Liberal Forum

Blackvegetable » 17 Aug 2026, 11:56 am » wrote: ↑

17 Aug 2026, 11:56 am

You're RUNNING from facts...

 

More facts

AI Overview



The semi-automatic-only version of the AR-15 has never been standard military issue. The military version—derived from the original ArmaLite design and Colt production—was built with select-fire capabilities (capable of fully automatic or burst fire), designated as the M16 or M4

Military Adoption Timeline

• 1963: The U.S. military officially ordered and designated the select-fire variant as the M16, making it standard issue for troops.

• 1964: Colt began manufacturing and selling the strictly semi-automatic-only variant (marketed as the Colt AR-15 Sporter) to civilians and law enforcement, separate from military contracts.