Let's dive straight into what's got everyone's attention right now in the firearm community, the Colt M5 SCW 10.3" Semi-Auto SBR. It's been doing the rounds, and Charlie's has heard all the buzz. Charlie's has taken the standard SBR and added a collapsible stock to make this truely the envy of all at the range. Let's take a closer look.
Colt is a household name among firearm enthusiasts and professionals alike. The M5 family of rifles, a well-respected player in the foreign militaries and law enforcement since 2017, landed onto the US civilian markets in mid-2022. And oh boy, it's making some waves. The Colt M5 SCW 10.3" Semi-Auto SBR, in particular, is more than just your run-of-the-mill rifle. Its full ambi lower and the proprietary free float rail are crowd pleasers. Can't help but admire how Colt now offers a rifle that mirrors other military-grade, full-ambi, 5.56 rifles like those from Knights Armament and LMT.
You're probably asking yourself, what's under the hood? The specs speak volumes about this weapon's capabilities. Here's a snapshot of what you'll be working with:
Let's have a heart-to-heart about the SCW. In the field of combat, Colt calls this a sub-compact-weapon. For civilians, we might better know this a PDW, or Personal Defensive Weapon. Either way, the compact design is built for concealment. That can be for home use, as a truck gun, or any legally concealled purpose. This SCW/PDW is Semi-Automatic (or Sentry for the military models), as per the long product number of CM556-10H-M5A-SCW-S. The rifle is semi-automatic, making it an ideal choice for enthusiasts who want that military-grade firearm experience without the full-auto frenzy. At a compact 10.3 inches, it's an SBR (Short Barrel Rifle) that doesn’t compromise on quality or performance.
If you've ever felt the need for a weapon that's designed specifically for vehicle and aircraft crews, joint forces, special operations forces, and reconnaissance units, then you're in for a treat. The Colt SCW offers increased mobility and firepower for modern battlefield scenarios. Its compact design and the Maxim collapsible buttstock are designed for confined space combat operations and close-quarters battle. It's versatile enough to transition from vehicles and aircraft, providing greater firepower and range than standard handguns. While you and I might not be jumping out of airplanes, we will undoubted like the compactness as a home-based or vehicle based PDW.
Colt has done wonders in incorporating a new bolt carrier/buffer system in the SCW. It's designed to offer the same reliable performance as the Colt M4, but in a more compact form. The unique holster/sling system allows for an easy transition from any other weapon, which is a boon for anyone in combat or tactical scenarios.
The Colt SCW comes in a sophisticated matte black finish, with the Colt logo etched on the 10" thin M-LOK rail. The ambidextrous semi-auto safety selector, Troy M4 Front & Rear collapsible sights, and Maxim PDW collapsible stock are just some of the top-quality features that you're gonna love. The Radian Raptor black anodized charging handle with an oversized handle is another noteworthy element that adds to the ease of use. The whole piece weighs just 7 lbs, and the 1:7 rate of twist ensures exceptional accuracy and durability, which short barreled Colts are known for.
With this piece, you're not just getting a firearm. You're getting an integrated system designed to work seamlessly together, and it shows. The Colt M5 marked lower receiver comes complete with Colt factory installed lower parts, including the Colt trigger, ambi safety, ambi bolt catch release, and ambi magazine release. This ensures that the entire piece functions like a well-oiled machine, ready for action at a moment's notice. It also comes with a Colt 6-position buffer tube, which gives you a fair amount of flexibility when it comes to handling and positioning. It's little things like this that make the Colt M5 SCW 10.3" Semi-Auto SBR stand out from the crowd.
When you invest in the Colt M5 SCW, you're getting more than just a high-quality firearm. You're getting the little extras that round out the package and elevate your experience. Each Colt M5 SCW comes in the manufacturer's box, complete with the same serial number. It's a nod to the authenticity and commitment to quality that Colt is known for. Not to mention, it also makes for a nice presentation and a big wow-factor when taking to the range.
So there you have it. The Colt M5 SCW 10.3" Semi-Auto SBR is a compelling option for anyone in the market for a reliable, versatile, and high-quality firearm. Its military-grade design and performance, coupled with its compact size and integrated features, make it a standout choice. I've enjoyed my time with it and have no doubt that you will too.
As with any product, there are pros and cons, and it's only fair to weigh them up before you decide if the Colt M5 SCW 10.3" Semi-Auto SBR is the right fit for you.
But remember, no product is without its quirks, and there's a minor one here:
The Colt M5 SCW 10.3" Semi-Auto SBR is a versatile firearm that's got a lot going for it. It combines the best of both worlds - the reliability and performance of a military-grade weapon, and the convenience and usability of a compact, semi-automatic piece. So, whether you're a firearm enthusiast, a professional, or someone just starting, you'll find a lot to love in this Colt classic. Its place among the ranks of Colt weapons is well-deserved. And hey, remember, always handle with care and respect.
In a Nutshell: Pros & Cons
On the flip side:
This is a new offering as of May, 2023, and some pics and might not be 100% accurate, but we will update as we see more of the rifle. Charlie's team got a chance to look at the M5 and shoot it in full auto at the military range for Shot Show in 2020, so we have been asking for this ever since.
Note: Charlie's Custom Clones receives this as a 10.3" SBR with a Magpul stock. Charlie's removes the Colt buffer tube and stock and installs the Maxim brace. The Colt model as an SCW is offered in full-auto, so CCC is making this minor modification, which adds significantly to the appeal and the cost of the SBR.
The magwell in the US has M5 markings and CR serial number prefix. Charlie's had the change to take it outside and put it through the motions, and it is a nice, solid rifle that feels good in your hands. The upper and rail just come together as if they were an integrated upper receiver group, and feels solid. The lower has that heavy-duty feel and the ambi controls are a very welcome addition. The CTR stock and Troy flip-up sights and slimline MLOK rail make for a solid package. We recognize the price is a bit more than other rifles, but this is a new design and the rail, the full ambi lower, flip-up sights and collapsible stock all add to production costs over the 6920 Carbine.
Note: Some pics are from the military full auto variant. The Colt logo on the final product is etched black, and not white.
Manufacturer's Part: CM556-10H-M5A-SCW-S
* residents of magazine restricted states will receive no magazine
Buying and shipping through Charlie’s is easy, but there is some information you need to know. This item must ship to FFL holder. No civilian exceptions.
1) Check your state laws to make sure the federally regulated item you want to purchase is legal in your state.
2) Find your FFL… Have your dealer send us a copy of their FFL to Charlie’s (Make them earn their fee!!!)
3) Be patient! You should hear from our compliance department within 3-4 business days. If not, feel free to reach out for a status updates
That’s it! We try to make this process as simple as possible for our customers. Please click the “Buying a Firearm” tab at the top of this page for more information.
California residents, please see the CA Compliance service. You should purchase this as one order and the rifle as a separate order.
NOTE: The free shipping option does not apply to full rifles
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.
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