Sabre Defence A3

     Notes: Sabre Defence is known primarily for their M16/M4 clones and modifications; one of these is the Sabre A3 line.  There are several members of the Sabre A3 line, but features in common include CNC machined upper and lower receivers made from 7075-T6 forgings, barrels of better than Mil-Spec quality in workmanship and materials, improved reliability in the gas system and bolt, and a modified recoil buffer.

     The M4 Flat Top is one of the “basic” versions.  It uses oval-type handguards, a MIL-STD-1913 rail atop the receiver, an ergonomic pistol grip, folding front and rear sights, and a 6-position sliding stock.  The barrel is a special contour barrel of vanadium steel, tipped with either an M16A2-type flash suppressor or an extended birdcage-type flash suppressor.  The M-5 Flat Top is essentially similar, but uses government-contour barrels of 16 inches only, and does not have a 7.62mm Kalashnikov option.  For game purposes, the M-5 Flat Top is otherwise identical to the M4 Flat Top.  The M4 Carbine is essentially identical to the standard Colt M4A1E2 Carbine (Sabre Defence does make many M16s and M4s for the US military) – full auto and with a MIL-STD-1913 rail atop the receiver, and with a fixed M16/M4 type front sight -- but also comes in versions with longer barrels and different chamberings.  The M-5 Carbine is essentially the same as the M4 Carbine for game purposes, other than an additional barrel length for the 7.62mm Kalashnikov chambering.  (Except for this additional barrel length, use the same entries as the M4 Carbine for the M-5 Carbine.)  The M4 Tactical has handguards with four-point MIL-STD-1913 rails, folding sights, and a Gill muzzle brake instead of a flash suppressor.  The stock is a more-adjustable Vltor sliding stock.  The M-5 Tactical is quite similar to the M4 Tactical in concept, with the same MIL-STD-1913 rail setup, same sight setup, and the same Vltor sliding stock; however, barrel length is limited to 14.5 inches, and the barrel uses a special contour and is tipped with a longer version of the M16A2’s flash suppressor.  The M-5 Tactical also is sold with an EOTech 552 reflex sight (included in the cost below).  The A3 Flat Top Carbine is identical to the M4 Carbine in 5.56mm NATO with a 16” barrel for game purposes.

     The A4 Rifle is a Sabre Defence-built version of the M16A3; stats are reproduced for convenience below.  The A2 National Match is a match-quality AR-15A2, with a carrying handle above the receiver, a two-stage match trigger group, a match-quality rear sight, and a heavy-contour match-quality 20-inch barrel. The Heavy Bench Target rifle is equipped with a 24-inch fluted match-grade bull barrel that is free-floating and has a target crown (and does not have a chrome-lined bore), special tubular aluminum handguards, an M16A2-type stock, a MIL-STD-1913 rail atop the receiver, a trigger adjustable for pull weight and travel, folding sights, and a detachable bipod. 

     The Varmint is, as might be guessed, designed for small-game hunting and pest control; it features a stainless steel mid-weight free-floating and fluted 20-inch barrel, tipped with a widened muzzle that has a target crown.  The stock is an M16A2 stock, the trigger group is match-quality, there is a MIL-STD-1913 rail atop the receiver, and it has an ergonomic pistol grip.  The Competition Extreme sort of builds on the Varmint; it has the same sort of barrel (though in three barrel lengths), but tipped with a Gill muzzle brake.  The stock is a CTR sliding stock, and the rifle includes flip-up front and rear sights, with the rear sight being in front of the receiver on the handguards instead of at the rear of the receiver (this is less accurate, but allows for quicker target acquisition).  The Competition Special is similar, but is also chambered for 6.5mm Grendel, has no iron sights (that are sold with the rifle), and uses a standard M16A2 stock instead of a sliding stock.  The Competition Extreme is also similar, but has a Vltor sliding stock, handguards with 4-point MIL-STD-1913 rails (plus one atop the receiver), flip-up match-quality sights, and a Gill Competition muzzle brake.  For game purposes, however, the Competition Deluxe is identical to the Competition Special, except as mentioned before.

     The SPR is meant to be sort of a designated marksman’s rifle as well as a general purpose assault rifle.  The Vltor sliding stock has five positions and is skeletonized; the handguards have four sets of MIL-STD-1913 rails, as well as a MIL-STD-1913 rail atop the receiver.  The pistol grip is an Ergo ergonomic grip.  The trigger is match-quality, and SPR is equipped with a folding bipod adjustable for height and cant.  The sights are folding.  Barrels are made from stainless steel of vanadium steel, and are fluted to save some weight and improve cooling. 

     The Precision Marksman Rifle, also called the XR-15, is essentially a sniper rifle version of the A3, but I have included it here for completeness.  The PMR uses a shorter gas system than would be considered normal for this size of rifle, but this improves reliability.  The handguards have four-point MIL-STD-1913 rails, and the upper receiver is also topped with such a rail.  Iron sights are not normally fitted, but are available; the standard scope sold with the PMR is a Leupold 6.5x20x50 Mk 4 LR/T M1.  The pistol grip is an Ergo grip with a palm rest.  The trigger is match-quality.  The stock is a Magpul TRS stock adjustable in the cheekpiece and for length and angle of the buttplate.  The barrel is 20 inches, of 410 stainless steel and fluted, and tipped with a flash suppressor; like many such rifles, the bore is not chrome-lined.  A detachable light bipod, adjustable for height and cant, is fitted at the end of the handguard.

