Colt Canada unveils at CANSEC 2024 new C8A4 to equip Canadian Army.

Colt Canada – a subsidiary of Colt CZ Group – presented a new variant of the C8 carbine at the CANSEC 2024 exhibition. The C8A4 is considered as a potential future assault rifle configuration for the Canadian Armed Forces as part of the Canadian Modular Assault Rifle (CMAR) project.
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Colt C8A4 with Magpul buttstock, low design foregrip, and variable optics, as presented at CANSEC 2024 (Picture source: Colt Canada)

The compact C8A4 assault rifle is Colt Canada's Modular Rail Rifle (MRR). This AR-15 architecture in 5.56mm x 45 caliber combines the internal components of the field-proven C8 carbine with the M-Lok rail system. The MRR operates as a direct gas impingement system with an enhanced gas block. The weapon features a single-stage non-adjustable combat trigger. Thanks to a long STANAG 4694 rail on the top and M-Lok side interfaces with five mounting slots, the robust monolithic upper casing allows for economical attachment of various optics and other accessories while ensuring better weight distribution.

The cold-hammer forged chrome-lined barrel, 295 mm in length and free-floating, contributes to a longer lifespan. The MRR features an ambidextrous safety lever. The AR-15 compatible magazines hold 30 cartridges as standard. Unloaded, the weapon weighs approximately 2900 grams. In the C8A4 variant, the aluminum casing is coated with a sand-colored Cerakote finish. The Magpul MOE grip and the adjustable Magpul CTR stock are also in this color. In the configuration shown, the C8A4 carbine carries a SAI Optics SAI 6 patrol scope and a Huxwrx suppressor. With this equipment, the C8A4 follows a concept similar to the British alternative individual weapon L403A1.

Weighing 2.8 kilograms unloaded and 3.4 kilograms loaded, it combines lightness with functional robustness. This firearm extends to a length of 0.84 meters with the buttstock extended and retracts to 0.76 meters with the buttstock collapsed, thus meeting various operational needs. Its 368 millimeter barrel is designed for precision and durability. With an adjustable rate of fire from 700 to 940 rounds per minute, the C8A4 offers adaptability in various combat scenarios. Its impressive initial velocity of 900 meters per second maximizes ballistic efficiency over distances up to 400 meters for individual fire.