An M16 Parts Kit: What Parts Are Interchangeable with an AR-15?
You’re probably familiar with the M16. You know, the platform that’s enjoyed the longest service history in the United States Army? It’s a lot like the AR-15, in many ways. Did you know that the M16 was designed around the AR-15, and that the AR-15 came first? It’s true. And it’s also true that the carry handle you might be looking at to tell them apart is not the best way to do so. That’s just an attachment. You can stick one on an AR, too. So here’s the thing. These rifles use many, many interchangeable parts. So if you’re thinking about building an AR-15 and only have an M16 parts kit , or you want to build an M16 and only have an AR kit, you’re in luck. Just remember that the laws surrounding the two are different. M16 rifles that are capable of fully-automatic modes of fire are considered NFA weapons, so be aware that NFA rules apply. Otherwise, here’s what you need to know about interchangeability. Parts That Are Interchangeable As has been stated, both the AR-15 an...