The Colt C7: A Robust Standard Issue Rifle
The Colt C7, manufactured by Colt Canada (formerly Diemaco), has garnered significant attention for its reliable performance and advanced design features. Its integration of a 20-inch barrel on a carbine lower offers a unique shooting experience, combining the benefits of a longer barrel for accuracy with the adjustable length of a carbine stock. This rifle feels different yet highly satisfactory, making it a favorite among shooters and military personnel alike.
Design and Durability
Michael Archibald's Insights: As a long-time user of various C7 variants, Michael Archibald has provided valuable insights into the rifle's capabilities and reliability. He shares that Colt Canada Diemako has extensively refined the C7, making it better suited to military and law enforcement applications. This refinement includes a 3-position safety switch (Safe R for repeat and A for full auto) and a 20-inch thick barrel, ensuring exceptional shooting performance.
Fire Selector and Barrel
The rifle features a 3-position fire selector, allowing for safe, semi-automatic, and full-auto modes. Full-auto capability reaches up to 750 rounds per minute, with a 2-round burst from full-auto. The 20-inch thick barrel contributes significantly to stability and accuracy during long-range shooting, making it suitable for engagements from point-blank to 500 meters.Reliability and Maintenance
Due to its robust construction, the C7 has demonstrated exceptional reliability over several decades. Michael mentions that despite extensive use, he cannot recall any major parts breaking, except for occasional issues with the magazine release button. Interestingly, the primary issue was with the scope, where the adjustment screw would turn without moving the point of impact. However, these issues were easily resolved by swapping out the scope.
Adoption and Usage in Military and Police Forces
The C7 and its variants have been adopted by several military and law enforcement organizations due to their time-tested reliability and comparable performance to the Colt M16A3. Notably, the C7 has been officially adopted as the standard issue rifle in Canada, Denmark, and the Netherlands.
Canada: The C7 is widely used by the Canadian military. Denmark: The Danish military has also adopted the C7 rifle. Netherlands: The Dutch military has also chosen the C7 for their standard issue. Norway: Although not officially adopted, the C7 is in use by the Norwegian military and several specialized units, such as the Forsvarets Spesialkommando (NORNAS) and the Marinejegerkommandoen (Royal Norwegian Navy Unit). Additionally, select agencies within the Norwegian Police, including Beredskapstroppen Delta, the Royal Police Escort, and the Norwegian Police Security Service, utilize the C7 and its variants for their needs.The C8 variant, which shares a similar design and function, is widely used in operational environments requiring high reliability and performance.
Competitive and Practical Applications
Due to its balanced performance, the C7 has seen use in competitive shooting environments, where its accuracy, reliability, and maneuverability make it a formidable choice. Whether in static shooting ranges or dynamic tactical scenarios, the C7 offers a dependable and versatile platform for users.
Conclusion
The Colt C7 is a highly reliable and advanced standard issue rifle that has proven its worth in both military and law enforcement capacities. Its unique design, robust features, and wide adoption highlight its suitability for various operational needs, from front-line combat to high-stress training exercises. The C7's performance and reliability have made it a standout choice for organizations looking for a dependable and effective standard issue rifle.