M16A2 Rifle
A lightweight, standard-issue rifle carried by American soldiers and Marines for combat at close-to-medium ranges.
Specifications
History
The M16 rifle series first saw widespread combat in the Vietnam War. In the 1980s, the military adopted the upgraded M16A2 version, which featured stronger plastic parts, improved sights, and a heavier barrel for new ammunition.
During the Gulf War, the M16A2 served as the main personal firearm for hundreds of thousands of coalition soldiers. A major change removed full-automatic firing and replaced it with a controlled three-round burst to save bullets.
Soldiers found the weapon reliable across the dry desert climate as long as sand was cleared regularly. It remained America's frontline service rifle throughout the rest of the 1990s.
Frequently Asked Questions
Used In
Combat Medals & Awards
Air Force Commendation Medal
A mid-level military award honoring airmen for meritorious achievement, bravery, or outstanding service.
Air Force Distinguished Service Medal
A high military award given for exceptionally meritorious service to the government in duties of great responsibility.
Air Medal
A military decoration awarded for single acts of heroism or meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight.
Army Commendation Medal
A decoration awarded to soldiers for heroism, meritorious achievement, or exemplary service in the United States Army.
Bronze Star
A United States military decoration awarded for heroic or meritorious achievement in a combat zone.
Distinguished Flying Cross
A United States military decoration awarded for heroism or extraordinary achievement in aerial flight.
Distinguished Service Cross
The second highest military decoration for valor awarded to members of the United States Army.
Medal of Freedom
This foreign award from the United States honored civilians and allied service members who helped defeat enemy forces during wartime.
Medal of Honor
The highest military decoration of the United States, awarded for acts of valor above and beyond the call of duty.
Navy Cross
The second highest military decoration for valor awarded to members of the United States Navy and Marine Corps.
Navy Distinguished Service Medal
A major naval decoration honoring exceptionally meritorious service to the government in duties of great responsibility.
Purple Heart
A United States military decoration awarded to those wounded or killed while serving in the armed forces.
Silver Star
The third highest military decoration for valor in the United States Armed Forces.
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