     Twilight 2000 Notes: The Sabre A3 M4 versions and the A4 Rifle are available in the Twilight 2000 timeline; the rest are not.

Sabre Defence XR-15

     Notes: The XR-15 was Sabre’s first entry into the M16 clone market.  Like the A3, the XR-15 features a chrome-moly-vanadium-steel barrel of higher than mil-spec quality, 7076 receivers, and semi-hand fitting parts. XR-15s are known for being able to digest nearly all ammunition fed them. 

     The XR-15 Micro is the shorty; it has a 7.5” heavy barrel and can be had in 5.56mm, .222, or 9mm chamberings.  The barrel is tipped by an A2-type flash suppressor, and stocked with an M4-type stock. The handguards are round and made from aluminum, and have a free-float tube.  The outer finish is phosphate.  The sights are M16A2-type, but designed for the short sight radius of the Micro, and chambering.  The carrying handle is mounted on a MIL-STD-1913 rail, which is easily removed for the mounting of alternate optics or accessories. An option is a low-profile gas block with a short section of rail atop it. The XR-15 M4A1 is similar in construction, but comes with a 11.5-inch or 14.5-inch barrel. The XR-16 Mid-Length and Government are also of similar construction, but with a 16.75-inch and 20” barrel, respectively.

     As the name would indicate, the XR-15 Benchrest is designed for benchrest target shooting.  Construction is in many ways like the rest of the XR-15 series, with a free-floating tube and quality materials, but the barrel is a bull match barrel which may be made from the chrome-vanadium-moly-steel alloy of the others or a stainless steel barrel.  The top of the receiver has a MIL-STD-1913 rail, and the low profile gas block has another rail section. The stock is similar to an A2 stock, but more ergonomic; the pistol grip is anatomical.  There is no flash suppressor, but the rifle has a target crown.  It is equipped with a two-stage match trigger.  Barrels may be 12, 16, 20,or 24 inches.

     Taking a different turn, the XR-15 M4 Stealth is based on the 7.5-inch version of the XR-15 Micro, but equipped with an integral silencer.  It is also equipped with a plethora of MIL-STD-1913 rails, such as atop the receiver, atop the handguards, as 2 o’clock and 10 o’clock, and one underneath the handguards, A typical layout is for the Stealth to have a foregrip under the handguards along with a flashlight, IR flashlight, or laser pointer, with a reflex scope on top.  Company literature states that a 5.56mm round is silenced down to the report of a .22 Long Rifle. The barrel and silencer are desighed for the Stealth and not designed to be removed.

Seekins Precision NOXs Combat Billet Rifle

     Notes:  The NOXs (No Excess Rail) begins with a core of 7076-T6 aluminum receiver halves – machined out of solid billet, not pressed.   Unlike what most recruits are told about the M16 or M4 – “Don’t grip the rifle by the magazine well, you’ll unseat the magazine” – The NOXs has a specially shaped, extended, and ribbed forward magazine well that is designed to be gripped.  (This extension is formed into a sweeping S-curve towards the rear, just to add style to the NOXs.)  The receiver halves are Class 2 Hardcoat anodized and finished in black, as is the magazine well. Other parts of the rifle finishes are almost entirely in black Melonite.

     The trigger guard is widened for gloves and the bottom is skeletonized.  The controls are ambidextrous, and they are checkered for a positive engagement.  Though they are aluminum, they actually look like finished carbon fiber.  The trigger is a QMS trigger by ALG Defense, which is like a Mil-Spec trigger with all the grittiness and creepiness removed.  Essentially, it is tuned to match specifications.  The pull weight is a hefty 6.5 pounds; most users prefer about 4 pounds out of an AR.  The pistol grip is a MagPul MOE+. Above the receiver, and continuing down the handguard, is a MIL-STD-1913 rail.  M-LOK spots are found at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock, and these can accommodate any length of rail as well as some accessories directly. Any excess metal has been removed. The handguards are almost as long as the barrel, with only a bit of the barrel and flash suppressor protrudes out of. The handguards provide plenty of ventilation for the barrel; in fact, you can look right through them and see the barrel and gas tube. The handguards are 6061-T6 aluminum and finished in Melonite.  The charging handle is a BCM Gunfighter handle, with an oversized grip and unlocker.  The bolt carrier group is finished in Melonite, and is designed to be more like an M16 bolt carrier group instead of the lighter M4-type bolt carrier.

     The barrel is 16 inches long and is made of a stainless steel blank, bored out using button rifling and is of match-grade quality.  Each barrel is then inspected four times by four different people and machines. The barrel is tipped with a proprietary spiral three-pronged flash suppressor finished with Melonite.  (The shape of the flash suppressor is an esthetic measure and not an operational shape.) The barrel itself is finished in Armor Black Cerekote. The gas block is low-profile and underneath the handguard; both it and the gas tube are finished in Melonite.

     The stock is a MagPul STR stock, which is skeletonized to save weight and has a comfortable cheekpiece, yet is 6-point adjustable.   It features QD mounting, so it can be easily replaced. It has a protected adjustment lever. It mounts on a carbine-length buffer tube, containing a heavy buffer and strengthened spring.  It is ergonomic, as the top of the stock has a cheek rest designed to be a comfortable angle for most shooters.

