Does anyone know what kind of EOTech the military is using? Do they typically have flip up rear irons in case of failure?
First, good for you for going with an American tradition. With how popular AR's and 1911's are today, a little sad to see Colt lose their place at the tables they used to sit at the head of, or alone at. On top of every other shame associated to their recent history, seems like they should be at least competitive with almost every gun mfg. producing both of those weapons these days. But seems like people just aren't interested in current production Colts anymore, Colt is out of the game in terms of new ideas and innovation is stagnant, yet have a fat pricetag compared to vanilla equivalants from newer makers (seen as more relevant producers, for staying on the cutting edge and offering standard, features developed or made in the accessory aftermarket). Plus they are so hard to get, one dealer in 10+ around here stocks 91's, can't remember the last AR, but it was a ban era Match Target. Some dealers and clerks even say/think they are Custom Shop made, special order only, today-I've heard it told to people more than once. It's really too bad because that dancing horse will always have pride attached that nothing else can touch, that's why classic Hartford iron values climb like Microsoft stock's ascent- genuine, and irreplaceable. For real. Apple pie and baseball. You have to own at least one Colt firearm.
Anyway. Congratulations on your recent purchace, hope she sings for you, and a bottom's up to your choice in manufacturer. Just glad to see some folks still favor a Colt. Genuine article, plateau over where the selector would start rocking, charcoal black coated, Colt AR-15. I'd love a 6530 Sporter (A2 Stock, pencil bbl.) .223, SP-1 rifle or carbine, or a 6420 9 mil. Buddy from work a couple weeks ago got a like new Sporter HBAR (20" A2, pre-94) for 700. at an estate auction a couple weeks ago
From what I understand, non-SOPMOD type M4's-in the hands of ordinary troops-a lot, or most, just keep the carry handle around, in their pack, but this was when soldiers and Leathernecks were purchasing these and Aimpoints with their own money. I like the EOTech that takes AA batteries, that's a great idea, being able to get a fresh power source for your high tech battle sight at just about any store, anywhere. I dunno if that was the model there have have been reports of problems with though (don't know much about it)...I know they like to wiggle out of place in my DVD remote with gentle use. But still, utilizing common household batteries (and they do have pretty good life, moreso with Lithium) is a feature that makes a lot of sense. I've known a few vets who served during a conflict, each emphasized there is no counting on re-supplies; So, a scrounged battery out of a dead or captured Hajji flashlight or walkman or whatever, could theoretically mean your sight works, vs. not as intended or at all. Guys like us (assuming), would save a trip across town or even placing an order in remote places. As would a battery compatable between sight and weapon mounted light. If those hypothetical (and unlikely to most) scenarios are of any consequence in your opinion.
Personally I'd rather go with an ACOG TA-11 if cost was not an issue, with the red circle and practical variable range for this weapon. A little more versatility (if desired for longer range accuracy-but we're talking the original semi M-4, not the platform for a 10x with BDC) with higher magnification, without sacrificing speed.
Check out the Tru-Glo TFO front sight post, the combo of tritium and fiber optics providing a green glow in any light condition. Add a rear BUIS, definately. Some come exactly the same as standard A2 irons, just fold down. Not expensive anymore either.
Dunno about a light but whatever came already hooked up to the Sig 556 I checked out the other day(Sig factory package? it was new) won me over, and I always hated that stuff, expensive clutter...but this felt proper and natural, the tacticool gear setup-light, foregrip etc. Surefire had/has that monster light at 2:00 integrated with a double thick M4/6920 handguard. Made for your new rifle.
Before any of this though, set a goal of 'too much' ammo and mags, and go for it, a sling that works for you. An armorer's dvd or book is always worth having. maybe get some replacement small parts, for the lower reciever at least.