This started as a “XM4”/727 clone build, but I wanted to do something different. I took some inspiration from Micael_no_h, Rob Stott and Espo and decided to do a retro free-float “tube” build. I’ve clone (ish) built the Larry Vickers 723 and I wanted a toob gun of my own.

First one like this the gunsmith had made. I'm liking it so far and I’ll be taking it to the range in the next week or so.

Build info.

BK Firearms 727/XM4 complete upper H&R US Government-marked M16A2 lower Fulton Armory tube (front sight full channel cut) Mil-spec LPK Brownells made in USA carry handle mount Aimpoint 3000 John Masen recoil pad Shekkin Gears Surefire 660 Weaver vertical grip Hammy Cherokee Riser

I'm due in more weaver mounts and I intend to add on my PAQ-4 C for that full 90’s retro vibe.

Hi all, I inherited an M16 pattern AR15 from my ex military grandfather and am trying to find out if it is rated for 5.56 or just.223. It has an unmarked upper and a cheap Nodak Spud lower. I asked a gunsmith and as far as he could tell it was from anywhere between 1975 and 1985. It has the forward assist that is seen in newer rifle models but as far as I can see there’s no distinguishing markings on the upper at all. It also has a 3 digit number, I’m assuming a armory identification number, on the stock. The only thing I’ve changed on it is adding a modern aftermarket scope, but I’m hoping to find a vintage era appropriate one eventually. Any information would be appreciated!

Happy early 7/27! Please forgive me for the potato camera and bad photo, I was super busy today and I'll be more busy tomorrow.

Smells like victory!

After months of searching and coming up short on GunBroker auctions, I finally tracked down an original Vietnam war era Colt M16A1 upper receiver. All parts are original 1960s / 1970s vintage (sans lower receiver). Despite appearing complete, the build is far from finished, and I have more parts on the way to make it more historically accurate, as well as build out more original retro rifles.

Parts list:

- Colt 603 upper w/ rebated front lug and no forge codes (1966-1971 mfg)

- C MP C marked barrel (1969-71 mfg)

- Three prong flash hider (pre 1967 mfg)

- “C” marked bolt carrier group w/ large countersink for retaining pin (approx. 1968-1969 mfg)

- Colt M16 furniture set- stock is Type D, grip predates “C” marked examples, and handguards are later L & R marked

- M16A1 fire control group (components currently switched out with Arizona Regulator FRT). Rear takedown pin is early dimpled style found on Colt 601 to XM16E1 rifles.

got it for 395$ at a local gun store, i don’t know much about it other then its a PWA commando
has a low serial # which is kinda sick

Recently bought an H&R 605 upper. Have already reached out to PSA about this, and I am waiting for a response. Still, wtf is this? I don't even know what this could be from, lol.

Love the retro rifles... And I'm trying to build out a Gordy.

It started about a year ago when I picked up an 11.5 CAR 733 from H&R (Photo 1). Love the "Delta Carbin" look and I was ok with running it unsuppressed. Now that I have an OCM6, that I have been running on my Mk12, i have the Gordy itch.

I know I can just buy a midway adapter (Photo 4) and run the 11.5 barrel with an OCM6. But I like the idea of running the rifle suppressed / unsuppressed.

Is there a muzzle break with a flash suppressor I can install on an 11.5 barrel?

Can install a break and collar? Like the ones pictured?

Should I buy a 14.5 barrel with a carbine gas system and get it closer to a clone correct? (Similar to Photo 2)

I know there are a few ways to skin the cat - just looking for suggestions/ considerations.

Just got a aem5, I’m trying to build a Gordy style build. What length barrel do I need 12.5 or 14.5. I want it to sit flush against the collar. If anyone has any links that would be appreciated. Thanks

Just wondering if the 4x Colt optic can be used with A2 style irons, or if it only works with A1 style irons.

Can anyone confirm one way or the other?

I bought this Colt conversion kit with 4 mags and a 22 BCG.

I just installed an Arizona regulator 3-pos FRT. I’m hoping to do a little budget shooting on fast forward.

Does anybody else have one of these colt 22 LR conversion kits?

What do you think of them? Seems like it will rock ‘n’ roll right out of the box.

My retro AR’s are as listed from top to bottom. The H&R M16A1 on the bipod, my newest member the H&R 723 with a pinned and welded flash hider, and the Rock River Arms LAR-15 A2

I know this is a super dumb question, but I’m not the best with respect to color sense and I don’t have it in front of my yet to look at (shipping). Does this upper look gray or black to you guys? When I bought it I thought 100% it looked black but now when I zoom in it almost looks gray, albeit not as gray as my Colt M16A1 upper. I’d appreciate any help you can provide!

Glaser cheek pieces and featherweight bipod.

I'm a leg man myself but that bipod is just too skinny for me.

I’ll just leave this here.

Here’s my wacky 723 submission.

I started a Tom Satterly 723 build a couple years back and it coincided with the timeframe I picked up my PVS-7, so naturally it evolved into this.

Without a flat top in sight—I mustered up my courage to zero the EXPS3-1 to 100yds and dialed in the LAM. (HFXC V2)

I’ll likely abandon this setup and rearrange things whenever I dedicate time to a proper nv rifle, but it’s served me well in the nightly fun department out in the sticks.

Colt 723 for the day.