-Classic Army's ArmaLite M15A4 Full Rifle Review-


M15A4 Specifications
Weight: 3.143 kg
Barrel Length: 510 mm
Stock Barrel Diameter: 6.08mm
Magazine Capacity: 300 pellets
Ammunition Caliber: 6mm
Stock Velocity: 85-95m/sec
Battery Type: Large Type 8.4v-12v

Stores Purchased From
M15A4 Rifle: Airsplat
Ar-15 Rail: Airsplat
Leapers 1x40 Red/Green Dot Scope: Airsplat
0.25g Airsoft Elite Precision Grade BBs: Airsplat
Battery (3300mah 8.4v): batteryspace.com (Extremely low prices; highly recommend)
Universal Smart Charger: batteryspace.com

Introduction
The M15A4 Rifle was my first automatic electric airsoft gun. I was looking for a model that was rugged, reliable, performed well, and had great cosmetics. My first choice was Tokyo Marui’s Heckler and Koch G3 SG/1; its long barrel and larger magazine capacity was ideal for an assault/sniper. However, I questioned its durability, as it has a reputation for weak plastic. I then moved on to Tokyo Marui’s Heckler and Koch G36C and Classic Army’s Heckler and Koch G36C. Both looked nice and were unique. Unfortunately, they only accepted mini type batteries and had relatively short barrels. I then made a switch from Heckler and Koch’s weapons to Classic Army’s ArmaLite M15A4 Rifle. I chose the Classic Army M15A4 for its long barrel, pre-upgraded metal internals, durable metal body, excellent finishes and cosmetics and its ability to take a large type battery.

First Impressions
This was my first AEG, so I did not know what to expect. I had seen my cousin’s Tokyo Marui M733, but its appearance did not suit me. I ordered my M15A4 Rifle, 2 bags of Airsoft Elite .25g Precision Grade BBs, a scope mount and a Leaper’s 1x40 Red/Green Dot Scope from AirSplat.com for $382 after using a coupon (UPS 3-Day select delivery included). The AEG price itself was $295 after using a coupon. When the package arrived at my doorstep, I brought the long box in, noticing its enormous weight and size. Upon opening the box, I examined the contents for shipping damage. There were no burst BB bags; boxes did not seem to be severely damaged.
The M15A4 comes in a durable Styrofoam box with a cardboard top. There are not too many words to describe how I felt after opening the box. I saw a defined, high quality rifle in front of me. Picking it up, I noted its hefty weight and excellent realism. However, I pulled the charging T-handle and the handle slid right out without any tension. The spring had separated from the T-handle but this appeared to be the only defect with the mechanics. For some strange reason, I was shipped an M15A4 with a non-removable (fixed) carry handle. M15A4 Rifles should come with a detachable carry handle so accessories can be placed on the rail.
I was certainly excited about this new airsoft gun. I knew from the beginning I had made the right choice.


Box

Tour
The Stock
The full stock is not made of cheap material; it is composed of nylon and glass fibers that make it superior in build to Tokyo Marui. It has a fine texture as well. The stock is rock solid, with no hint of wobble or flex. On the end of the stock there a metal butt plate, which is textured as so to create a stable grip against the shoulder. A large type battery can be inserted into the stock via the battery compartment hatch. The wires and battery are a bit odd to fit. I found it is best to place the fuse on the top of the stock first behind the butt plate, then insert the battery underneath against the bottom of the stock so it has enough room. Replacement stocks can be found at a fair number of airsoft retailers for a fair price of around $50.


Stock

The Receiver
The receivers are made of metal and appear so realistic, it could possibly pass as a real-steel. Some small mold lines and faint smudges appear inside the carry handle and on the body, but for the most part, mold lines are hardly identifiable. Any flaws with cosmetics are unnoticed from a distance. Since the receiver is metal, there is no sign of any weakness whatsoever. My M15A4’s receivers were a lighter shade of jet black, though a hint of grey can be seen when placed in a light. There is no color disfiguration; the entire receiver is one solid color. Upon close examination, the finish has been painted onto the metal. Therefore, should the receiver become scratched or gouged, metal tones could be seen under the finish. I would recommend keeping the rifle from being bumped or scraped against objects. If the finish becomes damaged, a permanent marker can help decrease the scuff’s appearance. Replacement receivers can be found at most airsoft retailers for a high price of around $150.


