plain old shooters out there planning to use their rifle as a primary set-up for the common extended distances. Going along with these set ups for longer range shooting are extended tactical handguards/rail systems that are now more popular than ever.
Tactical Handguards/Rail Systems
Although the Daniel Defense RIS II is now issued for the M4, many shooters prefer narrower non-railed “slick” modular versions that you will find are most prevalent on 3-Gun competition rifles. For the same reason competitors choose slick-sided (minus the MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny rails) narrow handguards for a better grip to drive the gun, assaulters/operators with full-length barrels are going with the same style handguards.
M4A1 with SOPMOD upgrade; Daniel Defense RIS II and Surefire 4 prong suppressor capable flash hider. Now standard issue for all SOF.
One rail style slowly making its way onto rifles are KeyMods. When I first saw a Keymod rail, my initial thought was that it’s unnecessary since there are plenty of slick rails out there. However, what’s making the Keymod popular and causing it to gain ground in tactical use is the method by which you can mount attachments. Before KeyMod, the way to add attachments to a slick hand guard (forward grip or light) was to first bolt on a section of Picatinny rail. The beauty of the Keymod is that now the item you want to add just slides and locks right onto the rail with no need to add Picatinny sections to turn your slick rail into a railed version. My only issue is that all my extra add-ons (angled foregrips, lights, sling mounts, etc.) are built around Picatinny rails. For someone like me who has numerous rifles, I have a mountain of Picatinny rail stuff. For me, going Keymod means basically starting over. Since, I’ve already received some vertical foregrips from BCM (Bravo Company Manufacturing) to try, now I just need my own Keymod rail to which I can attach them [Editor’s Note: The BCM KeyMod Rail, or KMR, would of course be an appropriate and excellent choce for this. Click here to visit the BCM KMR product page.]!
M4A1 Rifle equipped with full length barrel and Keymod rail. Not the scope I believe 3- 8 power, also Vltor stock and Ergo Grip. This rifle is a prime example of a set up giving the shooter the capability of putting accurate fire out to the extended ranges needed.
Pistol Grips and Buttstocks
While Magpul stocks and grips are still probably the most numerous additions to rifles, Bravo Company Manufacturing (BCM) products are making their way onto a lot of rifles. The BCM Gunfighter’s Grip (GFG) pistol grip and BCMGunfighter Vertical Grip and BCMGunfighter KeyMod Vertical Grip stubby vertical foregrips are becoming popular. For buttstocks, new additions are the Mission First Tactical MFT BattleLink Stocks, Troy Industries GPS NAV Stock, the ARK Defense Enhanced SOPMOD Buttstock (ESB) and the B5 Systems B5 Enhanced SOPMOD and B5 Bravo SOPMOD stocks.
Another rifle set up for the long range fight with Troy Industries NAV stock, BCM Gunfighter grip, Magpul BAD Lever and narrow slick 3gun style rail. Also notice a touch of old school with the Knights Armament suppressor (which has been in service with SOF since about 1998).
Below: Two more M4’s accessorized to give the shooters maximize ability to drive the gun. Both have narrow slick rails born out of 3-Gun competition. Top rifle; Samson Evolution rail, Ergo grip, bottom rifle; 3-Gun or combat, this rifle is set up is light weight and built for speed; Battle Link stock, Magpul BAD lever, Mission First Tactical Engage pistol grip, 3D-printed vertical foregrip, later replaced with BCM Gunfighter foregrip (not shown in photo), Troy VTAC Delta rail and Inforce WML light. Also note the Magpul 40 rd magazine and Geissele SD-C trigger.
Other Accessories
In addition to stocks and grips, ambi-charging handles are still very popular, with the Rainer Arms Raptor ambi-charging handle and BCMGunfighter standard and ambi-charging handles being particularly popular [Editor’s Note: Let’s also not forget the Teutonic-looking Phase 5 Tactical Ambi Battle Latch (ABL) ambi charging handle.].
