How to Build a M16A2 Clone – My Retro M16A2 Build

Modern AR-15s are packed with cutting-edge optics, modular rails, and fancy lights/lasers, but there’s something undeniably cool about classic military rifles. Retro builds let us step back in time and recreate historically significant firearms with modern manufacturing. Whether you’re chasing nostalgia, building a clone, or just appreciating a piece of history, these rifles offer a raw one of a kind shooting experience.

For this build, I set out to recreate the M16A2, an iconic service rifle from the late Cold War era. With its fixed carry handle, 20” barrel, and classic handguard, the A2 represents the last iteration of the full-length service rifle before the M4 took over. This won’t just be another build but a tribute to a legendary rifle.

Vision and Goals

I really wanted to recreate or clone the iconic M16A2. Not only is it historically significant, but it’s also been a staple in Call of Duty, especially in COD 4, MW2, and throughout the series. I grew up playing those games, and they were a huge part of my childhood, or teen years, I should say. So, this build wasn’t just about putting together another rifle, it was about bringing a piece of history to life, both from the real world and from the games I spent countless hours playing.

For performance, I wasn’t aiming for the lightest or most practical setup. I just wanted a retro rifle that was reliable, something that functioned flawlessly and stayed true to the original M16A2 design. This build was all about nostalgia, history, and having a classic rifle that just works.

Now, before I jump straight into my build, let’s talk about what makes an M16A2 clone a M16A2.

Key Features of an M16A2 Clone

• 20” Government-Profile Barrel – A proper M16A2 clone requires a 20-inch barrel.
• Fixed Carry Handle Upper Receiver – Unlike modern AR-15s with removable carry handles, the M16A2 has an integrated carry handle with adjustable rear sights for windage and elevation.
• A2 Handguard – The round, ribbed handguards with a heat shield are a signature feature. No quad rails or modern handguards, gotta keep it classic.
• A2 Buttstock & Rifle Buffer System – The correct stock is the A2 fixed stock, paired with a rifle-length buffer tube, buffer, and spring for proper balance and recoil impulse, none of that adjustable stuff.
• Mil-Spec Lower Receiver with A2 Grip – The lower should have standard mil-spec controls, an A2-style pistol grip.
• A2 Flash Hider – A proper M16A2 clone uses a birdcage-style A2 flash hider.
• Iron Sights or Period-Correct Optic – The M16A2 was primarily used with iron sights, but for those looking to add an optic, a carry handle-mounted fixed-power scope is the only right choice.

Parts List

• Brownells BRN16A2 20″ Upper Receiver
• Anderson Manufacturing A2 Complete Lower Receiver
• Colt AR-15 4x20mm Carry Handle Scope

The Build

To start the build off I chose the Brownells BRN16A2 20″ upper. Mainly because I’ve had experience with Brownells before, specifically with their BRN-180 platform, which has proven to be an excellent and reliable upper. (For the full build breakdown of my BRN-180, click here.) While there are plenty of upper options out there, Brownells won the spot for this build. The upper feels great, looks awesome, and fits the M16A2 clone perfectly. Has the one piece upper/carry handle receiver and the correct handguard for this build. (For my complete review of the Brownells BRN16A2 Upper Click Here!)

For the lower, I went with a complete A2 lower from Anderson Manufacturing. This was actually one of the easier builds to put together since it really only needed two main components from two different companies. I chose the Anderson Manufacturing lower because it was a great value and had all the period-correct parts. I didn’t need any fancy triggers, enhanced controls, or special buffer systems, just the good old rugged classic mil-spec design that made the M16A2 what it was.

For the optic, Brownells made this one easy. Originally, I was planning to leave it iron sights only, but they offered a bundle that paired the upper with the Colt 4x20mm optic. It’s period-correct, and I couldn’t help myself, I had to go with the bundle and add the optic. I’d rather have the optic and choose not to use then not have it and end up wanting one. It keeps the rifle true to its era while giving it a Cold War DMR feel.

Performance and Outcome

The build came out exactly how I wanted it to, it looks the part, and it performs just like an M16A2 should. My only goal for performance was reliability, and that’s exactly what I got.

The Brownells upper has been flawless, with zero issues so far. Paired with the Anderson Manufacturing A2 lower, it delivers that raw rifle feel i was going for, no fancy modern parts, no lightweight triggers, just a rugged, no-nonsense battle rifle. It feels like something meant to be slung over your shoulder, banged around, and used hard without a second thought.

The Colt 4x20mm optic really brought me back in time, and also made me appreciate modern optics a whole lot more. The eye relief is rough, and the fine cross reticle works, but it’s nowhere near the speed or clarity of today’s optics. That said, it ties the whole rifle together and completes the retro feel.

It’s definitely a heavy rifle, but that’s expected with a 20” barrel and full-length stock. The recoil, though, is minimal and easy to control, making it a smooth and comfortable shooter.

Honestly, it’s a blast to shoot, but it won’t be my first choice for every range trip. Still, it’s one of those rifles that’s just cool to break out every once in a while, and when I do, it never disappoints.

Potential Changes in the Future

There are only two things I might add to this build.

First, a sling, because what M16 retro build is complete without one? I honestly feel like it’s a must-have, and I’m actually kind of disappointed in myself for not adding one already. It’s an easy addition that would just make sense for the overall setup.

Second, I’ve been toying with the idea of throwing some spray paint stripes on it. Nothing too crazy, just a mix of OG green and tan stripes to give it that old-school, field-used look. I haven’t fully committed to it yet, but if I do, I think it would add some extra character to the rifle.

Other than that, the build is exactly how I wanted it, and I don’t see myself changing much. Let me know what you would change/add to this build in the comments down below.

Final Thoughts

This build checked all the boxes for what I wanted in an M16A2 clone. It’s reliable, historically accurate, and just feels right. There’s something special about picking up a rifle like this, no modern shortcuts, no gimmicks, just a raw, classic battle rifle.

Shooting it really puts into perspective how far firearms have come, especially after using the Colt 4x20mm optic. It’s fun, but it’s also a reminder of how spoiled we are with modern glass.

Will it be my go-to range rifle? No. But will it always have a spot in my collection? Absolutely. It’s one of those rifles that’s just cool to own, fun to shoot, and even more fun to show off. Plus it really didn’t break the bank.

Whats Next? Ah who knows, maybe an MK12 or an XM177 build.

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FAQ

Why build an M16A2 instead of a modern AR-15?
Because history is cool. The M16A2 is an iconic rifle that played a huge role in military history. It also has a unique shooting experience compared to modern AR-15s, smoother recoil, a classic fixed carry handle, and that unmistakable full-length rifle feel.

Is the Brownells BRN16A2 upper a true M16A2 clone?
It’s about as close as you’ll get without owning an actual surplus A2 upper. Brownells nailed the carry handle, barrel profile, and gas system, making it one of the best options for a civilian M16A2 build.

How does the Colt 4x20mm optic perform?
It works, but let’s be real, it’s nowhere near modern optics. The eye relief is unforgiving, and the reticle is just a fine crosshair with no fancy features. But that’s the charm, it keeps the build authentic and makes you appreciate how far optics have come.

How does the rifle-length gas system affect recoil?
It makes recoil almost non-existent. The 20” barrel and full-length system work together to make this one of the smoothest-shooting AR platforms out there.

Would you change anything on this build?
Not much. A sling is a must-have that I should’ve added already. I’m also considering spray-painting some OG green and tan stripes on it for a more field-worn look. But other than that, this build is staying as is.

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