Calibre: 5.56mm x 45
Mass:
- 4.3kg empty
- 5.1kg with round magazine
- 4.83kg with nylon 35 round magazine
Magazine Capacity: 35 or 50 round magazine
Length:
- 1.005m stock extended
- 0.75m stock folded
Barrel Length: 0.46m
Muzzle Velocity: 980m/s
Rate of Fire: 650 rounds/min
Description
The R4 was developed from the Israeli Galil which in turn had its roots in the American M16 and Russian AK 47. Designed from the outset to be a robust reliable weapon this was achieved at the cost of increased weight. This was one of the primary reasons for the weapon to be removed from service with the IDF. In South Africa, were soldiers tended to be of a bigger stature, this was not a problem and the weapon was taken in service to replace the R1.
As with the AK 47 the weapon features a large fire selection switch on the side of the receiver body which is duplicated on the other side of the weapon in the form of a thumb switch allowing both left and right handed personnel to handle the weapon. Another added feature is the provision of a bipod which also serves as a wire cutter and beer bottle opener stopping troops from using the weapon’s sights for this task. Although it makes the weapon heavier it provides a steady platform when firing the weapon from the prone position.
To save some weight nylon magazines are used which are issued in the standard 35 round configuration. A high capacity 50 round magazine is also along with a small 10 round magazine for ballistic rounds used along with rifle grenades. The weapon is also fitted with Tritium inserts into the sights to allow for aiming at night. Another innovation is the use of a folding stock reducing the weight further and shortening the weapon. A carbine version of the weapon, the R5, is also available and is primarily issued to vehicle crew members