One for the Veterans: Stag Arms Model 4
As we grow we tired of the over-accessorized and video-game inspired black rifle, Stag Arms has a model to take us back. The Model 4 is built with inspiration from the real war fighter with features akin to the M16A2 and A3 models. Devoid of acronyms and buzzwords the Model 4 pays tribute to what most of us experienced in the early days of the Global War on Terrorism (GWOT).
Unlike the pre-war Colts which had been used and abused for years before the author even put a uniform on the Model 4 is issued in pristine condition with an excellent upper-to-lower fit and even bluing. Twist-rate has been updated and the barrel is of heavy profile to make the Model 4 a better target rifle than an issued M16. Overall fir and finish is on par with the excellence we’ve come to expect from Stag Arms.
Product Specs
Weight: 8.5 pounds
Length: 39.75″
Action: Semi-auto direct impingement
Chamber: 5.56 NATO. This rifle will also shoot .223
Twist Rate: 1/9 button rifled
Muzzle Device: A2 flash hider (Stag Arms Compensator on post ban models)
Barrel: 20″, 4140 steel, chrome-moly, heavy profile, manganese phosphate coated
Handguard: Thermoplastic with double heat shields
Upper Receiver: Forged and mil-spec 7075 T6 aluminum with type 3 hard coat anodizing and a picatinny rail on top
Bolt Carrier: Enhanced semi-auto with a manganese phosphate coating
Charging Handle: Standard mil-spec
Front Sight: F-marked A2 front sight, side sling swivel, and bayonet lug (no bayonet lug on post ban models)
Rear Sight: Removable A3 carry handle with integrated sight
Lower Receiver Material: 7075 T6 aluminum with a type 3 hard coat anodizing
Hammer/Trigger pin size: Mil-spec small pin .154″
Pivot/Takedown Pin Size: Mil-spec small pin – .250″
Caliber Marking: 5.56 NATO
Buttstock: A2 buttstock with trap door for storage
Buffer: A2 buffer with A2 action spring
Trigger: Mil-spec single stage trigger with a non-adjustable 5-8 pound trigger pull
Grip: A2 style plastic grip
Magazine: 20rd (Post-ban versions will have a 10rd magazine)
Safety Selector: Right Hand
So where does such a rifle fit in the market of 2017 filled with hundreds of tacti-cool options? For me it brings back strong memories of adventurous times. Upon handing the rifle to another veteran he immediately snapped to attention and ran through basic ceremonial drills. This is a rifle for memories.
Unlike the ultra-modern, the Model 4 has a place with veterans and those who want to experience what it was like to wield an M16 in the early days of GWOT. I could also see it as a great piece to hang on to for teaching others and sharing history just like the surplus rifles we keep in our collections. The Stag Arms Model 4 is neither a varmint gun nor a rifle you’re likely to take to a 3-Gun match; it’s a rifle you leave unmodified out of respect and in tribute. Videos below cover table-top review and shooting impressions both by the author and Erika who represents the non-veteran perspective.
