Hey guys! I'm new here, and also new to the ar. I just bought a s&w m&p 15 sport today in 5.56. Well this may sound nerdy, but I want to put a m16 original surplus stock and handguards on it for the cool factor. Before I buy my stock and handguards. Will these original m16 parts fit on my rifle? What has me worried is the handguards, my barrel being only a 16 incher vs the m16s 20. Thank you in advance!
Surplus m16 handguards on a m&p 15 sport?
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gunny4053
US Veteran
First, Welcome to the forum. In answer to your question, no, the M16 hand guards will not fit the M&P Sport. The Sport is a carbine, while the M16 was a rifle. They're the wrong length.
spad124
Member
Using the full rifle triangular handguards would give you the "dissipator" look. However, you'd probably have to rebarrel and start with a 20" so the front sight base is in the correct location and cut the barrel down. A lot of work.
I did a quick Google search and PKfirearms sells a carbine length triangular hand guard kit for $30. Similar look, less work. Plus the guards are sized for the Sport's barrel diameter. Yes, you have to remove the flash hider and FSB to change the end cap, but forum member Rastoff has a thread on here explaining how to do that.
An old A1 or A2 stock will fit the Sport. That should be a simple swap.
And, yeah, I also like the Vietnam era A1 look. I bought a separate kit and built up one as a companion to my Sport
I did a quick Google search and PKfirearms sells a carbine length triangular hand guard kit for $30. Similar look, less work. Plus the guards are sized for the Sport's barrel diameter. Yes, you have to remove the flash hider and FSB to change the end cap, but forum member Rastoff has a thread on here explaining how to do that.
An old A1 or A2 stock will fit the Sport. That should be a simple swap.
And, yeah, I also like the Vietnam era A1 look. I bought a separate kit and built up one as a companion to my Sport
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Rastoff
US Veteran
Yes, they are correct. To get the M16 look, you'll need a 20" barrel.
It might be less expensive to start building another rifle, but, here's what you'll need to upgrade to get that M16 look:
I don't know what all these will cost, but I really think it would be easier to find a rifle in the proper configuration. Of course, if you're like me, the build is fun so, just go for it.
It might be less expensive to start building another rifle, but, here's what you'll need to upgrade to get that M16 look:
- 20" Barrel
- A2 gas block/sight
- Rifle length gas tube
- M16 Rifle stock
- M16 Forearm (may have to go surplus for this as it's uncommon)
- AR15 (M16) carry handle with integrated sight OR a carry handle upper
I don't know what all these will cost, but I really think it would be easier to find a rifle in the proper configuration. Of course, if you're like me, the build is fun so, just go for it.
cyphertext
US Veteran
The butt stock isn't a straight swap either... You have to change out the receiver extension (buffer tube), buffer, and spring as Rastoff pointed out.
Ok I was confused and it just clicked. Thanks for bearing with me being a newbie. So I need the m16 stock and I will also need a full length buffer tube, buffer and spring. Anyone know the best place to buy the buffer tubes, springs, and buffer?
Rastoff
US Veteran
The "best" place will depend on who you ask. Personally I think this is a good place to start: http://www.brownells.com/.aspx/avs|Make_3=AR-15zz1zzM4/guntech/ They have over 200 videos on how to remove or install any part you can think of for an AR.
There is almost an infinite variety of websites that sell AR parts. Just put whatever part you want into a Google search and you'll get thousands of links to pick from. Places like Brownell's and Midway USA have decent reputations. Even so, there are at least a hundred more places to get what you need for your gun.
There is almost an infinite variety of websites that sell AR parts. Just put whatever part you want into a Google search and you'll get thousands of links to pick from. Places like Brownell's and Midway USA have decent reputations. Even so, there are at least a hundred more places to get what you need for your gun.
m1gunner
US Veteran
I have a set of these handguards installed on a carbine barrel. I really like the look. I first qualified with a slick side M16 with the original triangular hand guards, and wanted a carbine with the same look and feel.
Back when I bought my AR the black gun guys were just starting to swap out the triangles, I liked the look so I grabbed one of the Pre-Ban Essential Arms rifles. Still loving it today. got a picture around here somewhere ........
gunny4053
US Veteran
If anyone wants to do the conversion, I just saw a notice that Brownell's has the M16A1 profile barrels in stock.