     The entire carbine’s construction is hand-fitted and corrected if necessary, with parts not up to Seekins’ par being completely replaced.  The NOXs is not Mil-Spec; it exceeds them. (This is probably why, if you order a NOXs, you will find it is back-ordered.)  All parts move easily and almost silently for most of them.  Seekins sells the NOXs with MagPul 20-round magazines (which are synthetic), but the NOXs can mount and seat virtually any AR magazine.

SIG USA XM5

     Notes: The XM5 is the winner of the US Army’s NGSW (Next Generation Squad Weapon) competition to supplement the M4 Carbine and the M249 SAW.  The Army intends to equip Combat Arms troops and MPs with the XM5 system, and aims to also replace Designated Marksman weapons, Cav Scout weapons and some sniper team weapons with a variant of the XM5.  The XM5 may also see use by Special Operations troops.  The NGSW program is meant to address the problems with an inability of the 5.56mm NATO and even the 7.62mm NATO’s inability to penetrate modern body armor at anything beyond short range.  It is centered around a new, heavier round, the 6.8mm SIG Fury.  The XM5 is based on the SIG MCX SPEAR rifle, which itself was designed for military and law enforcement concerns.  Deliveries to Army troops are to begin in 2023 with small numbers to be issued for extensive field testing.  LRIP production is to begin in 2024, though the Army insists that the XM5 system may still not see widespread issue. The US Marines are reportedly also interested in the XM5 system.

     The XM5 is designed to be used with a specially designed Lo-Tox NLX suppressor which can have standard supersonic rounds fired through it at semiautomatic or automatic rates of fire repeatedly.  However, the standard XM5 is meant to be fired without the suppressor, with the suppressor to be used by Special Ops and snipers, and the suppressor otherwise attached when troops are patrolling in enemy-held areas.  The XM5 is also designed to use current US Army optics, and has a Picatinny Rail atop the receiver and upper handguards as well as M-LOK slots on the handguards for use with other accessories. (The standard XM5 optic is the new Vortex XM157.) Designated Marksman rifles may be fitted with a variety of scopes or optics, while sniper versions will definitely be scoped. The standard chrome/moly steel barrel is 13 inches long, and is a floating barrel.  Standard magazines are of translucent polymer and have a 20-round capacity. The XM5 is built largely of anodized aluminum, with current models being finished in Coyote Tan. Original prototypes use a side-folding stock, but current prototypes use an M4-type sliding stock, as the Army has a certain length requirement in mind for the XM5. Maximum effective range has yet to see a final determination, as the XM5 may yet see barrel length change before the design is finalized. (I have included some alternate barrel lengths that have been discussed so far.)

     So far, Designated Marksman variants may use a 16.5-inch, 18-inch, or 20-inch barrel, while sniper team versions may use a 16.5-inch, 18-inch, 20-inch, or 22-inch heavy barrel.  There is currently no requirement for a new SASS to come with a bipod, though it is probable that one will be mounted in the future. Or, the Army may forego DMRs and sniper versions based on the XM5, and hold a new competition to replace those rifles. SIG demonstrated DMRs and sniper versions based on the XM5 with several barrel lengths and different scopes and optics, and the Army seems to be keeping SIG and the rest of us in suspense, keeping their options open.

     Other than the barrel, optics, and suppressor, changes from the XM5’s MCX SPEAR forefather include a short-stroke gas piston with a manually switched two-position gas regulator. The trigger is a two-stage XM157 match-quality trigger. Other changes include switches and buttons positioned to allow for troops’ muscle memory with the M16 series to be exploited, along with a rotary bolt and general internal parts and charging handle more akin to the M16 series.

     The versions below are with an optic sight (for assault rifle versions) or scope (for DMR/sniper versions).

Smith & Wesson M1940 Light Rifle

     Notes: Most of these rifles were built for the British SOE, who dropped them to French resistance forces for the most part; unfortunately, after World War 2, all but 130 were destroyed out of the 1010 built.  Many of these ended up in the US on the civilian market; at first they were subject to rigid laws, but in the 1970s it was removed from the NFA list (where it was due to the short barrel) and reclassified as a Curio & Relic firearm. Though metalwork was of light alloy, the majority of the exterior, including the magazine well and furniture, were of plastic. The stock could be removed; though this is primarily for transport purposes, the Light Rifle could also be fired in this configuration. The magazine is unusual; the magazine is wide, and fired rounds are moved to the front of the magazine where they are stored until unloaded.  This kept the French resistance fighters from wasting spent rounds which could be kept for reloading.  Due to the chambering, it is more a carbine than a rifle. The front sight is a fixed blade, while the rear is a micrometer-adjustable type.

     The Mark II (The above is the Mark I, but most details apply to the Mark II) has a barrel sleeve, and the butt has a compartment carrying a barrel wrench, sling, and manual (in French and English).  200 were built; 80 remain, mostly in the US, and they too are classified as C&R. For game purposes they are identical, except for weight and price.

Smith & Wesson M&P15

     Notes: The M&P15 is basically Smith & Wesson’s take on the M4 and M4 SOPMOD.  The basic design is pure M16/M4, with a 16-inch barrel.  However, the bolt carrier and gas key are chrome-plated as well as the bore, and chamber, which decreases fouling and increased reliability.  Upper and lower receivers are of 7071 T6 aluminum, which is stronger than the metal of the standard M16/M4 receivers, and the machining, assembly and fitting of all parts are done by hand.  There is an additional sling swivel at the front on the side, which may be moved to the left or right side.  The flat black finish uses a much finer and durable texture than the standard M16/M4.  Most have a removable carrying handle, revealing a short MIL-STD-1913 rail for optics.  The M&P15 comes in several versions – the M&P15 Standard, the M&P15A (a slight variant of the M&P15 Standard) M&P15T Tactical model, and the M&P15C, a full-sized model. 