Receiver

Trademarks
On the left side of the magazine well and above the left side trigger guard, crisp, white, laser etched trademarks can be seen. The white trademarks contrast with the black body and look better than regular etched trademarks without the white backing. The ArmaLite logo is clearly etched in. It is not a genuine Colt logo, but the clear ArmaLite logo certainly looks better than a burned Tokyo Marui Colt logo, which in the United States is illegal. The serial number is below the logo. The M15A4 Rifle series was assigned serial numbers first of the entire M15A4 series, so the numbers may be low to some owners. My particular serial number was 3291. On the right side of the magazine well, there are more laser etched, white-backed trademarks. The words "ArmaLite, inc" and "Geneseo, IL", "U.S.A." can be found. Above the trigger guard, the words "Classic Army" are etched in small text.


Trademarks (Left Receiver)


Trademarks (Left Magazine Well)

This post has been edited by New Guy on the Block: Dec 1 2005, 07:00 PM

Grip
The grip is made of the same nylon/glass fibers as the stock. It is securely attached to the receiver and there is no sign of weakness. There are textured molds in the grip that allow for a secure grip. On the bottom of the grip are vents that allow the motor to release its sound. The grip’s end helps to decrease motor noise. The trigger is made of metal and is easy to pull. It is responsive and does not seem prone to break unless overly exerted strength is used. Replacement and/or upgraded grips can be found at a fair number of airsoft retailers for a fair price of around $40.


Grip

Bolt Cover
The bolt cover is made of aluminum and is held to the body with a small magnet. A spring allows the cover to slap open when the cover is engaged. Unlike Tokyo Marui, the cover has to be manually opened. The magnet allows for easy access to the hop-up without wearing away plastic nubs, found on Tokyo Marui models. Classic Army has slightly curved the bolt cover outwards as so you do not have to use a knife or other tools. I can even use a gloved hand to open the bolt cover. However, underneath the bolt cover is an ugly sheet of thin aluminum that is meant to attract the magnet of the bolt cover. It does not move, like the Tokyo Marui models and must be manually shifted. When the aluminum bolt is in your hands (separate from the body), it is extremely thin and can bend easily, so be careful when handling it. Replacement bolt covers are available at a limited number of airsoft retailers for a fair price of around $30.


Bolt Cover

T-Handle (Charging Handle)
When I took my gun out of the box and cocked the T-handle, the handle just flopped around. Later, upon disassembly, I found the T-handle and the spring was disconnected. I just looped the end of the spring onto the T-handle’s hook and the problem was fixed. The T-handle is another weak part of the gun. The spring is weak and much too long. As a result, the T-handle pulls too easily and does not return unless manually engaged. The t-handle itself is made of metal. The spring could be cut, but I am guessing that the spring is too weak and would stretch. I would get a harder spring and twist the ends so it can be looped onto the hook of the T-handle and the screw inside the receiver that holds it in place. Replacement T-handles can be found at a limited number of airsoft retailers for a decent price of/over $30.
Note: It is extremely important to open the T-handle BEFORE disassembly. The T-handle latch will break when the receivers are slid forward.


Charging Handle (T-handle)

Sights
The sights are of good quality and its components are made of metal. They are easily adjustable (horizontal wheel for up/down, vertical wheel for left/right) and require no tools. The rear sight can be flipped to a small circle or larger circle. The smaller circle is for precision firing, whereas the larger is for full auto. When the rear sight moves up, it is loose, but it will not fall off or make a large racket. The front sight is also made of metal. The vertical rod can be adjusted vertically with the included tool inside the box. However, the small newbie in front of the rod must be pushed down while adjusting or the plastic tool will be damaged. Replacement sights can be found at a fair number of airsoft retailers for a fair price with the purchase of a replacement carry handle of around $60. Replacement adjustment tools can be found at a rare number of airsoft retailers for a low price of around $5.


Rear Sight

Foregrip and Outer Barrel
This is another strength that Classic Army has made over Tokyo Marui. Tokyo Marui uses a two piece outer barrel design and is fastened with 6 screws. This leads to the infamous “barrel wobble” which affects accuracy and is a pain to fix. Classic Army uses a one piece metal outer barrel design that is connected to the receiver with a reinforced slip ring. “Barrel wobble” will never be an issue with this model. The barrel is rock solid and shows no sign of wobble whatsoever. The foregrip, like the grip and stock, is made of glass and nylon fibers. It is finely textured and provides an excellent grip. Replacement/upgraded handguards can be found at most airsoft retailers for a high price of around $110 upgraded (RAS/RIS). Replacement outer barrels can be found at a fair number of airsoft retailers for a decent price of around $50.


