As an expert in military equipment and firearms, I have a deep understanding of the specifications and characteristics of various weapons systems, including the M4 carbine. The M4 is a versatile and widely used firearm, known for its reliability and adaptability in a range of combat scenarios. When discussing the weight of a fully loaded M4, it's important to consider several factors, including the base weight of the weapon, the weight of the ammunition, and any additional attachments or modifications that may be present.

The M4 carbine is a lighter and shorter version of the M16A2 assault rifle, and it is chambered for the 5.56×45mm NATO cartridge. The base weight of an M4 can vary slightly depending on the manufacturer and specific model, but a standard M4 in its unloaded condition (Condition 4) typically weighs around 6.36 lbs. This weight includes the rifle without any ammunition, optics, or other accessories.

When the M4 is loaded with a full 30-round magazine, the weight increases. A standard 30-round magazine for the 5.56×45mm NATO round weighs approximately 0.45 lbs. Therefore, adding a full magazine to the base weight of the M4 would increase its weight to approximately 6.81 lbs.

However, the term "fully loaded" can be somewhat ambiguous, as it might refer to more than just a loaded magazine. A fully equipped M4 might include additional accessories such as an optical sight, a laser designator, a grenade launcher, a bipod, or other tactical gear. Each of these items adds to the overall weight of the weapon. For example:

- An ACOG (Advanced Combat Optical Gunsight) might weigh around 1.5 lbs.
- A red dot sight could weigh around 0.5 lbs.
- A 40mm grenade launcher, such as the M203, typically weighs about 5 lbs when empty.
- A bipod might add another 1.5 lbs to the weight.

Considering these additional components, a fully loaded M4 with a full magazine and a suite of tactical accessories could weigh significantly more than the base weight. For instance, if we add an ACOG sight, a grenade launcher, and a bipod to our M4, the estimated weight would be:

- Base weight (unloaded M4): 6.36 lbs
- Weight of a full magazine: +0.45 lbs
- Weight of an ACOG sight: +1.5 lbs
- Weight of a grenade launcher: +5 lbs
- Weight of a bipod: +1.5 lbs

Total estimated weight: **6.36 lbs + 0.45 lbs + 1.5 lbs + 5 lbs + 1.5 lbs = 14.81 lbs**

It's important to note that these weights are approximate and can vary based on the specific models and brands of the accessories used. Additionally, the configuration of a "fully loaded" M4 can differ greatly depending on the mission requirements, the soldier's preferences, and the tactical situation.

In summary, the weight of a fully loaded M4 can range from just over 6 lbs with a full magazine to well over 14 lbs when equipped with a variety of tactical accessories. The specific weight will depend on the individual components and modifications that are included.

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This is taken from the standard weapon's weight of 6.36 lbs condition 4 or completely unloaded to 7.5 lbs loaded with a full 30 round magazine.read more >>