     The M&P15 Standard is sort of the counterpart to the basic M4.  The sliding stock has six positions, and the flat top has a MIL-STD-1913 rail with a removable carrying handle that has the M&P15’s rear sights.  The front sight is mounted somewhat further back than that of a standard M4, and therefore does not interfere with optics which may be mounted on the MIL-STD-1913 rail.  The M&P15A is almost the same as the M&P15 Standard; Smith & Wesson does not sell it with the removable carrying handle (though it can still mount the handle), but instead the M&P15A is equipped with a detachable Troy Folding Battle Sight as a rear sight.  This sight is more finely-adjustable than a standard M4-type rear sight (though not micrometer-adjustable), and it can be folded down flush with the rear of the MIL-STD-1913 rail, not interfering with anything mounted on the rail.  Recently, Smith & Wesson has been offering the M&P15R, which is basically the M&P15 Standard in 5.45mm Kalashnikov.  The magazines are modified AR-15/M16/M4 magazines, and a few other modifications for the new cartridge.

     The M&P15C is equipped in roughly the same manner as the M&P15A, but uses a 20-inch free-floating match-grade barrel with a slightly different twist than the 16-inch barrels of the other M&P15 rifles.  Trigger units are two-stage and adjustable.

     The M&P15T is roughly the counterpart to the M4 SOPMOD.  It has three-position MIL-STD-1913 rails on the handguards, as well as a full-length rail on the flat top for optics.  The three-position rails may be removed entirely and replaced by standard handguards, but this makes removing the forward portion of the top rail necessary.  The forward portion of the MIL-STD-1913 rail otherwise forms a continuous length of rail with the MIL-STD-1913 rail mounted atop the receiver.  The M&P15T also comes with removable covers for the forward MIL-STD-1913 rails.  The sights are flip-up front and rear, and both are adjustable.  The M&P15T can accept all SOPMOD accessories – including the M-203 grenade launcher, though it has no bayonet lug.  The M&P15T is also not sold with a carrying handle, though one may still be mounted. Both the front and rear sights are Troy Folding Battle Sight system sights.  The front sight, though this is not advertised, are in the perfect position for interfacing with most modern laser or holographic sights.  Interestingly, the front sight is also in a perfect position for interfacing with a Leupold Mk 4 CQ/T scope; though this is not advertised either, the resulting sight picture is regarded as being too perfect to be a coincidence by most shooters.  The M&P15T is also equipped with a free-floating barrel.

     The M&P15-22 is designed for casual shooters and low-cost marksmanship.  Versions with no flash suppressor and with 10-round-capacity magazines exist to comply with California regulations, but are otherwise identical to a standard M&P15-22.  As with the M&P15. They have a MIL-STD-1013 rail atop the receiver, another four on the handguards, a six-position sliding stock, and the magazines are identical except for an insert inside the magazines for the smaller rounds (the insert is not removable).  Barrel length is 16 inches. Operation is not at all like the M&P15; the M&P15-22 operates by direct blowback. Handguards are MBUS handguards equipped with M-LOK slots on four sides, with cooling slots in between. Though none have yet been sold for this purpose, The M&P15-22 has a known preference for hotloads, and operates more reliably and accurately when firing them. Smith & Wesson has recently added a new sales target for the M&P-22 -- countries who use the AR-15 series and want to save money on training costs.

     Newer members of the M&P15 family are the M&P15 Sport and M&P15FT Sport.  The Sport sorts of treads the line between a fully-equipped military rifle and sporting purpose rifle.  The Sport has an A2-type fixed stock, a forged integral (and slightly enlarged) trigger guard, a front sight triangle with a rear Magpul BUIS folding sight, round, ribbed, M4-type handguards, and a Wilson Combat derivation of an A2 flash suppressor. Atop the receiver is a MIL-STD-1913 rail.  The 16-inch barrel is of medium weight and floated.  The bore, gas key, and bolt carrier are chromed.  The barrel is finished in Melonite, while virtually all the rest (except polymer parts) is finished Hard Coat Black Anodized.  The M&P15FT Sport is the same rifle, but with a collapsible stock and heavily-ventilated handguards that have four-point MIL-STD-1913 rails.  In some ways, the M&P15FT Sport may be thought of as a subtype of the M&P15T.

     New for 2016, the M&P15 Sport II is very similar to the Sport, but adds features asked for by shooters and for general improvement.  The forward assist and dust cover, omitted from the Sport, have been put back in.  The entire rifle has been coated in a durable Armornite finish in black.  The bolt carrier liner, gas key, and firing pin have been chromed.  It is otherwise the same for game purposes like the Sport.

     Another recent version, new for 2013, is the M&P10.  This version is not strictly an assault rifle, but is included here for completeness, for it is chambered for 7.62mm NATO.  The base version is California-compliant and has an 18-inch barrel tipped with a long birdcage-type flash suppressor, and is otherwise made to the same specifications of the M&P15 Standard.  It is basically an AR-15/AR-10 equivalent with a receiver-top monolithic MIL-STD-1913 rail and standard M4 handguards (leaving a long length of exposed barrel.  There are no iron sights on this rifle, though it can mount BUIS, and the low-profile gas block can easily mount a front sight BUIS.  Finish is Black Type III Hard Anodized.  The receiver is 7075 T6 Aluminum, while everything else is 9130 or 4140 Steel.  The stock is an M4 stock.