Foregrips

Magazine
The metal high capacity magazine that Classic Army provides comes standard with the M15A4 Rifle. It holds 300 rounds and is operated like any other high capacity magazine. Ammunition is poured into the hatch (I use a funnel to help direct the BBs) and the magazine must be wound frequently to force the BBs through the inlet. The winding wheel can be found at the bottom of the magazine. A distinct clicking sound can be heard one the winding is complete (it takes a while). Extended winding will not damage the mechanism. A small switch on the inlet allows for the BBs to pour out. The aluminum that the magazine is made of seems to be thinner than Tokyo Marui’s, but once the BBs are poured in, the weight is substantial. My paint on my magazine wears off easily, especially where the magazine meets contact with the magazine well. Also, the magazine is smaller than the magazine well and it rattles all over the place. I used two layers of electrical tape wound over part of the magazine. The tape allows the magazine to be tighter inside the well and stops all the rattling. The magazine has to be pushed in or pulled out though. The magazine can be removed with the magazine release button on the right side of the magazine well. Replacement/upgraded magazines can be found at most airsoft retailers for a decent price of around $30 high capacity or $20 low capacity.
Note: Should mis-feeding or double-shooting occur, which it may, spray silicon lube for 2 seconds into the magazine itself. Also, spray lube into the hop-up feeding inlet for 3 seconds. Finally, spray for 2 seconds down the barrel. These methods should help to reduce/eliminate mis-feeds and double-feeds.


High-Capacity 300rd Magazine (Side)

Selector Switch
The selector switch is made of metal. It clicks into place at any of the three settings (safe, semi-automatic, fully automatic) and usually stays there. However, there is some slight movement when the selector switch is on a setting, but it is not problematic. I believe it can be tightened if it becomes loose. Replacement selector switches can be found at a limited number of airsoft retailers for a low price of around $20.


Selector Switch

Hop-up Chamber
The stock hop-up chamber that Classic Army provides is quite durable. Its metal construction will never allow it to bend/break/snap. The wheels and other components of the chamber are plastic. Turning the adjustment wheel clockwise increases hop-up, while turning it counter-clockwise decreases it. I found the optimal hop-up setting to maintain the straightest, horizontal path with a .25g BB was almost at maximum setting. Using BBs higher than .25g may be hard to keep range, as the hop-up chamber may not be able to create enough backspin. If the adjustment wheel does not stay in its position towards the higher settings, the wheel may have to be tightened. Simply use a screwdriver to tighten the screw on the center of the wheel. To remove the hop-up chamber from the barrel, remove the hop-up retainer clip (c-shaped clamp). Slowly, using a combination of twists and pulls, pull the hop-up chamber off the barrel. The hop-up rubber may be twisted and stretched during the process. Spray silicone lube to help ease the chamber off the barrel and hop-up sleeve. Do not force the chamber off, as the sleeve may be torn. To reassemble, reverse the steps, taking care to align the sleeve’s indent (located inside the sleeve) with the barrel’s indent. Spray lube onto the surface of the hop-up sleeve so it is easier to push the chamber onto it.


Hop-Up Chamber with Barrel

Performance
As I do not have professional equipment to test performance, I can only describe what I see as I shoot the M15A4 Rifle. I used a 3300mah 8.4v large battery and .25g Airsoft Elite Precision Grade BBs and .25g Excel Biodegradable BBs. After loading the BBs into the magazine and winding it, I shot a few rounds in semi-automatic. The shots curved down noticeably. After accessing the hop-up, I adjusted around until the BBs flew as horizontally as possible. The optimal hop-up setting is almost at maximum hop-up. The BBs flew significantly farther than my homemade paintball range (45 feet; measured by tape marker) The BBs probably flew 150+ feet effectively. When the initial velocity was lost, the hop-up’s backspin counteracted gravity’s pull and “floated.” Rate of fire is surprisingly high, especially for me, as this was my first AEG. In semi-automatic, the shots were fairly accurate. The M15A4’s extremely long barrel (509mm) guides the BBs effectively and leads to good accuracy at distance or close range. I was able to hit a pie plate consistently at 45 feet, hit large-sized cups at about 60 feet consistently, and hit large targets at extreme range of about 200 feet. The original bore size is 6.08, so I highly recommend a tightbore barrel to significantly increase power and accuracy. Accuracy on semi-automatic is good, but the spread enlarges when switched to fully automatic. I would use automatic only in shorter distances. At long range, BBs would be wasted. Power of the M15A4 Rifle is higher than stock Tokyo Marui guns. I was able to make large dents in a garden rake’s solid wood laminated handle, planks of wood, shoot clear through a can, and tear through pie plates extremely easily. Actual FPS is hard to predict, but the manual states 85-95 meters per second. The gun is relatively quiet on semi-automatic, but when engaged in fully-automatic, the noise is quite loud. Overall, power, accuracy, and rate of fire is amazing on this model.

