Compact Assault Rifle - 5.56x45mm NATO - USA - 825 RPM - The M4A1 (Colt Model 927) is the most recent variant of the CAR15 family.  The barrel length was specially selected to provide compactness without sacrificing reliability.  The barrel is also contoured to provide for the attachment of a M203 grenade launcher.  In addition, improved handguards with double heat shields have been added to prevent the uncomfortable heating properties of earlier CAR15s during rapid fire.  

The Special Operations Particular Modification to the M4 Carbine Accessory Kit (SOPMOD M4) was developed by the Crane Division, Naval Surface Weapons Center.  The SOPMOD M4 kit allows the end-user to configure his/her weapon to individual preferences and mission requirements.  It is composed of mostly non-developmental and commercial off-the-shelf accessories packaged together to support four M4/M4A1 carbines.  

The kit includes four: Knight Armament Company's Rail Interface System (RIS) forearm along with an optional vertical foregrip, the Trijicon Model TA01NSN 4x32mm Advanced Combat Optic Sight (ACOG) as the Day Optical Scope, KAC's backup iron sights in case of scope failure, and an improved combat sling which allows for secure cross body / patrol carry.  

Only two of following are included per kit: the Insight Technologies AN/PEQ2 Infrared Target Pointer/Illuminator for use with night vision goggles, Insight Technologies Visible Light Illuminator (mil-speak for flashlight), Trijicon's ACOG Model RX01M4A1 Reflex Sight, KAC's Quick Attach sound suppressor which provides a 28db reduction in sound signature even with M855 service ammunition, and an enhanced sliding buttstock which is contoured for user comfort and even has compartments for storing spare batteries for the other accessories.  

Only one of the following is included per kit:  KAC's Quick Attach M203 Grenade Launcher Mount, a quick attach sight for use with the M203, a M203 with a 9" barrel, a Insight Technologies AN/PEQ5 visible laser, a 2.25x Miniature Night Vision Sight (MNVS), and a carrying/storage case for kit accessories.  If more of the accessories are needed it is not uncommon for units to cannibalize the kits of inactive teams.  The documentation for the kit does not require a rewrite if improved replacements for any of the current items can be found.  As a result, this content list may have and probably will change in the future.  D.E. Watters