     Another version of the M&P10 is basically the same, but may only take a 5 or 10-round magazine. All other versions are essentially the same except that one of them has a camo finish and a target crown instead of a flash suppressor, as well as a fixed stock. This is the M&P10 Sport.

     All of these are currently advertised as being semiautomatic, with automatic versions rumored to be available to certain police, military, and government concerns.  They are currently sold in virtually all-black finish, though again other colors are rumored to be available to select buyers.  The tables below allow for automatic versions. In some jurisdictions (both here and in the US), a magazine-fed weapon is illegal, to varying degrees.  These weapons have a “Bullet Button,” in which what is normally the magazine release button simply drops open at the bottom of what appears to be a ten-round magazine.  The magazine can then be fed from stripper clips or one at a time into the internal magazine.  The M&P15 Sport, M&P15T, M&P15ORC and M&P15PS come in Bullet Button (most found in the next section) versions.

     Notes: None of these rifles are available in the Twilight 2000 timeline.

Smith & Wesson M&P15 Enhanced Rifles

     Notes: Your basic M&P15 Rifle is rather plain and ordinary in appearance.  However, Smith & Wesson has an entire line of M&P15s with a variety of enhancements, from handguards with four-way MIL-STD-1913 rails to target/sniper versions with barrels to match.  As with the versions above, I have included a possible automatic version in most cases, though Smith & Wesson currently sells only to civilian and law enforcement concerns.

     The M&P15 VTAC II (Viking Tactics) uses VTAC/Troy TRX Handguards designed for rough use (though they are polymer).  These handguards have two-way MIL-STD-1913 rails (top and bottom of the handguard), as well as one atop the receiver that connects to the top handguard rail. There are additional very short rails above and below the gas block; the bottom one is particularly suitable for a bipod (though there is none included in the price below. The stock is collapsible and is a VLTOR IMod stock with a compartment for batteries and a small cleaning kit. In addition to the bore, the bolt carrier and gas key are chromed. Most of the rest is finished in Hard Coat Black Anodized.  The VTAC II is finished overall in a very dark gray – almost black.  The 16-inch barrel is of medium profile, but fluted; it is also free-floating.  It is tipped by a Smith & Wesson Enhanced Flash Hider which is a flash suppressor that reduces flash significantly and directs gas and sound away from the shooter.  The trigger pack is a Geissele Super V two-stage Trigger, with a light pull weight.  The VTAC II comes with a 2-point tactical sling.

     The M&P15 MOE Mid Magpul also has a MIL-STD-1913 rail atop the receiver, but not atop the handguard.  It does have one below the handguard, and the rifle is sold with a handgrip to attach to the rail.  The name is derived from the Magpul MOE stock, which is a lightweight collapsible stock that is largely skeletonized.  The front sight is a standard A2 sight, but the rear sight is a folding Magpul MBUS.  The finish is the same as that on the VTAC II, but it is available in dark gray as well as desert sand.  The gas system is interesting; the gas is tapped at a point halfway down the handguards through a small hole in the barrel.  Smith & Wesson claims that this produces less recoil (not quantifiable in game terms) and better follow-up shot ability.  The magazine well is flared, and the front of the magazine well is serrated to give the shooter a place to put his non-firing hand. The trigger guard is enlarged for use with heavy gloves.  The 16-inch barrel is of standard size, but is free floating, and tipped by the S&W Enhanced Flash Hider.

     The M&P15-300 (since renamed to the M&P15 Whisper) is chambered in an unusual caliber -- .300 Whisper.  In addition, this model can fire .300 AAC Blackout as well.  The primary design application is for short-range target shooting, but either round will also take down small and medium game at short ranges.  The M&P15-300 is equipped with a conventional flash suppressor, but this can have a silencer fit over it, and the subsonic velocities of the two rounds lend themselves well to silenced applications, though of course .300 Whisper also has a supersonic loading, and the M&P-300 can be used with a wide variety of propellant loadings and bullet weights.  Finish is basically the same as that of other Enhanced Rifles, but a Realtree Camo pattern is also available, and the barrel is finished in Black Melonite, as is the gas block.  There are MIL-STD-1913 rails atop the receiver and the gas block, and the front sling swivel can be used to mount a bipod (not included in the price).  Feed is from modified AR-15 magazines. The stock, handguards, and pistol grip are standard M4-type items, though the trigger guard is enlarged to accept a gloved finger.  The barrel is 16 inches and medium weight, though it is fluted and free-floated; as stated above, it is tipped with an A2-type flash suppressor.

     The M&P15OR is sort of “a friend with benefits.”  The M&P15OR uses standard carbine handguards, but the 16-inch barrel is of medium weight, match quality, and tipped with an A2 flash suppressor.  No iron sights of BUIS are sold with the M&P15OR; instead, there are  above the upper receiver  MIL-STD-1913 rails are present as well as a very short rail above the gas block.  The stock is a standard A4 stock, but the finish is in Hard Coat Black.  The gas block of the M&P15OR has a gas key, allowing the firing of older grenade launchers which require ballistite, as well as newer riot control rounds which require a cup and fire weapons like tear gas grenades, rubber balls, solid rubber projectiles, beanbags, and suchlike.  The M&P15ORC is the same rifle with a fixed A2-type stock.

