The IWI US CSR16 Carmel delivers proven Israeli military engineering in a modern sporting rifle platform. This 5.56x45mm NATO rifle combines ambidextrous controls with a side-charging handle system that eliminates the traditional rear charging handle found on AR-15 platforms. The folding adjustable stock reduces overall length for transport while maintaining full functionality when deployed.
What Makes This Different
Unlike standard direct impingement systems, the CSR16 utilizes a short-stroke gas piston operation that keeps fouling away from the bolt carrier group. The side-charging handle allows shooters to operate the action without breaking their firing grip or cheek weld. The polymer receiver construction reduces weight by approximately 0.8 pounds compared to aluminum alternatives while maintaining structural integrity under field conditions.
Key Features
- Short-stroke gas piston system with adjustable gas block for reliable cycling
- Ambidextrous safety selector and magazine release for left and right-handed operation
- Side-charging handle eliminates traditional rear charging handle interference
- M-LOK handguard provides modular attachment points at 3, 6, and 9 o'clock positions
- Folding adjustable stock reduces transport length to approximately 26 inches
- B5 Systems pistol grip offers improved ergonomics and storage compartment
- Standard AR-15 magazine compatibility accepts STANAG 4179 magazines
Field testing demonstrates consistent cycling with both 55-grain and 77-grain ammunition loads. The adjustable gas system accommodates suppressed and unsuppressed firing without manual adjustment. Competition shooters benefit from the side-charging handle's ability to clear malfunctions without losing sight picture. The piston system operates reliably in adverse weather conditions including sand, mud, and extreme temperature variations.
Technical Specs
- Caliber: 5.56x45mm NATO/.223 Remington
- Barrel Length: 16 inches, chrome-lined with 1:7 twist rate
- Overall Length: 35.5 inches extended, 26 inches folded
- Weight: 7.2 pounds unloaded
- Receiver: Reinforced polymer construction
- Handguard: M-LOK compatible aluminum free-float design
- Stock: 6-position adjustable with folding mechanism
- Magazine Capacity: 30+1 rounds (magazine included)
- Country of Origin: USA (Israeli design)
The CSR16 Carmel represents decades of Israeli Defense Forces field experience translated into civilian sporting rifle format. Its piston-driven reliability and ambidextrous controls address common limitations found in traditional AR-15 platforms. This rifle ships with one 30-round magazine and is ready for immediate use upon legal transfer.