Diemaco C7

The C7 assault rifle stemmed from the Canadian decision to go with the NATO 5.56mm round as the standard ammunition round for the Canadian armed forces. The Colt-produced American-made M16 rifle became the base weapon of choice.

The M16A2 variant was later accepted into service over the original M16 and was designated as the C7 rifle. Differences in the Canadian variant over the American one might not be that apparent, but are based on a few modifications.

The C7 utilizes a full automatic fire mode, which the American M16A2 does not use. Instead, the US Army relies on the three-round or single-round fire selection. A spent case deflector is also implemented to make the weapon ambidextrous depending on the user. Flip up sights for short range and long-range firing is also integrated. The firing mechanism is designed to accept either the NATO SS109 round or the US M193, making the C7 adaptable to logistical needs.

The C7A1 is a later variant, which builds upon the base C7 but features no integrated carrying handle. Instead, an adaptor is available for mounting a variety of optic sights. Should the optical sight fail, a static iron sight located in the butt of the weapon can be accessed and fitted to the weapon system.

As stated above, the C7/C7A1 is currently in use by the Canadian armed forces but has also seen enlistment with the Netherlands and Denmark. A shorter "Assault Carbine" version is available (looking very much like the US M4 Carbine also produced by Colt) and is designated as the “C8”.

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