M4A1 CARBINE

Type: Assault Rifle
Caliber: 5.56×45mm NATO
Manufacturer: Colt Defense
Status: Standard Issue (Security Personnel)

Overview

The M4A1 Carbine is the primary firearm issued to all security personnel operating within the quarantine zone. Its reliability, modularity, and effectiveness in urban combat scenarios make it the weapon of choice for close-quarters engagements with infected entities.

Technical Specifications

Fire Modes

1. SAFE - Trigger locked, weapon cannot fire
2. SEMI - Single shot per trigger pull (recommended for Carriers)
3. AUTO - Continuous fire while trigger held (authorized for Shrieker/Behemoth threats)

Ammunition Types

Standard Ball (M855)

• Purpose: General-purpose
• Effectiveness:
  • ✅ Stage-1 Carriers: Excellent
  • ⚠️ Stage-2 Shriekers: Adequate (headshots required)
  • ❌ Stage-3 Behemoths: Ineffective

Armor-Piercing (M855A1)

• Purpose: Enhanced penetration
• Effectiveness:
  • ✅ All Stages: Improved performance
  • Best for hitting through cover

Tracer (M856)

• Purpose: Target designation, night operations
• Ratio: 1 tracer per 4 ball rounds (standard load)
• Note: Can attract Shriekers due to visual signature

Attachment Configurations

Standard Loadout

M4A1 Base Rifle
├── Optic: EOTech 512 Holographic Sight
├── Light: SureFire M600 Scout (200 lumens)
├── Laser: AN/PEQ-15 (IR + visible)
├── Foregrip: Magpul AFG (angled)
└── Sling: 2-point tactical sling

Night Operations

• Replace EOTech with AN/PVS-14 Night Vision
• Activate IR laser (AN/PEQ-15)
• Use IR flashlight instead of white light

Suppressed Configuration

• Add AAC M4-2000 suppressor
• Reduces muzzle signature ~30 dB
• Critical: Prevents attracting Shriekers in high-density zones

Effective Engagement Tactics

vs. Stage-1 Carriers

• Distance: 25-50m
• Fire Mode: SEMI
• Target: Center mass (2-3 rounds)
• Notes: Conserve ammunition, prioritize non-lethal containment when possible

vs. Stage-2 Shriekers

• Distance: 50-100m (maintain distance!)
• Fire Mode: SEMI or controlled bursts (3-5 rounds)
• Target: Head or upper chest
• Notes: Retreat while firing, do not allow close approach

vs. Stage-3 Behemoths

• ❌ DO NOT ENGAGE with M4A1
• Weapon ineffective against Behemoth hide
• Retreat and request heavy weapons support

Maintenance Schedule

After Each Use

1. Field strip and clean barrel
2. Wipe down bolt carrier group
3. Lubricate moving parts (CLP oil)
4. Check magazine springs
5. Verify optic zero

Weekly

1. Deep clean all components
2. Inspect for cracks/wear
3. Test fire 10 rounds
4. Re-zero optics if needed

Monthly

1. Professional armorer inspection
2. Replace worn parts (springs, pins)
3. Function check all fire modes

Common Malfunctions & Solutions

Type 1: Failure to Feed

Symptoms: Round fails to chamber
Solution:

1. TAP magazine to ensure seating
2. RACK charging handle
3. ASSESS target
4. RE-ENGAGE

Type 2: Failure to Eject (Stovepipe)

Symptoms: Spent casing stuck in ejection port
Solution:

1. ROLL weapon to right (casing falls out)
2. RACK charging handle
3. Continue firing

Type 3: Double Feed

Symptoms: Two rounds jammed in chamber
Solution:

1. LOCK bolt to rear
2. REMOVE magazine
3. RACK 3 times to clear chamber
4. INSERT new magazine
5. RACK and re-engage

Ammunition Management

Standard Combat Load

• Magazines: 7 × 30-round STANAG
• Total Rounds: 210
• Distribution:
  • Mag 1-6: 27 ball + 3 tracer
  • Mag 7: 30 ball (reload mag)

Extended Operations

• Magazines: 10 × 30-round
• Total Rounds: 300
• Reserve: 1 × 120-round ammo can

Procurement & Availability

Issue Procedure: Present security ID, sign weapons log, attend safety briefing.

Field Reports

The M4 has saved my life more times than I can count. Reliable, accurate, and easy to maintain even in the worst conditions. Just remember—it's not a magic wand. Know your target, know your limitations.
— Sgt. David Park, 4 years zone experience

Switched to suppressed config after attracting a pack of Shriekers with unsuppressed fire. The added weight is worth the stealth. Highly recommend for Sector 7 ops.
— Cpl. Lisa Chen

Safety Rules

1. Treat every weapon as loaded
2. Never point at anything you don't intend to shoot
3. Keep finger off trigger until ready to fire
4. Be sure of target and what's behind it
5. Know your equipment and its limitations

Related Intel

• Glock 19 Sidearm
• Ammunition Resupply Points
• Combat Engagement Protocols
• Weapon Maintenance Guide