Maintenance
-Unclip battery and remove pellets from magazine and remove magazine when in storage
-Never reuse BBs, as they could be dirty, chipped, etc. and will jam the gun
-Decompress the spring after shooting full auto by shooting semi-automatic for 3-4 shots
-Thread 1x3 cm cotton through needle eye of cleaning rod; spray with 100% silicon oil approved for metal/rubber; run through barrel until red line meets end of barrel and repeat until black spots disappear; MAKE SURE HOP-UP IS SET TO ZERO before cleaning barrel/hop-up chamber. Otherwise the chamber and/or the hop-up sleeve can be damaged
-Do not go into the mechanical box unless you have to
-Clean the exterior with dampened cloth so that dirt/dust do not build up; wipe with dry cloth afterwards so rust does not occur
-Make sure no dust/dirt gets into hop-up chamber (close the dust cover when in storage)
-Regularly tighten screws, bolts, etc

To disassemble:
-Disengage the T-handle
-Remove the two frame lock pins with a screwdriver or allen wrench (depending on pins)
-Pull the upper receiver forward (this is difficult at first)
-Lift the upper receiver off
-Pull out barrel with hop-up unit attached at end
Note: Pulling the receivers apart is difficult at first. You will need to disassemble frequently to ease the process. Silicone lube may help when sprayed on contact points of the two receivers.


Disassembled M15A4 Rifle

Recommendations
-Buy a new hop-up sleeve. The stock CA hop-up rubber is slightly under-quality. I noticed a definite improvement when I used a Systema Hop-Up sleeve.
-Your barrel may need tightening to make it 100% solid. Take off the handguards, use pliers, and twist the toothed ring clockwise. It will force the barrel to twist onto the receiver threads more tightly. Pliers are acceptable, but can scratch the ring (wrap a cloth around the ring, then use pliers). Classic Army has a handguard adjustment tool available, but it is hard to find.
-Apply one to two layers of electrical tape around the upper portion of the magazine. It will help to prevent mis-feeds and will eliminate wobbling.
-If you want, you can put a dab of super-glue underneath the bolt-catch to prevent it from rattling around. It sounds sophisticated when it moves, but you can eliminate the sound by a simple glue-job. Only a dab is needed; too much super-glue can lead to a messy problem
-If any scratches appear on the receiver’s finish, a simple black permanent marker can hide most/all of the scratch

Recommended Stores
-AirSplat.com: Excellent customer service, low prices, and speedy service. Highly recommend.
-BatterySpace.com: Lowest prices available for AEG batteries and chargers. Highly recommend.
-21stcenturyairsoft.com: Abundance of parts and accessories for your Classic Army AEG
-hotspotairsoft.com: Excellent customer service. When e-mailing, you get a personal e-mail from a helper himself. Will help you in any way he can. Low prices, fair abundance of accessories and parts.
-evike.com: Has an impressively large selection of upgrade and spare parts. Great prices on supplies and products.

Conclusion
I found this model to be extremely satisfying. The M15A4 Rifle has everything I was looking for in an airsoft gun. This model is high quality and in my opinion, is better than Tokyo Marui’s M16A2. It packs tremendous firepower while maintaining accuracy, has many realistic parts, and feels solid and durable.

Pros:
Extremely solid build- no creak, flex, or squeaks
Excellent quality- most of the components are superior in build
Power- higher than Tokyo Marui stock guns
Accuracy- increased accuracy at range from long barrel
Rate of fire- decent with 8.4v; could be improved with batteries up to 12v
Reliability- despite Classic Army’s problematic past, the M15A4 is reliable internally and externally
Detail- trademarks, material, and components are extremely detailed

Cons:
Versatility- the gun is rather long (1069mm; length estimated) and is heavy
Magazine- it is thinner and the paint comes off easily
Aluminum sheet bolt- thin, weak, shiny, must be moved manually
T-handle- too long of spring, weak spring, weak return
Hop-Up Sleeve- slightly under par with higher quality hop-up makers (Systema recommended)

The pros definitely outweigh the cons in my opinion. Classic Army has produced an amazing model that combines cosmetics, functionality, and realism. I recommend this model to those who are considering it. It is superior to Tokyo Marui’s M16A2, A1, VN, in build, power, and realism. I feel this purchase was worth the money with the Classic Army M15A4 Rifle.


An Amazing Model, the M15A4 Rifle



-andrew hong

This post has been edited by New Guy on the Block: Dec 1 2005, 07:03 PM

Thanks for the review. I am going to purchase that same gun in a few weeks.

I've had this gun for a few weeks now, and it too is my first AEG.

I've not had any problems with the charging handle and mine was shipped w/ removable carrying handle. however, one of the screws holding one of the pins that keep the gun together fell out while I was playing! I had noticed it before but it was my fault that I wasn't more responsible and add locktight to it to keep it in. The pin is staying in firmly, but I'm looking for a new screw to put in there.

