This is the Colt M16A1 Retro Re-issue lower receiver, built by Colt to replicate the original Vietnam-era M16A1 down to the last detail. If you're chasing a clone-correct M16A1 build, this is the foundation piece you want — forged 7075-T6 aluminum, gray anodized finish, partial fence around the magazine release, and the unmistakable "PROPERTY OF U.S. GOVT" and Colt rollmarks on the magwell.
This is a complete semi-auto lower receiver shipped with the authentic A1 fixed stock assembly, A1 pistol grip, A1 receiver extension (rifle-length buffer tube), rifle buffer and spring, and mil-spec lower parts kit. The trigger group is semi-auto only to stay ATF-compliant, but every visible component matches the original M16A1 profile — no shortcuts, no modern giveaways.
Pair this lower with an A1 20" upper and a triangle handguard and you've got a rifle that would pass muster at any SOG reunion. Colt retro lowers are produced in limited runs and disappear fast. When they're gone, they're gone.
Order yours today and build the M16A1 clone you've always wanted — before the next Colt production run sells out.
THIS IS A SERIALIZED FIREARM. It must ship to a Federal Firearms License holder. No civilian exceptions.
Buying and shipping through Charlie’s is easy, but there is some information you need to know. Only a federally licensed firearms dealer may receive a firearm or federally regulated serialized item (like a receiver or suppressor). We cannot ship these items directly to you. Please follow these steps to process your transaction:
1) Check your state laws to make sure the federally regulated item you want to purchase is legal in your state. Your FFL dealer should be able to give you all of the necessary information regarding your state specific laws. But, if we ship to your FFL, and there is a legal issue, we cannot accept a return. So please make sure that you know and follow your local and state laws.
2) A quick google search will show you what Federal Firearms Licensed (FFL) dealers are in your area. When you are ready to purchase, contact the FFL dealer you would like to use and get their shipping address. During the check-out, put YOUR address in the “billing” section and the FFL DEALER’S address in the “shipping” section. If you don’t know your FFLs address, that’s okay. You can send the information later.
3) After check out, make sure to contact your FFL dealer to ensure they will receive your shipment for you (most do this for a small fee, but you should always double check).
4) Have your dealer send us a copy of their FFL to FFL@CharliesCustomClones.com. Charlie’s does not reach to your FFL (MAKE THEM EARN THEIR FEE!!!)
5) Be patient! In order to ensure we remain compliant with all federal laws, our compliance department is kept separate from our sales and operations team. Please allow a few days for our compliance officer to verify all of your dealer’s documents and ensure all federal laws are being observed. You should hear from our compliance department within 3-4 business days. If not, feel free to reach out for a status update.
That’s it! We try to make this process as simple as possible for our customers, but if you are unfamiliar the process or have any other questions, please visit our How to Buy a Firearm page for more details.
California and New York residents please, click here. The process may be different due to state specific laws.
NOTE: The free shipping option does not apply to full rifles, unless purchased with a riflescope. If you choose free shipping at check-out, we will bill you for shipping later.
