By Staff Correspondent
Rifles as a last line of protection in conflict zones means they need to be consistently reliable as a matter of paramount importance in tipping outcomes. Military operations require rifles for situations where accuracy and long stand-off ranges are critical. The fundamental premise for the functioning of rifles has not altered drastically in decades, although materials and techniques used to manufacture them, and the quantities in which they are produced, are factors that continue to develop and evolve.
Accuracy, the ability for rifles not to jam upon rapid, continuous fire, weight, durability, and portability are some of the key determining factors in deciding which rifles will equip the future soldier. What is just as important is their ability to continue functioning effectively across different weather conditions and terrains.
The CAR 816
The CAR 816, produced by international small arms manufacturer, Caracal, is an example of a rifle made to meet the demands of the future soldier. This tactical rifle operates on a short stroke gas operated piston system, chambered in 5.56x45mm and available in multiple barrel lengths with full ambidextrous controls. The 7.5” and 10.5” barrel version is ideal for law enforcement and security forces operating in populated areas. Weighing just 2.92kg and 3.05kg without a magazine, these precision rifles are produced with strategic success in mind. The 14.5” and 16” CAR 816 carbines, weighing 3.3kg and 3.4kg respectively without a magazine, provide high accuracy at long stand-off ranges.
What makes the CAR 816 fit for the future soldier is its high-end performance, customisable configuration, and advanced design. The pistol grip incorporates the latest ergonomic design and the selective-fire control is available in three operating conditions – ’Safe’, ‘Semi’, and ‘Auto’. The tactical rifle has a flared magazine well with griping grooves for easy insertion in tough conditions, as well as little to no light conditions, and an ambidextrous selector, bolt catch, charging handle, and magazine release can be fitted if requested.
The CAR 816 comes standard with an ejection port dust cover, providing essential protection against dust and harsh environments. The rifle is developed and produced for the rifle to be over-the-breach capable. This is a key feature for maritime operations in the Gulf region. The CAR 816 has a compensator with standard threads, allowing the customer to use any muzzle device. The free-floating handguard is manufactured by Caracal using aerospace grade aluminium and is hard coat anodised, providing excellent corrosion resistance and machinability. With quad MIL-STD-1913 picatinny rails, there are four quick attachment sling mounting points.
The tactical rifle operates on a short-stroke piston system with three settings: ‘Normal Conditions’, ‘Adverse Conditions’, and ‘Suppressed Fire’. The ‘Adverse Conditions’ setting is used when underpowered ammunition is being fired, or if the rifle is being used extensively without maintenance. The third setting reduces gas intake for suppressed fire. The back of the bolt carrier has several cut ribs which greatly assist in water and dirty conditions.
The CAR 816 has been extensively field-tested in all conditions and in the harshest environments. Additionally, Caracal products comply with rigorous international standards, such as NATO and Commission internationale permanente pour l’épreuve des armes à feu portatives (CIP).
As mission requirements evolve, Caracal is geographically positioned to provide continuous production, shipping, spare parts, and full technical support. World-class designers with experience in developing high-end firearms, state-of-the-art manufacturing using CNC machining, QC equipment, additive manufacturing, and moulding technologies, have produced a tactical rifle that hits the mark for the future soldier.
