Colt M16 Tactical series
- By Pete Moore
- Last updated: 26/01/2017
Made by Walther for Colt Holdings Co the Tactical series is unusual in two ways - it’s the only brand to offer a 20” rifle and has adjustable bolt tension so you can set up for any ammo type. There are two types and four models all showing flat topped, Picatinny railed receivers. The M4 and M4 OPS carbines have telescopic butts, 16” barrels and A-frame front sights. Differences being the D-handle and round/plastic forend on the M4 and the compact rear sight and 4-way, free-float forend on the OPS.
There’s a full, military spec, 20” A2 rifle – flash hider, long forend, A-frame sight etc. with D-handle and fixed butt and the SPR, which is the same though has a 4-way, free-float handguard and fold-down sights. All rifles show an ejection port cover and case deflector, with a non-functioning forward assist. The manual hold open catch is also dummy and the safety flips 180°as opposed to 90°. Feed is from 10, 20 and 30-round mags with external lugs to aid filling, the 30 is a bit on the long side and comes as standard.
The mechanism is enclosed and bolted in to the action, making it hard to remove and therefore keep clean. The trigger is non-M16 and heavy at 8-9 lbs. The barrel you see is an alloy outer that holds a slim, steel, rifled liner that is tensioned by the flash hider, which does not affect accuracy. Walther offer a number of accessories including a moderator adaptor and dedicated silencer. Despite the bolt system the rifles work reliably, though a bit more involved to keep clean.
For: Well priced with that authentic M16 look and feel
Against: Heavy trigger, bolt not easy to strip and clean
Verdict: Good choice of models and accessories
PRICES:
M16 A2 £550
PRS £630
M4 £530
M4 OPS £620
Mags 30-£35, 20-£30, 10-£20