Review Added.

Does the gun come with an aluminum flashhider?

You my friend, have a M15A2 Rifle, which has a non-detachable handle.

Very nice review, BTW.

This post has been edited by Airsoft_Fanatic: Dec 7 2005, 11:20 PM

New Classic Army guns do not come with an aluminum flash hider. Youc an buy them at most airsoft retailers though. CA now super-glues their orange tips. I hate that...

My gun is an M15A4 Rifle. 100% sure. It has another top receiver. The internals and lower receiver are from an M15A4. I don't know how I got a receiver from an M15A2, but whatever. Besides, the fixed handle is much more sturdy in my opinion and is more accuracte to the reel-steel M16A2.

Becuase the one with the removable handle is based on the M16A3, not the A2.

According to my math is weighs only 6 pounds, is such true?

Great job with the review.

Your article was easy to read, very detailed and thorough. This is a definite read for those considering the CA M15A4. My only suggestion is that you should come back and re-evaluate the gun's performance after a skrimish or two, add any comments, suggestions and recommendations that CA M15A4 users should know.

Interestingly, I placed black electrical tape on the bottom of my magazines so it is simplier to reload, and identify the bottom end of the mag, so I suppose that is another added bonus to placing electrical tape.

Other than that, again great review. And have fun with your first AEG.

What type of screw driver did you use to get those screws out? I can't find any screwdrivers in my house that have that size head.

nice review :)

These screws are allen. So allen wrenches have to be used. Normally, a flathead screwdriver is used. I just replaced mine...and they use allen wrenches.

at airsplat you can ask them to include a metal flash hider.

when they shipped my m15a4 carbine it didnt have it so I emailed them and asked them to send it and I gave them my order number and in 2-3 days it came.

and yes they sent you a m15a2 rifle it had a few problems but I guess if you are upgrading it wont really matter.

This post has been edited by rather: Dec 18 2005, 02:16 PM

I asked them...aid it was illegal or had legal problems...or something like that, even though I specifically requested it. Got kind of pissed at that.

And I don't know how many tmes I have to say this. THIS IS AN M15A4!! It has an M15A2 upper receiver, which I wanted. I just like the assurance of fized upper handles instead of detachable ones. I ordered an AR-15 scope mount. The internals are all M15A4. I checked already. Learned how to take apart the mechbox too, and comapred it with other M15A4 reviews.

If this was indeed an A2 wouldn't it have A2 engraved on it not A4?Very nice review.

This post has been edited by doobster: Dec 30 2005, 11:39 PM

Nice review overall.

I guess you aren't too versed in the internals to get a look into that as well huh?

This post has been edited by Omaha: Dec 31 2005, 05:30 PM

nice review I am planning to get this rifle very soon...
how significent was the increase in perforance when you installed the systema hop up sleeve? increase in range?
is your gun the 2005 model? to tell if it is, are the gears in your mechbox yellow?

the accuracy at first on the M15 is great, but then the sleeve gets a little loose and starts getting some wild shots. the systema one I believe is less prone to getting loose. with my M15A4 rifle, I could hit a man sized target at 200 feet consistently even with the old hop up

and I think you mean, "are the gears on the hop up chamber yellow?" not the gearbox. the gearbox gears are most likely the same in the newest M15 variants. and I believe his gun has the old hop up since the serial number seems a bit low.

I did have the old hop-up. I just unstalled the new hop-up chamber, and it makes a huge difference.

There was a definate increase of range of about maybe 15-20 feet with the Systema sleeve.

A4 is engraved, not A2.

I also installed the aluminum flahs hider, so it looks awsome.

I do not wish to take apart the gearbox yet. It's not as simple as paintball gun pneumatics, as that is all the gun-tech experience I have.

This gun is a good buy yet while I was in the store I found that the screws for the teactical handle had rust on them and I was like wtf get me another and all except one had it so I got that one. its a dependable gun and should be great use!

New guy, is the sight any good on your gun cause im thinking about getting it for my M4

This post has been edited by killachinchilla: Jan 29 2006, 11:21 AM

It's a Swatforce Leapers 1 x 40mm red dot sight. I find it quite helpful. It is fully adjustable using a coin (just rotate little dials) There are two different types of dots. Red and green, both with multiple intensities. plus, the 40mm diameter makes a great assault scope. Tiny scopes tend to get tiresome squinting through a tube. My paintballgun sight is real small, but this larger diamter provides relief. Full metal, great tactical look. 30-40 bucks. Get one. You won't regret it.

Could someone please tell me what size allen wrench to use on that? I think it’s same one for the front barrel on my ICS MP-5 as well. It must be metric as my craftsman set has all normal standard sizes and none fit this. I can’t very well take an AEG into the local hardware store and ask!

