Charlie's Custom Clones brings you authentic rubber stamps for your M16A1 and M16A2 builds. These rubber stamps would have been used during the Vietnam War era up until the end of the A2 rifles. The rubber stamps are made by a small American manufacturer, Arm and Smith Manufacturing. Most clone collectors and builders report using Testors White paint, while others have used finger nail polish and other paints.
1) The larger stamp is 1" x 1" and was used only by the GM Hydrodynamics Division, and was stamped on the left magwell.
2) The medium size stamp is 3/4" x 3/4" and was used for the M16A1 and XM177 style rifles put into service in 1967 by Colt and in 1968 by Colt and H&R.
3) The smaller stamp measures 1/2" x 1/2" and was used from 1968 to 1993, and also included the M16A2 rifles produced during that time period, and the stamp was placed in the front of the magwell.
The DOD (Department of Defense) acceptance stamps on M16A1 and M16A2 rifles hold significant historical and collector value. These stamps not only serve as a mark of authenticity but also provide insights into the rifle's origin, production era, and military usage. Understanding the evolution of these acceptance stamps can help firearm enthusiasts and history buffs appreciate the rich heritage behind these iconic rifles.
During the Vietnam War, the DOD utilized specific acceptance stamps to mark M16A1 rifles that were manufactured or refurbished for military use. One commonly seen stamp is the "Eagle clutching arrows" symbol, which represents government ownership. This stamp typically appears on the lower receivers or magwell area of the rifle. It consists of an eagle with its wings spread wide, clutching a bundle of arrows in its talons. The presence of this stamp indicates that the rifle was accepted by the DOD and authorized for use by military personnel.
In addition to the "Eagle clutching arrows" stamp, another commonly found marking on Vietnam era rifles is a three-letter code followed by a number. These codes represent various manufacturers such as Colt, Harrington & Richardson, General Motors Hydromatics Division, and others involved in producing these firearms for military contracts. Each manufacturer had their own unique code assigned to them by the DOD, allowing for easy identification and tracking.
The presence of these specific acceptance stamps on an M16A1 rifle adds historical value and collectibility to it. Firearms enthusiasts and collectors often seek out rifles with authentic Vietnam era acceptance stamps as they provide a tangible connection to that tumultuous period in American history. These stamps serve as a testament to the rifle's service and authenticity, making them highly sought after by those interested in preserving and commemorating this significant era.
The rifles accepted by the US Department of Defense in 1967 and 1968 were marked with a white stamp on the left side of the magwell, which is a medium size stamp. Rifles accepted from 1969 to 1993, to include many M16A2 rifles had a small stamp to the front of the magwell. H&R rifles had a larger stamp on the right side of the magwell. What is less clear, is whether H&R rifles where changed to the forward magwell after 1968.
For a more complete read on the DAS, see Charlie's Blog on the History and Evolution of the Defense Acceptance Stamp
Pictures courtesy of Arm & Smith Manufacturing, Potomac Armory, and a number of anonymous sources from AR15.com
