Colt’s Vietnam Prototype AK/M16 Hybrid: the Model 703

“From Hartford to Vietnam” is available here for preorder:

Or you can find it bundled with “Tiger Stripe: The Vietnam Camouflage Story” on Kickstarter:
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/headstamp/tiger-stripe?ref=3b3v8y

The Model 703 was an experimental project at Colt which they envisioned being adopted as the M16A2 – although that clearly did not happen. It was essentially an adaptation of an AK-style long stroke gas piston to an AR lower, in response to complaints that the AK was more reliable in Vietnam than the M16. The first prototypes were made circa 1967/68, at the height of doubt over the M16’s viability. At least three were made, but it never did go into serial production. Before Colt was able to get the design to the point of submitting it to the Army, the issues with the M16 had been mostly solved.

Thanks to the Institute of Military Technology for allowing me to have access to these prototypes and bring them to you! Check them out at:
http://www.instmiltech.com