Oooh. I'm not so sure about the wrench size. I think now the M15A4s use a screwdriver for disassembly (the flathead) I know the wrenches are the same type as the ones for my A-5 paintball gun, made in the USA. So maybe they are not metric? I really hate the way the U.S. is the only country in the world not using metric. Makes everything so much more complicated.

I think it's 2.5mm.

hmm.. I think its because its not a m15a4, maybe its a m15a2 ???

This was discussed above already. The receiver has M15A4 engraved on it.

And the truth shall set you free.

http://www.armalite.com/sales/catalog/rifles/m15a4spr.htm

http://www.armalite.com/sales/catalog/rifl...5a4_carbine.htm

http://www.armalite.com/sales/catalog/rifles/m15a2.htm

http://www.armalite.com/sales/catalog/rifl...5a2_carbine.htm

CA paid Armalite to reproduce airsoft versions of their guns. Thus making it an Armalite. Saying its not is like claiming an M92 is not an M92 if the military isnt using it at the time.

But please forgive me oh wise and wonderful lord:



. How is Armalite's website wrong and your right?

This post has been edited by JROTChris: Mar 21 2006, 07:47 PM

I'm just saying that I bought an m15a4, I paid for an m15a4, it says m15a4, the box says m15a4, and everything but the removeable handle looks like an m15a4. Maybe I got gyped, but it was a good one. I'm happy with my gun.

Update: My CA High-capacity magazine broke a week ago, and I fixed it, but it broke again. I'd recommend getting a nice mid-cap or another high-cap, as the CA one broke pretty easily. The metal coil got disconnected with the plastic knob, so I put it back in. later, the tension of the coil became too weak, so there isn't enough to push it up through the tubes into the gun. My mid-cap works beautifully, though.

This post has been edited by New Guy on the Block: Apr 8 2006, 08:32 AM

Nice review I keep on looking for more reasons and more reasons to buy this gun and this helped alot

Just to let anyone know who's reading this, this very gun is up for sale. PM me for details.

Word of Note: TIGHTEN THE SCREW ON THE WINDAGE ADJUSTER OF THE REAR SIGHT!! My sight fell off when the screw was loose. Two parts can easily be lost. I found the parts though. It would be a good idea to periodically tighten screws.

This post has been edited by New Guy on the Block: May 24 2006, 08:36 PM

Update:
If your M15A4 veers consistantly off your target, the hop up may be slightly off. Realign the sleeve and the shots should center again.

Skirmish update:
My first skirmish was interesting. My paintball skills did not apply much because this gun is enormous (very intimidating). Overall, this was superior to the M4s and the M733 I saw. This was only a backyard battle, but this gun owns at any situation in range, acccuracy (if maintained correctly), ROF is decent. Handling was difficult, as this is a woodland fighter, not a CQB gun.

This post has been edited by New Guy on the Block: Jun 6 2006, 05:59 PM

Very nice review, keep it up!

So, does it have a burst option instead of the full auto option like the real thing?
Iv'e always wondered this.

There is no burst; just semi, full auto, and safe.

Yes not many airsoft guns have the burst feature.

Why doesnt this A4 have a removable carrying handle? Even if its not an A4 though they are all basically the same. But can someone tell me why this A4 doesnt have a remvable carrying handle. I might buy one and I don't want to buy the wrong one.

I keep on saying this. I don't know why. But when you order one, I can say that it will have a removeable top. THis one didn't. Don't know why. But I don't mind.

I am assuming that the store that New Guy On the Block bought the gun from switched the upper because of possible damage to the original upper or maybe they wanted to use the upper for some sort of custom project. They might have assumed that he would not know the difference so they went ahead and switched them. What store did you originally buy it from?

I got it from AirSplat (figures). I stopped using them after a recent transaction went horrible.

I was thinking along the sames lines as you, assassin.

First of all, nice review.
But where did you get this rifle?
what store?

Because I don't want to be scammed or anything, I want an M15A4 with a removable carry handle.

I will repeat my answer for a third time. I GOT MY RIFLE FROM AIRSPLAT!!!!!!!

See original review at the top under STORES PURCHASED FROM or the post above.

I do not reccommend AirSplat, as their service is slow and sometimes not helpful and on several occasions, I've received damaged products, wrong items, etc.

AirsoftNW right now has a good sale on the M15A4 Rifle. Check it out.

However, I had an awsome coupon for AirSplat ($25 off) and that price could not be beat anywhere else.

