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SIG XM7 Rifle vs M4: Key Differences and Performance Comparison

SIG XM7 Rifle vs M4: Key Differences and Performance Comparison

The SIG XM7 Rifle and M4 are leading contenders in modern military rifles. The XM7, designed for the U.S. Army’s Next Generation Squad Weapon program, features advanced recoil management, improved modularity, and 6.8mm ammunition for greater stopping power. The M4, a proven 5.56mm platform, remains widely used due to reliability, light weight, and versatility in close to mid-range engagements. While the XM7 focuses on future battlefield requirements, the M4 continues to excel in proven combat scenarios. Comparing ergonomics, firepower, and operational adaptability helps military planners and enthusiasts understand the evolution of assault rifles.

	SIG XM7 Rifle M4 Carbine Rifle

Price
Our Rating	8.5 8.3
Manufacturer	SIG Sauer Colt
Category	Small Arms & Infantry Weapons Small Arms & Infantry Weapons

1. General Information

Name	SIG XM7 Rifle M4 Carbine
Weapon Type	Assault Rifle Assault Rifle
Manufacturer	SIG Sauer Colt, FN America
Country of Origin	United States United States
Year Introduced	2023 1994
Designer	SIG Sauer Eugene Stoner (AR-platform)
Service Status	In Service In Service
Users	United States United States, NATO allies

2. Performance

Muzzle Velocity	Approx. 3,000 fps ~880 m/s
Effective Range	600 meters 500–600 m
Maximum Range	Over 800 meters ~3600 m
Rate of Fire	Semi auto Semi-auto / Burst / 700–950 rpm
Accuracy	High High
Reliability	High High

3. Dimensions

Overall Length	Approx. 36 inches 29.75–33 in
Barrel Length	13 inches 14.5 in
Height	Approx. 11 inches 7.75 in
Width	Standard rifle width 2.5 in (approx.)
Weight (Empty)	Approx. 8.4 lb ~6.4 lbs
Weight (Loaded)	Approx. 10 lb ~7.5 lbs

4. Ammunition & Firepower

Caliber	6.8mm 5.56×45mm NATO
Cartridge Type	6.8x51mm hybrid Standard NATO cartridge
Feed System	20 round magazine 30-round magazine
Fire Modes	Semi auto Semi-auto / Burst / Full-auto
Operating Mechanism	Gas operated piston Gas-operated, rotating bolt

5. Build & Materials

Construction	Alloy and polymer Steel, aluminum, polymer
Durability	High High
Ergonomics	Modern Modern, user-friendly

6. Sights & Accessories

Standard Sights	Optical Iron sights
Optics Compatibility	Picatinny rail Picatinny / M-LOK
Accessory Mounts	Picatinny, M LOK Quad-rail / M-LOK
Optional Attachments	Optics, laser, suppressor Optics, lasers, suppressors, bipods, lights

7. Variants

Variants

XM7 Standard - Infantry service version M4A1 - Full-auto variant with upgrades

8. Operational History

Combat Proven	Limited Yes
Notable Conflicts	None publicly Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria, GWOT
Military Adoption	United States U.S. & NATO forces

9. Additional Notes

Special Features	High pressure ammunition capability Modular rail system, collapsible stock
Modern Upgrades	Advanced optics integration Enhanced internals, improved rails, optics

10. Disclaimer

Legal Notice

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