     The M&P15X is unusual-looking rifle; to begin with the handguards of the M&P15X are much shorter than most AR-15/M16-type rifles – they are much shorter than those of the M4, even though the M&P15X has a 16-inch barrel.  The stock is an M4-type collapsible stock, and the pistol grip is a standard A2 pistol grip.  Finish is Hard Coat Black Anodized, with a chromed bore, gas key, bolt carrier, and chamber.  The barrel is medium profile, and made of cold-forged 4140 steel.  The top of the receiver is a MIL-STD-1913 rail, and the handguards have four-way rails. The front triangular sight support with a post is present at the front above the gas block, but the rear iron sight is a Troy Folding Battlesight.  The short handguards are interesting; the front sight is mounted in front of the short handguards, as is the gas block.  What you get is a rifle with a 16-inch barrel but a direct impingement gas system of a rifle with about a 10-inch barrel.  You also get a dramatically shorter sight radius.  It will be interesting to see as time goes by how this system goes.

     The M&P15TS is the M&P15T…well, taken a bit more tactical.  The M&P15TS 7076 T6 aluminum for most of its light alloy parts, including the upper and lower receiver, which is light yet strong. The M&P15TS has a MIL-STD-1913 rail atop its receiver. And this integrates with the rail atop the handguard.  The handguards themselves are very long – at 13 inches, they are so long that little more than the flash suppressor and a very small amount of the barrel extend outside the handguard.  The handguards also have three more rails on the handguards, giving the handguards four-point rails.  The handguards are remarkably open, having large vent holes.  Though the M&P15TS is designed for optics, but it does have folding BUIS made by Magpul.  The stock is designed to be light, and therefore Magpul MOE stock.  The M&P15TS has a chromed bore, gas key, chamber, and bolt carrier.  The barrel is 14.5 inches, is medium profile, and free-floating; it is also equipped with the compact Troy Muzzle Brake.

     Like most of the M&P15 series, the M&P15PS has a 16-inch medium-weight free-floating barrel -- in this case, of 4140 steel.  The bore, gas key, bolt carrier, and chamber are chromed.  The receiver has a MIL-STD-1913, and there is another short rail above the gas block.  The biggest difference between the M&P15PS is its piston-operated gas system.  The barrel is tipped by a Smith & Wesson adaptation of the A2 flash suppressor.   The M&P15PS is not normally sold with iron sights or BUISs included.  It does have an M4-type collapsible stock.  Finish is Hard Coat Black Anodized.  The M&P15PSX is the same rifle with Troy Modular four-point MIL-STD-1913 rails on its handguards. 

     The M&P15PC has the same base as the M&P15PS, but it is meant more for target and longer-range shooting.  The M&P15PC has a MIL-STD-1913 rail above the receiver, as well as a very short one above the gas block.  No BUIS are supplied with the M&P15PC, though they may be added by the shooter if desired. The barrel is a heavy-profile 20-inch match floating barrel which is tipped by a target crown.  The handguards are Yankee Hill aluminum alloy handguards and have vent holds only in the top and bottom.  The gas key, chamber, and bolt carrier are chromed.  The stock is an A2 stock, and the pistol grip is of olive-drab ergonomic material designed to enhance grip.  The trigger group is a Wilson Combat-designed 2-stage match-quality trigger.  The M&P is made in Hard Coat Anodized, or over that finish may have Mossy Green Oak camouflage pattern.

     Twilight 2000 Notes: These rifles are not available in the Twilight 2000 timeline.

Stag Arms Model 1=8 Rifles

     Notes: Stag Arms was founded in 2003, and quickly made their name in the manufacture of left-handed AR-15 rifles, essentially a mirror-image of a conventional AR-15A2, including the ejection port, an entire mirror-image upper receiver, and controls on the opposite sides. (Stag is also noted in that it was missed on the California DOJ’s Kasler list, which means that their rifles are fully legal in California as long as other relevant parts of the law are complied with.)

     Stag Arms have never seriously been considered for general military usage, though Stag has had great success with police forces and with civilians.  Some of the features’ necessities don’t seem to be applicable to use by a civilian hunter, though they are available to civilians.  For that matter, early versions, which are largely still for sale, look little different than an AR-15 or semiautomatic-only M4.  However, they have a number or refinements, such as forged instead of stamped upper and lower receivers (though they are still of aluminum alloy. Most barrels are what would be normal for an AR-15, M16, or M4, being standard-weight Mil-Spec barrels with chromed bores.  Sights, however, may vary by rifle, but are generally the same as or based on standard AR-15A2-type sights. (It would be interesting for a GM to have the player find a mint-condition AR – but he’s right-handed and the Stag rifle is left-handed.)

     The Model 1 and Model 1L (the left-handed version) can be mistaken at first glance to be an M4, but the longer 16-inch barrel quickly gives this away if you look closer.  The length of thickened barrel is also longer than that of the M4, extending to just in front of gas block, with less than half an inch break, then thickened again.  (For game purposes, this may be considered a medium-weight barrel).  The barrel is tipped by a standard A2 flash suppressor.  Another change is the upper receiver’s design – the receiver is topped by a removable carrying handle/rear sight assembly.  The front sight, on its triangular post, remains, and is not detachable.  The top of the receiver has several lock-down points of the claw-type to attach optics, but is not a MIL-STD-1913 or Weaver Rail.  The stock is identical to that of the M4.  Being a close copy of the AR, it can take all AR magazines, including most increased-capacity, exotic and rare magazines. The Model 1 and 1L are identical in game terms, except for their orientation.

