The M4 Carbine (Weapon)

The M4 carbine has seen extensive use during the Global War on Terrorism, and not just with U.S. forces. So why is it that any discussion of the M4 with three weapons experts will produce at least four opinions (someone will change their mind)? Author Chris McNab explores the history of the M4 and the reasons why it may remain a controversial weapon.The author walks the reader up through the developmental and operational history of the M4 with a sure hand, careful not to overstate or understate its various features and challenges. The narrative has lots of detail, including examples of combat use. The text includes lots of photographs, illustrations, and technical diagrams. Well recommended to students of military small arms.

With the widespread adoption of the M4A1 moving from just SOF to mainstream troops in the 1990s, the improving ballistic properties of the 5.56 mm ammunition and that the Picatinny 1913 rail system modularity allowed for accessories to be added per task made the M4 the “go to choice” of Western Armed Forces for over 30 years.Chris McNab’s research reveals some interesting facts; such as that the US military’s own competition to replace the M4 ended without a winner in 2013; and later FN (who developed the SCAR Mk 16 especially for this task) went on to win a large contract to manufacture the M4A1 for the US DoD in 2020.A strange omission even as a passing statement, is the US Marines’ decision to replace all M4s in their infantry squads with M27s (née HK 416), which uses a gas-operated short-stroke piston system unlike the M4’s direct impingement.I was also surprised to see no mention of Lewis Machine and Tool (LMT’s) much admired take on the M4 platform with their MARS-L, which has been adopted by the armed forces of both New Zealand and Estonia.One error I spotted was on p.61 where the Australian Commando is quite obviously carrying an HK 416, (this photo can be viewed on the Wikipedia page on the HK 416 in full size, and the HK name on the magazine well is clear).Notwithstanding, my comments and the small errors, this is still a great addition to the Osprey Weapons series of books.

Interesting history of the M15 and it’s development and of its variants

Although the M4 has been in development in some way since the 1960's, it is one of the newer types covered in this series. Chris McNab is an expert in his field and writes a detailed account of the M4's history and eventual deployment by forces around the world. Particular attention is given to the technical aspects of the weapon such as the handling characteristics and sighting. The book is well illustrated with diagrams, photo's and depictions of combat. Another good entry in this series.

thank you