AR-15 vs L1A1 Self-Loading Rifle

1964–Present

1954–1989

12,000,000+ units (combined military, law‑enforcement, and civilian production)

Approximately 1,000,000

840 mm (33.1 in) with stock extended (16 in barrel), 730 mm (28.7 in) with stock collapsed (14.5 in barrel)

1143 mm

406 mm (16 in) standard, 368 mm (14.5 in) carbine, 508 mm (20 in) designated marksman, 254 mm (10 in) pistol‑length

554 mm

3.2 kg (7.1 lb) empty (16 in barrel, without optics)

4.31 kg

30 rounds standard, 10/20/40/60 round options, drum magazines up to 100 rounds

20 rounds

Direct‑impingement gas system (original) or short‑stroke gas piston (aftermarket/variant), rotating bolt, semi‑automatic or select‑fire

Gas-operated, tilting breechblock

Single‑stage semi‑automatic trigger; military select‑fire models use a two‑stage fire selector with safe, semi, burst, and automatic modes

Single-action

Standard: detachable flip‑up rear iron sight and fixed front post; many models equipped with Picatinny rail for optical, holographic, or night sights

Adjustable front post, aperture rear