
Originally Posted by
ESK
Here's a Brief History of the VIS-A5-KM:
I start developing the KeyMod system during a project we (Vltor) had for the MARCORSYSCOM (Marine Corp Systems Command), when they first requested the development of a collapsible stock system for the M16A4 rifle, but instead of using a standard Carbine collapsible stock system, like the M4 Carbine, we developed an improved system called the “A5” buffer system. The “A5” stood for M16A5, thinking of the next evolution of the M16 series. The A5 utilized a M16A4 rifle spring and a medium length buffer and a slightly longer receiver extension. The internals of the buffer were slightly different than a conventional buffer, which almost totally eliminates bolt bounce and slowed the rate of fire. The A5 enhanced buffer system was a success for the Marines. The Marines discovered the A5 had better reliable, with accuracy increase over a standard M16A4 rifle and M4Carbine buffer system. It was even tested against the Army’s “H6” buffer system, which was just an enhanced M4 carbine recoil system. The A5 buffer system came out on top.
Shortly after the A5 buffer systems development and release, MARCORSYSCOM came to Vltor with the request for an enhanced upper receiver group, which would allow a standard M16A4 barrel cluster to free-float, to achieve maximum accuracy. We offer them a specialized VIS (Versatile Interface Structure) a poly-lithic upper receiver assembly, which at that time worked similar to our CASV handguard system (with the elimination of permanent Picatinny Rails at the 3, 6, 9 o’clock positions). The VIS A5 (named like the recoil system) was a success with the Marines, they wanted to go to the next level of testing. So, they gave us a RFP (Request for Purchase) for the next evolution of the VIS A5. This lead to the VIS A5 KM (KeyMod) upper receiver assembly. The VIS A5 KM was a major achievement over the previous VIS A5 platform, because it eliminated the costly mounting points (pressed in threaded nut inserts) and individual screw and rail section. Plus by eliminating the “press nuts” and adding Key Slot type holes, brought down overall weight and increase ventilation. This system was a success with MARCORSYSCOM and today, testing still continues.
The combination of the A5 buffer system and VIS-A5-KM would eventually become the M16A4 PIP (Product Improvement Package) kit. At first, MARCORSYSCOM envisioned hundreds of thousands of kits purchased, but the longer they tested, the more budget cuts they received. The last time I heard, they were still considering outfitting a few battalions, for long term testing. With the current administration, I doubt that is even possible. Only time will tell.
Eric
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