Armalite Variants question: How-to (build the M4 Commando) ?

[Mysteryfish]

Alright, all you armalite LOOOOZERS!!

Just kidding. I'm now a happy member of the family.
But, being that I'm quite new to it, I have some questions to ask, with reference to my project I'd like to build.

I currently have the G&P M4A1 solid stock rifle.

I would like to turn it into the G&P M4 Commando (commando length barrel, retractable stock)

My question focuses mainly on the components forward of the d-ring:

- Are the grips on an M4 longer or different than those on a Commando?

- If I were to simply buy a G&P Commando length outer barrel, would I be able to switch the other hardware I already have over to that barrel? (front sight, grips, etc...)

- I assume that at TM retractable stock will fit the G&P body... if anyone can correct me, please do. I have one lined up to buy, and am only held back by a logistic problem...

- finally, (somewhat unrelated), is there an ACOG replica available that has a functioning Fibre Optic component? I know G&P makes several replicas, but I couldn't find a review that stated with any clarity whether or not the fibre-optic component was for looks, or actually worked.

[LUTNIT]

I bought a TM M733 Colt Commando from Colt Farmer and he had installed an M4 RIS handguard on the front, was a little lose and needed to be shimmed with a piece of wire wrapped around the barrel at the top, but other than that its rock solid (without the shimming the bottom part that is removable to get access to the inside of it would fall off). So I'm guessing that the handguards are interchangable, I've also seen online M733 outer barrels installed on M4's but havnt seen it in person.

[mcguyver]

The G&P guns use the same handgrip set-up. Just get a short outer barrel and you're set.

I'd keep the full stock and most guys with the retractable would kill for a full stock. You'd have to do a complete teardown and rebuild your wiring to move the battery up front, unless you go crane stock.

[Mysteryfish]

Thanks guys.

Just for the curious though:

I'd probably just make way for the wires and put a battery pouch on the retractable stock.

I'm not a fan of small batteries anyways, I really just wanted the retractable stock for that "Nice 'n' Tight" look..

In any case, that's good news, I'll have to get ahold of a nice short barrel then.

Still looking for a little info on that ACOG, and if anyone has a flip-up front sight they want to sell to me, drop me a line :cheers: .

[Death March]

If ya want the retractable stock,you can also look at the G&P (part# GP416B ) Crane stock! That would give you some other battery options as well.I have one on my ICS M4A1 and no prob's,love it!