This post has been edited by New Guy on the Block: Sep 1 2006, 08:00 AM

Hey great review I think I might get this when that LPEG of mine breaks

Hello,


I have a question, what about a newbie who is new to airsoft and buying this gun for the first time? How easy does anyone think it is to remove the barrel, hop-up system, spring, and replace them with new ones all while not trying to damage the gun? I'm a bit turned off by opening up a $380 AEG especially if I've never done it before. Sorry for replying to an old topic, I was trying to look for some reviews of this gun on google and came across these forums.


Thanks.

If anyone is looking, I got mine from Kapowwe a couple months back and it was $305 with free shipping. It's the same price there right now and Kapowwe is good.

KastwayAirsoft is also a great site with the same price last time I checked.

That being said, great review and I love mine. It has been nothing but good news since I bought it, no troubles whatsoever.

I got mine from Airsoft Atlanta.

I got my A4 before they glued the tips on. The Tip in that pic looks like it's plastic though. Anyways, I've got numerous kills with it, and it has been a real trooper. My hop-up just recently came loose too, so I will be replacing it soon. But, as mentioned before, I too can engage man-sized targets (50/50 success rate) @ 65 yrds. or so, with the old hop-up.



As for the gun, it was my first AEG, and I learned to take the MB apart quickly.


And, it's still one of my favorites. (Although recently overshadowed by my TM RPK)

Again a very well thought out reveiw. This has earned great praise.

This post has been edited by P90MAN: Sep 29 2006, 07:22 PM

New Guy I think you might have got the M15A2 Rifle instead of the A4. http://www.depot53.com/products/4/43?cat=9, thats the A2

*Sigh* Please see previous answer, or the previous answer, or the previous answer for your statement.

THIS GOES FOR EVERYONE WHO READS THIS:

IT'S AN M15A4 RIFLE!

I know what an M15A2 is...I find it slightly insulting that you think I don't know what it is.

Please, at least read the other posts before making your own. This is an M15A4 rifle that probably had its upper receiver replaced with an A2s. The internals were all M15A4.

Now please, no one come barging in here saying it's an A2. If it was, SteeelChocolate wouln't have approved this MONTHS AGO!!!

This post has been edited by New Guy on the Block: Oct 1 2006, 10:06 AM

Is this an A2? <----------insert sarcasm here

Ak47: You may want to try reading the thread before making posts.

Thats an M15A2 man...It doesnt have a removable carry handle. Youre so ignorant...

This post has been edited by (_ambda (v)an: Oct 2 2006, 03:45 PM

After reading this entire topic here are my comments.

First, great review, very well done.

Second, I hate to tell you, but that is an A2, not an A4, even though its says that on the receiver.

The ONLY difference between the A2 and A4 models is the carry handle (internals are the same on both). On the A2, the carry handle is part of the upper receiver. On the A4, the carry handle is removeable. Most likely Airsplat swapped the upper receivers for some reason. I have an M15-A4 rifle and the carry handle is removeable.

Check out this link (scroll down a little way) to see the difference: http://www.21stcenturyairsoft.com/products...my_Metal_Bodies

Exactly why would CA make diff. internals for the two guns. That would be a waste of time...So since it doesnt have a removable carry handle and has A2/A4 iternals it must be a A2 New Guy. Oh yeah I was jk about the ignorant thing.

This post has been edited by (_ambda (v)an: Oct 2 2006, 03:46 PM

Actually, the A4 had a yellow piston and a metal spring guide. Both were present. A4 internals. A2 top receiver. A4 box. A4 lower receiver. A4. Get it? It's an A4 with a mysterious A2 upper receiver. It had A4 internals. The only thing A2 about it was the upper receiver.

But it is true that the removeable top makes an A4 an A4...If so, then I was cheated of my money at AirSplat.

I guess it could be called a A2, because the A4 is supposed to have a removeable top.

But I bought an A4, I got 90% of an A4, and everything official states it was an A4. Plus, the serial number matches the A4 series. So, this review is on an M15A4, though it looks like an A2. It's the inside that makes the difference, though! :)

BTW, ambdavan, please change the "ignorant" joke against me. I don't appriciate it when others make jokes on my integrity. I'd bet you a $100 that if you met me in real life, you'd see that I;m not ignorant (at least I think I'm not ignorant!) Don't make jokes that insult someone. Friendly advice! :)

Oh, people. Please don't think I'm stupid. I've been in airsoft since I was 12. So I know what an A2 and an A4 is. Posting links to what an A2 receiver looks like makes it look as if you think I don't know anything. I know what an A2 looks like, I know what an A2 is.

This post has been edited by New Guy on the Block: Oct 2 2006, 04:27 PM

Could you post a link to where it talks about the different internals between the A4 and the A2, because as far as I know they are the exact same internals.

This is my understanding:

The following CA M15 models (A2 Rifle/Carbine/Tactical Carbine and the A4 Rifle/Carbine/Tactical Carbine) have the exact same interals with the version 2, 6mm gearbox.

