Vietnam style M16

The answer depends on how detailed you want your reproduction to be. There were several variations of the M16 used in Vietnam, if you want to be a stickler, you need to choose one of those.

If you just want the generic look, then a lightweight barrel, triangular handguards and proper upper receiver will give you that. All of those are available, but generally not from dealers. You have to go to shows and keep your eyes on the EE.
 
Not that difficult, I believe that DPMS or STAG offered an upper without the forward assist..
You'd also want a non-serrated bolt to keep up with the profile and I believe those were chrome ones at that.

Wiki has some good info on the changes to the AR15/M16
 
You could start with a Norinco CQ, add the 3 prongs flashider, the triangular handguard, an early buttstock and voila! The Norinco already has the light barrel, and the upper with carryhandle and without the case deflector.
 
Just for info, other than the chinese 311, all AR 20" guns with handguards have a triangular handguard retainer on the front!
You will need to replace the following from front to back:
flash hider,
handguards,
handguard retainer, you will need to go to an early version
pistol grip, (I put A1 pistol grips on all my personal AR's I detest someone trying to tell me where to put my fingers!)
Butt stock, the origional one was about an inch shorter and had a pinned on sling swivel
That stock will come with a butt plate that is quite different that what we are seeing now.
Hope this helps,

Scott
 
the sp1 is top notch, the one posted right now is at an attractive price, seen it listed for much higher in recent times.

my first ar was the sp1 carbine, terrific gun and very light at about 5.5 pounds, easy and fast handling, as compared to what most are shooting now with the extra weight and add ons.
 
SP1 is a Colt, just like the GIs used in Nam. Made in USA. Beaucoup #1. Not some #10 cheap chicom knock-off.
 
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