CAR-15: Difference between revisions - Wikipedia

In late 1959, Colt introduced a Tanker Model of the AR-15. It was the first AR-15 made with a retractable buttstock, with its overall length being only {{convert|26|in}} with the buttstock retracted. The retractable buttstock resembled a shortened version of the fixed buttstock, but a two-position latch recessed in the back allowed it to be extended and locked into position, increasing the length of pull by {{convert|2.7|in}}. The barrel is too short to mount a bayonet, so the SMG had no bayonet lug.

In 1965, Colt introduces the new ''Model 607'' CAR-15 Submachine Gun (SMG), which is an improved version of the Colt Armalite AR-15 Tanker Model with some modifications from the M16. It was a compact weapon for use by [[special forces]] and vehicle crewmen.

The [[wiktionary:submachine gun|dictionary definition]] of [[submachine gun]] is an automatic firearm that fires pistol-caliber cartridges. However, manufacturers such as [[Colt's Manufacturing Company|Colt]], [[Heckler & Koch]], and [[Zastava Arms]] have referred to compact carbines as ''submachine guns'', regardless of the weapon using rifle calibers to emphasize their short length and to differentiate them from longer carbines.

About 50 CAR-15 SMGs were made. Most were issued to Navy SEALs and Army Special Forces, though some were also given to Army K-9 units. Since it never went into full production, CAR-15 SMGs were assembled from available spare parts. The first models were made with M16 receivers without forward assists and with shortened pistol grips from the Survival Rifle (see below). The later ''Model 607A'' was made with XM16E1 receiver with forward assist and standard pistol grip. The handguard was made from full-length rifle handguard by cutting it in half and using either the fore or aft pair, after machining the ends to fit the slip ring and handguard cap.