Description
I was at the range last week, zeroing a modern carbine with all the latest gizmos, when a guy two benches down racked the charging handle on something that made my head snap around. That distinct, metallic clack-clack—it wasn’t just any AR. It was the sound of history. He was running a Colt Retro Reissue XM177E2, and the pure, unadulterated vibe of the thing was undeniable. It got me thinking about why a rifle with a 16-inch barrel and a classic 20-round mag still commands such respect—and a price tag of $2772.33.
So, what is the Colt Retro Reissue XM177E2 5.56mm, 16″ Barrel, Black Hardcoat Anodized Metal, 20rd? It’s a faithful modern reproduction of the iconic CAR-15/XM177 used in Vietnam, built by Colt with a 16-inch barrel to comply with current NFA regulations while capturing the classic profile, chambered in 5.56mm, and finished in a correct black hardcoat anodizing. This isn’t a parts kit build; it’s a factory-correct reissue from the original manufacturer.
Let’s talk about what makes this piece special. First, it’s the look and feel. The black hardcoat anodized finish isn’t just for show—it’s a durable, historically accurate coating that wears like the original. The 16-inch barrel with its iconic moderator-style flash hider gives you that classic silhouette without the paperwork of an SBR. At just over 6.5 pounds unloaded, it’s incredibly handy. The slim, lightweight aluminum handguards and the classic A1-style upper receiver with its forward assist and shell deflector are pure nostalgia, but they house a fully modern 5.56mm chamber.
Here’s the thing—this rifle is about authenticity, not aftermarket customization. It’s built to Colt’s blueprints. The lower receiver is marked with the correct XM177E2 roll marks, and it uses a standard fire control group. That means it’s mil-spec compatible with a wide range of standard AR-15 triggers if you ever wanted to make a subtle upgrade, though I’d argue the classic feel is part of the charm. The 20-round aluminum magazine it comes with is the perfect period-correct accessory, though it obviously works flawlessly with any USGI or Magpul PMAG 30-rounder you have in your kit.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 5.56x45mm NATO |
| Barrel Length | 16 Inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 35 Inches |
| Weight (Unloaded) | Approx. 6.7 lbs |
| Magazine Capacity | 20 Rounds (Aluminum, Included) |
| Finish | Black Hardcoat Anodized |
| Upper/Lower | Forged Aluminum A1-Style |
Pros & Cons
The pros are visceral. You get unmatched historical credibility straight from Colt, a fantastically balanced and pointable carbine, and a conversation starter at any range. The fit and finish are top-tier. The cons are part of the deal. You’re paying a premium for that authenticity—this is a collector-grade piece. The classic handguards get hotter faster than modern M-Lok, and the fixed carry handle limits optic mounting options without an adapter. That said, mounting a period-correct Colt 4x scope on the carry handle is an absolute vibe.
Who is this for? This rifle isn’t for someone building a do-it-all fighting carbine. It’s for the collector, the historian, and the enthusiast who appreciates the lineage of the AR-15 platform. It’s for the shooter who wants the closest possible experience to the iconic Vietnam-era carbine without dealing with NFA regulations, as it’s a title 1 firearm that ships to Missouri and compliant US states. It’s also a solid foundation for a retro-inspired build, as the upper is drop-in ready for any standard AR-15 lower receiver.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is this a true Short-Barreled Rifle (SBR) or a pistol?
A: No. To be sold without an NFA tax stamp, Colt uses a 16-inch barrel with a permanently attached moderator-style flash hider to achieve the overall length, making it a standard rifle. An FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases.
Q: Can I use modern AR-15 magazines and ammunition with it?
A: Absolutely. It chambers standard 5.56mm and .223 Remington ammunition and feeds reliably from any magazine compatible with the AR-15 platform, including Magpul PMAGs and USGI aluminum mags.
Q: How accurate is this compared to a modern AR-15?
A: With its 1-in-7 twist barrel and quality construction, it’s plenty accurate for its intended role—think 2-3 MOA with standard M193 ball ammo. It’s a combat carbine at heart, not a match rifle, but it will outshoot most shooters.
If the idea of owning a piece of firearms history, built with authority by the original company, speaks to you, this Colt Retro Reissue is the way to go. See if it’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.