Tactical rifle slings-wise the Viking Tactics (VTAC) two-point tactical rifle sling by Kyle Lamb is the most prevalent one in use. I’ve personally switched from a single-point to a VTAC two-point sling. The main reason? With the two-point sling, the rifle rests a lot better when hiking around the mountains here (Afghanistan). While a single-point is very maneuverable, if you have to go hands free, the rifle will always end up hanging in front of you, right between your legs. With a two-point, you can rotate around to your back, and the sling will usually stay there, even under rapid movement.
Rifle on top (above): 2012 M4A1 set up. Rifle on bottom (immediately above): 2014 set-up. What’s changed” 14.5″ upper to MK18 10.5 suppressed. Magpul butt stock swapped out for ARK Defense Enhanced SOPMOD. It’s slightly lighter and has better cheek to stock, plus it’s the same one on my 3-Gun rifle so I have the same feel. Magpul vertical grip has replaced the issued Knights Armament. Also swapped out pistol grip for a BCMGunfighter Pistol Grip. I prefer Ergo grips the most, I like the angle but this BCM grip has grown on me through the deployment. Single point sling swapped out for VTAC. What has not changed; Arredondo extended mag well still in place, this makes its 4th deployment on a rifle, extended bolt release and Blackhawk Gladius light, (I first used the Gladius on a 2005 trip Iraq around the time they first came out). This is the 4th deployment using it, thousands of rounds have been fired with the Gladius mounted on various rifles still the same bulb. Matt Burkett Predator offset mount, 3rd deployment, this time fitted with newly issued EoTech mini red dot (uses same mounting plate as Doctor sight). New for this deployment BCM ambi-Gunfighter charging handle. Also note Samson flip up front sight, the rear is on my 14.5 upper (pictured at the top of the article). I only have the front on here because to get proper eye relief with the Elcan it left no room for a backup. (My plan if the Elcan were to go down, just use my 45 degree red dot offset sight. If that goes down use the Elcan sight housing itself as me rear aperture aligned with the flip up sight). All in all a good set up for me that I trust.
Magazine Update
In 2012, the new improved GI magazine with brown follower was just making its way into mainstream service. I would have to say that compared to the older green-follower magazine, I prefer the green-follower version. I’ve seen many “improved” brown follower version mags (some are marked Brownells on the side) fail via double feeds and jams over the last two years, more than any other magazine (GI issue or commercial). Plus I’m still slightly annoyed by the fact that on a fully-loaded brown-follower mag, the top round sits on the left, which is counter to every other AR magazine on the planet.
My go-to loadout; The Magpul Emags on the left I received back in 2007 when they 1st came out, the Lancer Advanced Warfighters in 2010, all still going strong. On the bottom IMI polymer magazine, despite that it’s not reinforced like the Lancer I have had no issues with it going on 9 months now.
As far as commercial magazines, I’m still using the same batch of Lancer L5 Advanced Warfighter Magazines (AWM’s) and Magpul EMAG’s. Head-to-head, I’d have to give the Lancer AWM mags a slightly higher rating. I’ve seen more issues with PMAG’s (usually Gen II’s) in terms of double feeds or having problems. I would like to point out, though, that Magpul PMAG’s are still the most prevalent magazines I see. So, their being used more could be a factor in why I see more of them go down.
One new magazine I would like to mention is the Israel Military Industries Defense (IMI Defense) polymer mag. I was given one by DefenseReview (DR) to test last fall. So far, I’ve had no issues with it, at all. In fact, it’s the primary magazine I keep in my rifle.
The Wrap Up
During World War II (WWII), Marines in the pacific found that their issued M1919 .30-cal machine guns with tripods (some water-cooled) were too cumbersome for what they needed in jungle warfare and beach assaults. One solution to plus up their firepower, was to take aircraft M1919 .30-cal. Browning machine guns (ANM2 models), adding bipods and other attachments to turn them into lightweight assault versions known as Stinger LMG’s (Light Machine Guns).
Today’s warfighter is no different. When going into harm’s way, he’s going to take advantage of the latest’s tools and accessories in order to give him the winning edge on the battlefield. Technology/hardware meets training and tactics.
About the Author (Jeff Gurwitch):
– Currently serving with U.S. Army Special Forces
– Competitive shooter: USPSA, IDPA, and 3-Gun.
