New for 2023 from IWI US is an American version of IWI’s Carmel rifle.  With the same 2 position gas selector and cold hammer forged, chrome line free-floated barrel as the international Carmel, the US semiautomatic only version has some cosmetic differences that may be a better fit for the US market.  Let’s take a look.

[SHOT 2023] IWI US Carmel Rifle

The standout features of the IWI US Carmel that I noticed was the MLOK fore-end, which gives the rifle a sleeker look than the international version.  The vertical grip is also different, with the US version having a grip from B5 systems.  The safety sector also requires a very short throw from safe to fire.  The trigger group in the Carmel is specific to the platform and not interchangeable with AR15 triggers.  Disassembly was very easy, and can be done from the rear of the rifle when the stock is folded.

[SHOT 2023] International version of the Carmel Rifle

The IWI US CARMEL rifle is a semiautomatic, short stroke, gas piston rifle. Made from superior steel, aviation grade aluminum and high strength impact modified polymer for outstanding performance in all environmental conditions. The rifle has a locking, rotating bolt system ensuring maximum safety for the user. IWI US CARMEL is fully ambidextrous and can be easily customized with MLOK rails at the 3, 6 and 9 position to allow compatibility with various accessories.

[SHOT 2023] IWI US Carmel

Features:

• Short-stroke gas piston
• Completely ambidextrous and can be converted easily in the field
• 2 position gas regulator – (Regular, Suppressor)
• Cold hammer-forged, chrome-lined, free-floating barrel, for enhanced accuracy & prolonged life cycle
• Hard-anodized monolithic aluminum MIL-STD 1913 Rail
• MLOK accessory rails at the 3, 6 and 9 o’clock positions
  

  [SHOT 2023] IWI US Carmel

Advantages and Benefits:

• Designed for minimum operator and armorer level maintenance
• All the metal parts of the weapon are corrosion resistant
• Body built with high strength impact modified polymer
• Uses any NATO MIL STD 5.56 Steel, aluminum, or polymer magazines
  

  [SHOT 2023] IWI US Carmel

Optimized Ergonomic Design:

• Side folding stock with variable length of pull and comb height – the weapon can be fired with a folded stock
• Fully ambidextrous: safety lever, magazine release, bolt catch, non-reciprocating charging handle
• Enlarged trigger guard for easier access for glove use
• 3 points of sling attachments QD or Cord
  

  [SHOT 2023] IWI US Carmel

  
  

  Model Number(s)	CSR16
  Caliber	5.56 NATO
  Action	Semi-auto
  Operating System	2 position gas regulator, Rotating locking bolt
  Magazine Type	MAGPUL PMAG GEN M3 with Window
  Magazine Capacity	30 Round
  Barrel Material	Free-floating, Chrome lined, Cold hammer forged
  Barrel Length	16″
  Overall Length	26 3/4″ Stock folded, 33 3/4″ Stock collapsed, 37 1/4″ Stock extended
  Weight	8 Lbs 2 Oz without Magazine
  Rifling	1:7″ Twist, 6 RH Grooves (5.56 NATO)
  MSRP	$1,799

For more information, please visit IWI US.

[SHOT 2023] IWI US Carmel