Introduction
This article compiles AR-15 weapon mods you can find on Nexus. Also includes information about the actual weapons they are based on, for comparison and categorization purposes.
This article is updated at June 2, 2023.
Real world AR-15 rifle types and evolution
ArmaLite AR-15
Original model designed in 1956 by ArmaLite. Unlike later models, it used .223 Remington ammunition.
ArmaLite AR-15
M16
First Colt versión, with 20" barrel length. Uses standard issued 5.56mm ammo with standard issued STANAG magazines.
M16, with original 20 round magazine
M16A1
Includes several improvements, including the addition of the forward assist (which has been maintained in all subsequent models).
Forward assist button
M16A2
Includes several improvements. Replaces the original handguard with a straight handguard. Has three round burst fire mode instead of full auto.
M16A2
M16A3
It includes the improvements of the M16A2 but has automatic fire instead of three round bursts.
M16A4
Has three round burst fire mode instead of full auto. Replaces the carry handle integrated on the upper receiver with a Picatinny rail.
M16A4 MWS
MWS stands for Modular Weapon System. Same as M16A4, but replaces handguard with a RIS handguard (Rail Interface System, with four Picatinny rails).
M16A4 MWS
Colt “Commando”
Colt “Commando” is an unofficial name for several variants that had shorter barrels (mainly between 10” and 11.5” barrel length). The main designs were the models Colt 607, Colt 609, Colt 610 and Colt 629, all of them within the military designation of XM177 prototype, but they were popularly known as the Colt Commando due to the "Commando" marking engraved on the receiver of some of the models. The evolution of these prototypes gave rise to the M4 carbine with a 14.5" barrel.
Colt Model 609
M4 / M4A1
Carbine versión of the M16, with 14.5” barrel. Earliest 1994 models had fixed carry handle, but later models have flat top upper receiver with Picatinny rail (also some models were supplied with a detachable carry handle attached to the rail). Original M4 had straight handguard like the M16A2, but M4 MWS has RIS handguard like M16A4 MWS.
- M4 has three round burst fire mode.
- M4A1 has full auto fire mode.
M4A1, with original handguard
M4A1, with RIS handguard (with rail cover)
M4 / M4A1 Block II
The "Block II" models have been used since 2006. Removed front sight attached to the barrel and also removed the Delta ring. Replaced RIS handguard with the new “RIS II” floating handguard, designed by Daniel Defense, attached directly to the receiver. Unlike previous system (now known as “Block I”), the floating handguard does not put pressure on the barrel, thus improving the accuracy of the weapon.
M4A1 Block II
Mk18
The Mk18 is a shorter version of the M4A1 carbine, with a 10.5” barrel. Known as CQBR (Close Quarters Battle Receiver), the “Mk18 Mod 0” has RIS handguard (like M4A1 Block I), and the “Mk18 Mod 1” has RIS II handguard (being part of the Block II family).
Mk18 Mod 0
Daniel Defense Mk18 (Mod 1)
M-LOK and Keymod
M-LOK and Keymod are modern rail systems designed to replace Pinatinny rails. These systems are noticeable lighter weight than Picatinny and also offer a great solid mounting. Nowadays it is common to have Picatinny system on weapon top rail, for best reliable attachment for optic accesories, and M-LOK (or Keymod) system on side or bottom rails for use with other accesories like flashlights or grips.
M-LOK handguard (left) and Keymod handguard (right), both with upper Picatinny rail (also some other Picatinny segments on Keymod handguard)
AR-15 weapon mods on Nexus
About the style of weapons, are categorized as:
- Vintage: Based on early models.
- MWS: With Picatinny rails.
- Block II: With RIS II handguards, or M-LOK or Keymod rail systems.
Note: Heckler & Koch HK416 and Sig Sauer MCX are not AR-15 (strictly speaking), because of the incompatibility of their receiver and handguard with AR-15 models. Also, weapons with 7.62x51mm ammo (like SR-25) are not AR-15 (they would belong to the AR-10 family).
Service Rifle
#Mod: 32361
Style: Vintage - MWS
Requirements: Nuka World
Uploaded by: DeadPool2099
The M2216 Standalone Assault Rifle
#Mod: 8807
Style: Vintage
Requirements: (none)
Uploaded by: ff7cloudstrife
Wasteland Melody's Service Rifle
#Mod: 28547
Style: Vintage
Requirements: (none)
Uploaded by: WastelandMelody
SREP REDUX - Service Rifle Expansion Project
#Mod: 46267
Style: Vintage - MWS
Requirements: (none)
Uploaded by: Nadie2283
Kendall Ballistics NV4 REDUX
#Mod: 43157
Style: Fantasy action
Requirements: (none)
Uploaded by: WarfightersWorkshop
MWM4 - M4A1
#Mod: 45174
Style: Block II
Requirements: (none)
Uploaded by: WarfightersWorkshop
The Ultimate M4 Pack
#Mod: 57485
Style: Vintage - MWS - Block II
Requirements: (TR+STS)
Uploaded by: WarfightersWorkshop
MW2022 - Expansive M4 2.0
#Mod: 65571
Style: MWS – Block II
Requirements: (TR+STS)
Uploaded by: WarfightersWorkshop
MW2R - M4A1
#Mod: 57982
Style: Block II
Requirements: SREP REDUX - Service Rifle Expansion Project
Uploaded by: Winter23pzd
AR15 Family
#Mod: 45116
Style: MWS
Requirements: (none)
Uploaded by: Sayaheca
RU556 - Assault rifle
#Mod: 22536
Style: Block II
Requirements: (none)
Uploaded by: FX0x01
MK18 CQBR
#Mod: 42000
Style: Block II
Requirements: (none)
Uploaded by: FX0x01
Surplus Rifle - M16A2 - Another Another Millenia
#Mod: 71816
Style: Vintage
Requirements: (none)
Uploaded by: F4StoryExpansionProject
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