RETRO NEW BUILD, Iconic old-school Southern Tactical M16A1 retro-style semi-automatic rifle chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO. Built to capture the unmistakable look, feel, and balance of the classic Vietnam-era U.S. service rifle, this 20-inch rifle pairs timeless military styling with reliable modern semi-automatic performance.
Based in Ashland, Virginia, Southern Tactical has earned a dedicated following among military surplus enthusiasts and retro firearm collectors for bringing historic service rifles back to life. Known for blending period-authentic aesthetics with quality American-made receivers, barrels, and semi-automatic fire control groups, Southern Tactical builds rifles that honor the heritage of classic military small arms while delivering dependable accuracy and function on today's ranges.
This M16A1 configuration showcases all the signature hallmarks that defined America's primary infantry rifle from the late 1960s through the early 1980s. Up front, it features a classic 20-inch rifle-length barrel topped with a traditional birdcage flash hider and a fixed A-frame front sight post. Surrounding the barrel is the defining feature of the early M16 series—the iconic ribbed triangular polymer handguards with internal aluminum heat shields, offering a remarkably slim, comfortable, and lightweight grip profile compared to modern tactical rails.
The upper receiver retains the authentic fixed A1-style carry handle with integrated windage-adjustable dual-aperture rear sights and a classic teardrop forward assist, paired with a fixed A1-style rifle buttstock and pistol grip. Chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO, the rifle safely runs both 5.56 NATO and .223 Remington ammunition and takes advantage of the full 20-inch barrel length to maximize velocity and deliver soft, smooth recoil with its rifle-length gas system.
 
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