     The Model 2 and 2L are almost identical to the Model 1 and 1L, but the Models 2 and 2L dispense with the removable carrying handle of the previous model (though, conceivably, a carrying handle could still be added).  The Models 2/2L are designed for use with add-on optics or aiming modules and the receiver top has a MIL-STD-1913 rail.  The Models 2/2L come with a BUIS for the rear sight; it is a large BUIS (made by ARMS) and does not simply flip up and down and with most optics the BUIS must be removed before add-on optics will fit the Models 2/2L.  The ARMS rear BUIS used here, however, is mounted far enough back that its larger size is not an issue, and has the bonus of being more stable than the standard removable sight. More advanced design is also use, allowing for somewhat thinner but stronger metal in its design.  The 16-inch barrel is medium-weight and match-quality. The Models 2T and 2TL give the Models 2 and 2L a more tactical configuration with the upper receiver and upper handguard having a MIL-STD-1913 rail; the two rails fit together as to form a continuous upper rail.  The bottom and sides of the handguard also sport shorter MIL-STD-1913 rails.  (These rails are Samson’s STAR-C TARS system.) The barrel is the same as that of the Models 2 and 2L, but is free-floated.  The lower rail can accept any grenade launcher that has the proper interface, including several 37mm and 38mm designs commonly used by police forces, as well as the standard NATO 40mm launchers.  The front sight remains on its triangular post, and the rear BUIS is the same as on the Models 2/2L.

     The Models 3 and 3L are sort of incremental upgrades of the Models 2T/2TL platforms.  The Samson STAR-C TARS rail system is replaced by the Diamondhead Versa-Rail System.  The previous rail system required that the rails on the handguard be thermo-molded, including the rails.  The Versa-Rail system has removable rails; the rails can be removed and replaced with shorter rails or even rail covers.  The rails may be mounted at 12, 3, 6, and 9-o’clock positions around the handguard, the upper handguard rail forms a long rail atop the rifle.  The Models 3 and 3L are equipped with folding BUISs front and rear.  The handguard itself is aluminum, and are actually lighter than the previous handguards with their molded rails.

     The Model 3G and GL were designed specifically for use in 3-Gun Competitions though it is equally useful by target shooters, rifle competition shooters, long-range small-game hunters, and even police snipers.  The Model 3G/GL differs in many ways from the Model 3/3L, including longer Samson 15-Inch Evolution aluminum handguards with four MIL-STD-1913 rails around them, and with the top handguard rail connecting seamlessly with rail above the receiver.  The trigger is a Geissele Super-3 trigger group, which was designed specifically for the needs of 3-Gun Competitors, but is a fine two-stage trigger for anyone else, having a light pull weight and short pull length.  The stock is a Magpul ACS stock, which is collapsible and provides battery storage and cleaning kit storage.  The primary reason it is used on the 3G/GL, however, is the increased area atop the stock which makes for better cheek welds when firing.  The pistol grip is an MOE ergonomic grip, which also provides storage through a hinged bottom of the grip.  The BUIS provided are Dueck Defense Rapid Transition Sights, and the Model 3G/3GL are normally equipped with optical low-power or unity sights to further increase accuracy.  This is included in the price of the rifle below, though other optics can also be mounted.  The barrel is top-notch, 18 inches long and tipped with a compact muzzle brake.  The barrel is match grade, heavy profile, fluted, and free-floating.

     The Model 3T-M/3TL-M is a new version of the Model 3,designed for 3-Gun competitors; it is also useful for those hunting small-to-medium game..  It is a combination of a Stag-designed flattop upper (with MIL-STD-1913 rail) and a Mil-Spec lower (with an A2-type Magpul MOE pistol grip with a compartment within, but textured for a better grip, and a flared magazine port).  The stock is a Magpul ACS telescoping stock, with three compartments for a cleaning kit, batteries, and other things that may be needed at a moment’s notice.  (Some 3-Gun shooters use some or all of the compartments for balancing weights.)  The interior working parts are mostly Mil-Spec, but easily replaced and/or adjusted to the shooter’s preferences; in particular, the stock Mil-Spec trigger pack is easily removed and replaced with most aftermarket trigger packs.  The handguard, on the other hand, is not Mil-Spec; it is a 13.5-inch Diamondhead VRS-T with a free-float tube. This handguard is triangular in shape; The bottom and sides of the handguard provide and are shaped with a good gripping surface, while the top of the handguard has a MIL-STD-1913 rail that locks into the receiver-top rail.  The handguard is designed to attach to the rifle and be rock-solid and non-moving, despite the grip of the shooter.  One can attach rails to the other three surfaces using KeyMod slots, but this will of course spoil the gripping surface features.  The handguard goes out to just short of the flash suppressor.  The Model 3T-M ships with Diamondhead low-profile folding BUIS.  The rifle is Mil-Spec finished; in addition, the bolt carrier and bolt are Parkerized.  The 16-inch barrel is made of 4140 steel and is throated to fire either 5.56mm or .223 ammunition.  The barrel is coated with manganese phosphate under it’s Mil-Spec finish.  The barrel is tipped with an A2-type flash suppressor, which is on a threaded barrel-tip, and it can be exchanged for any number of muzzle devices.  The barrel is shorter than most 3-Gun shooters use, but the carbine is also more manageable than an 18-20-inch barrel. Stag will even customize your Model 3T-M with any of a large number of accessories, such a 4150-steel barrel, ambidextrous controls, chromed bolts, a muzzle brake, several types of trigger packs, etc. (They will even laser etch the Second Amendment on the side of the magazine well upon request.)

