The HK 416 is based around the M4 series of carbines and is the product of a colaboration between Delta Force and the German arms manufacturer, Heckler and Koch (HK). The resulting weapon is said to be less prone to malfunction. One of the main changes to the M4 design is the 416’s short-stroke gas piston system which is based around that found on the G36 (also manufactured by Heckler and Koch).
It is believed that Delta force has now adopted the HK416 as its primary carbine, with most operators favoring it over the Colt M4A1 and MK18 CQBR.
HK416s are available with 4 different barrel lengths :
- D10RS (10.4 inches)
- D145RS (14.5 inches)
- D165RS (16.5 inches)
- D20RS (20 inches)
A set of rails allow the fitting of aiming devices, illumination devices and grips as well as a AG416 40mm grenade launcher.
The HK 416 (D10RS) is also believed to be in widespread use within JSOC, including Delta Force and the elite US Navy counter terrorist unit, DEVGRU, otherwise known as ‘SEAL Team 6‘. DEVGRU commonly use the HK 416 fitted with an AAC (Advanced Armament Corporation) suppressor.
The FBI’s Hostage Rescue Team (HRT) have also been spotted using the HK416. Other users include NASA Emergency Response Teams, and Los Angeles PD SWAT. The United States Marine Corps (USMC) field the M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle (IAR) in the role previously filled by the M249 SAW.
Read more – American Special Ops
(Featured image courtesy of deviantart.com)