AR15 A2-A4 whats the difference?

[tjhjunk]

This might be a silly question but whats the difference in A2 and A4 configuration of AR-15 rifles. I've got it in my mind to buy one and don't really know were to start..

I know that I want a carbine with a flat top so it will except different kinds of optics. Don't have any need for lights, lasers, any of that kind of stuff. I think that I want a fiberglass stock but my mind is open for suggestions in that area.

This rifle will be used primarily for fun but if the uprising occurs I want to be ready. The woods is full of companies making the AR-15, so were will I get the most bang for my buck? Any suggestions on brand names, witch one will hold its value the best. Don't know if I can afford a Colt but maybe, my local gun store had the carbine for $1300 about a week or two ago but don't know how many.

So come on fellas give me some in put or at least point me in the right direction.

Tim :banghead:

 

[Onmilo]

A2=standard fixed carry handle/fully adjustable rear sight. 20" barrel
A3= same as above with full auto selector instead of burst fire.
A4= standard flattop with detachable carry handle. 20" barrel.
Current A4 rifles come standard with Knights Armament railed forearms.

M4 carbine=same as A2 but with 14.5" barrel
M4A1=same as M4 but flattop with detachable carry handle.

DPMS
Double Star
Rock River
Bushmaster
Armalite
All these manufacturers make excellent versions of the rifles and are listed least to most expensive to buy at retail.

 

[Kurt_D]

I'll add to whats above. As far as .mil goes:
M16A2 = carry handle with burst
M16A3 = carry handle with F/A, Navy rifle
M16A4 = flat top with burst, KAC rails/ACOG not necessary
M4 = flat top carbine with burst, some early M4's where had carry handles, KAC rails not necessary
M4A1 = flat top carbine with F/A and heavier barrel, KAC rails not necessary

With AR15s there's no standard. Examples:
A2 = carry handle, both carbine and rifle
A3 and A4 = flat top, both carbine and rifle
M4geries = any carbine, A2,3 or 4, with M4 profile barrel 16" or 14.5" with pinned device.

ETA: brands, for first gun stick with A,B,C,R... Armalite, Bushmaster, Colt, Rock River Arms. A,B, and R can be had for about the same price per option. All 3 can be had for under $1000, example: basic M4gery flattop style rifle should run ~$899. Colt, well, you're just going to have to pay for them. $1396 for a LE6920, that's their M4 style rifle.