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Heckler & Koch HK 416C



Introduction


H&K HK 416C

Right side view of HK 416C with flip-up sights in raised position and retractable metal wire stock in most compact position.
Source: Heckler & Koch - © Copyright lies with original owner

Origin
Germany
Type
Compact assault rifle
Entered service
2011 (estimate)
Status
Limited service
Development
Around 2010
Developer
Germany - Heckler & Koch
Production
2011 - Mid 2010's
Producer
Germany - Heckler & Koch
Number produced
Produced in limited numbers
Designations
HK 416C / HK 416 Compact
Notable users
United Kingdom

Description


Introduction

The HK 416C is a modern era compact assault rifle of German origin. The HK 416C is the most compact version of the HK 416 that was developed. Production numbers seem to be limited. All of them were based on the earlier generation of HK 416 rifles. No newer generation HK 416C seem to have been developed. The HK 416C was removed from sales offerings in the late 2010's.

Design

The HK 416C is the most compact weapon in the HK 416 family of rifles. Barrel length was reduced to 9 inches, which is on par with the G36C. The HK 416C retains the AR-15 layout with its buffer spring extending from the rear of the receiver. Unlike other designs this does not allow for a folding stock for compactness. A shortened buffer and compact retractable stock were fitted. The quad rail forearm is retained, allowing for various accessories at the cost of bulk and weight.

Firepower

The HK 416C fires the 5.56x45mm NATO round from a 30 round magazine. Various AR-15 type magazines can be used, including more compact 20 round ones. Select-fire capability is retained. Cyclic rate of fire is 700 rpm. Practical effective range is up to 200 meters, although the 5.56mm round can still reach out beyond that. That makes the HK 416C an assault rifle that functions in the realm of the sub machine gun.

Users

Reportedly the HK 416C was developed at the request of a special forces unit, although unclear which one. Reportedly some UK special forces are the original user of the HK 416C. For several years the HK 416C was marketed for military and law enforcement use. Small numbers have been sold to various nations, including UK police firearms officers and Malaysian navy combat divers.

Details


Facts HK 416C
General
Origin
Germany
Type
Compact assault rifle
Caliber
Caliber
5.56x45mm NATO
Feed system
30 round detachable box
Various different capacity magazines available
Barrel length
228 mm
Rifling
6 polygonal grooves, 178 mm right hand twist
Muzzle velocity
730 m/s
Operation
Action
Gas operated, short stroke gas piston
Locking
Multi-lug rotating bolt
Fire selector
0 - 1 - F
Rate of fire
700 rpm
Dimensions
Stock type
Retractable
Length
0.69 m stock extended
0.56 m stock retracted
Width
78 mm
Height
236 mm without magazine or sights
Weight
2.95 kg empty without accessories
Sights
Mechanical
Iron sights, foldable hooded post front
Optional flip-up rear sight on Picatinny rail
Optics
Picatinny top rail for mounting optical sights

Ammunition


5.56x45mm NATO

The HK 416C is chambered for 5.56x45mm NATO.

Media


Related articles


Heckler & Koch G36C

The HK 416C has a similar role and capabilities as the G36C. Barrel length and effective range are similar.