Vendors that sell A1 and A2 Retro Uppers

[m16]

[redcliff]

Lot of opinions on what is retro, so here is mine. An xm177 or 607 type build with a 16" barrel and reverse flash hider is retro. A fixed carry handle upper with any original type triangular handguard (even cut down carbine versions) is retro with an A1, A2 or aluminum carbine stock. Even detachable carry handle with above are retro. Retro does not mean period correct in every detail to me, just that it incorporates the original early design elements.

Lots of people have never even shot a lightweight triangular handguard A1 stocked AR with fixed carry handle; they are awesome imho. The above won't win any contests on originality, but they sure are a nice diversion from all the optic and Magpul equipped m-lok/keymod rail builds running around.

For AR builders, Brownell's has a good deal ($70) on C7 stripped uppers for a retro-type build: https://www.brownells.com/rifle-part...rod124803.aspx

[Uranium238]

M4 was never made on a retro type upper. Unlikely anyone is going to make a mixmaster like that.

Yes it was, by Colt. Model 723. There was also the XM4, which looked similar to the one below As an 80s kid, I grew up around carry handle ARs. They still have a special place in my heart.

[jamie404]

The three most important things for the retro look are the stock, carrying handle, and the handguard. Everything else should be personal preference. Just let OP build it how they want.