M16 rifle
Standard infantry arm
The M16 rifle is a lightweight, air-cooled assault rifle that became the standard infantry weapon of the U.S. military in 1969.
Chambered for 5.56mm ammunition, it replaced the heavier M14.
The M16 and its variants—particularly the shorter M4 carbine—remain widely used by American forces and exported globally.
The platoon was issued M16s before deployment.
- selective fireSwitchable rate of fire
- firearmProjectile weapon using explosives
- gunProjectile-launching weapon
- infantryGround combat troops
- weaponryMilitary equipment collectively
Vietnam War · M4 carbine · AR-15 · calibers · brass casing · trigger · barrel · ballistics · M16 · stock · bayonets · muzzle velocity · magazine · shooting range · suppressors · military · standard issue · basic training
- firearmspistol, handgun, shotgun, revolver, carbine
- weaponsknife, gun, sword, swords, pistol
- Vietnam WarVietnam War, Vietnam, Tet Offensive, My Lai Massacre, Viet Cong
- Marine Gearcanteen, pack, backpack, dog tags, combat boots
M16 riflederringer
Compact concealed firearm
pocket pistol · pistol · handgun · sidearm · revolver
M16 rifleolive branch
Symbol of reconciliation
white flag · first aid kit · peace treaty · shield · body armor