Tactical Machining
Charlie's takes great pride in sourcing a clone replica receiver of the M16A1. The receiver is a forged 7075-T6 mil-spec lower with GM Hydra-Matic clone engraving. Also, note that the receiver has three safety markings, as you would expect from an M16 lower. This is a semi-auto lower, however, and is not capable of fully automatic operation. The "auto" label, along with the "Property of US Government" labels, are all decorative only.
This is a small batch, limited run. What does this mean? Well, with a small batch, we pay the same for anodizing as we do for a large batch, so while it seems simple to have a gray specialty Vietnam era anodizing, it does put the price up, as well as the exclusivity.
For the purists out there, yes, some liberties have been taken. Did GM Hydra-Matic ever build M16A1 lowers? Yes they did. GM Hydra-Matic was one of three manufacturers of M16A1 rifles during the Vietnam War. Is this really an A1 lower? No. This is a standard forged A2/M4 style lower receiver. The differences in the late model A1 and the next generation A2 lowers is small, but those with a discerning eye will catch it. But, if you are looking for an A1 lower, and cannot find the real deal, have fun. Make your Clone Your Own!
The lower is made by BAD, LLC. You will find that the manufacturer has provided their required ATF markings, in a very minimalist style, in the trigger area, which makes this A1 marked lower perfect for clone builds. Charlie's has decided to not repeat the serial number on the left side, to avoid any confusion as to the actual manufacturer of this lower.
Note: Manufacturer produces very tight-fitting take-down pinholes. In many cases, you may need to sand your take-down and pivot pins to fit. The manufacturer does this to their design, as they like to have a rattle free rifle.
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 update.
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, click here. The process may be different due to state specific laws
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.