The only M15's that have anything different is the M15-A4 CQB (which I also own), the M15-A4 SPC and the M15 RIS. The CQB has a version 2, 7 mm gearbox, with a bearing spring-guide, bearing piston head, upgraded cylinder head and bore up nozzel. The RIS and the SPC only have the 7 mm gearbox. There has been some speculation as to what the upcoming M15 models will have for internals (M15 SPR, Compact and Compact Seal), but most likely they will be the same as the SPC/RIS.

Now, since Airsplat most likely swapped out the upper receiver without your knowledge, they very easily could have swapped out internals as well, but this does not make it an A4, the fact that the upper receiver and the carry handle are one piece makes it an A4.

What did the description on airsplat say? If Id placed an order for a A4 and got an A2 Id be pissed.

I have a CA M15A4, and I've worked on about 5 or 6 M15A2's, the A2's do in fact have a different spring guide, which is plastic. Whether they updated it, I don't know. Some people say they have, I won't believe it until I see pictures, and even then I believe he purchased this before they updated the A4's, and if they did update the A2's, they probably would have done it as the same time as the A4.. The fact is, the trademarks state M15A4.

This post has been edited by some_guy22: Oct 14 2006, 05:49 PM

For the screws on the gun it is 2.5mm Allen or hex keys.
My M15A4 came with those screws although mine has a removeable carry handle and the serial number 009293.
I cannot speak much for the internals in the gearbox as I got my gun with replaced ones and very little remains stock in there.
End result is a firepower of 450 FPS, and decent accuracy and of course, great fun at full auto, but even in semi it is great to fire (I tend to use semi a lot more than full auto.) but with 9.6 volts the EG1000 motor made by Tokyo Marui (Sits in my gun at least) tends to spit plastic faster than what the stock CA magazine can feed, at full auto it doesn't keep up for very long.
I have ordered some mid caps for it though as I prefer them over high caps as well as a case of low cap magazines.

What is the T-Handle used for?

The t-handle on the M15A4 is purely cosmetics. It has no function. The reel-steel M16 however needs it in the reloading process.

I love this gun... over summer when I get a job I want to buy this gun and the TM AK47.

Do u know how long this gun will last me? Like how many shots, I probably wont play over winter if its really cold (im in chicago, so u never know if winter will be freezing cold, or warm)

Unfortunately, because I traded the gun before I could test its long-term durability, I cannot say exactly. If the gearbox is cared for, the gun tecnically can last indefinately. Since you're in Chicago, I would suggest higher-quality cells to counter the colder climate. The gun should last a long time and serve you well if you treat it well.

Excellent review. I have one of these on its way to my house right now.

Great review, I wish you could update it so I could see if it lasted you.

Unfortunately, this was traded for a G&G UMG, which was traded for a TM M14 last weekend.

This was the first of my articles, and is therefore one of my least impressive. I hadn't thought of updating the gun's condition like the UMG review that I made.

Sorry to necro, but the gears for my hop-up are yellow.

I just got my CA M15A4 Carbine last month.

Did I get jypped? Because those holes at AirsoftEXtreme charged a lot for it ($315 WITHOUT tax). On top of that, a day after I bought it, a sale went up. I lost $25. Round trip on freeway from me to AEX ~=~ 100 Miles. Factor in the gas money...

Also, for the argument on whether it was a M15A4 or M15A2, I think the manual said M15A4 for 3 different types: rifle, carbine, and something else (CQB, I think).

My carbine has a retractable stock and is a bit shorter than yours. It also has M15A4 Armalite lasered onto it in white.

Correct me if I'm wrong - my friend currently has my M15A4 with its manual, loader, mags, etc.

This post has been edited by Ballzley: Jun 22 2007, 10:11 PM

Yes, the gears should be yellow. That you're correct about. The new ones are yellow.

Now, buying the gun at a steep price like that was your choice, but AEX is a good retailer from my experience. You didn't get gyped.

Now, here's where you're slightly off. Yes, this is an M15A4. But there are many M15A4 models. Yours happens to be the carbine version. Mine is the rifle. There is also the CQB and new ones like a DMR. A carbine is very different from a rifle. One instance here is that the carbine has a retractable stock like you said. Mine is a rifle and has the full stock. All M15A4s have the laser-etched trades.

before anybody buys this gun(I made the same huge mistake) look at the same gun with the detatchable carry handle, it will save you loads of money, and it just looks better withought a rail on the carry handle. I think it is the m15a2

The newer M15A4's come with an aluminum flashider that is not glued on.

This post has been edited by monkey man: Mar 2 2008, 11:26 AM