     The Models 4/4L are sort of “back to basics” rifles.  Though a rail system for the handguards can be fitted, they are not normally shipped by Stag Arms with those kind of handguards fitted.  The Model 4/4L have a removable carrying handle with a rear sight; this is easily removable, revealing a MIL-STD-1913 rail.  The standard stock for the Model 4/4L is a fixed A2 stock, though a sliding stock can be fitted at the buyer’s expense.  The barrel is match-quality and medium profile, but is otherwise 20 inches long and tipped by a standard A2 flash suppressor.  The Models 4/4L are sort of “no frills” rifles.

     The Models 5/5L are basically the same as Models 2 and 2L, but they are chambered for the 6.8mm SPC cartridge.  Stag’s version of 6.8mm bullet-launchers use a barrel extension specifically designed for the 6.8mm SPC round, instead of using a barrel extension adapted from another chambering.  These rifles also use a reinforced extractor.  In the Models 5 and 5L can use other than the ARMS BUIS, including flip-up models.  The barrel is 16 inches and medium-profile; other enhancements remain the same as those on the Models 2/2L.

     The Models 6/6L Super Varminter are designed for long-range applications, whether by police snipers or light to medium-game hunters or civilians in long-range matches.  The Models 6/6L are equipped with a 24-inch stainless steel heavy-profile match-quality floating barrel with a target crown.  The top of the receiver has a MIL-STD-1913 rail, though the handguards are not; however, the handguards are designed for a good grip.  The forward sling swivel doubles as a bipod mount (included in the price), and a telescopic sight is also included in the price below. The stock is an ordinary A2 stock, but the trigger pack is a two-stage match trigger.

     The Models 7/7L Hunter is sort of a 6.8mm SPC version of the Models 6/6L, though there are several differences.  The basic design is the same, including the rail above the receiver, the round, textured aluminum handguards, the small MIL-STD-1913 rail above the gas block to allow a front BUIS to be mounted, and other features found on the Models 6/6L.  The barrel is of the same quality and profile as on the Models 6/6L but the Models 7/7L use a shorter barrel of 20.77 inches.  The biggest difference, of course is the use of a 6.8mm SPC chambering instead of 5.56mm NATO.  Another difference is in the finish; though the Models 7/7L have the same construction as the Models 6/6L, the Models 7/7L have a completely non-reflective gray finish called S7.  This finish weatherproofs and fights corrosion.

     The Models 8/8L are basically the same as the Models 2/2L, but the operating system is by gas piston instead of the Stoner direct gas impingement system.  In addition, the Models 8/8L is a bit heavier than the Models 2/2L, a nod to shooters who felt that the Models 2/2L was too light to properly minimize barrel climb and line the rifle up for a follow-up shot.

     Stag Arms recommend Magpul PMAGs, but any sort of compatible magazines can be used.  This includes the versions below.

     Twilight 2000 Notes: Only the Stag 1/1L are available in the Twilight 2000 v2.2 timeline, and only in very small numbers.  Most of these were actually sent directly to militia forces in the US, and few other civilians will have one.  Some left-handed versions ended up in the hands of right-handed users, and vice versa, according to available supply. No other Stag Arms rifle exists in the Twilight 2000 timeline, including the ones below. (In addition. Magpul PMAGs will not exist in the Twilight 2000 v2.2 timeline.)

Stag Arms Model 9

     Notes: The Models 9/9L are similar to other Stag rifles, but fire 9mm ammunition instead of 5.56mm or 6.8mm ammunition.  The Models 9/9L have 16-inch barrels of heavy profile tipped with an A2-type flash suppressor.  It normally uses Colt-style stick magazines, but also can use 9mm Tavor magazines.  The barrel is made from 4140 steel and manganese phosphate coated (as is most of the metalwork). The receiver halves have Type 3 hard coat anodizing.  The upper receiver is topped with a MIL-STD-1913 rail, and a short section of rail is atop the gas block.  The stock is an M4-type telescoping stock, and the pistol grip is also an A2-type.  The trigger is Mil-Spec.  Operation is by direct gas impingement. 

     The Models 9T/TL are also known as the Model 9 Tactical; differences include a slightly longer 16.1-inch 4140 steel heavy-profile barrel, 13.5” M-LOK SL Handguard with a MIL-STD-1913 rail on top and M-LOK slots on the sides and bottom, and a set of Magpul MOE accessories, including a CTR stock, MOE pistol grip, and MOE trigger guard.  The non-aluminum metal parts are manganese phosphate, with the aluminum parts (including the receivers) having a Type 3 Hard Coat Anodizing.  The 9T/9TL uses blowback operation rather than the 9/9L’s direct gas impingement.

     The Model 9/9L Free-Float uses a 15” M-LOK SL Handguard with a free-float tube, and blowback operation; it is otherwise similar to the Model 9/9L. 

     The Model 9/9L PCF SL has been increased in weight to aid controllability (not simulatable in Twilight v2.2 rules) and uses a 15” Paper City Slimline M-LOK Handguard, with M-LOK slots on all four sides.  On top of the low-profile gas block is a short length of MIL-STD-1913 rail – just enough to mount a BUIS.  Atop the upper receiver is another rail.