Description
The Colt AR-15 A4 Patrol is a classic, no-frills 5.56/.223 rifle built to a proven military specification. It features a 20-inch barrel, fixed A2-style furniture, and an integrated carry handle rear sight. This is a straightforward, reliable rifle designed for durability and practical accuracy, offering a trusted platform at a competitive price point of $1409.99.
Key Features
- 20″ Barrel: Maximizes velocity and accuracy potential for the 5.56 NATO round.
- Fixed A2 Furniture: Classic full-length handguard and fixed buttstock for a solid, traditional feel.
- Integrated Carry Handle: Houses a fully adjustable rear sight, ready for use out of the box.
- Colt Reliability: Built to military-derived specifications for proven performance.
- Standard Configuration: Uses a common direct impingement gas system and mil-spec components for easy maintenance.
Specifications & Details
| Caliber | 5.56x45mm NATO / .223 Remington |
| Barrel Length | 20 inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 39.5 inches |
| Weight (unloaded) | Approx. 7.5 lbs |
| Magazine Capacity | 30 Rounds (1 included) |
| Sights | Carry Handle Rear, A2 Front Post |
This rifle is built on a standard AR-15 platform, meaning it’s compatible with a vast array of aftermarket parts. The upper and lower receivers mate precisely, and the fire control group is mil-spec. The 1:7 twist rate of the 20-inch chrome-lined barrel handles a wide range of bullet weights effectively. It ships with one 30-round magazine, and the total package weighs in at a manageable 7.5 pounds, giving you a stable shooting platform. Look, the value here is in getting a factory-built Colt that’s ready to run without any immediate upgrades needed.
Who This Rifle Is For
This Colt A4 Patrol is ideal for the shooter who values a classic, proven design over the latest tactical trends. It’s a perfect fit for someone wanting a dependable, accurate rifle for range use, varmint control, or as a foundational piece in a collection. It’s also a smart choice for those who appreciate the simplicity of iron sights and a fixed stock, or for buyers who plan to customize slowly with aftermarket parts. Given its longer barrel and full rifle-length gas system, it’s not the most compact option for close-quarters use, but it excels where reach and precision are priorities. The price of $1409.99 positions it as a serious contender against other legacy brands, offering the Colt rollmark without a boutique price tag.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The 20-inch barrel provides excellent ballistic performance, making your ammo work harder. The fixed A2 stock and handguard are incredibly durable and rattle-free. The integrated carry handle sight is robust and provides a solid cheek weld. You’re getting a genuine Colt AR-15 with a reputation for reliability—no gunsmithing required to start shooting. It’s mil-spec compatible, so upgrades from brands like Magpul or BCM drop in easily.
Cons: The fixed stock isn’t adjustable for length of pull, which may not suit all shooters. The full 39.5-inch length can be cumbersome in tight spaces or for storage. The classic handguard doesn’t have Picatinny rails for mounting accessories without add-ons. It’s a heavier rifle compared to modern carbines with collapsible stocks and shorter barrels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I mount an optic on this rifle with the carry handle?
A: Yes, but it requires a specific carry handle optic mount. The carry handle has a slot for attaching these mounts, which raise an optic to a suitable height. Alternatively, you can replace the entire carry handle upper receiver with a flat-top model later if you prefer a lower optic profile.
Q: Is the barrel threaded for a muzzle device?
A: No, the barrel on this classic A4 model typically features a non-threaded, crowned muzzle with a standard A2 birdcage flash hider pinned and welded in place. This design is part of its traditional military aesthetic and may not be compatible with aftermarket muzzle brakes or suppressors without modification.
Q: What kind of accuracy can I expect?
A: With its 20-inch barrel and rifle-length gas system, this platform is capable of excellent mechanical accuracy, often in the 1-2 MOA range with quality ammunition. The fixed stock and longer sight radius of the carry handle also make it easier for a shooter to achieve consistent results with iron sights.
This Colt A4 Patrol represents a specific, value-focused choice in the AR-15 market. It trades modern modularity for proven simplicity and durability. For the shooter who wants a ready-made, classic rifle from an iconic manufacturer, it delivers significant bang-for-your-buck. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, with an FFL transfer required for firearm purchases. If the classic A2 profile and inherent accuracy of a 20-inch barrel speak to you, this Colt is worth strong consideration.
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