Dirty Bird Brand AR-15 PartsAR Parts and Accesories, AR-15
Discover the Perfect Retro Build with Dirty Bird’s M16A1 Reproduction Upper
Jul
If pressed, its hard to think of a single rifle that’s more instantly recognizable and still viable as the classic M16A1, and based on the number requests we’ve gotten for us to bring this upper to market, we know we’re not alone in this belief. The fact is it holds a storied place in military history, revered for its role in the Vietnam War and beyond. For hobbyists and collectors like us, owning a piece of this history is a unique and rewarding experience. Dirty Bird Guns & Ammo has made this possible with their meticulously crafted M16A1 20″ 5.56 Retro Upper Assembly, a modern reproduction that faithfully mirrors the original while incorporating essential enhancements.
Deployment and Military Service: The M16A1’s Legacy
So, why would someone want this upper in 2024? For starters, its iconic profile is impossible to beat. It just speaks to us. It’s owning a piece of history. Beyond its looks, the M16A1’s service history is a testament to its effectiveness and reliability. Soldiers appreciated its lightweight design and high rate of fire, although initial reliability issues led to some criticism. Over time, as improvements were made, the M16A1 became a trusted weapon in the field, contributing to its legendary status.
A Nod to History: Development and Design of the M16A1
First produced in 1967, the M16A1 was made the standard issue rifle for American forces in the Vietnam War two years later. It continued in service in the American military until the 1980s, when it was replaced by the M16A2. However, it is still used by many militaries around the world due to its reliability and effectiveness. The M16A1 was developed as an improvement over its predecessor, the M16, addressing many of the reliability issues that plagued the original model. It featured a new forward assist mechanism, a redesigned flash suppressor, and a modified rear sight, among other updates.
Dirty Bird’s reproduction upper receiver replicates these iconic features with remarkable precision. Crafted from 7075 T6 aluminum forgings, the upper matches the original M16A1 profile, complete with the proper carry handle contours and no shell deflector. For those who prefer a brass deflector, Dirty Bird Guns & Ammo also offers the M16A1 C7 Assembled Upper Receiver, which includes this feature while maintaining the same iconic M16A1 design. The black class 3 type 2 anodizing finish matches most modern mil-spec lower receivers, ensuring a cohesive look for your build.
More Than Just Retro: A Highly Viable M16A1 Upper Today
Just because its a legend that carries the “retro” tag, please do not get it confused – this is an upper that still has its place in the field. The lightweight 20″ barrel, capable of achieving speeds over 3,000 fps depending on the load, maximizes the ballistics of the 5.56 cartridge. More than merely viable, this upper still boasts many advantages over the M4 and other 5.56 carbines. It runs cooler, cleaner, and smoother, making it a robust and reliable choice for modern applications.
Iron sights are an integral part of this build and are not as difficult to use as some might think. They were designed for ease of use, catering to the lowest common denominator to ensure quick and effective target acquisition. While it may not be as easy to toss a red dot on as a more modern upper, for a knock-around, reliable AR with iron sights in 2024, this lightweight setup from Dirty Bird Guns & Ammo is hard to beat.
Why Choose Dirty Bird’s M16A1 Reproduction Upper?
Trends with firearms come and go. Trust us, we know. One trend that still has not gone away is loading your AR-15 upper down with bells and whistles that are really not needed. That said, for folks that need an AR with them on the ranch, on the ATV, more and more are figuring out that an 11 pound AR that snags on everything is not ideal. What they are seeking is something soft shooting, sleek, lightweight, and proven.
So, while this Dirty Bird upper retains its retro look, don’t be mistaken into thinking it’s not a viable rifle upper today. Though it may not be as easy to mount a red dot as a more modern upper, for a knock-around, reliable AR with iron sights in 2024, this lightweight setup is hard to beat. With no extraneous bells and whistles, it’s a lightweight design with a classic profile. For the quality you receive, Dirty Bird’s M16A1 20″ 5.56 Retro Upper Assembly is truly one of the best uppers available for builders anywhere right now. It has a very premium feel, and the price point hits a sweet spot.
Dirty Bird AR-15 MCF Complete Lower Receiver
$199.95
Dirty Bird Guns & Ammo
Need a Lower for your M16A1 Upper?
Performance and Specifications: Blending M16A1 History with Modernity
Dirty Bird’s M16A1 upper assembly doesn’t just look the part; it performs flawlessly in the field. One reason why is because Dirty Bird has switched up the barrel twist rate. The 20″ 5.56 Lightweight Contour barrel features a 1:9 twist rate, which stabilizes a wider range of bullet weights compared to the original’s 1:12 twist. This modern enhancement ensures better accuracy and versatility while maintaining the classic profile. Importantly, Dirty Bird offers this upper with either a non chrome-lined or chrome-lined barrel, allowing you to choose based on your preferences and intended use.
The upper includes an A2 front sight base with a front sight post installed, an assembled M16A1 upper receiver with a teardrop forward assist and dust cover, and a factory-installed dual aperture rear sight. The iconic triangle hand guard and a 3-prong compensator complete the retro look.
Adding the Dirty Bird Upper to Your AR-15 Build
You’ll notice that this is an upper only. That’s by design. One of the key advantages of Dirty Bird’s M16A1 20″ 5.56 Retro Upper Assembly is its compatibility with standard AR-15 lower receivers. (AR15Discounts is currently offering in a more complete kit) This flexibility allows you to create a custom M16A1-style build that meets your specific needs and preferences. For an authentic look and feel, we recommend pairing this M16A1 upper with the NBS AR-15 A2 Buttstock Kit. This kit includes all the parts necessary to install a quality fixed A2 style stock on your AR-15, ensuring a cohesive and historically accurate M16A1 appearance.
Key Features of Dirty Bird’s M16A1 Reproduction Upper
- Receiver: 7075-T6 Forged Aluminum, machined to mil-spec M16A1 dimensions.
- Barrel: 20″ 5.56 Lightweight Contour with a 1:9 twist rate, button rifled. Available in non chrome-lined or chrome-lined options.
- Sight Base: A2 Front Sight Base with Front Sight Post Installed.
- Upper Receiver: Includes teardrop forward assist, dust cover, and dual aperture rear sight, all faithful to the M16A1 design.
- Handguard: Classic M16A1 Triangle Handguard.
- Compensator: M16A1-style 3-Prong Compensator.
- Finish: Black class 3 type 2 anodizing to match most modern mil-spec lower receivers.
- Compatibility: Fully compatible with any Mil-Spec Lower Receiver.
- Warranty: Made in the USA and backed by Dirty Bird Guns & Ammo’s Limited Lifetime Warranty.
Conclusion
For those looking to build a retro rifle or simply add a piece of history to their collection, Dirty Bird’s Retro Upper Assembly is the perfect choice. It offers the best of both worlds: an authentic look and feel combined with modern enhancements for superior performance. Don’t settle for overpriced alternatives—experience the quality and craftsmanship of Dirty Bird Guns & Ammo.
You folks are absolutely amazing! I love what you’re doing! We had about a hundred old Air Force 602 ish non forward assist rifles at Bartow County SO. We would have a few out for our Citizens Academy and between good folks and Deputies, we ran a couple thousand rounds through them on a Saturday! Never had a jam due to the rifle. All were made by Colt between 1967-1973. They were a gift from the National Guard. I miss those rifles so much! They were almost all xm grey color. Would you folks consider offering that color of Phosphate and anodizing in the future? I would love to have a replica of one!